Getting into any new sport or hobby can sometimes seem daunting, especially if you don’t have much experience in it. However, cycling is one of the most accessible pursuits out there and provides great opportunities for improving both physical and mental health. If you’re thinking of getting into cycling, then keep reading. We’re going to be covering our ten best tips for getting started in the world of cycling.
Research The Right Bike For You
Perhaps the first thing you’ll want to know is which kind of bike you need to buy. There is a huge range of bikes on the market, and they all have different features to adapt them to certain needs and environments. To help narrow down your search when looking for a bike, consider where you will be cycling. For example, are you going to be using your bike for a daily commute on the roads? Or will it be used more as an off-road trail bike? Or perhaps you want a bike that can adapt well to both? Wherever your bike will be used most, rest assured that there will be plenty of choices out there for you. If you still find the number of options confusing, then consider popping into a cycle store and speaking to one of the assistants. Many of them will have a wealth of knowledge to share with you that will help with finding the right bike for you.
Consider An E-Bike
One option on the market which could be a great choice is e-bikes. E-bike is short for electric bike, meaning the bike is assisted in being powered by an electric motor. This can prove especially useful for long commutes on your bike, or to help with steep inclines. E-bikes are popular both with city bikers and trail cyclists due to the extra help these useful bikes can provide when needed. Although an e-bike might prove to be a more expensive option than a non-electric bike, it can be a very worthwhile investment. Due to the assistance e-bikes offer their rider, you might find you get more use out of an e-bike than you would a regular bike. In the long term, you could actually end up saving money if you find you’re using your e-bike for regular commutes instead of paying for fuel to run a car.
Take Out Insurance
A good idea once you’ve chosen the right bike for you is to take out insurance to cover it. Taking out insurance will mean the value of your bike is covered should it get stolen or become damaged in an accident. You can get specific plans that provide the right level of coverage for you. You can also get specific e-bike insurance to help cover any additional value. Just remember to change your insurance policy should you sell your bike or swap it for a new one.
Make It A Social Occasion
One of the best aspects of cycling is the option you have to create a social occasion out of it. Whilst it makes a great solo sport, it is also a great option if you want to spend time with others. There are usually cycling groups you can join in many towns and cities, you could even set up your own. Maybe you have friends or relatives that enjoy cycling and would enjoy accompanying you on your trips out. If you’re going to be using your bike for a commute to work, you could ask around at work to find out if any colleagues will be cycling in a similar direction.
Invest In Good Safety Equipment
A key point to remember when purchasing cycling equipment is the importance of safety gear. This includes items such as:
- A helmet
- Elbow pads
- Knee pads
- Reflective accessories for your bike
- Reflective clothing
- Lights for your bike
- A bell for your bike
These items will help to make sure you’re as safe as possible, whether you’re riding on the road or on a trail. A good helmet especially can make the difference between being seriously hurt or not in a fall or collision, so be sure to invest in a high-quality one. Visibility to other road users is an important factor in preventing an accident so make sure you have bright and reflective clothing and lights on your bike. This is especially important if you intend to use your bike at night.
Improving Comfort While Cycling
Another aspect to consider when purchasing equipment is how you can improve your comfort whilst cycling. Traveling long distances can be especially difficult on a bike if you haven’t got the right equipment. For example, try out your new bike and see if you find the saddle comfortable. If not, you can replace the existing seat with one with extra padding. Remember to adjust the handlebars, so they’re at the right height for you and don’t affect your posture. The right clothing will also help to make cycling a more comfortable experience too. You’ll want lightweight, breathable clothes to help keep you cool when you work up a sweat.
Improving Fitness And Stamina
Cycling can be a great workout, but it can take some time to build up your fitness and stamina for longer journeys or more intense terrain. Start gradually building your fitness up rather than trying to take on too much too soon. You’ll find that even if you start off cycling for 15 minutes a day, your fitness will improve, and you’ll be able to start cycling further each time.
Fueling Your Cycling
As with any form of exercise, you need to make sure you’re choosing the right food for cycling with the right kind of nutrition to keep you going. Carbohydrates are a great option for helping to keep your energy levels steady whilst cycling. Try foods such as bread, bananas, and cereals. There are also plenty of ready-made snack options out there, such as energy bars. It’s also incredibly important to make sure you’re staying hydrated whilst cycling, especially if you’re going to be cycling in warmer weather conditions. Make sure to plan ahead before heading out on your bike, and pack plenty of water and snacks to take with you.
Choosing Where To Cycle
If you want to use your bike to help you enjoy the great outdoors, then planning your next trip can be an exciting part of getting into cycling. Make sure to research ahead of time to see whether the places you want to visit have cycle trails. You should also factor in aspects such as places to stop for food, so you know if you need to take food to help you refuel. Try and find out what kind of terrain the trails you’re going on have, to make sure both you and your bike can handle it.
Learning To Repair Your Bike
A good tip for anyone that wants to get into cycling is to learn some basic repair jobs for their bike. One of the most common issues you might come across with your bike is tire punctures. It’s a good idea to carry a puncture repair kit with you to help with small punctures in your tire tube. You should also learn how to put a chain back on should it slip off whilst changing gears.