Stem length is one aspect of a road bike that you can alter to increase both comfort and performance. In order to alter stem length you must first know the length of your current stem. Stem length, designated in millimeters, may be indicated on the stem.

The tube vs. tubeless debate is common in mountain biking circles. While both systems are reliable and have their own sets of advantages, it may really come down to a rider's preferences and peace of mind. Many riders are satisfied with the option of running either system.

Road bike tires provide traction on wet roads, handle the impact of bumps and potholes, grip the road so you can corner and resist punctures from debris. With all this abuse, road bike tires frequently need replacing.

Paddling a two-person canoe requires not only an understanding of the gear required and how to paddle, it also demands a coordinated effort between both paddlers. Each person in the boat has specific roles and responsibilities that, if followed, can make for an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Whether a natural disaster leaves your home without utilities, war disrupts your water lines or a breakdown of civil services forces you into self-reliance, the time for preparation is now. Globally, people suffer when the sources of support they rely upon fail unexpectedly.

The position of goalie in hockey requires a significant amount of skating. Goalies have to make quick movements across the crease so they can stop the puck, recover and then stop the puck again. Goalies also have to leave the crease to retrieve the puck and make passes to teammates to start the attack.

If your thigh hurts after kicking a ball, you may be suffering from a strained groin muscle or a quadriceps strain. A groin strain is felt in the inner thigh, while a quadriceps strain will be felt in the front of the thigh.

Heavyweight, or open, rowing is not defined by weight. Bigger and stronger athletes are welcome in the heavyweight class. Lightweight rowing, on the other hand, is limited to those who are small enough to make weight.

Itching occurs when irritants stimulate the nerve endings of your skin. If you suffer from itching after a bike ride or other aerobic workout, you might be suffering from any of a number of medical conditions.

Meniscal tears are a fairly common knee injury, one that some athletes choose to play through. While cycling strengthens the leg muscles surrounding the knee, your ability to continue cycling depends on the type of tear you sustain.

A slackened chain will decrease your ability to transfer energy to the pedals of your mountain bike. Your shoes can easily get caught in a loosened chain during hairpin turns, resulting in painful slide outs on the trail. All multigear mountain bikes are equipped with a high-tech component known as the rear derailleur.

There are many advantages to hydraulic disc brakes on a bicycle. Unlike rim brakes, discs have tremendous stopping power in mud, rain and snow, and they can also be used with any tire width. They are available in mechanical and hydraulic. Hydraulics tend to cost more but have more stopping power.