If you’re reading this, you must have recently found interest in cycling. Riding and controlling a bicycle is a challenging activity, no matter how old you are. Even kids love cycling as their hobby. Cycling has brought many benefits to individuals, may it be a physical, psychological, or social benefit.
But if you are still new to the world of cycling, you must have a lot of questions in mind. You might wonder what kind of bicycle suits you best or how to adjust to your bike. There is a whole lot of information to absorb as you become a cyclist. However, we are pleased to provide you five essential riding advice that will help you become comfortable with cycling.
Find Ways to Become Comfortable with Your Bike
Think of it as having an intimate relationship with your bike. You can never cycle smoothly if you feel like you are uncomfortable or distressed about your bike. In fact, pro cyclists continuously tweak features or parts of their bikes in order to gain a little more comfort as they ride along. According to Cycling Weekly, it is important for you to determine your optimum saddle height. The optimum saddle height can be identified by placing your heel on the pedal at its farthest point. To do this, your leg must be straight so that when you clip in, there is a slight bend. Slightly bend your elbows as well. You will know that the reach to your handlebars is right when the front wheel of the hub disappears from view beneath the handlebars when you are riding.
Get the Necessary Tools for Cycling
Cycling does not only entail that you look good in cycling jersey and padded shorts. It requires you to have other essential items, which is why people describe cycling as an expensive activity. According to Road.cc, beginner cyclists must have a computer to track how fast and how far they have gone through. A must to carry at all times while cycling is a pump, spare tube, chain oil, and fixing tools, just in case of emergency occurrences. Your bike should also have a bottle cage to keep your water bottle in place. To prevent severe injuries from cycling, opt to wear a helmet, knee pads, or arm pads.
Practice Frequently to Build Confidence
Try riding around different surfaces and roads to enhance your cycling skills. You might want to try riding through grass first if you’re still beginning to learn, then you can advance to roads. You can also try to go up an escalated road then go back down right after. When cycling through streets, remember not to violate any traffic laws. Ride about a meter from the edge of the road so there is room for you to dodge obstacles. This also encourages other drivers to see you and to give you more room in case you want to overtake.
Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
As a beginner cyclist, you might experience some difficulties in cycling. Some individuals engage in cycling because of their intention to lose weight. These cyclists push themselves to their limits and experience fatigue more frequently and easily compared to cyclists who just engage in the activity to have fun. That is why if you’re up for the physical and mental health benefits of cycling, there is no need to be too hard on yourself. Just enjoy the ride and enjoy learning different cycling techniques. You might also consider joining a cycling group to expand your horizons. You can gain new friends along the way too.
Monitor Your Progress
With many factors affecting how fast you’ll go (e.g., tire rolling resistance, air resistance, gravity, weather), it might be hard to track your progress. As mentioned previously, a computer or power meter, like the 4iii power meter, can help monitor the power you’ve exerted. There are various types of power meters according to where it is being placed on your bike: crank meters, bottom bracket, pedals, and rear hubs. Find one most suitable for you.
With all these riding tips mentioned, we hope you will be able to enjoy cycling better. Always remember that practice makes perfect. The more trails you cycle, the more you will be able to enhance your cycling prowess.