New Rider & Calf Muscles

[JamesM3]

Hi

I got talked in to doing the London to Brighton bike ride.

I have a specialized MTB Rock hopper which is pretty good. I enjoy off-road cycling, but unfortunately I don't do it much as I have to travel and no one to go with.

Last week I purchased a Specialised Elite road bike. I have to say, I am really enjoying it considering I've never ridden on a racer before. I also purchased some SPD pedals and shoes as well.

Last Saturday (31st May) my first ride was 30 Miles long. I completed this in 2 hours 35mins (Riding time)
Monday I did 22miles and complete this in 1 hour 45mins
Wednesday I did 12 miles in 1 hour.

On Mondays ride, I found from time to time during the ride my calfs felt like the were being pulled, so I stop peddling for a short file and just coast. When starting peddling again all is fine until some random time later in the ride they feel like their being pulled again.

Wednesdays ride the calf's from time to time felt like they were being pulled (Maybe cramp). This time they hurt more than Mondays ride. As such, that was my last ride.

I am trying to pedal as fast as I can, rather than smashing the pedals like on an MTB

When I finish the ride, and the next day after they don't hurt at all, my legs don't even ache.

Am I doing too much or is this a sign that maybe road cycling isn't for me?

Also, any tips for training for this Sundays London to Brighton lol

Thanks

James

 

[RebornBumbler]

Check your saddle height is correct (loads of info available on the net how to do that) - I suspect it's a bit off.

Otherwise, make sure you're adequately hydrated, and try some toe raise exercises - it's amazing how quickly you can ramp them up.

 

[vickster]

Saddle set up, height and fore/aft

Stretch properly after every ride and warm up before by starting slowly. Might be straightforward fatigue being new to riding, just an unusual scenario for your legs

L2B is a slow run for most due to the large number of people so you'll have plenty of opportunity to take it easy. Have your wit about you especially if riding clipless