Cadence (cycling)

The cadence when cycling is the number of crank revolutions per unit time, it is usually given in revolutions per minute (1/min).

Some bike computers measure the cadence with a sensor, which is usually mounted on the chain stay and is triggered by a magnet on the crank.

The gears of the bicycle allows cyclists to maintain an approximately constant at different speeds cadence. A given speed is achieved either at a low cadence high power use or at high frequency with correspondingly less force.

Normal and optimal values

The cadence at which reaches the maximum power varies between individual and is in most people at around 60/min. Professional cyclists ride mostly with crossover frequencies of 90-110/min. This is on the joints because the force used is low, it is also advantageous for the metabolism of the muscles.

The individually optimal cadence depends on many factors, especially the driving style and the constitution of each individual driver. Was publicly discussed this, as Jan Ullrich and Lance Armstrong rode to victory in the Tour de France, because their services were similarly well, but the riding styles differ greatly: Ullrich drove an " athletic ", powerful style with a slow frequency, Armstrong a " sparkling " style with up to 120/min. In the Internet survey of a triathlon forum, 69 % of participants in their cadence in the range of 80-95/min. With approximately 105/min most hours were driven world records.

Racers who drive a high cadence may temporarily increase its force during sprints and breakaways. Driver with a quieter passage, however, can play to their strengths at a steady pace, because of mechanical and biomechanical perspective, the force utilization (efficiency) is better.

At least as important as the "right" cadence is a optimized pedaling cycle to implement the force used with as little loss in propulsion.