Curbs are among the most common obstacles that road bikers encounter on their journey. Cyclists’ experience and skill level play a critical role in determining if they can successfully navigate curbs on their road bikes. In this blog post, we will discuss the factors that affect curb climbing ability, the techniques and skills required to conquer curbs, and the types of bikes that are best suited for tackling curbs.
Can You Go up Curbs on a Road Bike?
A cyclist can go up curbs on a road bike but there are risks of jumping on and off curbs too frequently which include damaging the bike and injuries. But with the right technique, skill can be developed which can help in safely hopping on curbs.
The Skill of Hopping Curbs on a Road Bike (Expertise & Risks)
Hopping curbs on a road bike requires a certain level of expertise and patience. It’s not an easy task, but it’s definitely doable with enough practice.
Skilled roadies can bunny-hop straight up several inches to avoid obstacles. However, this requires a lot of energy and can be risky, especially if you’re not used to it.
If you’re just starting, it’s best to learn how to unweight your front wheel as you approach the curb, then lift the handlebars and push down on the pedals to lift the back wheel onto the curb.
Be cautious not to damage your rims or tires, though, because it’s not worth the expense. [1]
Size and Shape of Obstacles: Understanding the Physics of Bumps
By understanding the physics of bumps, a road biker can better anticipate a rough patch in the road and adjust their riding accordingly to prevent damage to their bike or any potential injuries.
Bumps in the road, such as speed humps or potholes, can cause a jarring impact on a road bike’s frame. The physics of bumps require a rider to shift their weight back in anticipation of the impact to help absorb the shock.
The size and shape of the bump also affects the bike’s response, making it important to approach each obstacle with caution. [2]
How Cyclists Handle Different Bumps & Obstacles
Roadies, or experienced road bikers, are well-versed in handling different bumps and obstacles while riding.
They know that their road bikes can handle small bumps like sidewalk joints, which can be transversed by slowing down and standing up on the pedals to unweight the bicycle.
For larger bumps, they swing their weight backward as their front wheel runs over the bump to decrease the impact and shift their body over the handlebars to allow the back tire to lift slightly as the back wheel runs over the bump.
They also know to avoid potholes by maneuvering around them and use lower gears to increase stability on rough roads. [3]
Riding Off a Curb (Tips to Absorb the Shock)
When riding on a road bike, encountering curbs is inevitable. Fortunately, there are ways to ride off curbs without damaging the bike, and the key is to absorb the shock.
To do this, a rider should unweight the front and rear wheels in succession. As the front wheel hits the curb, the rider should pull up a little and as the rear wheel hits, they should shift their weight forward to let the back ride up.
It’s important to remember to not be too harsh on the drop, and to always assess the durability of the 700c rim before riding off any curb.
By practicing this technique, riders can protect their bike against damage and keep their commute routine optimized for both speed and safety. [4]
Using 28mm Tires for Road Biking: Advantages & Limitations
Using 28mm tires for road biking has both advantages and limitations.
1- These tires are more forgiving than the narrower 23mm tires that most roadies use. This means that they offer a smoother ride, especially on rough terrain.
2- Wider tires provide better traction and stability, which can increase safety on wet or gravelly roads.
However, there are some limitations to using wider tires.
1- They add weight to the bike, which can affect speed and performance.
2- They may not fit all bike frames and could cause clearance issues when riding over curbs or other obstacles. [5]
Protecting Your Bike Against Damage: Tips & Tools
To protect your road bike from damage on rough roads, there are a few tips and tools you can use.
First, make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition. This will help absorb some of the shock from the road.
Consider investing in wider tires or even upgrading to a bike with more durable tires if you frequently encounter potholes and cracks. Another option is to add a suspension seat post or handlebars to help absorb the impact.
Finally, it’s important to regularly inspect your bike for any signs of damage and address them promptly. This may include replacing worn out components or fixing any cracks or dents in the frame.
By taking these steps, you can help protect your bike and extend its lifespan. [6]
Trying New Techniques on a Road Bike: Learning from Experience & Caution
While it’s tempting to try to jump curbs or tackle steep hills, it’s important to consider the potential risks and prepare accordingly.
Learning the proper technique for jumping a curb can prevent injury or damage to the bicycle.
Similarly, taking the time to practice on smaller hills before attempting larger ones can build confidence and prevent accidents.
Developing skills and techniques takes time and patience, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t come easily at first.
With practice and caution, trying new techniques on a road bike can enhance the overall cycling experience.
