Starting out on your cycling journey

When starting a new sport it is easy to get lost in a never ending list of ‘must have’ equipment and advice before you even have a chance to get going. Fortunately, the good folk at The Fit Cycle have put together a summary of beginner essentials to help inform your decisions and most importantly, get you cycling!

The right kind of bicycle for you

Whatever type of riding you are doing, investing in a bike that is fit for purpose is certain to make your life easier. For example, if you are commuting on roads think about purchasing a road or hybrid bike. Likewise, if you’re doing more off road cycling consider getting a mountain bike. Do your research and have a budget in mind when looking for a bike. Most importantly, whether you buy a bike new or second hand, make sure you ask for help in making sure it fits!

Padded cycling shorts

The slightly unglamorous consequence of sitting on a saddle for a prolonged period of time is that you may end with a sore bottom! The best way to avoid this is by wearing padded cycling shorts. The padding in cycling shorts, known as the chamois, is designed to help minimise discomfort by providing cushioning and a soft surface that sits directly against your skin. So when wearing padded shorts you need to go commando and ditch the underwear in order to avoid any unnecessary friction!

Traditionally road cyclists wear tighter lycra shorts with a chamois insert. Shorts are either elasticated at the waist or held up by shoulder straps. The latter, known as bib shorts, serve to eliminate any tightness that might be experienced wearing shorts with an elasticated waist. Mountain bikers tend to wear baggier shorts, also with a padded insert, known unsurprisingly as ‘baggies’.

 

Whether you are ready to embrace lycra, or you would like something a little more inconspicuous, you have options! So get comfortable and enjoy those longer rides, without saddle discomfort being a hinderance!

Can draw a lot from here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEklpW0X_hI

Helmet

A bicycle helmet is a safety necessity highlighted by the fact most events and organised club rides will not let you participate without one. There are a range of cycling helmets available – as a general rule the more expensive the helmet the lighter and more breathable it becomes. Regardless of the helmet you choose, a good fit is essential. An easy way to check the size is correct, is to place the helmet on your head, tighten the retention system and shake your head. The helmet should not move if it fits correctly. Your helmet should also have a European CE 1078 sticker to certify that if it has met the appropriate safety standard for the country of sale. Any dents or cracks in the helmet, regardless of how old it is, means the helmet is not fit for purpose and needs to be replaced.

Tools

Whilst you don’t need to be kitted out like the service center in your local bike shop, there are a few pieces of equipment that will make your life easier and your rides far more enjoyable. A multi tool is a great way to ensure you have the right tool for the job if you need to make any adjustments to your bike. A track pump with a pressure gauge is a golden asset to any cycling household – whilst you can’t take it with you on a ride, it is a quick and easy way to ensure your tyres are pumped to the perfect pressure pre ride. A spare inner tube, a mini pump or gas canister (with appropriate adapter) and some tyre levers are crucial if you want to be able to fix a dreaded puncture roadside. These tools aren’t just for maintenance at home though, all of the above should be taken with you when you are on your bike, so a puncture or a minor mechanical fault does not  end your ride!

Hydration

Being hydrated is essential to your performance on the bike. The easiest way to make sure you have fluid available is to fit a bottle cage to your bike to hold a water bottle. An alternative,  solution is to use a Camelbak, which transfers water in a bladder within a backpack to your mouth via a straw. Whichever method you decide, always make sure you have water and/or energy drink available especially on longer rides, the exact quantities of which are detailed within the Fit Cycle plans.

This list of essentials will help ensure your comfort and safety on your bike. Now all that is left to do, is start pedalling! Enjoy the ride!