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Shimano has been making mountain bike drivetrains for more than three decades, including, eight generations of Shimano Deore XT, the original off-road drivetrain, and six generations of its flagship XTR group. Each generation is a reflection of the riding that defined the sport and the technology that defined the era. True to this legacy, our next-generation Dyna-Sys drivetrain brings with it the legendary quality, durability and performance Shimano is known for, all packaged to meet the ever-evolving demands of today’s riders.

Dyna-Sys technology makes shifting seamless and intuitive, enabling riders to deliver consistent, efficient power while maintaining that delicate balance of traction and momentum control. Take a rider accustomed to a traditional 3x9 drivetrain and put them on a 3x10 Dyna-Sys drivetrain in a blind test, and that rider will be faster and more efficient around the same test track. Dyna-Sys delivers a more efficient gear, more of the time.

A wider-range 11-36 10-speed HG cassette means riders can climb further in their Primary Driving Gear—the 32-tooth chainring. When other riders have pulled the ripcord and drop into their granny gear, the Dyna-Sys equipped rider will still be motoring along in a more efficient gear without sacrificing momentum or traction. Furthermore, CloseStep front chainring gear ratios—42-32-24—make shifting smoother and faster. With Dyna-Sys, getting from the 24-tooth ring back into the middle ring—the Primary Driving Gear—is easier and more intuitive. Plus, a 42-tooth big-ring is more appropriate for the needs of today’s trail riders.

Traditionally, triple-ring riders have had to get used to making two to three recovery shifts in the rear every time they drop into their 22-tooth granny gear, complicating the downshift and killing momentum. With Dyna-Sys, the 36-tooth rear cog means the riders can stay in their Primary Driving Gear longer on the same climb, and when they do have to drop into granny, the system only requires one recovery shift, making the entire downshift process smoother and more efficient.

Suspension designers are well aware that riders spend the majority of their time in their 32-tooth Primary Driving Gear, and they have optimized their designs to work best in that gear. Dyna-Sys drivetrains squeeze every drop of traction out of today’s active suspension designs.

information bike.shimano.com

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Cycling endurance training is an essential part of any cyclists training regime. Whether you are a speed racer or just commuting you will get greater benefits from your cycling if you build your endurance up, not to mention the benefits from your increased fitness levels endurance training brings.

The key to cycling endurance training is to build your distances up gradually and to mix your ride with some long climbs and flat road where you can build up a good tempo and recover from the hill climb.

Variety is essential to building up your endurance, a mixture of hard climbs and fast sprints along with some cruising are the way to increase your endurance. To get the most from your cycle endurance training i9ncrease your distance gradually over a period of weeks rather than suddenly trying to do long runs in one go.

Improving your endurance will help your body to utilize the Glycogen that is stored in your muscles and liver, your body will become more efficient at using Glycogen as fuel and burning fat. As your endurance is increased your muscles will become more efficient along with your cardiovascular system.

While developing good climbing techniques is an essential skill for any cyclists to have, cycle endurance training will increase your body's ability to cope with the stresses that long rides and hill climbs place on the body.

Rest is a crucial part of endurance cycling training, I know most cyclists just want to get on their bikes and get on the road, and I've been guilty of this plenty of times, but we need to incorporate rest periods within our training. If you are starting to feel tired or find you are running out of energy on the sprints, then it's time to put your feet up and take some time out. This will be more beneficial for your training than continuing to train.

Train smart as well as hard and build rest periods into your training regime. You can still use your bike during rest periods, just avoid the hard hill climbing runs and reduce the intensity of your training. Give your body time to recover.

All your cycling is built on endurance. Good technique is important but even this requires a level of endurance. You can have a great hill climbing technique but if your body starts to tire because your endurance is low it won't do you any good.

Good endurance is the foundation on which your cycling is built on. The better your endurance, the more you will be able to do on your bike. Incorporate some cycle endurance training into your program and the benefits will soon become noticeable. Not just in your cycling ability but also in your general fitness level.

Paul is the author of the blog Defensive Cycling where he discusses all thing bike related, from training to commuting. Join Defensive Cycling newsletter and get your free book "Cycling For Life".

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Merry
http://EzineArticles.com/?Cycle-Endurance-Training&id=3926572

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It's technically possible to adapt any bike into a road touring bicycle for short journeys, but if you're planning a long tour, then you are better getting a bike designed for the job, a road touring bicycle is designed to carry the extra weight of loaded panniers that you will need to take on your journey.

If you're planning to do a number of long-distance tours then investing in a road touring bike is a good idea. Touring bikes are light but strong enough to carry the extra load required for a long tour. Your bike must carry all the essential items you need to be self-sufficient while you are on the road, especially if you are going to isolated areas.

A road touring bicycle is built for exactly this purpose. It will be able to absorb the extra weight while still giving you a decent speed during travelling.

The classic touring bike is very similar in looks to a racing bike but there are many subtle differences. The frame for example is different, built with comfort rather than speed in mind if you're going to be riding your bike for weeks or even months, comfort is crucial. A touring bike sacrifices speed for comfort. But if you're touring you are not racing so the sacrifice is well worth it.

A good road touring bicycle will have heavy duty tyres to prevent punctures and the wheels will be stronger to cope with the different road surfaces and the weight of laden panniers and whatever else you have with you.

The nature of touring makes it necessary for you to carry a lot of equipment; everything you are likely to need must fit on the bike. A road touring bicycle will have fittings for panniers over the back wheel and also over the front wheel. There are also lots of small bags you can attach to your bike. Like map cases over the handlebars and a small saddlebag carrying a basic tool kit.

An essential part of a road touring bike are mudguards. These little additions are simple but essential part of a good touring bike, keeping you dry when you encounter rain or wet roads. You may have to navigate over dirt tracks where the mudguards will come into their own.

Touring bikes are designed to ensure the load you carry is spread evenly over the bike ensuring the bike stays balanced and no undue stress is placed on one part of the touring bike.

What kind of road touring bike you buy depends on how much touring you are planning on doing. If you are just thinking of a few small weekend tours then a hybrid bike with fittings for panniers will be fine. If you are planning a long-distance tour, covering between 60 to a 100 miles a day for a few weeks, then you need to invest in a good quality road touring bike.

Paul is the author of the blog Defensive Cycling where he discusses all thing bike related, from training to commuting. Join Defensive Cycling newsletter and get your free book "Cycling For Life."

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Merry
http://EzineArticles.com/?Road-Touring-Bicycle&id=3929809

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Cycling is an activity that can be enjoyed as a professional sport, a mode of transportation, or a recreational activity. It is considered one of the top leisurely activities that Americans enjoy. Cycling is not only a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy the scenery around you but it is also an excellent form of exercise.

The most popular type of cycling is road cycling, which is mainly on paved surfaces. One type of road cycling that is quickly gaining popularity is adventure cycling where cycling trips are extended into long journeys. Part of the appeal of adventure cycling is that it pushes the cyclist to their limits. It's extreme biking! And, naturally with anything extreme there are some that want to push the sport even farther.

These adventurous souls have sought out the most dangerous places in the world to ride a bike. And, once the stories started to get around the legends were born. Now, these dangerous locales are sought after by cyclists looking for a new challenge. If you think you have what it takes, then here's your chance to ride a bike in the most dangerous places in the world.

According to the Transportation For America and the Surface Transportation Policy Partnership, the most dangerous U.S. city to ride a bicycle in is Orlando, Florida. In fact, the top 10 most dangerous U.S. cities to ride in are all located in the South.

The most dangerous state to cycle in is also Florida with 119 bicycle related fatalities in 2007. California was a close second with 109 deaths. So, if you're planning a long bike trip either avoid or head towards these states -- depending on whether your goal is to seek danger.

The most dangerous street in the world to bicycle on is Coroico Road. Located in the Bolivian Andes, this is considered the steepest and bumpiest road around. The road plunges down almost 3,600 meters or 2.25 miles. It has been said that bikers can reach speeds of near 80km/hr without trying.

The most dangerous bike trail is found on the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland. There is a 600 foot drop down to the Atlantic Ocean, with ledges that are sometimes only four inches wide and gaps that are over four feet long.

And now for the real shocker. The most dangerous place to ride your bike isn't half a world away, it's just outside your door. The sidewalk is considered by most cyclists the most dangerous place to ride a bike.

The sidewalk is hazardous because there is a greater chance of colliding with another cyclist or a pedestrian. Collisions with a car are more common too because drivers aren't watching the sidewalk and bikers ride down curbs and driveways without looking. Not only is sidewalk cycling twice as dangerous than cycling in the street but it becomes four times as dangerous to cycle when you are going against traffic.

If you plan on seeking out extreme biking conditions, keep these important safety tips in mind. Always wear a helmet. Ride in the same direction as traffic, never against it. Obey the rules of the road. And, stay aware of your surroundings. Good rides!

If you want to ride in Southern California, then check out the Long Beach bike routes. Long Beach is aiming to become the most bike friendly city in the United States ( http://www.everythinglongbeach.com/lb/bikes ).

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darla_Blackmon
http://EzineArticles.com/?Most-Dangerous-Places-in-the-World-to-Ride-a-Bike&id=3825626

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Selecting the right bike rack can be a challenge. You have to know the different types that are available and what will work best for your type of vehicle. Here is what you need to know to help you select the right bike rack. There are basically 4 types of bicycle racks available today. Here they are:

Roof Mounted Bike Racks

Roof mounted bike racks are a popular choice for bike storage and transportation today. The bike is conveniently situated on the roof of the car or SUV and the back of the vehicle is left easy to access. If you have a roof rack already mounted on your vehicle it makes this a much easier choice. However, there are some versions that work without a car roof rack.

The downside to a rack on the roof is that it exposes the bicycle to the elements. Flying rocks and debris can hit the bike and cause damage. Also, drivers have been known to forget the bike is on top of their vehicle and they damage the bike when they drive into low ceiling areas like car ports or garages.

Hitch Bike Rack

The hitch rack is very convenient, but you must have a hitch or at least a receiver for one. If you do this can be a good choice. Some versions are fixed and mount solidly against the back of the vehicle so the bike is secure. There are other versions available that allow the bike to swing away so the rear of the vehicle can be accessed. Many people like this type of a bike rack because the bicycle is protected from flying debris. The biggest downside is that it does make it difficult to get inside the rear of the vehicle, unless you have one if the cool, new swing away styles.

Trunk Mounted Bike Rack

A rack mounted on the trunk can be a great choice for short trips. These are the least expensive of the bicycle rack types. The bike is protected from flying debris, and that is always a plus. This is a great choice for those that do not want to transport their bike on the roof and do not have a hitch. The negatives for this type of a rack is that the bike is not very firmly secured and will bounce quite a bit. Also, this type of a set up will definitely make it difficult to access a rear hatch or trunk.

Truck Bed Bike Rack

If you drive a truck, why not consider using the bed of the truck for storage and transporting of your bicycles? This type of a rack firmly attaches to the bed of the truck and can carry one or more bikes. This works great as compared to just throwing bikes in the back of the truck. Using this type of a rack protects the bikes from getting damaged or bent. The only real downside to this type of bike storage is that bikes will take up part of the truck bed, so you will have less room for the storage of other items if you are taking a trip.

There are many new bike rack designs today. Here is where you can get more information on all the latest new designs at Car Bike Racks. Also, here is where you can go for a great selection in the very popular Hitch Mount Bike Rack.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_S_Myers
http://EzineArticles.com/?Bike-Racks---How-to-Choose-the-Right-One&id=4104790

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The Saxo Bank chasing
The gap drops inexorably as the Saxo riders lead the chase. The break away only manages to maintain a 1’2 advantage on the main pack at the entrance of the Trouée d’Arenberg. Cancellara and Boonen ride together in the front. Behind, the bunch follows up in single file, and eventually, the 19 riders are caught at kilometre 192.

Cancellara and Boonen speed up
Then Cancellara launches his first attack on the cobbles between Beuvry and Orchies (km 193,5). Boonen and Flecha are the only riders able to follow his ferociously high pace. In Orchies (km 198,5), Boonen takes his chance and attacks, followed by Cancellara, Hushovd and Pozzato. As the main favourites shadow each other, Hinault, Hoste and Leukemans seize the opportunity and try to break away with 50 km to go.

Cancellara solo
With 49 km to go, Cancellara accelerates once again. This time no one can follow the Olympic Time-Trial Champion’s attack. Second by second, he builds up his advantage on a group containing Boonen, Pozzato, Hushovd, Hammond (SKY), Hoste, Flecha, Eisel (THR), Hansen (THR), Roulston (THR), Leukemans, Mondory (ALM), Hinault (ALM) and Hincapie (BMC). The gap rises up to 3’05 in Templeuve (km 225,5)

Four years after his first Paris-Roubaix victory, Cancellara enters the Velodrome alone with a 2’ advantage. Hushovd then outpowers Flecha for second.

Results
1 Fabian Cancellara (SUI) Team Saxo Bank 6h 35' 10"
2 Thor Hushovd (NOR) Cervélo TestTeam + 2' 00"
3 Juan Antonio Flecha (ESP) Team Sky + 2' 00"
4 Roger Hammond (GBR) Cervélo TestTeam + 3' 14"
5 Tom Boonen (BEL) Quick Step + 3' 14"
6 Bjorn Leukemans (BEL) Vacansoleil + 3' 20"
7 Filippo Pozzato (ITA) Team Katusha + 3' 46"
8 Leif Hoste (BEL) Omega Pharma-Lotto + 5' 16"
9 Sebastien Hinault (FRA) Ag2r-La Mondiale + 6' 27"
10 Hayden Roulston (NZL) Team HTC-Columbia + 6' 59"


source: Paris–Roubaix

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Ones day we decided to around the Tatras on bicycles. We do it in september 2009.

On the road around the Tatras are considered as an "amateur Championships Central Europe". This route have 200km, but we at the beginning we drive a lot of twist and made up for kilometers. According to my meter was 227 kilometers, and by the GPS or otherwise. Around our route was 220km.



The route would be difficult, would be a lot of driveways - perhaps they were a lot but had very little slope so not tired:) So, overall, was not so difficult.

Along the way, watching great views of the mountains and interesting villages in Slovakia. Put a few pics too because I do not have what to write: P

The end :D

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