What is cadence?

[RedFeend]

I see much talk of cadence in these forums. I know what it means in musical terms. Please tell me if it means what I think it does in cycling. I'm guessing speed and 'beat' of pedalling. How far out am I?

 

[ianrauk]

It's pedal revolutions per minute. HERE

 

[T.M.H.N.E.T]

You are correct.

 

[Sittingduck]

RPM of your feet

 

[deptfordmarmoset]

♪ = 150 - 170. Perfect cadence for me.

 

[RedFeend]

Thank you everyone. Next question is; why is cadence important? Has it got something to do with being in the correct gear for optimum physical efficiency, or am I barking up the wrong proverbial tree?
This forum intro does say 'no question too stupid'.

 

[RedFeend]

Sorry, just read ianrauk's link to Wikipedia. It's all explained there. Thank you.

 

[The Brewer]

A hooker from Dallas

 

[philinmerthyr]

Don't listen to any of the 'spin' that you are told. Just get out and peddle fast

 

[philinmerthyr]

Thank you everyone. Next question is; why is cadence important? Has it got something to do with being in the correct gear for optimum physical efficiency, or am I barking up the wrong proverbial tree?
This forum intro does say 'no question too stupid'.

A lower gear turning fast is easier on the muscles than slowly pushing a higher gear. The effort is down to fitness rather than creating tired muscles.

It does work. Drop a couple of gears and turn the pedals faster. Once your heart gets used to it cycling becomes easier.

 

[RedFeend]

Thanks to you all for your help. No doubt more questions will follow.

 

[RWright]

This is my cadence goal:

 

[Stringy Bob]

Ah, dear Cadence......http://www.asmr.org.au/MRW Media/SASPR07.pdf

 

[Gravity Aided]

This is my cadence goal:

Ridin like Lance!

 

[User16625]

Thank you everyone. Next question is; why is cadence important? Has it got something to do with being in the correct gear for optimum physical efficiency, or am I barking up the wrong proverbial tree?
This forum intro does say 'no question too stupid'.

Within reason tho. Dont ask questions like "is pluto a dog or a planet?"

Cadence is important because..............well I dont know. But I find that cycling at a certain cadence is more efficient. If im going flat out, just like on my motorbike I rev the nuts off (spin the pedals like a mad man) rather than stay at my regular cadence in a higher gear. I have no idea how fast I spin the pedals because I dont monitor it but I find what works best for me. It will probably vary from person to person.