What is a false flat?

[alanmclean]

Hello

Does a false flat go up or down or what? Why is it false? Is it just a very gentle slope? If so then why not call it a "gentle slope"?

Regards

Alan

[ericm]

A false flat is a gentle uphill that fools the brain into thinking it's flat when it is not. Often they're at the top of real climbs. The scenery opens up and it looks flat compared to what you were just on, but it's not.

[jay cee]

spot on Eric. Normally with a block headwind too

[strobbekoen]

we call it "vals plat"

[mzagorski]

ahh.. I thought it was when you rode beside your riding partner and make a noise "psst psst psst psst....."... they look down to check if they have a flat... but nah, it's a FALSE flat ok, bad joke...

[amos]

A false flat is the worst section of any ride I do.....you feel like you should be flying and you keep looking down at your legs wondering what's going on...

[alanmclean]

Thanks folks

Makes a bit more sense.

I've also seen "faux plat" in Krabbe's book "The Rider".

Alan

[dastardly]

A false flat is a gentle uphill that fools the brain into thinking it's flat when it is not. Often they're at the top of real climbs. The scenery opens up and it looks flat compared to what you were just on, but it's not.

Yes and from a racing perspective it is often a good place to launch and attack, as psychologically the weaker riders ease thinking the climb is over.

[Hyde]

F'n False Falts. Give me 20% for 10 miles & a headwind before you give me a false flat.

[marko]

It's when a chick wears baggy clothes and appears to be small chested. Then you see her in a swim top and say "wow I thought she was flat" Then you pay all kinds of attention like you want to be her friend. That could be a false friend.

[DocRay]

Yes and from a racing perspective it is often a good place to launch and attack, as psychologically the weaker riders ease thinking the climb is over.

Not any more, many computers tell you your grade quite accurately.