Looking to take up a new sport and think cycling may be the ideal choice for you? This is a fantastic sport that can be done all over the world with friends and family.
That’s why it comes as no surprise that almost 6.5 million people in the UK enjoy cycling as a leisurely hobby or for commuting according to the most recent data.
Not only is cycling a fun sport to take up but there are also tons of health benefits when doing it too, which gives you even more reason to hop on a bike.
However, we want you to feel as prepared as possible for when you do start riding as this may help to enhance your experience further.
So, here is everything you should know before taking up cycling as a sport. Read on to find out more.
You need to perform checks each time you ride
Once you start riding your new bike, you’ll need to ensure it’s in good working condition before taking it onto the roads. That’s why you should perform the following checks ahead of your bike ride:
- Tyre pressure
- Mudguards are secure if conditions are wet
- The bike is fully clean
Maintenance
For peak performance and maximum entertainment, you’ll need to do maintenance from time to time.
One of the most important maintenance tasks is lubricating and greasing your bike and this can be done easily using grease, oil and lubricant dispensers like the ones sold at RS Components. This will protect your bearings from rapid wear and may prevent them from seizing up mid-ride too.
What gear will you need?
Aside from a bike, you’ll also need a wide range of essential items. This will support you whether you’re on a short or long bike ride. Some of the most important gear for cyclists include:
- Padded cycling shorts – This reduces the pressure from the seat on your body and can also help to make falls less painful too.
- Helmets – Perhaps the most important safety equipment you need. This will reduce the risk of a serious skull or brain injury should you come off your bike and hit your head.
- Sunglasses – Not only do these add style to your cycling attire, but they’ll also be super useful for keeping the sun out of your eyes when riding during the day.
Learn how to repair a puncture
If you puncture your tyre on a long-distance bike ride, then you won’t want to have to push your bike all the way home. That’s why learning how to repair a puncture is a must for cyclists.
There are plenty of repair kits available for this, which will provide clear instructions on how you can do it.