Rocking Torque (pedaling efficienty)
Posted: Mon Feb 23, 2004 3:01 pm
Rocking Torque:
Biomechanical studies reveal that to achieve maximum pedaling efficiency, the ball of the foot must be as close as possible to the pedal axle. With the foot closer to the axle, there is less "rocking torque". Rocking torque reduces pedaling efficiency and power. "
Not about weight. But about rocking torque.
Where can I find more information about rocking torque and different shoes and pedaling systems?
I use Shimano Dura Ace SPD-R SL pedals and Shimano R150 shoes. Which shoes or pedals do have less rocking torque? Speedplay? Time? Shimano SPD-R SL? Look? Or others? And what about the shoes? Carnac? Sidi? Shimano?
What do you guys prefer?
Biomechanical studies reveal that to achieve maximum pedaling efficiency, the ball of the foot must be as close as possible to the pedal axle. With the foot closer to the axle, there is less "rocking torque". Rocking torque reduces pedaling efficiency and power. "
With Speedplay Zero pedals and Sidi shoes your metatarsal is only 8.5 millimeters above the pedal axle. That is less than half the distance with Shimano Shoes and Look pedals that are at 22mm. This results in over 50% less rocking torque. Even if you don't use Sidi (or Carnac) shoes your metatarsal is still only 11.5 mm above the pedal axle. The only brand that comes close is Time when used with their own brand shoe, and it still a minimum of 6.5 mm higher than the worst Speedplay Zero combination. Speedplay Zero pedals offer the lowest rocking torque and most direct power transfer of any pedal system by a substantial margin. You will go faster with the same energy using Speedplay Zeros.
http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/reviews/speed0.shtml
Not about weight. But about rocking torque.
Where can I find more information about rocking torque and different shoes and pedaling systems?
I use Shimano Dura Ace SPD-R SL pedals and Shimano R150 shoes. Which shoes or pedals do have less rocking torque? Speedplay? Time? Shimano SPD-R SL? Look? Or others? And what about the shoes? Carnac? Sidi? Shimano?
What do you guys prefer?