How do I increase my average speed? I've previously used a very old, not maintained single speed bike, and after my father having recently brought a hybrid bike, it's been about 20 days since I've been riding it more or less daily, durations being upwards of an hour, at least. Sometimes even two. The single speed, I'd ridden for maybe a fortnight before the new bike came, but before that, it was more or less collecting dust.. So you know that I haven't been riding for too long now..
I average a speed of about 22-23kmph (~ 14mph) now, compared to a previous average of 15-16 kmph (~ 10mph). My previous recorded max speed was 31kmph and now on the new bike it's 56.5 kmph. The speed approximates are from whatever strava has told me. These approximates are on roads that are relatively flat, but don't allow too long for you to accelerate or keep your pace, I need to slow down for turns that I take so I'm of the belief that my average speed would otherwise be higher, if not for the turns. The roads also have embedded stone studs all over, the kind that ate put up on roads to allow motor vehicles to have a better grip.
Now, I ride with the saddle a little lower than it needs to be for my height (because my dad is shorter and I don't want to fiddle with it). I also can't make any structural changes or change the bike at all.
The bike is a Riverside 120. It has flat bars, a 36t single chainring and 11/34t cogs. It also has 35c tyres that are advertised as fast rolling.
Is there any way for me to be able to increase my overall average speed without changing parts? Any changes in posture? Should I try getting the saddle to my level and keeping the handlebars low to get a more natural riding position or would that be a problem because the bike doesn't have drop bars? Any other suggestions? I currently ride in the open chested posture that a hybrid is &quot;supposed to be ridden in&quot;.
First of all I’d fix the saddle position. A low saddle will decrease your power output and can cause knee problems. As a rule of thumb your leg should be fully extended with your heel on the pedal in the 6 o'clock position.
Keeping the handlebars low or even lowering them further will generally improve your aerodynamics.
Make sure the tires are inflated to a relatively high pressure (depending on your weight and road surface, probably around 4–5bars) to reduce rolling resistance. Make sure the chain is lubed properly to reduce friction.
Wear tight fitting clothes to improve aerodynamics.
Regarding turns: Here I disagree with Adam Rice, a lot of turns will certainly decrease your average speed, especially if you have to brake. Good brakes and technique can allow you to brake stronger and therefore later, thus improving your average speed.
Since it sounds like you are using average speed as a benchmark of fitness or power: It’s relatively useless for that, even if you only use it to measure your own progress. Even on the same roads different wind or traffic conditions can cause a lot of variation.