PEED-uhl strohk
noun
Pedal Stroke is the action of pushing down and pulling up on the pedals.
Example usage: I adjusted my pedal stroke to find a more efficient cadence.
Most used in: Mountain biking, road biking, and cyclocross.
Most used by: Cyclists of all levels.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Cadence, Crank Revolution, Pedal Revolution, Spin, Pedalling,
What is a Pedal Stroke?
A pedal stroke is the action of pushing down on a bicycle pedal to propel the bike forward. It is one of the fundamental skills of cycling and is essential for both recreational and competitive riders.
A pedal stroke is made up of two parts: the power phase and the recovery phase. During the power phase, the cyclist pushes down on the pedal, which propels the bike forward. During the recovery phase, the cyclist pulls up on the pedal to bring the foot back to the starting position.
Pedal strokes are usually measured in rpm (revolutions per minute). The average cyclist can produce between 50-100 rpm. Professional cyclists can produce up to 120 rpm, while elite cyclists can generate up to 200 rpm.
The efficiency of a pedal stroke is determined by the cyclist's ability to generate power and maintain a consistent cadence. A cyclist should strive to produce a smooth and efficient pedal stroke to maximize speed and efficiency.
The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Pedal Stroke'
The term 'pedal stroke' was first used in the late 19th century in France, when the sport of cycling began to gain popularity. The term was used to describe the rotation of the bicycle's pedals, which allowed the cyclist to propel forward. It was also used to describe the technique of pedalling, which was a combination of power and cadence.
The term 'pedal stroke' was used to refer to the two movements of the foot on the bicycle's pedals. The first movement was the 'downstroke', which was the downward motion of the foot as it pushed the pedal down. The second movement was the 'upstroke', which was the upward motion of the foot as it pulled the pedal up. This two-part movement was referred to as a 'pedal stroke' and was used to measure the cyclist's performance.
The term 'pedal stroke' has been used in the cycling world ever since, and is now recognised as a fundamental part of the sport. It is used to measure the effectiveness of a cyclist's technique, and is a key element in the training of professional cyclists.
