How To Prevent Speed Wobble
If you are reading this article, it's likely that you have encountered a speed wobble on a road bike. Speed wobbles don't really need much explanation if you have suffered from one - they can be pretty scary and in some cases, can lead to a crash.
There's quite a lot of debate and arguments over what a speed wobble is and what causes one - and some cyclists use the term shimmy to describe the phenomenon. A speed wobble, or a shimmy is best described as the front end of the bike oscillating, moving from one direction to another very very quickly - often multiple times per second, both left and right. One of the most challenging things about experiencing a speed wobble, is getting it back under control - often speed wobbles are made worse by a rider gripping the handlebars tighter, in a futile attempt to regain control. The tighter the grip, often the worse speed wobble is - causing a crash.
What Causes Speed Wobble?
Although there is some scientific debate about the mechanical and exact cause of speed wobble, a speed wobble is most likely to happen in the following circumstances and situations:
- At high speeds
- Shivering with cold, is carried through the handlebars
- You are coasting and not pedalling
- You are riding without hands on the handlebars
- Your seat/saddle is too high
- You are riding a back with a long frame
Some riders also believe that a speed wobble is also caused by loose/poorly maintained headset bearings.
How To Deal With A Speed Wobble
There are a few things you can do if you experience a speed wobble, to bring the bike back under some degree of control. Here are our recommendations:
Keep as calm as possible, gripping the handlebars with a death grip will only tire you out - and make the problem worse. Keep as fluid and relaxed as possible. Keep your arms bent and focus on the road ahead.
Some describe gripping the top tube of the bike with your knees as a good solution to stop speed wobble, obviously this would mean stopping peddling.
Lifting your weight off the saddle of the bike is another way in which it is reported helps deal with speed wobble.
Lightly applying the brakes to scrub speed off also works, but ensure you do not over apply the brakes and lock up.