Debunking Cycling Myths

 

Can you out train a bad diet?

Training while neglecting nutrition may work for a while and up to a certain level, but eventually, it will become a limiter. Some individuals seem to have a higher tolerance for turning garbage into energy and health than others, but generally, you get out what you put in.

 

Do you believe your friends/teammates are telling you the truth when they say they'll go easy on a training ride?

It depends who we are dealing with.  In my experience, there is something inherent about cyclists in the declaration and perception of certain adjectives like “easy” and “hard.”  Within my team, if I’m with more of the GC/climber type, especially if they are over the age of 30, an easy ride usually means it will be easy.  On the other hand, if the teammate is younger or a rider is preparing for the Northern Spring Classics, “easy” just means “easier” compared to whatever they were doing before, which is usually riding full gas.

 

Is it true - climbers can't sprint and sprinters can't climb?

It’s all relative. Cavendish will likely never drop Quintana on a 20-km climb, and Bardet will likely never win a sprint of 200 riders on a TDF stage, but one of the first mind-blows I had as a younger rider entering the top level of the sport was how well these specialists were even at their weaker points. 

At a more local or regional level back home, I find this myth even more inaccurate as I notice people often label themselves as sprinters or climbers purely based on body type or overall weight.  I’m not a big fan of labels!  Don’t tell me what I am!

 

Is it easy to make it in the break or have a break form?

It depends on the day and the race situation.  Some days, it is effortless, and other days it’s a popcorn lottery that feels impossible to get in there. 

Usually (but remember—there are always exceptions!), there is a decent correlation between a break succeeding and how hard it was to get in there.  A low chance to make it to the line typically equals much easier change to get in there.  Got any teammates who could win the race/stage?  Then your chances are much lower of getting a leash from the other teams.

 

Do you strictly follow your training plan to the letter every single day?

It depends on how specific it is! Days that are extremely specific, I probably follow it a little less, just out of practicality.  The days that are more vague and broad are easier to complete 100%.  Generally, I feel that I’m the only one that knows how I feel and assess the countless variables that factor into condition and health, so I adapt accordingly.

 

What’s the real reason you shave your legs?

Peer pressure.  Massage is way nicer with smooth legs.

 

Sunglasses--inside or outside of helmet straps. Why?

Outside. Comfort. Peer pressure and habit.