Quote Originally Posted by OakLeaf View Post
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Also, when the riding is hard is when you need to really focus on form and fit. No matter how hard it is to push the pedals, it shouldn't make you get all crooked on the bike as you describe. Something else is going on with your body...
+1

And remember. Just because you used one gear ratio one day on a given stretch of trail does not mean that is the right gear combintation on all days. Wind can make a huge difference, and even on a flat stretch of road or trail can make it feel like you are climbing a hill (so you will need climbing gears).

Always pay attention to form and cadence. Get in a gear that lets you pedal at your happy cadence with a still upper-body. That is what gears are for! Use them!