Getting the basics right can make your time in the saddle more enjoyable, so take our bicycle basics questionnaire and ensure you get the most out of your next ride.
Question 1: What gear should a cyclist select when approaching a steep hill?
- a) A low gear.
- b) A medium gear.
- c) A high gear.
- d) It doesn’t matter. Pedal hard enough and you’ll get up the hill.
Question 2: What cadence (number of turns of the pedal in a minute) should a cyclist aim for?
- a) 6
- b) 60
- c) 600
- d) 6,000
Question 3: What combination of saddle and handlebar positioning should a cyclist use to be most aerodynamic?
- a) Saddle level and handlebars high.
- b) Saddle tilted back and handlebars low.
- c) Saddle tilted forward and handlebars high.
- d) Saddle tilted forward and handlebars low.
Question 4: If turning a corner, when should a cyclist brake?
- a) On the approach to the corner.
- b) On the entry to the corner.
- c) On the exit of the corner.
- d) After the corner.
Question 5: Which of the following statements is true about using only the back brake of a bicycle?
- a) It’s what to do in an emergency.
- b) It could send the rider flying over the handlebars.
- c) It is perfectly adequate for easing the bike to a stop.
- d) It is no use in treacherous conditions, as it will result in a skid.
Question 6: Which of the following is true if a bike has been set up for a rider correctly?
- a) The rider’s legs should have to stretch to meet the pedals.
- b) The saddle should be as far back as possible to allow the rider’s arms and wrists to take the strain.
- c) The handlebars should be as low as possible to allow the rider’s back to take the strain.
- d) The handlebar width should allow the rider to take hold of the grips with each hand in line with the corresponding shoulder.
Question 7: Which of the following statements describes good pedalling technique?
- a) Your knees should move outside the line of hip to ankle.
- b) Relax the right foot as the left pushes down and vice versa.
- c) Coast when you get to a certain speed.
- d) Be disciplined in your use of the gears so that you never have to either ease off or push harder on the pedals.
Answers
Question 1 – a) The lower the gear, the easier it is to turn the pedals.
Question 2 – b) Aim for a cadence of around 60 revolutions per minute.
Question 3 – d) This will bring the body forward and the head down, making the rider more aerodynamic.
Question 4 – a) Adjust to the required speed before the turn.
Question 5 – c) The rear brake possesses less traction but can ease the bike to a stop.
Question 6 – d) Resist the temptation to opt for a narrower position, which may affords a greater feel for the front wheel but will cramp in upper arms on the sides of your chest, resulting in inefficient breathing.
Question 7 – d) Good use of the gears allows a rider to maintain a constant cadence.
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