Video summary

9 Fehler, die dich LANGSAM machen! | Schneller Radfahren

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Key takeaways

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Overview

The video “9 Fehler, die dich LANGSAM machen! | Schneller Radfahren” explains common mistakes that can make cyclists slower without realizing it. It covers pacing, nutrition, gearing, braking and cornering, training variation, coffee-stop strategy, clothing and aerodynamics, equipment checks, seating and fit, and keeping training fun.

Key points (what makes you slower)

  1. Going too hard on climbs early (pace too high)

    • A common beginner mistake is pushing the pace on an ascent (e.g., starting around 40 km/h) and then collapsing when the climb gets longer.
    • Better approach: hold a relaxed, steady uphill cadence in the gears you have to avoid “hitting the wall” too early.

  2. Not fueling properly once rides get longer

    • Eating/drinking is described as not weakness, even if you don’t need it for short rides.
    • After ~2 hours: start carbohydrate intake regularly.
    • Guideline: 60–80 g carbs per hour, plus drinking (roughly 100–800 ml, depending on body/conditions).

  3. Using overly difficult gears all the time

    • You don’t need to ride the same gear ratio constantly.
    • Example: instead of a 53/11-style grind, switch to a more relaxed setup like 52/36 in front with an 11/30 rear.
    • Benefit: you can climb without constantly pushing to the limit.

  4. Braking too late / poor obstacle handling

    • You lose speed when you don’t anticipate obstacles and then have to brake hard at the last second.
    • Emphasis: ride with foresight—avoid “managing surprises.”

  5. Cornering and braking technique not optimized

    • Proper cornering is described as crucial for gaining time.
    • The video references Mario and notes separate videos focused on braking and cornering.

  6. Training without variation

    • The channel frames training scientifically: riding always slow or always fast won’t make you faster.
    • Instead: include variation (fast sessions + relaxed base sessions).

  7. Coffee/café stop mistimed or poorly executed

    • Café stops should support performance rather than disrupt it.
    • Rule of thumb: stop for a break about 1 hour to 45 minutes before heading home so the energy boost arrives at the right time.
    • Avoid wrong foods that digest slowly (e.g., high-fat options).
    • Prefer fat-free, carbohydrate-focused choices (cake is mentioned as an example), but avoid arriving already hypoglycemic and then eating lots of sugar.

  8. Bad clothing choice / loss of aerodynamics

    • Clothing can noticeably slow you down—especially if fabric is flapping.
    • Tip: use the layering principle and secure/open/pack items quickly to reduce drag.

  9. Neglecting bike setup and fit

    • Before every ride: check tire pressure and ensure drivetrain condition (e.g., chain lubrication/oil).
    • It also warns that a bad seating position increases drag (described metaphorically as being “blown into the Rhine”), and suggests adjustment by a bike expert/fit.

End note

The video adds that cycling too much and over-focusing on training structure can reduce enjoyment and performance (“more isn’t always better”). Taking it down a notch and letting things breathe can restore agility.

Presenters / sources mentioned (from the subtitles)

  • Quintilian
  • Klopp (referenced)
  • Mario (referenced; has related videos)
  • Richie (mentioned)
  • Heinrich Haussler (mentioned)
  • Professor Dr. Wolfgang Schöllhorn (mentioned)
  • JBO Mainz (mentioned)
  • DM (mentioned)
  • “the coach” (referenced)
  • Richie / “material whiz” (referenced as an equipment expert)

Original video