Training
Top Ten Tips for Beginners
- Position
Get a comfortable position on your bike that’s not too cramped or stretched. Ask for advice from a good bike shop or an experienced cyclist. - Clothing
Cycle clothing can be expensive but a good pair of cycling shorts is important and can save much of the discomfort! - Gears
Most bikes now have a good selection of gears, but most beginners push too heavy a gear ratio. Select a gear that allows you to spin your legs freely, especially up hills. - Tyre Pressure
A common error among beginners is cycling on soft tyres. Pump them hard and they are much easier to push ! - Food
Eat a light breakfast ideally 1 to 2 hours before your cycle. Don’t stuff yourself – “ a little and often along the way ” is a good cycling motto. - Drink
Be well hydrated before the cycle and drink regularly along the way. Don’t use fizzy drinks – there are good sports drinks on the market that will keep your energy levels up – if not use plain water. - Brakes
A common mistake among beginners is to pull one brake only while cornering and fall off. You should pull the two brakes evenly together before the turn. - Wind
Cycling alone into a strong headwind is the hardest type of cycling. Practice cycling in a group and keep as close together as possible. “Sitting” in someone’s slipstream is so much easier you will be amazed!! - Crashes
Most beginners crash by knocking off each other! Stay alert, watch out for upcoming danger and brake in time. When cycling in a group, warn each other of potholes or other dangers. - Helmets
Always wear your helmet, even when on a short training spin.
