If you are a cyclist, there is a chance that you may have encountered some trouble when trying to pedal your cycle. You may have wondered, ‘Why is my bicycle so hard to pedal?’
Whether you have a mountain bike, an electric bike, or a gravel bike, there are some issues that make it harder to pedal these two-wheel rides. Read on to learn more about these issues and their solutions!
Misaligned Wheels
A bicycle’s wheels should spin freely without any strange sounds. If you hear a scraping noise, that’s a sign of trouble. It’s likely they’re touching something they shouldn’t, like the brakes or the bike frame itself.
To fix this, we need to ensure everything is perfectly aligned. The wheels should sit squarely in the frame, with equal space on both sides. Uneven spokes can deform the shape of the cycle. If they’re misaligned, they might wobble or rub against something as they rotate.
Also, check your front and rear wheels to make sure they are securely fastened. They shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. A wheel that’s too tight might not turn easily, while one that’s too loose could lead to wobbling or even coming off mid-ride!
Misaligned Brakes
Next up, inspect the brakes. They play a crucial role in your safety but can also cause issues if they’re not adjusted correctly.
Your brakes should lightly touch the wheel only when you squeeze the brake lever on the handlebars. If the brake pads are clamping down on the wheel all the time, it can make the bicycle hard to pedal harder.
Ensure there’s a small gap between the brake pads and the wheel when you’re not braking. This way, the wheel can turn without any hindrance, and you’ll have a smoother ride.
Bike Tire Pressure
Your bicycle needs the right amount of air in its tires to be ridden smoothly and effortlessly. Checking your tire pressure is essential and should be done regularly. If they’re too soft, you may find it difficult to pedal your bike due to the rolling resistance.
If you find yourself frequently stopping to patch up your tires or pump flat tires full of air, it’s a sign that you might need new inner tubes or tires. Over time, these parts can wear out or get damaged, causing them to lose air faster than they should.
A fresh set of inner tubes or tires can give you a smoother ride and save you from the hassle of constant repairs.
Keeping an eye on your tire pressure also safeguards your bike’s wheels. With the right amount of air, tires can better absorb shocks from bumps and potholes.
Rusty Bicycle Chain Or Crank
Maintaining your bike’s chain is crucial for smooth rides. It’s the essential part that moves the power from your pedals to the wheels. A rusty chain or a rusty pedal crank can make pedaling feel like a struggle. Regular cleaning removes gunk and prevents build-up that can wear down your chain and gears.
Start by using a soft brush or rag to get rid of dirt on the surface. For a deeper clean, use a degreaser specifically designed for bike chains. Apply it, scrub gently with a brush, then rinse off any residue with water. Always dry your chain thoroughly to avoid rust.
After cleaning, oiling your chain is the next step. This helps it move smoothly and reduces the wear and tear from friction. Choose a bike lubricant and apply a small amount on each link. Shift through the gears to spread the oil evenly, then wipe away the excess to keep dirt from sticking to it.
Sometimes, despite the best efforts of the cyclist, a chain can become too worn out or damaged. If you notice any rust, stiff links, or if the bike is a bit old, you may need to replace it. A fresh chain can make your bike feel brand new and ensure your rides are efficient and enjoyable.
Tight Ball Bearings
If the brakes are not rubbing but the wheel still feels stiff, your cones, or ball bearings, are probably adjusted too tight. Ball bearings reduce the friction caused by the rotating wheel by concentrating it on rolling bearings.
Well-maintained ball bearings will help the wheel spin more freely and allow for an easier and smoother ride, whereas tight bearings will obviously impede movement.
Problems with the Derailleur or Gears
If pedaling your bicycle feels tougher than it should, it might be due to a problem with your gears and the drivetrain system. When you change gears, the transition should be smooth. There should be no hitches or strange sounds.
If you hear grinding noises or the gears seem to slip instead of firmly clicking into place, it’s a sign that something is off with the derailleur. This could be because the cables that connect your gear or the gears themselves are either too loose or too tight.
To fix this, you’ll want to adjust the tension of the cables. If you’re handy and have the right tools, you can try to tighten or loosen them yourself. There are lots of helpful tutorials online that can guide you through the process. However, if you’re not confident, it’s always a good idea to take your bike to a professional.
Bottom Bracket
The bottom bracket is the part that lets your pedals turn and keeps you moving forward. It connects your legs to the frame of your bike and helps them move smoothly. When it’s working perfectly, you hardly notice it. But when there’s trouble, you may find it hard to pedal.
You might need to inspect the bracket for wear and tear. Sometimes, it’s just a bit of dirt or grime causing the problem, which can be cleaned. Other times, it might be more serious, like a sign of rust or damage from a bump or fall. If the damage is bad, this important bike part might need to be replaced.
Replacing a bottom bracket isn’t too complicated, but it does require some special tools and know-how. If you’re comfortable with doing a bit of DIY on your bike, you could give it a go. However, if you’re not sure what you’re doing, it’s always best to take it to a bike shop.
Is Your Bike Seat Too High or Too Low?
Saddle height is crucial for your comfort and efficiency while pedaling. When your seat is too low, you can’t get enough power. Your legs should be able to extend almost fully when you pedal, but with a slight bend at the knee at the bottom of the pedal stroke. This way, you’re using your leg muscles effectively without straining.
A seat that’s too high is no good either. You may not be able to control your movements well. That’s what happens when you’re perched too high on your bike. You might find yourself reaching for the pedals, which can cause discomfort in your hips, knees, and even your lower back. Plus, it’s harder to balance, making your ride less stable and more dangerous.
So, how do you find that sweet spot? A simple method is the heel-to-pedal technique. First, sit on your bike and place your heel on the pedal. If your knee is straight when the pedal is at its lowest point, you’re close to the right height. When you switch to pedaling with the ball of your foot, there should be a slight bend in your knee.
Other Factors Affecting Pedal Difficulty
There are a few other factors affiliated with pedaling difficulty.
One reason could be that you’re actually going uphill without noticing it. Even a slight incline can make pedaling harder. It’s important to look at the landscape and be aware of any changes in elevation, no matter how small they seem.
An overloaded bike can also contribute to the challenge. If you’re carrying a backpack, groceries, or any other heavy items, this extra weight can make the bike hard to pedal. Try to keep your load light for an easier ride.
The surface you’re riding on plays a big role too. Road bikes glide better on smooth, well-paved roads. Bumpy or gravel-filled paths can slow you down and make each push of the pedals feel hard due to rolling resistance. Whenever possible, choose a smooth path to make your ride easier and more enjoyable.
Try Different Bike Pedals for a Change
SPD pedals or Shimano Pedaling Dynamics are a type of system designed for bikes that make your ride smoother and less tiring. Unlike regular pedals where you can only push down, SPD pedals attach to special shoes with a cleat on the bottom. This means when you pedal, you can also pull up on the upstroke.
Using these pedals might feel strange at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll notice you can ride faster and longer with less effort. Plus, it’s a great way to exercise more muscles in your legs evenly.
To get started, you’ll need a pair of SPD-compatible shoes to go with the pedals. These shoes have a special spot on the bottom to attach the cleat. Don’t worry, the cleats and shoes come with instructions to help you set everything up.
Finally, don’t forget to adjust the tension on the SPD pedals to make clipping in and out easier or harder, depending on what feels comfortable for you. With a little bit of practice and adjustment, you’ll be ready to ride more efficiently and with more fun!
Conclusion: Maybe It’s Time for a Little Practice
Sometimes, you may have pulled your bike out of the garage and felt like it’s suddenly a lot tougher to pedal. Don’t worry, it’s perfectly normal. It takes time to get back into the groove.
Your body needs to remember how to work with the bike, not against it. The more you ride, the smoother it will feel. Your legs will get stronger, your balance will improve, and you’ll find your rhythm.
So, start with short rides around your neighborhood. Put your bike in a lower gear. Feel the breeze, enjoy the scenery, and let your body ease into the motion. Gradually, you can tackle longer distances or even hills.
Just make sure your bike is maintained and tuned. You can do it yourself or take it to the local bike shop for expert handling.
