Engineer Publishes Road Cycling Skills Book

Online, January 19, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Working with entry-level road cyclists inspired mechanical engineer and cyclist Alan Canfield to develop a system for refining and improving road bike handling skills. He has published this approach in a book entitled "Watch Your Line: Techniques to Improve Road Cycling Skills," recently updated to the Second Edition.

The author states that his primary concern in writing the book was the comfort and safety of new cyclists getting into the sport. "It can take a lot of miles and many group rides to pick up good habits and best practices," says Canfield. "I wanted to help accelerate the learning curve."

Canfield adds that his research revealed very few books focused on road cycling skills. None provided the systematic, detailed approach, including figures, tables, and skill drills, presented in "Watch Your Line."

"As I was identifying all the factors involved in improving road bike handling skills, I actually had a hard time remembering the points while riding the bike," says Canfield. "This was when I developed the system I call the Four-P's. The system is useful for organizing and presenting the material, and it helps the cyclist recall the principles while riding the bike."

The Four-P's are:

• Position: Proper fit and positioning on the bicycle.
• Pedal: Developing and maintaining a smooth and consistent pedal stroke.
• Precision: Issues affecting bicycle stability and control.
• Practice: Drills to develop, refine, and maintain road bike handling skills.

Watch Your Line is available in print and Kindle editions through Amazon.com, as an eBook through iTunes for Apple devices, and as a downloadable PDF from Roadbikerider.com. It is targeted to the beginner and intermediate road cyclist, and also includes tips and techniques for the advanced cyclist.

Alan Canfield is a licensed professional engineer with Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in mechanical engineering. He resides in Panama City, Florida with his wife, daughter, and four bicycles.