Could barometric pressure make riding my bike seem harder?

Question

Some days, riding my bike to work seems to take more effort than others. Even when I'm just coasting down hills, it seems like I go significantly faster on some days than on others. It's not the wind. Could a higher air pressure cause this noticable difference?

Answer 1

I'm thinkin' it's a combination of JayP and Marks answers.

The wind makes an incredible difference. A 5 mph headwind is similar to riding your bike 5 mph faster, since most of the resistance on a bike comes from push the air out of the way. Similarly, a 5 mph tailwind will enable you to keep up a much higher than normal speed. Since a 5 mph breeze is something you normally wouldn't notice, you don't count it as a factor.

The air temperature has significantly more effect than the barometric pressure. Cold muscles tighten up and don't flex well but high temperatures raise the body's core temperature and cause premature exhaustion.

That, plus you physiological state - diet, rest, attitude (never underestimate the power of a bad attitude) - all lead to how well you can physically perform.

If you _think_ higher air pressure makes it harder, then when you _know_ the air pressure is high, you will perform poorly.

In short, the answer to your question is no. There is no evidence that barometric pressure will alter your average ability to perform except on a level to small for you to perceive without sensitive measuring equipment.

Answer 2

I'm not sure, but I seriously doubt it's air pressure. The difference in air pressure is probably not enough to make it feel any different. It is true that the fastest track times in the world are at altitude with low pressure, but the differences at that level are milliseconds.

I bet it is the wind. Even though it may not seem like it's blowing, when you are moving 20mph, even still air can provide resistance.

Answer 3

sure! if barometric pressure has control over the clouds and atmosphere, it surely has an effect on the human body as well. the lighter the barometric pressure, the higher the clouds and the lighter weight/pressure on your bike.

Answer 4

variances in pressure will make a slight difference, but more likely, differences in your energy levels from the foods you had eaten, and the amount of sleep you got would make a much larger difference.

Answer 5

in case you countless mountain climbing and are not used to it, your thigh muscle mass gets micro tears or stretching. you may take an afternoon without work or 2. in case you wait some days, you would be returned to sq. one and gets an identical consequence on your next holiday.

Answer 6

Someone please tell Frog-leg it's gravity that causes weight not barometric pressure.