A roundup of hot topics in the bicycle world

Speaking of UCI (International Cycling Union), I believe everyone has a love-hate relationship with this organization.

Although it is said that "as long as you like bicycles, we are a family", even if we are a family, we can't avoid daily "quarrels". So what are the hot topics of "quarrels" among bicycle enthusiasts recently? Let's talk about them today!

1. Disc brakes or rim brakes?

Whether to stick with rim brakes or embrace disc brakes has always been a hot topic of debate among cyclists, and everyone is divided into two distinct factions. The "disc brake party" believes that the disc brake system undoubtedly has a huge advantage over the rim brake system in terms of reliability and braking effect. Secondly, as manufacturers are fully committed to the research and development of disc brake road models, it is not impossible that the road bike market will be completely occupied by disc brake models in the future. This is contrary to the popular trend of technology, and it is not advisable to reverse history!

However, rim brake fans do not necessarily mean conservatives. Riders who like rim brakes naturally have their own reasons and ideas.

Disc brake users: I have reliable performance and no need to worry about brake thermal degradation!

Rim brake people: I’m light.

Disc brake party: My brakes feel delicate!

Rim brake party: I’m light;

Disc brake fans: My thru-axle structure is solid and reliable!

Rim brake party: I’m light;

Disc brake fans: Can we get around the weight issue? . . .

Rim brake fans: Okay, my aerodynamic design is better, the technology is more mature, and maintenance is easier.

Disc brake fans: Let’s continue discussing the weight issue.

Of course, jokes aside, disc brakes and rim brakes each have their own characteristics and advantages. Which one is right for you?

2. Should the “brain-opening” pneumatic postures be banned?

Speaking of UCI (International Cycling Union), I believe everyone has a "love-hate" relationship with this organization. On the one hand, UCI has held many exciting international events, which are a feast for the eyes of cycling fans. On the other hand, UCI is like a nagging "old mother", adhering to the principle of controlling all matters, big and small, and making various strict restrictions on the equipment, clothing, and movements of the riders.

Recently, the "old lady" issued a new rule, prohibiting riders from using the "supertuck" maneuver of lying on the tube. The representative figure who uses this maneuver is "cousin" Froome.

The release of this ban has sparked heated discussions among the racing fans. Those who oppose this decision believe that every driver who is racing on the track must be full of desire for victory. It is not impossible to use these "moves" that can increase your chances of winning. Secondly, it can also increase the viewing value of the event. Why not?

However, cyclists who support this resolution believe that cycling racing is an inherently dangerous sport, and if riders are allowed to make these "abnormal" postures, it will only increase the risk of the event, especially since these big-name riders play the role of "opinion leaders". Once fanatical fans get into danger by imitating these movements, the consequences will be disastrous.

3. Which is better, a press-fit or screw-in bottom bracket?

In the past two years, Trek has introduced a new bottom bracket specification - T47, which has been fully replaced on its newly released road bikes. This move has left many riders "scratching their heads". Why don't you play by the rules, Trek? After playing with press-fit bottom brackets for so many years, how come you suddenly go back to the "pre-liberation era" and start playing with screw-in bottom brackets again?

There are many specifications of frame bottom brackets, this "BB" and that "BB" make many riders dizzy, but there are only two types: press-in bottom bracket and screw-in bottom bracket. Which of these two bottom brackets is better has always been the focus of debate among riders. Compared with the press-in bottom bracket, the screw-in bottom bracket represented by Slink GXP has a longer history of development. However, after the "trouble-making" Cannondale and FSA launched the BB30 press-in bottom bracket in 2001, the development of the press-in bottom bracket has been moving forward, gradually replacing the screw-in bottom bracket and becoming the mainstream specification.

Cyclists who like the press-in bottom bracket believe that the ultra-light weight and the beautiful connection between the frame and the bottom bracket are the reasons why the supporters of the press-in bottom bracket cannot resist its charm. However, many cyclists still insist on using the frame with the screw-in bottom bracket. After all, the screw-in bottom bracket is not as delicate as the press-in bottom bracket during disassembly and assembly, and it will not produce annoying noises due to the entry of mud and sand or improper installation.

4. Do you need teammates for long-distance cycling trips?

The holidays are coming, and you may have the idea of ​​going on a long-distance ride. Should you enjoy the scenery quietly by yourself, or go out with a group of teammates? This is one of the issues that many cyclists who like long-distance cycling like to "argue about". Of course, strictly speaking, this is not a "argument" because it has a lot to do with personal character and the way you enjoy traveling.

For those who like to ride alone, you can freely arrange your itinerary and time without being constrained by the different opinions of your teammates. At the same time, because you focus on riding instead of chatting with your teammates, you will be more likely to notice new things happening around you, which will add different fun to your journey. But from another perspective, riding alone means that you have to face the risks that you may encounter on the journey alone. Repairing a tire alone in the wind may be a common occurrence.

Cycling tour with teammates is a completely different experience. Everyone’s communication and interaction will make the whole journey more lively and interesting. You don’t have to worry about no one helping you when you encounter difficulties. But at the same time, you will not be very free in arranging your itinerary and time, and you must take everyone’s opinions and feelings into consideration.