Why use RealRyder bikes? We really couldn’t find better indoor cycling (spinning) bikes!

Black and beautiful, it’s hard to find nicer looking bikes. However, this time beauty didn’t even factor into it!

A number of more important reasons helped us make up our minds.

Our love affair with these bikes started in 2008 when Sandrine was living and working in the Dominican Republic. A new gym just opened its doors, and she was asked to manage their indoor cycling program. The gym owners had worked hard to find the best bikes available, and they were one of the first gyms to use RealRyder bikes. (Thank you Steve and Orchid for being such trend-setters!) Up to that point, she had been used to working with traditional “static” spinning bikes, so this was a whole new revelation to her. And it totally transformed her vision and love for indoor cycling.

When it came time to opening Spinbreak, the choice was simple… for many reasons!

1. One of the best features is that these bikes tilt 20 degrees left and right- and they allow you to control how far you go in this movement. The fact that you are control your balance and movement in each position means you get a more complete workout and you burn more calories than on static bikes. It’s a whole new level of spinning!

2. The quality and R&D of the bike is unrivalled.
From a technical point of view, the bikes are the result of many years of research, testing and development. They are sturdier and better built than any other bike available: each RealRyder weighs 103 kg vs. an average 60 kg for the traditional static bikes. The flywheel alone weighs 30 kg- (10kg more than average), which makes for a smoother and more solid ride. The flywheel is also placed at the back of the bike, which is what enables the bike to tilt.

3. Our spinning workout is more complete. Thanks to the constant left-to-right movement, our core muscles are always engaged and our abs work all the time (without any extra effort on our part!) We also workout our upper body (back, abs, triceps, biceps…). What is more, each workout is really unique… Each class has different music with its own rhythm and movements, and each with its own objective: some classes are aerobic workouts while others work your endurance at different levels…

4. We can take more care of our bodies. The RealRyder bike allows for a more natural flow of movement, which means there is much less pressure on our joints- the knees, hips and back. We also burn an average of 20% more calories for the same time spent on the bike…. an important bonus!!

As you can see, there are some excellent reasons for choosing the bikes: from the technical, to the more complete and balanced workout- and to the fact that it is healthier for our bodies. You have no excuse now: you will feel better, happier and way more energised!!

Why ride with clips?

For confirmed fans of cycling: do you want to take your spin session to the next level?

Its simple. Buy some shoes! Its no joke: the right cycling shoes will go a long way to improving your experience. Why?

Riding with clips means:

• your feet are locked in the perfect position on the pedal;
• you can’t slip and hurt yourself;
• there is equal pressure on your feet, so you put less pressure on your knees;
• you can manage the resistance better;
• it’s much more comfortable!

Basically, when you foot is locked in the right position, your pedal stroke is more efficient, and you can appreciate the ride even more!

Which ones should you chose?

I prefer « mountain bike » type of shoes that allow you to walk without looking like a penguin!

The smooth looking shoes are for professional cyclers only- do not buy these unless you’re planning on training for the Tour de France! I have found that in general, they are less practical, and don’t last as long.

Remember that whatever model you choose, they have to be SPD compatible (so that they can be used on our Real Ryder® bikes).

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SPD compatible pedals

SPD clips on the shoes

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The benefit of these clips is that they are almost invisible under your shoe: you can’t feel them and can walk normally.

They are also more stylish and more resistant – which means they will last you a long time!

An important tip to remember: it is usually recommended to buy one size larger than your normal shoe size. If in doubt, its best to try them first!

Trust me, you will not regret spending the extra money on the right equipment! RealRyder ® bikes are state of the art. You will enjoy them even more with the right shoes!

Final tip: I have been spinning since 2007. I have seen many brands, and Shimano have the best reputation for producing long lasting, quality cycling shoes.

If you’re in Bordeaux, you can buy your Shimano shoes directly at the studio. If you need help to choose the right style, just drop Sandrine a line!

PS. For the more adventurous types amongst you, you can always try these on for size… There is something out there for every taste!