It doesn’t matter if you cycle for just an hour or all day. You need to be prepared for unpleasant situations in the short term. You don’t want to be confronted with a puncture, a burning thirst or a sudden change of weather unprepared. If you’re a professional, chances are you already know what you need to have with you at all times. But if you’re making your first steps, you definitely need some advice on what to look out for and what not to underestimate.
Basic supplies
If you have a technical problem, make sure you have the essentials. Don’t worry, no one is asking you to carry eight screwdrivers and a pair of pliers or to drag a compressor around. Instead, you can settle for a multi-purpose bike tool that includes multi-size Allen wrenches, screwdrivers, a center bearing, a chain remover or a tire lever. Luckily, it’s easy to store, so rest assured it won’t be an extra burden, as it fits in a small bike box. In case you get a puncture or a chain falls off, for example, you can use these tools to fix the problem on the spot and be on your way.
You may have a problem while cycling that you can’t solve on your own. But if you have the right tools, a more experienced cyclist will be able to help.
An extra hose
Flat tires are one of the most common problems cyclists have. If you cycle regularly, it could happen to you if it hasn’t already. Luckily, you can easily get around the problem. If you need to replace the inner tube of your bike, it’s a good idea to have an extra tube, a good quality glue, a hand pump, CO2 charge or a tire lever.
However, hose-less bikes are now available which have systems that seal small holes with an internal hose-less sealant, while larger holes are sealed with a wick, spare hose or insert. True enough, the latter is not exactly small and you probably won’t always have it. But all your bike repair tools will easily fit in a bike bag.
Food and drink
If you want to perform at your best when you’re riding, you’ll need plenty of energy. If you don’t take in quality food and drink, your body won’t function properly and a fun bike ride can turn into a nightmare. Cycling at 13 mph, an average 145 lbs woman burns about 520 calories per hour. For an 180 lbs man that is 640 calories. That’s the equivalent of lunch. And it shouldn’t be hard to work out how many calories you’ll lose in a full day’s cycling.
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Proper hydration is also very important. Drink plenty of water or isotonic drinks to replace the precious electrolytes lost through sweating. However, you don’t have to avoid all sugary drinks when you’re exercising – you can drink juice, for example. They provide energy in the form of sugar and give you the strength to get through the next few miles more easily.
Don’t forget to eat well. If you pack a nutrient-rich lunch and a quality snack, you’ll complete your planned bike ride and won’t pass out as soon as you hit the slopes. So throw some fruit, protein crackers, energy bars or even granola bars in your backpack. However, you can also pack larger snacks to replace lunch. A well-packed sandwich or macaroni salad, for example, can work well.
Clothing choice
Just because it’s 77°F (25°C) outside and you’re in a T-shirt and shorts doesn’t mean you won’t be cold when you start rolling. It doesn’t matter if you’re standing in a well-warmed apartment block or winding through a shady, cold forest. The wind can also affect your sense of warmth, and if you’re gliding down a slope at 40 mph, you could easily catch a cold. However, if it’s quite hot outside and you don’t plan on cycling for too long, shorts and a T-shirt will do in the end.
But if you’re going on a longer ride, be sure to pack an extra layer of clothing. A windbreaker that fits in a small space will definitely come in handy. In addition, many cyclists use a variety of gloves and leg warmers – those can even fit in a small bike bag.
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Also, don’t forget about sweating. It’s a good idea to keep some extra underwear with you for longer distances. Always try to choose functional materials that wick sweat and keep you dry. At the same time, remember that sometimes you’ll have to ride your bike downhill. For this reason, choose sweatshirts or T-shirts with a longer bottom hem, preferably silicone, so that your back doesn’t slip up and get cold when you’re moving.
Safety
- The piece of equipment that comes to mind immediately is the helmet. The rules on wearing helmets vary from place to place and it is worth bearing these in mind. It is very helpful.
- Cycling goggles, which are designed to protect you from the sun’s rays, make for another basic piece of cycling equipment. It will also keep the wind out and prevent bugs, dust and other dirt from getting into your eyes.
- Don’t underestimate reflectors and bike lights either. You can get lost, get a puncture and it takes time to change a tire.
- If you are setting off with kids, in addition to the safety items mentioned above, it is recommended that they wear a visibility vest. The reflective elements can be seen up to 300 yards in low light and even further in the case of better quality elements.
- Always have a bell with you to keep you running smoothly, especially if you’re riding in the city or on a bike path.
Choose a suitable route
Just because your friends can walk tens of miles without getting really tired doesn’t mean you can. Before setting off, make sure you assess your physical condition. Pick easier routes initially, then gradually increase the distance and try the downhills. You’re likely to get muscle cramps the first few times, which is why you shouldn’t overdo it at the start.
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Carry your phone, a map and GPS, especially if you’re going into unfamiliar territory. In case of an accident, it’s a good idea to have an app installed on your phone that automatically sends your coordinates to a rescue team so that you could get much needed help as quickly as possible.
Picking the right bike for you
Each bike has its own characteristics and each is made for different terrain. Here are the most common and well-known bike types:
- Road bike – a lightweight bike designed for roads with the least resistance. It has no suspension and less stability due to its relatively narrow frame. They are not suitable for driving on dirt roads.
- Gravel bike – similar in appearance to road bikes, but with a stiffer frame and tires. Thanks to disc brakes on the wheels, it’s more stable than a road bike. You can ride through woods, muddy roads and even gravel.
- Mountain bike – there are many types of these, such as XC, trail or all-mountain. They have a wider frame and are generally known for their suspension. Especially recommended for dirt roads.
- Trekking bike – the frame is similar to a mountain bike, but the same size as a road bike, with the difference that it has a wider frame. It also has springs. A more comfortable choice if you’re going off-road for a longer ride.
- Electric bicycle – a bike with a motor that makes pedaling easier for the cyclist.
- Folding bike – a neat pick for commuting in the city, as they are so easy to transport and helpful when you need to cycle around some small area.
When you’re thinking about getting a bike, consider what you need it for and choose a model accordingly. Sometimes you don’t even have to buy your own bike. Thanks to bike rental near Central Park, New Yorkers and city visitors can experience the joy of cycling by renting a bicycle or an e-bike.
Conclusion
Often it’s not enough to just hop on a bike and go. Even on a shorter ride you need to be prepared for a number of potential hazards; the clothes you’re wearing is a factor to consider.
If you neither underestimate your abilities nor rush things, you’ll choose the right bike for you, ensure enough protective measures are in place, and get the best experience possible. Cycling is a great sport and it would be a shame to spoil the fun with situations that could easily be avoided.
