Average cycling speed: how to go faster?
By definition, average speed is the distance divided by time. However, many factors influence how fast you can ride your bike. Average speed can vary significantly if you aim for peak performance or simply want to improve your cycling trips. Several factors, such as the type of bike, your cycling experience, physical condition, distance, and weather conditions, all play a role.
What is the Average Speed for Different Types of Cyclists?
The Average Cycling Speed of Amateur Cyclists:
- In the City: In urban areas, the cyclist’s physical condition is less crucial than the environment. Urban cycling is often used as a mode of transportation and is heavily influenced by traffic conditions. Factors such as red lights, intersections, and traffic jams greatly affect average speed. For instance, in cities like New York or Los Angeles, average speeds can be around 8-10 mph, potentially rising to 12 mph on smoother routes.
- Outside the City: When cycling outside urban areas, performance depends more on the type of ride and the cyclist. Generally, speeds range between 10-12 mph but can vary. Novice road cyclists typically ride at 12-15 mph, while experienced cyclists reach 15-18 mph.
The Average Cycling Speed of Professional Cyclists
- Road Bikes: On flat terrain, Road cyclists average around 15 mph, varying between 9-25 mph depending on experience and bike weight. These figures assume ideal conditions; factors like wind, rain, and temperature can impact performance. In hilly terrain, average speeds drop to 9-18 mph on a 5% gradient and 6-12 mph on a 10% gradient.
- Mountain Bikes (MTB) or Hybrid Bikes: Mountain bikes, with larger wheels and heavier frames, average 9-12 mph. Off-road, speeds can drop to 6 mph uphill and exceed 30 mph downhill. Hybrid bikes average around 9 mph in cities, with speeds affected by versatile terrain and physical condition requirements.
- Electric Bikes: Electric-bikesprovide stronger acceleration but are often limited to 15.5 mph by US legislation. This makes the average speed higher than traditional city bikes, generally around 12 mph. For electric hybrid bikes, speeds can reach up to 15.5 mph. Electric road bikes go average around 15 mph, with speedier models capable of 28 mph.
Factors Influencing Your Average Cycling Speed
Weather Conditions:
Weather greatly affects cycling performance. Rain impacts speed less for electric bikes or city cycling but slows mountain and hybrid bikes considerably. Wind, especially headwinds, and temperatures outside the 59-77°F range also affect speeds. Cold weather requires more energy, and hot weather can lead to quicker overheating.
Cycling Equipment:
The weight of both the cyclist and the bike is crucial. Lighter bikes, such as those made from carbon fiber, perform better. Aerodynamics also plays a role; streamlined clothing and helmets reduce wind resistance. Properly inflated, narrow, and smooth tires optimize speed.
Physical Condition:
Regular exercise is essential for improving average speed. Amateur cyclists should train 4-5 hours weekly, while professionals might exceed 20 hours and follow specific diets.
Distance Covered:
Longer distances generally mean lower average speeds, especially for amateur cyclists. Professionals can maintain 25-28 mph on flat terrain with distances over 90-120 miles, but gradients reduce the distance covered.
How to Increase Your Average Cycling Speed
- Reduce Weight: Opt for carbon-fiber bikes and minimize additional gear. Maintain a healthy cyclist weight through a suitable diet.
- Improve Fitness: Engage in regular training tailored to your level, focusing on endurance and cadence.
- Enhance Aerodynamics: Use streamlined bikes and clothing, and adopt a forward-leaning position to reduce wind resistance.
- Ride in a Group: Group cycling can increase speed due to reduced air resistance.
- Maintain Your Bike: Ensure your bike is well-tuned, with properly inflated tires and a clean, lubricated transmission for optimal performance.
