Tech Center Archive
Ian Buchanan, co-owner of Fit Werx, VT has written Triathlete Magazine’s “Tech Support” articles as a contributing writer since 2001 and is a Serotta International Cycling Institute (SICI) core instructor. Dean Phillips, co-owner of Fit Werx2, writes” Bike Tech by Fit Werx” for beginnertriathlete.com
Power Consumption Variables
Power Consumption Overview
Rider Aerodynamics (Fit & Positioning)
Aerodynamics of the Bicycle
Stiffness and Compliance (material application and design)
Rolling Resistance
Weight of Bicycle
Mechanics/Durability/Friction
Frame Geometry and Handling
Frame and Bike Technology
10 Steps to 5mph Faster Presentation – How much time can equipment save
Wind Tunnels, Virtual Wind Tunnel Testing, and Weight vs. Aero
New Bike Feels Slower, But is Faster. Why?
The $2K Bike Question
Choosing a New Bike – How?
Road Bike or Tri Bike. Which is for me? The basics.
The Myth of Materials – Does Your Bike’s Material Matter?
Titanium vs. Carbon. Which is best?
Clydesdale Considerations – unique needs for bigger riders
Is the Giant TCR a good bike?
In Defense of the Custom Tri Bike
How Seatpost Setback Affects Seat Angle
Fork Upgrade Considerations
Carbon Engineering
Carbon, part 1. Bladder Mold vs. Lugged Construction.
Carbon, part 2. Carbon Quality – Not All Carbon is Created Equal.
Carbon, part 3. Who Really Built Your Bike?
Frame Geometry
Comparing Fit Between Brands/Models – What Dimensions Matter
700c vs. 650c Wheels
Bottom Bracket Drop and Fork Rake & Trail – How They Matter
Stack and Reach – What and Why
Fit and Positioning
General:
Why Power Based Bike Fitting Does Not Work
Bike Fitting or Bike Sizing – What is the Difference?
A Guaranteed Approach to Bike Fit
Why Individualized Fitting is Superior to Formulas & Generalizations
Why Fit Formulas Fail
Common Fitting Misconceptions
What is Advanced Computer Based Fitting?
Training and Optimal Position Development
Comfortable Last Year, Not This Year. Why?
Aerobar/Tri Specific:
Aerobar Arm Pad Width
Road or Tri Position for Beginners
Science’s View on Steep Triathlon Seat Angles
Lower Back & Hamstring Pain in Aero Position
Saddle:
Saddle Discomfort – Beyond Proper Fit
Saddle Pressure Scanning Overview
Shoes/Cleats:
Setting Cleats to Shoes Properly
Morton’s Neuroma on Bike
Achilles Issues on Bike
Foot Pressure Scanning Overview
Products
General:
Accessories: What do I need beyond the bike?
Great Underrated Cycling Products
Aerobars:
S-Bend Aerobars
Clip-On Aerobar Features and Fit Comparison
Bearings:
Bearing Grades and Quality
Bearing Q&A
Helmets:
Helmet Selection and Aerodynamics
Drivertrain:
Chains: Brands, Compatibility and Design
Compact Crank/Gearing Considerations
Press Fit Bottom Bracket Technology
Frame/Fork:
Fork Upgrade Considerations
Pedals:
Pedal Overview and Biomechanical Considerations
Best Pedals for Lighter Riders (ease of engagement/release)
General Cleat Maintenance
Speedplay Cleat Replacement Interval
PowerMeters/Electronics:
Power Meter Overview
How to Use Your Power Meter as a Wind Tunnel
Shoes:
Cycling Shoe Fit and Individual Considerations
Cycling Shoes for Wider Feet & Foot Support
Tires:
Tubeless Road Tires
Tubeless Road Tire Maintenance
Trainers – Indoor
An Overview of Stationary Trainers
CycleOps Fluid2 vs. Kurt Kinetic Fluid Trainer Shootout
Why Your Power Can be Diminished Riding Indoors
Wheels:
Race Wheel Considerations
Dura Ace vs Ultegra vs Race Wheels. Which buys you the most speed?
Tubular vs. Clincher Wheels
Mechanical
General Maintenance:
Periodic Maintenance Schedule
Pre-Ride Checkover
Mileage Based Maintenance Schedule and Checklist
How to Clean and Lubricate a Chain
Basics of Cable Lubrication
Basic Guide to Common Tools
Wheels and Tires:
Tubeless Road Tire Maintenance & Hints
Tight Clincher Tire Hints
Proper Tire Pressure and Care
Converting 9 Speed Wheels to 10 Speed
How to Change a Tire
Tubeless Tire Installation Instructions
Headset:
Adjusting the Headset
Brakes:
Road Bike Brake Adjustment Fundamentals
Derailleurs and Shifting:
Adjusting the Front Derailleur
Adjusting the Rear Derailleur
Internal Cable Routing and Sluggish Shifting
Derailleur Adjustment Fundamentals
Packing and Travel:
Packing Your Bicycle For Shipping
Technique & Training
How to Use Your Power Meter as a Wind Tunnel
What is Pedaling Circles and How do I do it?
Good Runner, Not so Good Cyclist. How to Get Faster on the Bike.
Efficient Pedaling Technique and Postural Keys
Fundraising & Event Ride Preparation
Charity Event Fundraising Hints
What Type of Bike Should I Buy?
Tips to Help Make Long Rides Easier
Bike Fit for Recreational Riders
Bike Maintenance Basics
Riding Better Through Proper Bike Set-Up & Posture
Road Etiquette for Event Rides
Misc
Gearing and Gear Inches
Accessories. Beyond the Bike, What do I Need & What is the Cost?