If you’re wanting to get into cycling, you may want to note down these cycling tips. We know how daunting it can be when you’re first getting started, but it’s all about finding your feet.
Once you’ve been out on a few rides, your confidence will soar, and you’ll be wondering why you didn’t start sooner. If you’re just getting started, these cycling tips will set you on the right track.
1. You can pick up a high-quality second-hand bike
You don’t need to go out and buy an expensive bike to get started. If you take a look on places such as Ebay, Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace, you can often find brilliant second-hand bikes.
If you choose to get a second-hand bike, make sure you ask if it has any damage or issues, and check it over yourself. If you don’t feel confident checking it, you can get it checked over by a specialist before you first ride it.
You can get a free bike check at Halfords, where they will inform you if you have any issues with your bike. It’s then up to you whether you would like to get it fixed there, or whether you want to take it somewhere else.
2. Join local cycling groups
There are so many different bike groups out there, for different abilities, and in different locations. You can either find these online by searching, or some are organised through social media platforms such as Facebook or even Strava.
There are so many cycling clubs out there, so you should be able to find one in your local area. Who knows, there may be a cycling club right on your doorstep. You can also learn more cycling tips from these groups as well.
Cycling is actually a great way to socialise with likeminded people. If you join a club, then you can also make friends with people who love cycling. They can support and motivate you to improve your cycling skills.
3. You don’t need expensive gear to get started
If you’ve had a search online you may have seen how expensive some cycling equipment is. For example, some cycle helmets retail for hundreds of pounds.
As long as your cycling helmet has the code EN1078 on it, which you can find on the label on the inside of the helmet, then you know they are safe to protect your head.
Similarly with cycling clothes, one of the best cycling tips is that you shouldn’t overspend on cycling clothes when you first start out. Yes, some of them may look jazzy or have additional features, but often they aren’t worth the large price tag.
You’ll do fine with some fitted bottoms, a sports top and maybe a light raincoat if you’re braving the weather.
4. Make sure you bring the essential on your rides
It’s important to make sure you have the basics when you go out, just so you’re prepared. You’ll definitely want to bring a water bottle with you, which you can pop in a holder on your bike.
Another great thing to wear is a raincoat. You never know in England when you might get caught in a rainstorm. It’s better to be safe than sorry! A bike lock is also essential if you’re going to be stopping anywhere.
If you’re going out on a long-ish ride, then maybe consider bringing a power bank with you. That way if your phone dies, you will still be able to use it in an emergency. You might also want to bring some snacks with you so you don’t have to stop off and find a shop when you’re out.
5. If you can’t get out on a ride, hit the bikes in the gym
We understand that not everyone has the time to go out cycling during the week, and weekends can get busy. However, if you simply add cycling into your gym routine, it’s a great place to start.
Even just going on the bike for 20 minutes a week can be really good for your body as it helps improve your cardiovascular health and builds muscle as well as endurance.
You tend to see an improvement quite quickly as you’re able to push yourself more and more on the bike. Cycling in the gym is a great way to still be cycling and you can always cycle outdoors when you’ve got more free time.
Cycle insurance gives you peace of mind
If you’re regularly cycling, you might want to get cycle insurance for your bike. This means that you’re covered in the events of theft, accidents, public liability, and also organised races and events.
Cycle insurance gives you the cover you need, when you need it. It’s great for taking the stress out of cycling. If you’re cycling through busy built up areas, it’s definitely worth checking out.
You can explore cycle insurance today with our partners over at Velosure using their cover comparison chart.
Had an accident? We’re here for you
Whilst cycling is fun, and these cycling tips will help you, sometimes accidents do happen. We’re only human and some things just can’t be avoided. In the event of a cycle accident, we’re here to help you when you need it most.
We know that a cycle accident can have a knock-on effect on both your life and your confidence. At Cycle accident we work hard to ensure that you get the compensation which you deserve.
If you’ve got any questions, make sure to contact our friendly team today.
