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Beginner Cycling

Matthew G.
Matthew G. Sendmail

I can ride a bike with no handlebars.

posted about 3 years ago | Report

Not only is it an awesome song, is a very popular activity with the young rider. Also known as "Riding No-handed" here in the UK, I still do it myself when I feel that it's safe enough to do so (Not near people, not on a road with any real level of traffic). I feel my proficiency with the technique is such that I can steer around most obstacles almost as well as when riding properly. (Manual control of the bicycle being a better way to control your movement, what with having access to the brakes and all :P)

I'm just wondering, when cycling as a method of working out, is it frowned upon to ride your bike with no handlebars?

It certainly feels easier for me, and I seem to be able to summon more 'oomph' when I'm sat up, great for getting up shallow inclines when I'm tired.

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7 posts

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  • Rod O.
    Rod O. Sendmail

    No handlebars - that would be impressive.
    No hands is fine and not frowned on unless you're riding in a group. Doubt you can really do much of a workout without being on the bars, but whatever works - maybe you need a better position on the bike in the first place.

    All I know is it's pretty embarrassing way to crash in front of other people - even if it only happens one in a thousand times, it's not worth it (experience talking here)

    Enjoy it

    posted about 3 years ago

  • Chris B.
    Chris B. Sendmail

    I was really good at this when I was a kid. I could do turns and everything; I remember riding through town with both hands full and no helmet.

    I don't do it anymore, though I don't remember when I stopped. I suppose it's probably for the better anyways.

    posted about 3 years ago

  • Doug C.
    Doug C. Sendmail

    I think the only time it's really needed is if you're carefully trying to either shed or put on a jacket, or unwrap a power bar, otherwise I tend to just keep both hands on the bars. It sounds like in your case it could be more of a bike fit issue as sitting up may be a way of stretching your back and getting you out of a cramped position. Just my 2 cents worth.

    posted almost 3 years ago

  • Devin B.
    Devin B. Sendmail

    But can you ride a bike with no seat?

    posted almost 3 years ago

  • Carter R.
    Carter R. Sendmail
    in reply to what Devin B. said:But can you ride a bike with no seat?

    ...while sitting down.

    posted almost 3 years ago

  • Cameron W.
    Cameron W. Sendmail

    that would be a lot easier than without any handlebars

    posted over 2 years ago

  • Greg S.
    Greg S. Sendmail

    There are a lot of quirky things you can do on your bike. But remember, the alphabet is really hard to learn the second time around.

    posted over 2 years ago

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