Bicycling 101:
Cycle Computers - Really a must?
We often find that newer riders or those who don't often ride with
an organized group think they ride at a certain average speed. They
are convinced that they will be able to ride on a TCBC ride rated at
that same average speed. However, after their first TCBC ride, they
comment on how our rides are so much faster than the publicized average.
Since TCBC ride leaders carefully watch minimum average speeds, we often
find that many riders really do not know at what average speed they
usually ride.
The solution is a simple, inexpensive one, and it is the solution used
by our ride leaders - use a cycle-computer! The Now Bicycles and Fitness
website (www.nowbikes-fitness.com) says: "One of the joys of cycling
is being able to cover lots of ground, and a cycle-computer can tell
you how far, how fast, and how long you've ridden, as well as your average
speed. Some even have extra functions such as heart rate, cadence (how
fast you are pedaling), altitude, and temperature."
Penn Cycle (www.penncycle.com), Erik's Bike Shop (www.eriksbikeshop.com),
and Now Bicycle and Fitness all have a variety of cycle-computers for
the $20 to $100 range. The fancier models have more bells and whistles,
like heart rate, but a basic cycle-computer works fine for most riders.
Erik's, Now, and Penn will even install the computer for you for about
$10, if you buy it from them.
Plus, if Your Personal Best goal (see the President's Draft in this
issue) includes mileage, your cycle-computer will be a great help with
tracking daily and total mileage. A cycle-computer is an easy-to-use
and inexpensive tool that is a must for TCBC riders.
Questions? Contact me (snocrvr@mn.rr.com) or any of the TCBC Board
members, and we'll do our best to answer any questions about cycle-computers.
- by Tony Anthonisen
Copyright © 2003 Tony Anthonisen. All rights reserved.
(article posted Mar 19, 2003)
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