The countryside is the perfect setting for a bike ride. Depending on how far out of town you travel, you're likely to have little or no traffic to contend with as you exercise. Everyone wants to have a perfect bike ride. Many factors contribute to a ride's success and many of the problems that plague riders are preventable. All it takes is some planning ahead.
Plan Ahead
One of the keys to planning a great ride is to first check the weather. If you're riding in a rural area, chances are there won't be many places to take cover if a thunder storm rolls through. If there's a chance of rain, pack a light windbreaker and always carry a cell phone.
It's also a good idea to let someone at home know your route. In the event that a ride goes longer than you expected, pack extra food and water and always carry cash with you as well as a form of identification. Regardless of age, always wear a helmet.
Tire Pressure
Before heading into the countryside, check your tire pressure. The PSI range for your tires is listed on the side of the tire, near the rim. Always pump enough air in your tires before riding, as this can prevent the most common kind of flat, the pinch flat, which occurs when you hit a rough surface or a pot hole and the tube gets caught between the obstacle and the wheel rim. Carry at least one spare tube and a patch kit. You should carry tire levers and a small multi-tool to fix any mechanicals.
Other Precautions
In addition to the tires, you should also check your chain. Ensure that it is lubed and not squeaking. Before you leave, you should have a route in mind. If you're planning a day out on the bike, be sure to locate places for bathroom breaks, as well as gas stations where you can buy food and water. It never hurts to carry a map or use a GPS device in case a road on your route is closed or has a detour.
Know the Rules
Because most country roads eventually run through towns or more populated places, it's important to know the basic rules of the road. You must ride with traffic but stay as far to the right as is safe. On many country roads or roads without center lines, it's safe to take the lane. When descending, always stay in your lane and never cross the yellow line.
Always signal your intentions and be predictable as you ride. When making a left-hand turn, take the lane and move toward the yellow line and use hand signals when you are approaching the turn. Be cautious of cars making a right hand turn in front of you when you are riding in the shoulder. This is one of the most common causes of bicycle accidents.
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