Cycling is one of the best hobbies you can have. Not only is it fun, but it also packs many health benefits you would otherwise only get by combining different exercises. These benefits include weight management, reversing the clock, mood-boosting, healthier heart rates, cutting transportation costs, and many more.
– Photo by Flo Karr on Unsplash
Are you sold yet? Here are a few things you want to consider before hitting the road on your two-wheeler, so you can always stay safe and benefit from your ride as much as possible.
Do your research and invest in accessories
Do some investigation to determine which bicycle and kits suit your needs the most instead of going straight for the most affordable or high-end. The general rule of thumb is that your perfect bicycle size should leave a clearance of one to two inches between your crotch and the top tube (the one connecting the handlebars to the seat).
As for the kits, you want to invest in a good saddle, helmet, and bike lights. It would also help to have waterproof attire, beginning with a waterproof cycling jacket, especially when you suspect it might start pouring at any time.
Get a Pair of Good Cycling Shorts
An excellent pair of cycling shorts is as important as a comfortable saddle if you don’t want to have a sore bum and mandatory glute stretches every day. Consider riding shorts with a high-quality chaos pad for extra comfort – at least until you are past your initial rides and have built up some tolerance.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
One of the most common emergencies is a puncture, especially when going offroad. It might not happen on your first ride, but you will almost certainly have to deal with a puncture at some point.
On the bright side, fixing a puncture is fairly easy if you have a puncture repair kit and pump. A saddle pack with tools could come in handy, too. You never know when you’ll need to adjust mechanical problems on the roadside.
Additionally, you want to have a lock and lights if there is any chance you might get home late. Bringing some cash with you isn’t such a bad idea either.
Conduct a Pre-Ride Check
Just like you wouldn’t start driving without adjusting your wing mirrors, confirming that everything is in order before breezing away is a must before every trip. In this case, you want to check your bike, helmet, and other gear.
Are your tires inflated just right? It would also be best to ensure that your reflectors and lights work properly. Moreover, you need to check that your chain and gears are fully functional. This cautiousness might save you a lot of potential trouble.
Start Small and Go Further Gradually
If you don’t ride much, consider starting on a low-traffic trail where you can build your confidence first. Begin with a short distance, such as 5 kilometres, then increase the distance in little bits and often.
Consistency is key here. Consider steadily increasing the distance you cover by approximately 10% every week. Racking up your kilometres over time helps reduce the risk of injury. At the same time, you become more fit and increase your strength.
Take a Break
Whether you’re cycling for fun, strength, or endurance, your muscles need time to repair. According to Dr Jonathan Su, a physical therapist and fitness expert, time off from extensive exercise can boost your motivation, improve fitness gains, and reduce injury risk.
Consider breaks of about five days between long periods of cycling. In the meantime, stretching exercises are not a bad idea. You can also engage in alternative and more passive hobbies such as curling on the sofa for a movie, reading a good book, painting, and even a session dedicated to video games or free online roulette games won’t be the end of the world. Just remember to not rest for too long, or you could have difficulty getting back on your bicycle.
Ride Confidently and Feel Big
Amateur cyclists mistake safety for tacking themselves to the side of the road as much as possible, but this is a mistake. You want to be visible to other road users by assuming a confident position — approximately 1 meter from the curb.
What’s more, you want to ride as if you are in a car. Ride in harmony with traffic flow and follow the patterns a car would follow because that’s what drivers anticipate. Also, leave the sidewalks to pedestrians, but stick to dedicated bike lanes if they are available.
Ride Carefully and Distraction-Free
Ride in a straight line with predictable patterns, and don’t let yourself get distracted. Stash your electronics away, and do not wear headphones. If you must, wear a single earbud and leave the other ear free to keep up with the surroundings.
It would also help if your water bottle was easy to open with a single hand if you need to drink without stopping.
Know Your Signals
Many bike accidents occur near intersections and result from poor communication. Always use hand signals when you want to turn, slow down, or stop, especially when riding alongside heavy traffic. Also, always be ready and willing to use your bell or voice.
Remember that you also wouldn’t be able to anticipate what another road user is about to do if they don’t provide a fair warning. Ensure that you use intentional and clear hand signals.
Be Part of a Community and Have Fun!
Although riding alone can be peaceful and mind-clearing, being part of a community can be fun too. It also helps you develop all aspects of your biking much faster. Do not let the fancy bikes, lycra, and professional appearances intimidate you. Most bike communities are often inclusive and full of friendly people willing to help you catch up – if you let them in.
You now know what to do before taking your bike out to soak in some fresh outdoor air and clear your head. Here are the key points we discussed:
- Do your research and invest in accessories
- Get a pair of good cycling shorts
- Be prepared for emergencies
- Conduct a pre-ride check
- Start small and go further gradually
- Take a break
- Know your signals
- Ride confidently and feel big
- Ride carefully and distraction-free
- Be part of a community and have fun
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