Old 09-02-17, 09:53 PM
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McBTC
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Recent Study-- pedal speed / crank length

Available, open access. My take on it is that you can specifically target one of the many variables involved but in the end the central nervous system apparently takes in all the variables and makes whatever adjustments it deems to be necessary)...

The 27% range of crank lengths evaluated in this investigation is substantially larger than the 6% range (165–175 mm) typically available for adult bicycles, indicating that cyclists can change crank lengths without concern of changing their power production strategies. Furthermore, cyclists and triathletes wishing to adopt a more horizontal torso position to reduce aerodynamic drag could use shorter cranks to eliminate thigh to torso contact, which might compromise ventilation and/or power production. Cycling enthusiasts who have musculoskeletal impairments such as femoral-acetabular impingement or knee osteoarthritis might use shorter cranks to reduce maximum hip and knee flexion and thereby reduce the risk of symptomatic flare-ups triggered by larger joint angular excursions. Similarly, in rehabilitation settings...

Effects of Pedal Speed and Crank Length on Pedaling Mechanics during Submaximal Cycling
PAUL RICHARD BARRATT1,2, JAMES C. MARTIN3, STEVE J. ELMER4, and THOMAS KORFF1
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