A transportation and infrastructure executive in Washington, DC, Michelle Pourciau leads MP Synergy, LLC, as president. Possessing upwards of three decades of experience in city planning and transportation matters, she has been responsible for maintaining and operating roads, bridges, and sidewalks, along with implementing transportation-related projects. Outside of work, Michelle Pourciau maintains an active lifestyle and enjoys bike riding.
When riding a road bike, it is important to maintain a good, neutral position. This ensures the ride is as comfortable as possible. Neutral positioning involves keeping the shoulders relaxed and bringing them away from the ears. Doing so frees up the head and makes turning easier for riders so they stay more alert of traffic, pedestrians, and other potential hazards.
Road bike riders should also bend their elbows. Since the elbows act as suspension when riders hit bumps in the road or potholes, it’s essential that they stay relaxed and tucked into the sides to reduce strain on the hands and shoulders. Meanwhile, it is also important to keep the wrist in a straight line from the elbow to the fingers, ensure the spine is relaxed and straight, and position the knees over the pedals when they are in the 3:00 position.
Part of maintaining this good posture involves fitting the bike properly, since each rider is built differently. Changing the seat height, moving the seat forward or back, and altering the height of the handlebars are all necessary when adjusting a bike perfectly. If a bike is adjusted well, it’s much easier to get into a good, neutral position.
When riding a road bike, it is important to maintain a good, neutral position. This ensures the ride is as comfortable as possible. Neutral positioning involves keeping the shoulders relaxed and bringing them away from the ears. Doing so frees up the head and makes turning easier for riders so they stay more alert of traffic, pedestrians, and other potential hazards.
Road bike riders should also bend their elbows. Since the elbows act as suspension when riders hit bumps in the road or potholes, it’s essential that they stay relaxed and tucked into the sides to reduce strain on the hands and shoulders. Meanwhile, it is also important to keep the wrist in a straight line from the elbow to the fingers, ensure the spine is relaxed and straight, and position the knees over the pedals when they are in the 3:00 position.
Part of maintaining this good posture involves fitting the bike properly, since each rider is built differently. Changing the seat height, moving the seat forward or back, and altering the height of the handlebars are all necessary when adjusting a bike perfectly. If a bike is adjusted well, it’s much easier to get into a good, neutral position.
