Cycling Tips For Beginners

My 10 Basic Cycling Tips for Beginners

1. Depending on your age and physical condition, it may be wise to check with your doctor before you start an exercise regime.

2. Get the right bike for the riding you plan to do. If you're only going to ride to work, then get a commute bike. If you plan to ride as a recreation then get a road bike. Either way go to a good bike shop and get expert advise. Also ask them to perform a bike fit for you, this is to make sure the bike is set up correctly for you. Wrong set up can cause injury, especially to knees and your back.  Resist the urge to splash out on an expensive high end bike straight away, start with a more basic model, until you’re sure that cycling is for you.

3. Get the correct fitting helmet, cycle shoes, eyewear, gloves and clothing, again get advise from a bike shop. Wearing lycra maybe a turn off for some people, but it is designed for the comfort of cyclists, loose clothing that flaps in the breeze is not designed for cyclists.

4. Learn the basics of how to ride before you hit the highway. Gear changing can be tricky, you need to know when to change and how with out taking you eyes off the road. Braking technique is also vital. Hit the front brake too hard and you’ll end up over the handlebars. Practice in an empty parking lot. Or phone around your cycle stores, many have classes for beginners. This should also include learning how to bunch ride.  

5. Learn how to fix a flat tire. You will puncture, normally at the fartherest point from home, so learn how to, and practice at home.

6. Get the right accessories. Drink bottles, pump, basic tools, lights if you plan to do night or early morning cycling. 

7. Know your local road rules regarding cycling on the road.

8. Don’t do too much too soon. Cycling uses muscles you may not have used before, so take the time to allow your body to get used to this.  Start easy and progress slowly, while your body adjusts to these new stresses.  Getting a sore butt is normal, but will ease as you cycle more. Correct choice of saddle can help. Avoid the super thin racing saddles, and go for something with a bit more padding. 

9. Learn the basics of nutrition and hydration for cyclists. There is plenty of information on the web on this.

10. And finally, just do it. Cycling is fun and a great way to get fit, you will meet some amazing people and your life will never be the same.