
Originally Posted by
cosc
We've had over our share of wind this spring-summer. I just finished tour de kota which had a couple of days of high winds and gusts. The crosswinds were scariest for me trying to keep my new carbon bike upright. My wimpy arms and hands gave up the fight and I sagged half the ride on the last day of the ride.
Are there any skills to improve riding in a crosswind? I try to put weight on my handlebars to keep the front fork straight. I know I definitely need to work on arm and core strength.
Well, I have actually been leaning my bike towards the crosswind. I put more weight on that side of the bike and ride at a slight angle (or is it angel?)... anyways... I think it helps.
Honestly if a wind gust comes up and blows you sideways... arms and core aren't going to do anything. I was riding with 2 guys who got blown sideways.
I know for me, when the crosswind gets really bad and the leaning into it doesn't seem to help... I just slow down and take my foot off the pedal. So if I feel I have to throw on the brakes suddenly, I can catch myself. The last time the wind was blowing me off course, I forgot that part and landed hard on my right hip.
"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather, to skid in broadside thoroughly used-up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming: WOW WHAT A RIDE!!!!"