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7 Cycling Tips That Will Change the Way You Ride
Author: Cycling Deal Date Posted:9 May 2016
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3.6 million Australians ride a bike each week, and about 1 in 7 serious road injuries involve a cyclist. If you’re new to cycling, it can be a bit overwhelming to get started. But soon, you’ll find how many benefits there are to cycling both recreationally and for transportation. Here are some tips to keep new and experienced cyclists comfortable on the road.
Find the Right Size
Starting with the right kind of bicycle is the first and most important step in having a good ride. A bike that’s too big will make you feel out of control, but one that’s too small may be harder on your joints and slow you down. Use our sizing guide to find one with a good fit. If you find that when you ride you experience numbness in your feet or neck pain, it could be an issue with sizing such as saddle position or stem length and is worth adjusting.
Bike Near Public Transportation
If you are new to cycling and still a little shaky on your wheels, it can be a little intimidating to take on a big ride not knowing if you can make it the whole way. If you can, try biking along a train line or on a similar route to a bus or tram. That way, you’ll know you are actually heading in the right direction, and if you need to stop for any reason along the way you can park your bike and hop on public transit.
Don’t Be Dodgy
It’s common courtesy to stick to the very left side of the road – but if you’re dodging in and out of the lane between parked cars on the left, you’re creating a road risk. It is much safer for you and for the cars near you to be as predictable as possible, so stick in the lane itself rather than weaving in an out.
Lock Up Your Stuff
Carrying a backpack while you ride? You might not be surprised if you start developing back pain or tightness. Try attaching your personal items to your bike instead with a bike bag or add a basket to the front or back.
Use a Computer
One of the best ways to improve how you cycle is to track what you do. There are plenty of bike computers that are easy to attach and can give you useful insights in your ride, such as speed, distance, duration, time, and even GPS.
You may also consider using apps such as RunKeeper to track your cycling over time, set goals, and share your route on social media.
Unplug
It’s tempting to listen to podcasts or music while riding – but these can be dangerous distractions as you zoom down urban streets. As with driving a car, listening to the road is imperative in anticipating road hazards and being able to avoid them. Take out your headphones for a safer ride.
Plan Your Route
Google Maps doesn’t always show you the best biking route, and looking at a standard map might now show bike paths. Use websites such as Cycle Route and Bicycle Network to plan out a route designed for bikes before heading off. Try different routes going to the same destination – often some streets are less hilly than others and may be worth switching to.
