OPTIMUM CADENCE AND GEAR TESTING

These tests are probably best performed on a calibrated ergometer, such as CompuTrainer™, in which conditions can be controlled (don't forget to calibrate the ergometer before each session) but can be done on the road or using un calibrated training stands if one accounts for variations between or during sessions due to weather or calibration.

1. OCT #1 - Put your bike on the largest front chain ring and then vary the rear cog in a series of tests. Ride a similar course (about 1 km to 1 mile) at a constant heart rate. See which gear gives you the highest average speed. Note your cadence at this speed. This should be close to your optimum cadence for sustained speed.
   
2. OCT #2 - Put your bike on the largest front chain ring and then vary the rear cog in a series of tests. Ride a similar course (about 1 km to 1 mile) at a constant speed. See which gear gives you the lowest heart rate. Note your cadence at this speed. This should be close to your optimum cadence for sustained speed.
   
3. OGT #1 - Put your bike on the largest front chain ring and then vary the rear cog in a series of tests. Ride a similar course (about 1 km to 1 mile) at your optimum sustained racing heart rate. See which gear gives you the highest average speed. Note your gearing at this speed. This should be close to your optimum gearing for sustained speed.
   
4. OGT #2 - Put your bike on the largest front chain ring and then vary the rear cog in a series of tests. Ride a similar course (about 1 km to 1 mile) at a constant speed just under your best sustained speed. See which gear gives you the lowest heart rate. Note your gearing and cadence at this speed. This should be close to your optimum gearing for sustained speed.