March 2024 - Cyql

Choose between click, flats or magnet – Find the perfect pedals for your rides!

In the world of mountain biking, the choice of pedals is as crucial as choosing the right bike. There are several types of mountain bike pedals on the market, each designed to meet the specific needs and preferences of the rider. In this blog post, we dive deeper into the three most common types of pedals: click, flats and magnet, and discuss in what situations each is best suited.

Click pedals: Maximum Efficiency and Control

Click pedals, also known as clipless pedals, are a favorite of many experienced mountain bikers. They offer a direct connection between the cycling shoe and the pedal through a click system. This ensures maximum pedaling efficiency because you can apply force both up and down. The click system also offers increased control during technical climbs and descents.

When to use:

Cross-country and marathon rides where efficiency and speed are essential.
Technical trails where a firm pedal-shoe connection is needed for better control.

Flats: Freedom and Versatility.

Flats, or platform pedals, are the choice for riders who want more freedom while riding. They have a large surface area that can accommodate all kinds of shoes, including regular athletic shoes. Flats are ideal for riders who want to be able to get off quickly in difficult situations and for those who enjoy the feeling of freedom on the bike.

When to use:

Downhill and freeride mountain biking where fast dismounting is crucial.
Beginners who want to improve their skills without getting stuck on the pedal.

Magnet Pedals: The Perfect Middle Way?

Magnetic pedals combine elements of both click and platform pedals. They use a magnetic system to attach the cycling shoe to the pedal, but also offer a degree of freedom. These pedals are relatively new to the market and are praised for their ability to provide efficiency without full lockdown.

When to use:

Trail riding where both efficiency and maneuverability are important.
Riders who want to experience the benefits of click pedals without being fully locked to the bike.

Conclusion

The choice between click, flats or magnetic pedals depends on your personal preferences, riding style and the nature of your mountain biking adventures. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, so it is worth trying out different pedal types and discovering which one suits you best. Regardless of your choice, the most important thing is to have fun on the trails and be comfortable on your bike. Happy riding!

New! Discover interesting hotspots worldwide!

Get on your bike and explore the world like never before! With the brand new Cyql Discover map, finding interesting hotspots and adventures has never been easier. From local pros to cool events, this update brings everything you need within reach.

DISCOVER, TIME TO EXPLORE

Explore the world on your bike 🗺️

You can effortlessly select a month or filter the map on a specific type of Point Of Interest (POI) and discover what there is to do in your area. Cyql brings them all together.

🥇 Local touring rides & cycling events on a global scale

Discover through CycloWorld all local touring bike rides and the most challenging gran fondos in the world. Never miss an event again and plan your next adventure with Cyql.

💬 Meet and grow with other cycling enthusiasts

Share your passion, and meet new cycling friends during public bike rides organized by other clubs and communities. On the map, you’ll also find all clubs with a public profile and local pros from, for example, Ridemeister, with whom you can book a ride.

MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER

✨ A world full of adventures awaits you

This is just the beginning. We're continuously working on improving the app to make your cycling experience even better:

🗞️ News and agenda are merged

In the app, all recent club information is brought together under one tab. You can now easily switch here to view the latest news and agenda items.

🌍 Public rides

From this update, public rides will be visible on the map. These public rides will then no longer appear in the user’s ride overview. The setting to display public rides in the app will also be discontinued.

✅ My Rides

There is now also a clear overview of rides that you participate in (including public rides). These can now be found under ‘my rides’, at the top right of the ride overview.

Update the Cyql app now

Together we cycle to new heights. Thank you for choosing Cyql!

NEW FOR CLUB ADMINISTRATORS

🗺️ Put your club on the map

Make sure your club can be found on the Cyql Discover map.

🚨 Make your club stand out!

Want your club also on the map? Go to the settings in the dashboard. Other Cyql users can then easily find your club and send a message to the club.

See here how to make your club visible.

🤝 Share routes with the community

You can now also choose to make GPX routes available to every user of Cyql in the GPX library. In this way, other users who stay nearby can also enjoy these beautiful routes.

Read here how to make the routes public.

Go to the customized dashboard

Show your club on the map and share your most beautiful routes.

Cooperation between NTFU and Cyql extended for 3 years

In March 2024, the successful collaboration between the Dutch Tour Cycling Union (NTFU) and the innovative cycling platform Cyql was extended for another three years, a testament to the strong bond and mutual trust between both parties. This extension also confirms the added value of further digitalizing cycling clubs and communities.

More cycling together

Arjan de Vries, director of the NTFU, shares his enthusiasm about the continuation of this partnership. “Within the NTFU, we cycle with each other. The Cyql app perfectly aligns with this. Therefore, we are very pleased to be able to offer this great service for another 3 years towards the associations.” With more than 250 NTFU associations planning over 60,000 rides together, it is clear that the digital future of cycling in the Netherlands is in good hands.

The extension of this partnership means that all cycling clubs affiliated with the NTFU can continue to use Cyql free of charge for the next three years.

Further development of the Cyql platform

This sentiment is echoed by Wouter Slotegraaf, co-founder of Cyql: “We are incredibly happy and still honored to support all NTFU affiliated cycling clubs for the next three years. This extension not only confirms the value of our platform for the cycling community but also motivates us to continuously optimize and improve our digital platform.”

More ‘Discover’!

One of the most anticipated developments is the launch of the new map feature in Cyql called “Discover”. This feature enables cyclists to see what’s happening in their surroundings, like searching for public rides from other clubs and communities, participating in NTFU cycling tours, and other relevant points of interest (POIs) for cyclists. “This update will fundamentally change the way cyclists discover and participate in cycling activities in Cyql and give it a more open character,” Slotegraaf adds.

Cycling without worry: Injuries and recovery processes

Cycling is not only a popular form of exercise, but also a relaxing and environmentally friendly way to get from A to B. Whether you are an avid cyclist or just enjoy leisurely bike rides, it is important to be aware of potential injuries that may occur and how to prevent and treat them. In this blog post, we discuss some common cycling-related injuries and the associated recovery processes.

1. Knee pain: Every cyclist’s adversary
Knee pain is a common complaint among cyclists and can range from mild irritation to severe discomfort. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor cycling position, overuse or improper pedaling. To prevent knee pain, it is essential to adjust your bike correctly and stretch and strengthen regularly.

Recovery process:
– Take rest: Allow your knees to recover by temporarily cycling less intensively.
– Ice and compression: Apply ice to the affected knee to reduce swelling and use compression to reduce pressure.
– Physical therapy: Consult a physical therapist to learn specific exercises to help your knees strengthen and improve flexibility.

2. Saddle soreness: not just for beginners
Saddle soreness is not reserved for novice cyclists; even experienced cyclists can suffer from it suffer. It can occur as a result of inappropriate saddle selection, incorrect height setting or cycling too long in a row without a break.

Recovery process:
– Choose the right saddle: Make sure your saddle fits your build and cycling style.
– Adjust seat position: Make sure your saddle is at the right height and that you have the correct cycling position.
– Taking breaks: Stand up regularly during long rides to reduce pressure on the seat.

3. Achilles tendon injuries: Cyclist’s Achilles heel
Achilles tendon injuries can occur due to excessive strain or poor cycling posture. Ignoring warning signs can lead to long-term problems.

Recovery process:
– Rest and ice: Reduce strain on the Achilles tendon and use ice to reduce inflammation.
– Stretching and strengthening exercises: Perform specific exercises regularly to stretch and strengthen the Achilles tendon.
– Adjust cycling position: Ensure optimal cycling position to avoid excessive stress on the Achilles tendon.

Conclusion
Although cycling offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to be aware of potential injuries and take preventative measures. Adjusting your bike correctly, taking regular breaks and listening to your body are essential to prevent injuries. If an injury does occur, do not hesitate to seek professional advice and follow the proper recovery process. That way, you can continue to enjoy yourself without worrying about unwanted cycling discomforts. Have fun cycling!