Start here · Essential guide
Tricks for Riding a Bike with a High Gear Ratio
A plain-language explanation of gear ratios, how a tall gear trades acceleration for top speed, and when it makes sense to shift down.
Bikes, Terrain and Weather
Gears, Drives and Brakes
How gearing, belts, derailleurs and disc brakes change the ride.
Tricks for Riding a Bike with a Bike with a Belt Drive System
How a belt drive feels and differs from a chain: quiet, clean, usually paired with hub gears, and adjusted at a shop rather than at home.
Tricks for Riding a Bike with a Bike with a Belt Drive System and a Disc Brake System
Why belt drive and disc brakes are often paired on commuter bikes, and what this low-maintenance combination means for day-to-day riding.
Tricks for Riding a Bike with a Bike with a Disc Brake System
How to use disc brakes well: progressive squeezing, bedding in as the manufacturer says, avoiding contamination and managing heat on long descents.
Tricks for Riding a Bike with a Clutch
Bicycles have no motorbike-style clutch. Learn what a clutch rear derailleur does, how it reduces chain slap and how to use it as the manual says.
Tricks for Riding a Bike with a High Cadence
What spinning faster really means, why many riders find it eases knee and muscle strain, and simple drills to build smooth, fast pedalling.
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More in bikes, terrain and weather
Mountain Biking Trail skills, setup and safe progression for mountain bikers. Hills and Climbing Climbing, descending and pacing on hills and mountain roads. Gravel and Dirt Riding on gravel, dirt and mixed surfaces with control. Climate and Environments Riding in deserts, tropics and rural areas. Rain, Wind and Snow Practical handling for wet, windy and wintry rides. Climbs and Descents Getting up and down hills with control and sensible pacing. Surfaces and Paths Handling sand, cobbles, boardwalks, trails and other surfaces. Road Bike Skills Handling, drills and position on drop bar road bikes. Cyclocross Skills Riding cyclocross bikes over mud, grass and barriers. Single-Speed Bikes Riding well with just one gear. Frames and Fit How frame type and saddle setup shape handling and comfort. Maintenance Basics Simple care that keeps a bike safe and pleasant to ride.