April 2023 Bike Blog Roundup – What We Covered This Month
April was packed with practical advice and eye‑opening questions for anyone who loves two wheels. From indoor workouts that fit in a busy schedule to big‑picture topics like why China hasn’t produced a world‑beating cyclist, we tackled a range of subjects that can help you ride better, train smarter, and understand the sport’s global scene.
Indoor Cycling – Quick Wins for Your Trainer Bike
If you own a stationary bike, you’ll want the tips we shared in two posts this month. First, we broke down five simple steps to get the most out of a home‑bike session: set a clear goal, adjust the seat and handlebars to fit your body, mix up resistance, use a timer to stay focused, and finish with a short cool‑down. Sticking to those basics makes every ride feel purposeful.
Next, we answered the “20‑minute question.” The short answer? Yes, 20 minutes can be enough if you crank up the intensity. A high‑intensity interval set (30 seconds hard, 30 seconds easy) squeezes a solid cardio workout into a brief slot. For a more endurance‑focused session, stretch to 30‑45 minutes, but keep the effort level in check to avoid burnout.
Outdoor Adventures, Gear & Global Perspectives
Planning a big ride? Our post on biking across America showed that a coast‑to‑coast trek is doable with proper prep. Map your route, pack essential gear, schedule rest days, and be ready for unexpected hurdles. The journey isn’t just a physical test; it’s a chance to soak up diverse scenery and meet fellow cyclists along the way.
We also explained Google Maps’ bike‑route markings. Green dotted lines point to the most bike‑friendly roads, solid green lines signal dedicated lanes, while blue dashes warn of traffic‑heavy streets. Knowing the code lets you pick the safest, fastest path for a weekend ride.
On the gear side, we gave a quick costume guide for mountain bikers. Stick to breathable tops, padded shorts, a sturdy helmet, and flat‑palm gloves. Good shoes with grip and optional eyewear complete the outfit, keeping you comfortable on rough trails.
Looking at the bigger picture, we asked why China, despite its size and sporting investments, hasn’t produced a top‑level cyclist. The answer seems to be a mix of government focus on team sports, less favorable climate for year‑round riding, and limited access to high‑quality cycling infrastructure and equipment.
Finally, we tackled a common fitness myth: riding three hours a day to lose fat. While long rides burn calories, they’re only part of the equation. Pairing consistent cycling with a balanced diet yields the best results, and you don’t have to log endless hours to see progress.
All these posts aim to give you clear, actionable advice and fresh perspectives on the cycling world. Whether you’re polishing your indoor routine, gearing up for a cross‑country adventure, or just curious about global cycling trends, April’s archive has something to boost your ride.
Why is there no world-beating Chinese cyclist?
China is one of the most populous countries in the world, yet there is no world-beating Chinese cyclist. This is surprising given the country's population size, investment in sports, and success in other Olympic sports. One theory is that the Chinese government's focus on the team sports such as basketball and soccer, as opposed to individual sports, has led to a lack of talent in cycling. Additionally, the country's climate is not conducive to cycling, as poor air quality and extreme temperatures create a challenging environment for cyclists. Finally, there is a lack of access to cycling infrastructure and equipment, which can impede progress. Ultimately, the lack of world-beating Chinese cyclists is likely due to a combination of factors, including a focus on team sports, climate, and access to equipment.
