Bike riding truisms
I have been an avid bike rider for a long, long time. I have three bikes and even took a try and selling bikes at retail. With more and more people cycling I thought I would share some of the lessons I have learned in riding on roads, bike paths and trails.
- When choosing a bike ensure that it’s one you can grow with. If you become a regular rider you’re eventually going to want to upgrade components so make sure your bike can be upgraded.
- Always wear a helmet and use rear view mirrors and lights. Most vehicle crashes occur from behind riders so make it your purpose to be seen.
- You don’t need to spend a lot of money on high end bikes if you’re not competing. Do you really need a carbon fiber bike?
- Wide tire bikes, cyclecross and fat tire, are becoming more popular because they offer greater stability on roads with potholes and sand and salt.
- Do not weave in and out of vehicle traffic. You should think that drivers are easily distracted and it only takes a short moment to drift over into a rider.
- When passing other riders it is customary to say “on your left”.
- You don’t need to ride everyday. Listen to your body and rest when it says “tired legs”.
- Find a good local bike store and never buy a bike online. People at your local bike store can help you get the most of your bike and help you get back on the road when you have mechanical difficulties.
- Always lock your bike when unattended.
- A great bike does not need to cost $9,000. There are a lot of great bikes for thousands less and you may be better off buying a less expensive bike and customizing it. If you ride more than 40 miles a week you need a professional fitting which will ensure that you are in the optimum riding position.
Bike riding is a way of life for a lot of people, but like and sport/hobby too many people spend too much money on features they just don’t need.
