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Invest in better wheels and tires
If you can decrease the weight of wheels and tires of your bicycle even a little bit, you will notice a big difference when riding your bike. High quality tires not only weigh less, but also come with less rolling resistance, which also improves performance.
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Upgrade the rear derailleur
Top-end units have tight bushings and very strong springs that make easy and fast shifting possible. The bearings in high-end models have jockey wheels, which leads to less resistance and smooth chain movement. In turn, this prolongs chain life and derailleur life.
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Ramp up the bearings
High-quality bearings are engineered with much greater precision than low-end models. They reduce friction and have a longer lifespan. Many high-end bearings also have rubber seals that keep the bearing mechanism free from contamination. One of the latest inventions is bearings made or ceramic, a material that is incredibly smooth and low-resistance.
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Increase your pedal efficiency
Many casual riders erroneously believe that clipless pedals are hard to use, which leads them to ignoring what can be a significant boost in performance. Research shows that pedals can raise the performance by up to 30 percent.
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Wear the most efficient shoes
Shoes also play a role in pedaling performance. Many casual bike riders wear basic running or hiking shoes when riding a bike. Such shoes are designed to absorb the impact from the contact between the surface and the foot that occurs during running. During biking, this absorption consumes energy instead of passing it to the pedals. Cycling shoes are the opposite of running shoes. They have very stiff soles because their goal is to transfer maximum energy to the pedals.
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Choose a saddle that’s right for you
A properly adjusted saddle can do two things. First, it can significantly improve the comfort of your ride. Second, it can take your pedaling efficiency to the next level. There are many options on the market for different body types. Some saddle creators even have special tools that take your tail-bone measurements.
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Best handlebars for the job
The rule of thumb is that your handlebars should be as wide as your shoulders. There are all kinds of makes and models of handlebars available on the market. You can easily find the ones that will be right for you. They can enhance the comfort of your ride and give your palms a better surface to rest on.
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Upgrade your brakes levers
Just like other parts, brake levers come in a variety of different styles. Some improve comfort while others improve performance.
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Dress with comfort and performance in mind
Many cycling shorts have panels in them that hold shape and do not bunch up. Proper gear will help reduce impact on pressure points and keep the moisture away from your body.
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Use a cycling computer
Modern cycling and triathlon computers can tell all kinds of information about your biking, such as average speed, maximum speed, distance, the time of your ride. Some have built-in heart rate monitors that will also tell you what is happening with your body during a ride.
