db21@ihuxk.UUCP (07/21/83)
Although I ride year-round, or try to, I find it beneficial
to supplement my "road" riding with "roller" riding (RR). I have
ridden rollers and now work out on a "Racer-Mate" wind load
simulator (WLS). Of the two, I feel the WLS is closer to
actual riding.
During colder months, I set up in the basement in front of
the TV and use a floor fan to provide air circulation. When it
gets warmer, I move outside and set up facing the wind. Air
circulation is desirable as you don't get the air movement you
have when riding and you overheat.
When I first started RR, I used a metronome to beat
cadence. Now, I can maintain a cadence of 90 rpm or so quite
easily without mechanical aid. I also use a stop watch so
I can time my ride. Knowing time and gear ratio, I can
calculate distance traveled, however, I concentrate on
"turning a circle" and maintaining a constant cadence.
I strongly recommend RR as a supplement to road riding -
it makes the "first ride of the season" a lot easier, and gives
you a way to ride without getting wet on those rainy days
that seem to come every weekend!
Ride-on
Dave