Hills

[stephbc]

As a new rider, I just did my first set of "real" hills on Sunday during a 50 mile ride.

I thought I was going to die.

Not going UP the hills, mind you, but down. They scare the crap out of me. Is this just something riders get over, or am I just a big wussy? I'm concerned because this is the first time since I started training that I thought, "what have I done?" And really, they weren't even that steep. But 40 mph on a rough road... I just knew I was going to crash.

I have a ride coming up on Saturday - 56 miles. I have a map and the middle section looks pretty hilly. Does anyone have any words of advice?

[megale3]

Hey Step nice job on the 50 :D
1) look up the road or in this case down the road not right infront of you. this will let you know whats coming at you so you'll have plenty of time to negotiate/react to obstacles.
2) breath don't hold your breath and Ride at a speed that is comfortable for you and your bike, not someone else's.
3) Sit back in the saddle and have a wide grip on the bars preferably around the hoods if this is a road bike (not HP1 LOL)
4) Keep your bike in a “higher gear” Continue to pedal lightly, to help keep your balance.
5) don't ride the breaks it builds up heat but if it is raining use slight pressure to keep them water free.
6) Go through corners with your inside pedal raised. Place more weight on your outside pedal to counter-balance.
7) break before going into a corner not in the middle of it.
I know that there is other things that I have forgot to mention. Hope this helps
Megale

[stephbc]

Thanks Meg - that does help.

I think it's safe to say I was definitely holding my breath. :?

[Legspeed]

To paraphrase Lemond, steph, the short answer is no, you never get used to it, you just get puckered at faster speeds.

[stephbc]

Great! Something to look forward to!