Cycling Tips – Before You Go for a Ride
Cycling is a great way to stay active and get around. Whether you're commuting to work, joining a group ride, training for a race, or hitting the trails on the weekend, there are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your ride.
Pump your tires to the right pressure: Possibly the simplest aspect of cycle maintenance is pumping up your tires to the right air pressure. What is the right pressure? That’s simple – it’s written on the sidewall of your tires, just take a look and you’ll notice the tire manufacturer has a recommended range rather than one absolute pressure. That’s so you can adjust the tire pressures according to the conditions.
If you’re going somewhere that might be damp and slippery, don’t pump your tires up too hard. If it’s dry and you want to ride as efficiently as possible, fill them up to the maximum pressure.Get your saddle height and riding position dialed in: Saddles that are too low make it hard to use your full pedaling range and leg power; saddles that are too high have you straining and can lead to injury. Ideally, you need your saddle height set so there is a very slight bend at your knee when the ball of your foot is on the center of the pedal at the bottom of the pedal stroke, with your crank arm in line with your seat tube.
Then get your position on the bike right, too. For reach, a very simple rule of thumb is, when in your typical riding posture, you want the handlebar obscuring your view of the front wheel hub. This may require a new stem, so contact your local bike shop if you need assistance.
Cycling isn’t supposed to be painful, so if you find you’re starting to develop backache or any other aches or pains, contact your local bike shop to see if they can help adjust your position with a professional fitting.Start with the right cycling gear: Invest in a good quality bike that fits your needs and is comfortable to ride. Make sure to also invest in a helmet and other safety gear such as gloves, lights, and reflectors.
Get your bike tuned up: Regular maintenance can help ensure that your bike is running smoothly and safely. This can include things like adjusting the brakes, tightening bolts, and checking the tire pressure. Learn about the bicycle tune-up packages we offer.
Learn the basics of bike handling: Knowing how to shift gears, brake, and maneuver through traffic can help you stay safe and confident on the road. Take a class or practice on a quiet road to start.
Dress for the weather: Layering can help you stay comfortable on your ride, no matter what the weather. Make sure to wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you dry and comfortable. Weather can change quickly so master the art of layering your clothes so you can take cool down or warm up quickly. What to ride in when it is cold or in the heat of summer can be a bit trickier. Needs some tips on cycling clothing? See our article "What Clothes to Wear for Cycling".
Plan your route: If you're commuting, look for quiet roads and bike lanes to make your ride as safe and stress-free as possible. If you're hitting the trails, make sure to check the conditions and choose a route that's appropriate for your skill level.
Stay visible: Always wear bright colors and use lights and reflectors when riding at night or in low-light conditions. It is a good idea to also make yourself more noticeable by using hand signals and making eye contact with drivers and other cyclists.
Stay hydrated and fueled: Bring a water bottle and some snacks to keep you fueled and hydrated during your ride. It is also important to eat a healthy and balanced diet to support your cycling activity. This page has some Nutrition and Hydration products that we sell.
Take breaks: If you're going on a longer ride, make sure to take breaks and stretch your legs every hour or so. This can help prevent fatigue and injury.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable cycling experience. Remember to always wear your helmet, obey traffic laws, and stay aware of your surroundings. Happy riding!