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Oak, I need to be a bit more specific. I am now riding up hills that I used to walk up. I do get winded and stop partway up, but continue on riding up them. In the past I would have to stop because it felt too hard (and I was winded) and when I caught my wind again, I'd have to walk the rest of the way up not ride.
Makes sense about getting winded from more exertion.
Okay, here goes.
Yes, my bike is a Specialized 2009 Dolce Elite. I think it's a comp and the frame is a 50 or 51 (actually too small for me). I've had it properly fit by a reputable fitter. Certainly the crotch pain I had when I first started has all disappeared and I have no aches anywhere after I ride.
I read this thread prior to riding today (70F, 12mph NE winds, low humidity... it was gorgeous!!) to keep all your advice and experience in my head as I went along. It went better today but I was still huffing and puffing. I went my full route (~15 miles) without wanting badly to go home.
I think I found my "sweet spot". At about 75-80 rpm I could maintain the cadence on a flat indefinitely. My CV system wasn't crashing and my legs were not aching or burning. So at the very least, I think that's a good thing to figure out. This puts me on the big wheel in the front and the 3rd largest wheel in the back.
I attempted to maintain this cadence the whole ride (and did well until the massive hill at the end) by shifting up or down accordingly - this is the correct thing to do, right?
Over time I assume that it will become easier for me to maintain a cadence in my sweet spot and that you are thus then able to build up strength to pedal that fast in higher gears, right? And that's how you get faster? That's my ultimate goal - I want to be faster but still be able to go long distances. There is a 100mile ride in September I would like to be able to participate in.
Thanks again for everything guys, this is invaluable as I become a better cyclist.
It sounds like you're making progress. Before long, it'll feel like second nature. Just remember that hills change the equation. Your cadence will likely slow down a bit, even if you choose an easier gear. It sort of depends on the hill and how you want to climb it. No one style will work for everyone on every hill.