How Fast Should I Pedal?

As you are pedaling along, take a look at other riders.  Do they pedal faster or slower than you?  What is the best pedal cadence or speed of your pedals?  It depends on what you are trying to achieve and you personally.

In general, a person who pedals quickly will be able to ride longer because he or she is not tiring the legs as much.  "Faster" is about 80 to 100 revolutions per minute (rpm).  On the other hand, a slower cadence will generate more power, allowing you to go faster or harder for a shorter period of time.  So what is right?  If your ride that day is supposed to be a long ride or your goal in general is to ride longer, try increasing your pedal cadence.  It will feel like you are pedaling too fast at first, but you will get used to it.  If you are trying to complete a shorter ride, and you want to ride fast, a slower cadence, say 60 to 80 rpm, is better.  You will get tired sooner, but you will complete the shorter ride sooner.

Many of us want both.  We want to ride far and fast; therefore, we need to practice at slower and faster cadences on different days or at different times during a workout.  Your ride must have a purpose, if you expect to improve.  Concentrate on faster cadence on some rides.  Other times, pedal slower and harder to increase your power and bike speed.  Everyone's optimal cadence is different so you will have to experiment.  It is all part of the biking experience.  And do not forget that bike riding is about having fun!

If you would like to learn more about cadence, please stop by the store, and we will help you.  A bike computer with the ability to measure pedal cadence is recommended if you want to take advantage of the power of good cadence.