this post was submitted on 03 Apr 2026
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Bicycle Touring and Bikepacking
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For all the pedal pushers out there that love long distance cycling. There are no gear requirements and no 'minimum distances' here.
Have you ridden for a cheeky overnighter or a 3 year global trek? Doesn't matter, you're welcome here.
Have you got panniers, bikepacking bags or just a backpack with the essentials? Doesn't matter, you're welcome here.
Have you got the latest in carbon engineering or your dads old 10 speed from the 70's? Doesn't matter, you're welcome here.
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The reason I am "not making sense" is because you are continuing to not understand the distinction between "force" and "power".
"Torque" is a measure of force. "Horsepower" is a measure of power. Do you understand the difference between the two? Until you understand that distinction, you will not be able to understand the discussion you have joined.
Yep! I've actually even ridden bicycles before! My hips have never been secured to an upright bike. Every time I've tried to press harder on the pedals than my body weight, my hips have come off the seat. The force my legs have applied to the pedals has lifted my body into the air, against the force of gravity. I've been able to introduce a little more force on the pedals, with my arms pulling my body downward toward the handlebars, but not by much.
On the recumbent bike, gravity and my arms aren't what is providing the counter force to allow me to push against the pedals. The backrest of the bike is what I am pushing against. I can push far more than my body weight against the backrest. Much more than I can pull with my arms.
You've entered a discussion on "force", but you are still failing to understand that you are talking about "power". When you understand the difference between "force" and "power", you'll be able to understand the discussion. Until then, my commentary will not make any sense to you.
You're completely forgetting the fact that you're also pulling up with your "rear" foot as you're pedalling. Moreover, pedalling is not "push down repeat on other leg", but it's a circular motion where you're able to transfer power all through the cycle.
The maximum force you're able to put to pedals is irrelevant, because so much of the power you output depends on the cadence. If you're pushing your maximum force on the pedals, it already means you've lost the momentum and your power output is shit. The force has a small effect on sprints though.
Anyways, if the force was a major factor to prioritize, you'd see a lot more pro cyclists being swedish giants, but in reality most are on the shorter side. The benefits from lower weight and less drag from big body are far more important factors
See, I knew you could get there.
Now, I'm gonna have you go up to where the parent commentator discussed the importance of "force" and the use of arms on an upright bike, and reply your "power" comment to them, not me. I was directly rebutting their "force" arguments; I made no claims regarding "power" for you to rebut. Your criticism is wasted here. But, your insight would be valuable in the context of their argument.