Wondering about cadence?

[Jen Jen]

I think this is a highly subjective question. I just invested in a cyclo-computer this year that measures cadence. I've heard all varieties of opinions.

One of my very athletic cycling friends insists 90-100 RPMs is the way to go.

I had one of the guys in the LBS tell me the 90-100 RPM business stems from how Lance Armstrong rides, so it has been very popular.

I recently read an article... I believe in Runner's World... talking about runners becoming triathletes and learning to cycle. They encouraged keeping at least 80 RPM.

Me? I need to up my RPMs big time. At the end of a ride, my average cadence shows up in the upper 60s - mid 70s. But that includes taking breaks down hills and rolling up to stoplights. I often find it is easier doing high RPMs up hills (90-100) and I try to ride mid 70s-mid80s.

Keeping it general, I'd say working to up your cadence some will probably help make riding easier and improve your fitness. But I think shooting for a universal magic number doesn't really work? Just my opinion...

Jen

[RoadRaven]

Spinning is a high cadence - 90 rpm or more... and thats what people recommend

However, I find spinning hard work and at best I can get to about 92

In a TT I ride at about 86-90rpm, in training I pedal anywhere between 70-85rpm

Just experiment with it... my heart rate rises as my cadence gets up to 90 - so I am actually more efficient at a lower cadence...

Good luck