How To Cycle Faster On The Flat

Riding a bike fast is addictive and fun, and if you're looking to cycle that little bit faster on flat roads, we have some tips for you. It doesn't matter whether you're sprinting or looking to improve your average speed the same factors of aerodynamics, inertia and friction will be working against you.

Check out our mobile app:

#Cycling #GCN #RoadBike

Check out the NEW GCN Cyclocross Podcast:

If you enjoyed this video, make sure to give it a thumbs up and share it with your friends. 👍

Watch more on GCN...

Music - licensed by Epidemic Sound:
Kid Arizona - Tigerblood Jewel
The Best Of Myself (Tigerblood Jewel Remix) - Daniel Gunnarsson
The Best Of Myself (Tigerblood Jewel Remix) (Instrumental Version) - Daniel Gunnarsson

About GCN:

The Global Cycling Network puts you in the centre of the action: from the iconic climbs of Alpe D’Huez and Mont Ventoux to the cobbles of Flanders, everywhere there is road or pavé, world-class racing and pro riders, we will be there bringing you action, analysis and unparalleled access every week, every month, and every year. We show you how to be a better cyclist with our bike maintenance videos, tips for improving your cycling, cycling top tens, and not forgetting the weekly GCN Show. Join us on YouTube’s biggest and best cycling channel to get closer to the action and improve your riding!

Welcome to the Global Cycling Network | Inside #cycling

Thanks to our sponsors:

Leave us a comment below!

[gcn]

What do you like the most about cycling fast?

[workingguy-OU]

I appreciate you bringing your riding set-up one step closer to reality - too many of the GCN presenters do videos without a saddle-bag, and without their jersey pockets bulging with the gear that isn't in their missing saddle bags. We ride flats, here, and the reality is that - because we're moving so fast - we NEED the front lights on, despite their aero inefficiency, because so many vehicles pull out in front of us. They either are mis-judging our approach speed (30 to 40 KPH) or aren't seeing us, but one thing is certain - having a bright white flashing LED during the day time reduces the instances of motorists pulling out in front of us. The extra speed on flat sections requires the front light unless one is somewhere with no driveways or side-access roads.

I've noticed saying "SPEED. I AM SPEED" always helps me go faster

[cliffcox]

For me, the greatest increase in speed, came from getting low and flat, and trying to sustain that position for the longest time. So besides cycling, it was stretching, and nutrition.

[hanselfinn]

Just buying bike and etc will also make my wallet aerodynamic

[DHGV]

I'm in love with this bike. Her colours, her shape, those wheels. Simply gorgeous.

[diogonunes]

I'm still waiting on that "are pregnant women more aero?" Video 😂

[Chibster]

I would love love love a video on proper pedaling mechanics. I see so many cyclists out there who simply don’t know how to pedal for maximum efficiency.

[marcuspoblets]

I am an absolute beginner in cycling and GCN has been really helpful. 💪🏻🚴🏻‍♂️

[Draknareth]

A good curry or beans the night before your ride, using the added gas buildup for propulsion. Works really well.

[WATZKOW]

Useful tips for someone in the Netherlands

[lolsharkb]

I never ride much on flats, only go for climbing. It has made me very fast on the flats.

[yodathejedimaster]

Girlfriend: Wanna come to my house?
Me: no im tired
Girlfriend: My parents are out of town
Me: 0:55

[Michaelsmith]

3:36 There are quite a few climbs in Holland too if you live near the triangle of Belgium, NL and Germany. This is where Amstel Gold Race takes place.

[nurmibeowulf]

When i have a really good run and I'm thinking - yeah finally I feel what I have trained so hard for THEN I get smashed from strong head winds on the way home :P

[jerzukszyk]

if you dont slowmo your videos anymore, you will ride faster, just think of it

[Nikoss]

The only sure fact is that you'll be faster if you spend your youtube time cycling

[THEoldgreydude]

I know all about flat roads & wind as I live in the Fens

But some useful info there in the video Thanks

[Friday]

Use stipe stickers.
Stripes make it go faster

[chucklesm]

I find moving back on the saddle a little and extending my legs more horizontally than vertically gives me more speed on the flats. Especially focusing power in the upper part of the power stroke of each leg. I feel most efficient at maintaining speed in that posture on a long flat run.