So...what exactly IS 100% max resistance?
I define 100% M.R. as the absolute maximum amount of resistance you can apply to the wheel while still pedaling in a smooth, round pedal stroke at 60 RPM!
Once you have a handle on your 100% M.R. everything else becomes relatively easy to comprehend....
- A hill starts around 50% of your M.R.
- The amount of resistance required to juuust counter-balance your weight in the jog position is 35% M.R.
- Flat roads will have anywhere from 20% to 50% M.R., while one's cadence will be no lower than "your favorite happy pedaling speed" (or 80 RPM, whichever is lower).
Well, first warm up well and then once warm set your leg speed to 60 RPM. Now start adding resistance a little at a time all the way until you can just baaaaarely hold that 60RPM. That amount of resistance is ~100% M.R. Remember that feeling in your legs and work all other amounts of resistance relative to the feeling of 100% M.R.
Oh, and don't forget that 100% M.R. is going differ in absolute resistance on the wheel depending on whether you're seated or standing. That is, if you're at 100% M.R. you could still stand up and add more resistance! I usually estimate that there is a 10% difference in % resistance between the seated position and standing position.
Remember, if you ever hold back on the resistance the only person you're cheating is yourself ;-)
Keep those wheels spinning smoothly.
- John
