Everything You Need To Know About Getting Into Cycling

During the last eighteen months, we have all wished we could get outside a little more. Now that restrictions have lifted and normal life has been resumed, it feels like a great opportunity to look for ways to try something new. We could all use a little extra incentive when it comes to staying in shape during the winter months, and there is nothing like a new hobby to give us the push we need. Cycling is one of the most rewarding outdoor activities there is, not just in terms of the health benefits but also because of the community that you will be joining. If you are thinking about getting into cycling this winter, here are a few key tips to help you get started.

Start At The Bike Shop

Even though we have been doing more of our shopping and business online than ever before, sometimes there is no substitute for the expertise and personal experience that you get from an in-store experience. If you are buying your first bicycle, then you might be tempted to shop online to see if you can find a bargain. However, if you are serious about getting into cycling then you need to talk to an expert about your needs, your experience level, and what kind of bike you need for what you are going to be using it for.

Get Comfortable

One of the most important things that the professionals at the bike store can help with is making sure that you find a bike that you can ride comfortably. There are always going to be some adjustments that you will have to make along the way, but finding the right height and alignment is an essential first step. If you start riding without making these adjustments, you could be setting yourself up for some serious discomfort.

Get Insurance Right Away

When you have found the right bike and you are comfortable on it, of course you are going to want to get out there and start riding as soon as possible. However, it is very important that you make sure that you have the proper insurance before you do so. A good bike is not a cheap investment, and you don’t want to find yourself footing the entire bill if you fall victim to a theft, or if you are in an accident. Good bicycle insurance can be tailored to your needs, and it won’t leave you holding the bag when it comes to the financial costs. Velosurance covers just about everything that can happen to a cyclist and their team is made up of avid riders who understand your needs.

Put Safety First

Speaking of the things that can happen to a rider, it is so important to make sure that you understand all the potential hazards that can befall a cyclist. To start with, you need to be wearing a helmet all times when you are riding. It can be the difference between you picking yourself up after a nasty fall and ending up in the hospital. You should also get to grips with the rules of the road in your area and look for any restrictions or cycle lanes where you will be riding. Bike lights are crucial if you are going to be riding at night and are particularly important in the winter when the conditions and visibility may be less than perfect. A puncture repair kit is very important, and you should also practice fixing a puncture before you go out, so you know what you are doing.

Additional Kit You Need

There are things that you can do to protect yourself that go beyond the basic safety needs. To start with, riding with sunglasses or goggles won’t just protect your eyes from the glare, they will also keep bits of dirt and bugs from getting in there. Gloves are important, particularly if you are going to be pushing yourself hard. Padded cycling shorts or leggings are a great investment to make sure that you are staying comfortable on that saddle, and they will keep you warm in winter. A base layer is key, and you should consider investing in a lightweight waterproof layer.

Get Into The Habit And Get Involved

If you are serious about embarking on this journey, then you should think about making a regular biking schedule. If you have never done this before then it may take a while before you are up to long-distance or high-exertion rides so start slow and work your way up. If you stick with it, you will see improvements and you may notice the impact on your mental health too. Joining a local bike club is a great way to get involved with the local cycling community, to stay engaged with your new hobby, and to learn about routes, challenges and events that will show you just how much this world has to offer.

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