HOW TO MAKE CLIMBING HILLS EASIER !

[@kevinrtres]

Lovely video, Katie. Just for newbies - if you're using Shimano shifters remember the "big" shifter moves the chain to a bigger Chain-wheel or Cog. On the left hand side the bigger shifter moves the chain onto the bigger chain-wheel and makes pedaling harder. On the right hand the longer lever moves the chain onto a larger cog at the back and makes pedaling easier because the gearing ( the ratio of teeth between the chain-wheel and the teeth on the cog) is then lower. The small shifter on the left moves the chain onto the smaller chain-wheel and makes pedaling easier. The smaller shifter on the right moves the chain onto a smaller cog on the rear wheel and makes pedalling harder, i.e. the gearing becomes higher. I hope I haven't confused anyone with that. After a while you just forget about it and don't even think about it anymore.

[@johnnydoe66]

Persistence pays: Don't give up on conquering a hill no matter how large or small it is. If you can't make the full climb the first time and end up walking, set a goal of just getting a bit farther next try. Also don't look at the top, but break the climb into smaller sections ie; next sign, telephone pole, tree, house etc. Especially on larger, longer climbs because it can be a bit demoralizing to keep seeing how far you still have to go.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Exactly!!!

[@MelRunsThings]

Great tips Katie, look forward to you weight loss & cycling tips :-)

[@mariadigiovanni1168]

I learned when cycling as a teenager doing massive hills, to just look at the front of the tire.

[@MrPortbarell]

I am a 120kg aussie clydesdale....that I would dodge hills for years.....I have upgraded my cassette/sprockets on my gravel bike to a 30/46 and a 42-11 (incl a roadlink ext) and now ride the climbs where I live in Switzerland and actually enjoy the challenge to get to the top.....as slow as you want.....stop for a 30sec rest...quick drink and continue....worked for me and now I get up climbs without stopping where I absolutely struggled prior. BE KIND TO YOURSELF.....Don't measure yourself with other riders....small incremental steps, @Katie....keep the dream alive you give people hope from where you have come from in easy listening formats....Cheers keep pushing one peddle after the other....you are going places and HAVE FUN!!

[@aliciamack7501]

it is beyond me how you dont have more subscribers. i find the cycling world in the U.S. to be quite pretentious and saturated by men. you have given me the confidence i needed to get out there on my own.. much appreciated!!!

[@petercoles8274]

Timely video. On a long cycle today and unexpectedly found myself on a 12% hill. Couldn’t believe how hard it was and having to cycle round a broken down van near the top didn’t help. Checked back with Strava when I got home and the steepest I’d previously done was 5%. So these tips are arriving at just the right time to encourage me back tomorrow to see if I can do it a little bit faster - especially now the I know where (and indeed, that) it ends.

[@matthewcrich5951]

New subscriber, Katie. 63 year old who is looking to buy a bike for the first time in 40 years. I was gobsmacked at some of the prices, but I’m looking at it as an investment. Considering a gravel bike for the versatility. Probably a steel frame (heavier but cheaper). Loved your attitude in the video. Very inspirational. Cheers from 🇨🇦

[@rebeccasaltzman9215]

So happy to have found your channel, Katie! I've been riding since I was a kid but just bought my first road bike last week. It's definitely intimidating to get started and I'm having a lot of "oh no, I'll never get up this hill" moments. And definitely agree with how the bike shops can be pretty aloof when it comes to explaining how everything works. Hearing your story is encouraging and I look forward to learning more from you!

[@KatieKookaburra]

Happy new bike week!!! Woop woop! You're going to LOVE it! So first thing would be when you see that climb tell yourself, 'I'm going to get up that!' Your body reacts to what your mind tells it and if you have already said you aint getting up it, you probably won't haha. Even if you think it tell yourself you will get up it. Although i did have those moments myself but each one I got up was confidence for the next one. Just get out there and enjoy it, and if you have to push it up a hill form time to time, don't worry. :)

[@julen2380]

I used to live in a little town close to lovely not too too steep hills and avoided them mostly because too much weight (mostly me), too little fitness and well, it doesn't help if you have vertigo. Last year I moved and I am now surrounded my super steep hills. There's basically just one way to get out of the city without climbing. A former colleague and fellow cyclist predicted that I would get an e-bike within a year. Clearly, I won't. I will conquer those bloody hills...and possibly getting a bigger cassette might be the way to go. As always thanks for the tips, Katie, and even more so just the inspiration of you sharing your passion and love for cycling! It's absolutely infectious!

[@nashgawri4869]

Thank you Katie for tackling the hill climbing subject. I live in Vancouver/Victoria, two wonderful cycling cities with lots of hills. I try to do hills every time I get out there on my bike and as a result I notice improvement each and ride. It gets easier. Keep up the good work and stay safe and healthy.

[@Peakexploration]

Going to share this video with my girlfriend, I have not long bought her her first road bike and we went out the other week and she ended up panicking on a hill because she thought she was doing it wrong! Keep up the good work Katie!

[@mariadigiovanni1168]

I discovered your vlog when I returned to cycling three years ago and I had your advice playing in my head throughout my rides. You have sound and practical advice. I took your advice and put a 40 tooth cassette on my Domane and it was the total answer to training and to bicycle touring in Spain last May 2019. I am still at it (and over 60), and loving your friendly approach to cycling. Thank you for your vlogs- great camera work also!

[@filipeamado1]

How did you add the 40 tooth? I'm looking to do the same!

[@honeyspoonbeewrangler4550]

I am looking at the Domane. How are you enjoying its feel? I am 52, I have been off from road cycling for 15 years, had cancer two years ago (uterine), pulled it all out with total hysterectomy. I'm out riding a hybrid, don't have my Bianchi anymore. Looking to find some other endurance riders, prefer other women. Just reached 20 mile ride yesterday. Used to do 100mile a week. Want to again.

[@dndlab1]

Thank you so so much I've just started cycling and I'm 17stone, for my height I should be 10-11stone, so I'm trying my best to keep riding to get this weight off!!

[@robbiebarca1680]

Hi Katie.. I used to ride 12.5 miles a day and jog 5miles. After a bad operation and knee damage stopped all sport. Found your channel which has inspired me, but can't manage over 27 miles at the moment. Have an indoor bike and two road bikes but decided to fix one course and improve my times. Thank you for your inspiration. Coming up to 72yrs old but still love cycling..

[@leanwitherv7638]

I have just bought a new road bike (Trek Domane AL2) and I didn’t have a clue how to use the gears. My dad read the instructions and told me how to use it. I’m so glad you have done this video because there is so many good advice I can take from this being new to cycling.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Yeah I had no idea either so glad it's helped make it simple to understand :) You will be used to it in no time.

[@nikonlover6602]

I’m a 60 year old man who just took up road cycling a few years ago and I enjoy your videos to see how anyone can succeed at a new sport and listening to your trials and tribulations you went through It’s good to know I was not the only one who struggled at the start to see good weight lose and much better fitness and to tackle more challenges ROCK on from canada

[@potsiecyclist4474]

Some good advice. We have a popular local climb to me that is 2 miles long. It's a bit of a cruel one because just when you think it's over turn a bend and gives one more bite. My first season of riding I got with a great group that was faster than me for sure but a great group of guys that helped me and taught me. We would ride the same route every week. My first time with them I walked half this 2 mile climb at the start of the season. By the end of the season on our last group ride for the year I was leading them up the climb all the way. I completely agree, the only way to get better at them is by doing them. There is no better tip than that.

[@drawingboats]

I am 39 years old and I have fallen in love with cycling over the past few years. Although, I feel as though I am doing something wrong while climbing. It was refreshing to hear your take on the matter. Thank you for what you do!

[@stevencouncil1859]

Thank you for the inspirations! I am on the first leg of a overall wellness change(weight loss!) in my life and I think your videos are going to be a big motivating factor. I love bikes and its about time I harness that power... I need to check out your ebook also... thank you

[@unapologeticallykelly8061]

My love for cycling has recently begun. But I’m not a total newbie. I enjoy the climbs also but find it hard to get out of the saddle. Thanks for posting this video, I’m going to take charge and conquer climbing out of the saddle! ♥️🚴🏻‍♀️♥️

[@tonymaries1652]

Nice to see a lot of new cyclists on here, not just returners like myself - it is 30 years since I last rode a club ride! Six weeks back and the improvement is plain to see on Strava. If you aren't on Strava you ought to get it. I like hills as well. Rural mid Somerset is not as grand and as big as the Pennines but you can't go very far without having to go up a hill. Put the Ridley away after my evening ride, got my tea and looked at the old Raleigh in the shed. It is very light and fast, has a high quality group set and is in superb condition considering it is 30 years old. I have ridden it in the flat Thames valley where I work and in rural Leicestershire where I grew up but the gearing is a traditional 52:42 on the front and 13-24 on the back. I will definitely have to drop the gears a bit to get up some of my local hills. I might lost a bit of top gear but that does not really matter, where I live you can't usually go very fast down hills as the roads are narrow and winding and you never know what is round the next corner. Time to start hunting on eBay for some smaller rings as I bet I will probably get some pretty blank looks if I take it down my local bike shop and ask for some new chain rings! Katie, Strava might be a good subject for a video - a bit of footage on a ride and then a bit of a chat in front of a computer to show the map and the stats, without getting too geekily technical.

[@sara_west]

Thank you Katie! I love these top tips. So useful! I am part of the new wave of COVID cyclists. I watched some of your video's, got inspired, and bought me a bike! Have to say I think I'm getting a little addicted. I've had my bike 4 weeks now and today I cycled my first 25 miler. I'm having soooooo much fun, and just want to keep going out. I'm trying to build up the miles so I can can have longer adventures, but I love feeling like a kid again. My other half has gone and got a bike too so we can have adventures together. Anyway, thanks for the inspiration, tips, and the warm welcome to the sport! Really appreciate your content :) Stay well and safe x

[@KatieKookaburra]

Sara this is amazing! Ahhhh it really is the best isn't it?! That is EXACTLY why I love cycling, because it makes you feel like a kid again. Nothing better! And glad you're enjoying the videos, love making them so any questions just ask. Happy cycling my friend x

[@chrisandsamlivingthedream]

Katie you are a Great Ambassador for cycling ... cheers Chris & Sam

[@Paranormal-Researcher]

Great video Katie , I’m looking forward to the rest in this series, I’ve recently started cycling after a long break I was knocked off my bike in 2012 and injured quite badly, it took me till Last Christmas to finally get the confidence to get back on the bike. Thanks again for a brilliant channel

[@jmillen07]

Not new to cycling but still enjoyed the video. People new to the sport should find these tips very useful. Look forward to the rest of the series

[@guitarmatt191]

Definitely agree Katie with getting into a steady, realistic rhythm you can maintain, plus having a gearset that allows you to keep spinning rather than grinding! 👍🚴⛰️

[@chrissybradshaw4879]

I’ve been out on 3 good rides now and I’m loving it! Got new padded cycling shorts and a new cycling shirt - black with butterflies. I think I like looking the part as much as getting a sweat going and pushing myself! Thanks for these vids!!

[@dianebowen1262]

I’ve just got a black top with butterflies and flowers on too❤

[@harrimi]

Followed you for a long while and tbh this is one of yours best vids for me. I struggle with climbs but working hard to get better. This advice is really helpful. One thing I would suggest you add is if you change your cassette beware that the rear derailleur might not have the capacity, I have learned lots about this. Keep them vids coming.

[@shanew634]

Nice to be sharing your experience Katie.👏

[@andrewwalker3312]

Climbing over Saddleworth moor toward Holmfirth at the start of video i think lovely views and a great ride on nice day

[@andrewscargill4170]

Good video Katie. As a cycle community, we are incredibly scornful of new starters who don't know the 'terms' or knowledge of gearing so this is helpful for those wanting to start riding! The more cyclists on the road, the more the govt. has to address road safety!!

[@DAZLIN6]

Great tips. I find mental attitude to hills is very important. Alot of riders look at climbs in a negative way, and panic at the sight of a hill. Rather than relax get comfortable and spin up.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Exactly!!!! X

[@HarishChouhan]

I'm glad you made a video about this. I just learned how to ride a bicycle in 2018. I got a road bike last year and starting to do climbs with a gradient of max 10%. I tried getting out of the saddle but almost fell so I won't be trying again soon. There is a famous road here, 10kms called "Hai Van Pass" which was once featured in the Top Gear show. I have not done it yet but once I get good at climbing another hill closer to my place, I'll then try the longer one. For my next bike, I'll probably get one with GRX groupset so I can get a ratio of 1 and hopefully even less.

[@brianf7617]

Been watching your channel for years. Love the content. Glad you have been sticking with it.

[@sarahartus6360]

I heart cycling too! Great video, looking forward to the others. I recently changed my cassette after watching another one of your videos about climbing, it has made such a big difference. Thank you!

[@Oldie-onoffhisfoldie]

I am 67years young and struggling on climbing. Living on the edge of the pennines means that there's not much choice so really appreciate this advice especially on group sets. Ps only been cycling regularly for 12months. Love it .

[@Bikey_McBeardface]

Great advice as usual. I used to avoid hills over a K (in the going up direction) all the time because I just assumed that they were beyond me, then one day I said bugger it took on a 3k local climb and felt a bit daft, it was no more painful than the shorter climbs I did do, just that I had to endure it for longer. Now I ride that climb without even thinking about it to get to climbs that really hurt (which is a totally normal thing for a rational person to do). Oh, count me out of the ebook thing I already bought it.

[@stevegeek]

Great video. One problem with an 11 - 40 cassette is you miss out on some mid range gears. I moved to a big cassette when I was riding in North Devon last year (some monster steep hills) and sure the biggest cog was great on the really steep bits, but when I returned to Surrey where I live I soon found I was struggling to find the right cadence at times. Switched back to an 11 - 30. Definitely agree that getting out of the saddle is important. Allows you to use your weight to help turn the pedals. However it is more tiring after a while (I guess uses more muscles) so I think of it as a short “boost button”, to be used sparingly. Look forward to the next video Katie. 👍

[@KatieKookaburra]

Yeah you do miss a few middle gears but for me - and where I live - it’s definitely worth the trade off. Defo!!

[@justinhoyte3826]

After a 8 year hiatus I’m back on my bike. I had a lung infection that lasted 5 years. I got a smart trainer, wife does not like me on the road by myself. Riding about 20 miles a day now. Into my third week now. Did 134 miles last week. I’m still a terrible climber. I know it will improve as I get fitter. Enjoyed your thoughts. I will watch the others. Thank you.

[@ladytradiej8027]

Wow, congratulations on your recovery and starting to ride again, who cares how you ride, you're riding that's all that matters. 😊 You poor thing having that illness for so long, that sounds aweful. 🎊. Are you still riding?

[@pmbeirne]

simple but well thought out presentation , which novice and experienced can use to develop climbing skills . practice practice practice says it all . nice one

[@wazzup105]

Losing 35 kilo's is sure gonna help you get up those hills ! Also, don't set your Garmin's autopause at 5 kph, because it's killing when you are really struggling to get up the hill and suddenly your Garmin pauses with that annoying beep (like rubbing salt into your wounds). And yes I swore profoundly when that happened. :-)

[@KatieKookaburra]

Hahahah my Wahoo does it on steeper stuff! I'm like 'I'm MOVING... but just quite slowly..' haha

[@timpennartz2922]

Thanks for the inspiration 🤙🏼. I’ve been cycling a week now and can’t get enough 🥰

[@KatieKookaburra]

Yasss Tim!!! Enjoy it! We have some cracking weather at the min :)

[@suethomas5298]

Great video.i can't stand up which really doesn't help my climbing.i feel the need to stand when I just can't peddle any more but it just feels so alien I mentally can't try it but I've just had the thought that maybe I could try on the flat and practise that way.im 55 yrs and have only been ridding for about 3 months and I love it.your videos give me encouragement.i look forward to them.cheers from Sue in Australia 🙂🙃

[@KatieKookaburra]

Hi Sue, ahhh my cycling journey started in Australia so have such a love for it! Was there in Jan and hope to get back over there. So, if you practice on the flat make sure you are in a harder gear so in the big ring at the front. It is actually better and safer to try on a steady gradient to be honest. So just get on a steady climb you know, and out the saddle and just ride. I felt SO awkward at the start but it really does get easier and you feel much more efficient doing this. You can do it lass! :) x

[@suethomas5298]

@@KatieKookaburra thank you for your reply and advice .😍I will give it ago.😃

[@REMAX_CCA]

"I love riding hills." Great quote, thank you! This video will help me switch my mindset from "I hate hills" to "I love hills!" Yours is my favorite channel. Please keep up the good work.

[@markw9548]

Great advice - only just learning to spin not grind - hurrah. Thanks to your previous advice distance now up to 70K ride. All part of a plan to get ready for lockdown to end and get some riding where I grew up - The Lake District. Defo need hills practice before that :-) Not doing "The Struggle" yet - when I was little dad's car couldn't get up there !!!!!!!!

[@paulwallis1079]

Thanks Katie that's very helpful I live in the chiltern hills in Buckinghamshire and I have hills all around so you're video was very helpful

[@benhillier659]

Awesome video as always. I'd love an ebook 😉 Thanks for all the advice it definitely helps 😎

[@paulblundell3053]

Thank you Katie for your great channel. I'd love a copy of your ebook but there's no need as I bought it recently and it's brilliant; full of good tips. I went up to Winter Hill mast today near Bolton and when I got home your video on stretching popped up on my feed. I tried the exercises and they really helped my dodgy hip flexor. I also bought a foam roller thanks to you. Much gratitude to you for helping me and many others on their cycling journey. 🙏

[@KatieKookaburra]

Paul THANK YOU!!! So glad you like the ebook! And also, so glad the foam roller has helped. It's little things like that can make a big difference so glad to be able to help :) And honestly, thanks so much for the support. x

[@bikejack1]

Great video Katie on climbing. Actually it was you awhile back that convinced this 89 year old dedicated cyclist who loves hills to switch to a 40 cassette from a 32. My legs are most appreciative.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Jack that is AMAZING! 89-years-old and still smashing the hills, you are my hero! Where abouts do you live? Which area?

[@bikejack1]

@@KatieKookaburra I live in Ashland, Oregon USA. We have lots of hills you would love it.

[@robertminors7100]

Thanks for this. I’m one of the many newbies on the road. Loving your videos.

[@superstrada6847]

Wow, you are amazing. Your channel has come a long way. Congratulations & continued success.

[@neilmason158]

Thanks for the tip on gear ratio. At 65 and living in the Yorkshire dales going try your set up for climbing

[@karenhowe7087]

57 and just starting, I don’t entirely understand the gearing, and not great on hills, so enjoying your videos, thanks

[@KatieKookaburra]

Perfect time to start my friend!!! Just get out there and enjoy. Any questions you have just ask!

[@karenhowe7087]

@@KatieKookaburra thank you

[@johnmurray4562]

So you are must be my cycling sister - inspiring - I was big....got cycleaddicted....lost 7 stone on the bike (probly somewhere under the saddle haha) ...love to get out in the sunny morning hills on my own ....but most of all because I suffer from getting ridiculously delighted by...... did I really summit that! - doesn't ingleborough look fantastic - wow! deer on the road - wow! Morecambe Bay is so beautiful! ... So climbing tip(s) : prepare yourself as you come to a climb - mind, body and bike (if you haven't checked it out on an app beforehand - is a good plan) - don't panic - you can do it - choose a lower gear to begin you can always make it harder - keep the cadance high - find a rhythm and mix in and out of the sadddle - when your done reflect on what gear, how steep too easy too hard did I have to put my foot down and if so how far did I have to walk to find a place to clip in - now you'll know for next time.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Great tips, cheers John!

[@richcrompton6891]

Thanks for the inspiration Katie ❤️ I’m back riding after a 10 year lay off. Foolishly, I was expecting to be able to ride up hills that were. Challenging then, on the same bike, with the same gears carrying 24kg extra lard! I was feeling a little hacked off with my relative lack of performance (I know, what a div.) but it does look like I’m using the KK method, which obviously works. I’ve found a good hill with a few routes up it mostly they are consistent gradient and rideable in my 39-26 smallest gear. Struggling with the route that kicks up to 20%, so I mostly use that on the descent. Lost 11kg now and loving it. Trying to keep the same drivetrain as it dies ‘work’, but I may have to swap out the rear cassette and mech for something a bit more rideable if I can find something compatible for my old Trek 1.5. Keep up the good work x

[@stevencampbell1150]

I just watched your video on climbing and following this though I have climbed many hills locally where I live and because as I may have said already I attacked a climb a little bit too quickly a few weeks ago, your tips have helped me greatly which I intend using this weekend as it is quite hilly where I live.

[@KatieKookaburra]

That’s awesome Steven!!! Well done :)

[@cliffordwishart7780]

Thanks Katie, my wife and I follow your videos. Always helpful and inspiring. Keep it up...

[@KatieKookaburra]

Thanks Clifford, say hello to your wife for me. And any questions just chuck them in the comments 😎

[@kmadaboutcycling4419]

Great video, been cycling for 20 years , going to hit Holme moss tomorrow and then see what happens after a week of the same hill, inspired to lose the weight doing what I love the most

[@PaniPilot]

I love climbs and I hope to cycle in Chiang Mai this year (sounds familiar? haha amazing place). I'm quite at the beginning of my cycling and 11-40 cassette is something that could enable me doing some climbs I wouldn't manage to push on 11-34 this year. Why wait! Brgds from Thailand Katie

[@juliejen3883]

I’m a 62 year old lady recently started cycling and loving it but I’ve got so much to learn. Happened upon your videos/vlogs so watching through them all to try and pick up tips. Would love to know your first choice when it comes to the best cycling shorts.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Julie that is great, so glad you're enjoying the bike. Shorts wise, I would try on a few different brands to see which feel the comfiest for you. But brands I love are Rapha, Maap and Kalf which was sold in Evans. Those three are the comfiest I have tried. But also heard good things about DHB at Wiggle. So I would say try a few brands on and see which feel the best on you :)

[@juliejen3883]

Katie Kookaburra Thank you so much for taking the time to reply and I will look into those makes.

[@michaelcloherty5352]

I've got lower gears on my bike 36 46 and a 46 cassette love climbing now and i always listen to mylie Cyrus the climb when I'm climbing

[@spawneedave]

Just started hill climbs. Did a loop recently through the Trough of Bowland. Needless to say, I pushed the bike on a couple of hills, as my technique is a bit rubbish. Thanks to your tips and your subscribers tips, I’ll give it another go this weekend

[@KatieKookaburra]

Just keep practicing. I think that the more you know a climb the easier it is as you know when to shift, when to put the effort down and when you can relax a bit. Let us know how you get on!

[@spawneedave]

Katie Kookaburra thank you I will. Your point is so true, I’ve cycled up to Jubliee Tower (from Abbeystead) and the first time I only just managed it, however, know where and when to change gears helped massively. Shaved off 10 minutes a week or two back. Tired Jubilee Tower from Quernmore, but had to turn round 😂🚵‍♀️🤦‍♂️

[@donnahookway2208]

Perfect timing on finding your youtube video....I am determined to hit climbing hills soon - I haven't shied away from them, but I certainly haven't gone looking for them lol so I will follow these videos and take on board your advice, thank you!x

[@leeray8294]

Tried a hill for the third time in my short cycling life 3 yrs, north Newbald, avg 6% ramping up to 10. Almost passed out halfway up and had to stop. Not made easier as I couldn’t get into 1st gear. After watching your video I feel re energised to give it another go and not worry about how fast I get up but just to get up it. Cheers for the advice.

[@flavforpar]

You are 100% correct and the way you explain it is fantastic! Love watching your channel!!!!!

[@KatieKookaburra]

Cheers Flavio! Thanks for the support my friend!

[@stillarifleman]

I'm getting my wife to watch your videos, we're going to look at a bike today for her, she normally does Ultra running but I can't so hoping we can enjoy this together 🤔 Keep up the good work 👍🏻

[@rbruce63]

Outstanding and have a faithful audience to your new series!

[@jacobtaylor4258]

i tried to cycle up monks road charlesworth on friday, it didn't happen, now looking at changing cranks and cassette, bit more to cycling than i thought, i never gave crank or cassette sizes a second thought until now, BUT onwards and upwards, thank you for the upload.

[@shanekanagasabay]

Chunal Road isn’t much better much also! 😳

[@adaml7987]

Corkscrew road, Adelaide..my favourite hill for repeats and hills training. Montacute Norton Summit loop for hills pleasure. Love it.

[@sherbet3942]

Excellent Katie ...another great post ,am cycling more because am learning so much from you Katie , looking forward to the information.. definitely my confidence is improving all because of you ... thanks xx

[@KatieKookaburra]

This honestly made my day!!! So glad you feel more confident!!!! xx

[@jameshanna1087]

Thanks for this series! This is really great stuff. I rode Fixed in college because it was cheap and simple. Now as a father, husband, and a second time student (studying for nursing school), I am trying to get into road biking. I live In santa Barbara Ca. So really I would love to get into mountain biking and road. But lets be honest its so expensive. I have a hand me down Surly Pacer and put some larger tires on it and am trying to get all my gearing and riding hills in. This series is perfect for that. I wish I had a friend like you in person, because around here its only 10k dollar road bike people, or Gravel bikes that I can not afford, or hardcore mountain bikers. Having this series to take some times from will be awesome. Do you or anyone have suggestions on expanding my cassette. My bike is only a 9 Speed but I do have a Compact set up in the front.

[@naga3929]

I tried a hill ride today Kay Kay and just before hallfway into the ride there was this steep climb, i was gasping for air and literally felt that I would collapse. But once i completed, the satisfaction was great.. 👌👌. Thank you for all the guidance. Never thought I could ever do that.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Yasssssssss!!! Well done!!!!

[@naga3929]

@@KatieKookaburra Thank you. But i thought I would die...😁

[@jennylyons6968]

Thank you for the excellent advice, shared down to earth style that I can relate to as a new cyclist - thank you! Looking forward to seeing the rest of the videos. I ❤️ cycling too 🚴🏽‍♀️🚴🏽‍♀️🚴🏽‍♀️🚴🏽‍♀️

[@KatieKookaburra]

Jenny it’s my absolute pleasure. I really wanted to make it as simple and as straight forward as possible because when I started I had no idea and it all seemed daunting. Haha - so really am glad to help. Video every day for the next 9 days of tips too soon hopefully more for you to get from the series :) x

[@leehewitt9559]

Great video Kate. Interesting to hear about your choice of gears but knowing that you climb around Saddleworth I understand! Look for ward to the other videos...

[@Nicka2003]

Purchased your ebook a few weeks back. Great advice and highly recommended :)

[@KatieKookaburra]

Thanks so much Nick, really glad you liked the book. It took me years to put it together because I wanted it JUST right. So really glad you enjoyed it.

[@cycledan]

Thanks for the info. Hills are my nemesis, but I love going down once I have climbed.

[@georgelevendi6436]

Katie this very good advice for new cyclists!

[@grahamwynde1176]

Nice one. Pacing on climbs was the break through moment for me. Stay aerobic...

[@grahamcuthbert9474]

Graham cuthbert Thanks for the tip and video I will let you know on the climbing

[@carol111071]

Thank you for the information im new to cycling and this video very helpful

[@nigeltimms3582]

Great Idea to share you cycling tips - still struggle with hills but gravity and weight play a big part for me :-)

[@KatieKookaburra]

Nigel I was 100kg at 5' 10" so know how that feels, but loved getting up them! :) Enjoy riding x

[@nigeltimms3582]

​@@KatieKookaburra thank you so much for responding it makes such a difference to a viewer - at 6', 92kgs aged 21 with 40+ years' experience it does have its +'s and that is going down them :-)

[@robroy915]

Good information Katie looking forward to the other 9

[@KatieKookaburra]

Yeeeeahhhh!!!!! ☀️😎

[@weilianglai4338]

Awesome video! Would love to grab a copy of the ebook, trying to learn as much and serious on road biking recently. I would agree with you that most of the time it is difficult to break questions to the bike shop when you are a beginner and the answer is to find out yourself

[@KatieKookaburra]

Well that’s why I’m here. No question is ever too daft too ask so go ahead! Hopefully this video series will help answer a lot of questions x

[@weilianglai4338]

Katie Kookaburra great! Looking forward to all your great videos! Cheers!

[@garyberger196]

Love your videos! If you ever make it to Las Vegas I would love to go on a nice hilly ride with you!

[@KatieKookaburra]

I would love to come and ride in Vegas!!!!

[@amberbuchan5078]

Thank you Katie, you’re an inspiration. Well informed content and delivered in a captivating way. Looking forward to more videos 😊

[@KatieKookaburra]

Ahhhh thanks so much Amber!! 💛

[@cyclingnoob2436]

Thanks for this! As I've said before I'm completely new and this series is going to be great!

[@KatieKookaburra]

Yeeeeahhhh hope it helps!

[@jamesphillips9632]

Great advice Katie thanks , specially explaining your gear sizes , I was thinking about fitting a 11-34 cassette but now Ive changed my mind now it’s going to be a 11-40 I’ve already got a compact crank group set so they sound like a good match , I love the hill climbs to 👍

[@KatieKookaburra]

James that set up is the best! :) I love it for mega hilly areas.

[@jamesphillips9632]

Katie Kookaburra ,That’s excellent Katie, thanks I know you like your hilly rides and your Stone walls in Manchester, I always watch your KZbin videos they are great 👍I’m going to get a quote today to do the 11-40 cassette upgrade on my road bike, can’t wait to give it a test ride in the hills will keep you posted 😉🚴‍♂️

[@jamesphillips9632]

Hi Katie , hope your alright? Just a quick question if you don’t mind please regarding upgrading to a 11-40 cassette, I’ve got a full 105 group set , with a 11-32 cassette and compact 105 crank set, I thought I could change the cassette to a 11-40 cassette and replace the chain with a longer length to be compatible , but I spoke to my local bike shop earlier. and he said I would need a single ring on the crank to make it work correctly. Can you tell me how big your ring is please Katie ? and if you have got 1-2 rings on your crank set please ,

[@esile5290]

Thanks for the videos! Really helps hearing a different perspective on cycling so that we can all learn together !

[@derekrobbins6735]

Can you please maybe do a video regarding your gearing set up (11-40 rear cassette) for hill climbing? Can you still run the shimano long cage rear derailleur?? That would be interesting for the hillier riders!!

[@nitram5115]

Great tips Katie and looking fwd to the rest of the episodes 😁

[@KatieKookaburra]

Cheers Phil :)

[@naeemsiddique1221]

Hi Katie, great meeting you at Heaton Park on Saturday. Keep up the great work 😀

[@KatieKookaburra]

Naeem!!! Grand meeting you too. Hope you cleaned that phone screen haha! :)

[@karlmouck4878]

When I was a younger man I could grind up those hills. Now at age 58 my knees refuse to grind. I have to drop into my 30T chainring and my 36T cog and spin up hills. But i can still get up those hills!

[@mikecarey7042]

I've been back on a road bike for the last 10 years (I'm 60 now) and hate some of the hills I encounter in Devon and Cornwall. I had an 11-25 cassette back then but changed to a 11-32 when I upgraded my Allez. I now have a Roubaix with 11-34 but still could to with a 'get out of jail' cog. Never knew I could fit an 11-40 until today so thanks for the tip. Would you let me know which cassette you bought? Great video by the way and amazing weight loss - I've shed 10kg in the last 10 years which is all down to cycling.

[@magdaw6651]

Lovely videos and so many good tips! Thank you 😊 and would love to win your book to learn more! I moved to the Lake District last year and just got my first road bike a couple of weeks ago 🚴‍♀️ So I am a total beginner but I can already feel this is the beginning of the most amazing journey! 🚲💓

[@RaijinKaze]

Another thing that most riders don’t know about is the angle of the chain when the gears are engaged. If you are on the bigest front gear, the rear gear should be on the smallest setting. Likewise if you are on the smallest front gear the rear gear should be on the biggest setting. This makes a big difference when you want to transfer power from the legs into the wheels as the chain will be straight. Most people often just change the rear gears without changing the front gears which results in a situation where the chain is at an angle making it harder to pedal.

[@GoldenRIFT]

Great Tips and Advice! Thanks for sharing

[@kennogawa6638]

Great that you switched careers because your videos have become totally focused on how to improve the cycling experience.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Ahhhhh Ken, that comment got me right in the feels! Thank you!!! I’m so glad I get to do this too. Proper grateful!!

[@kennogawa6638]

@@KatieKookaburra Your videos have become Lazer like in their cycling application.

[@Streamerbean]

Woot!!! I am looking forwards to the rest of this series as well as the weight loss series as well

[@KatieKookaburra]

Me too! Any questions? I might end the series with a Q&A if there's anything I haven't covered.

[@tomcycles9725]

Great tips Katie, will try these out on the hills. Thanks 😀⛰

[@kylejager736]

Great video - looking forward to the other 9! keep up the great content :)

[@KatieKookaburra]

Thanks Kyle!! Yep loads more to come!! ☀️☀️😎

[@BlaineMolloyMusic]

As a fat lad recently just getting back into cycling im loving having the bug again. Used to commute to work but my work vehicle is on my drive now and i have two working dogs to walk all the time so its more for pleasure now which has changed the game for me. Planning to work my way through the 100 best climbs book!

[@KatieKookaburra]

Well done Blaine! You’ve started and that’s the hardest part so onward and upwards up them hills!! :)

[@tomcycles9725]

Good luck! And enjoy cycling again. 👍🚵

[@KatieKookaburra]

Hey Blaine, would love to send you a copy of my ebook! Email me at [e-mail] and will send it over to you. Well done :)

[@BlaineMolloyMusic]

@@KatieKookaburra Amazing! I'll email you now! Thanks so much. I'm planning a ride over the Cat and Fiddle in the Peaks on Sunday so I'll have a scan over the climbing chapter 😂