Cycling has many benefits, and it's a method of both transportation and exercise. You can take exciting thrill rides down a mountain or leisurely afternoon rides as effective workouts for your heart that don't place too much pressure on your knees. Knowledge of the basics will help you fully enjoy your cycling experiences.
Bike Frame
Choosing your bicycle is the most important part of cycling. Choose a frame built to suit your needs. Road bikes are light and aerodynamic, designed for speed and touring on pavement only. They'll likely have drop handlebars that put you in a leaning position. Recreational bikes allow you to sit upright. They have large frames with low top bars, big comfy tires and cushy seats. They're just right for rides through a park. Commuter bikes are also sturdy, with frames rugged enough for potholes yet light enough to navigate city traffic. The toughest of the bunch is a mountain bike, with a strong yet lightweight frame and heavy-duty shock absorbers that can handle rocks and and rough, steep terrain.
Bike Fit
It's easy to find the right fit for your bike. When straddling your bike, you'll need a one- to two-foot clearance over the top tube. This doesn't apply to comfort bikes and some mountain bikes, which already have lower top tubes. When seated on the bike, you should just be able to touch your toes to the ground. This should allow your leg to remain slightly bent at the bottom of a pedal stroke. Your arms should also be slightly bent when you're grasping the handlebars, which allows for some shock absorption during your ride.
Bike Clothes
The right bike clothes are a basic that will determine if your ride is comfortable. Bike shorts are most important. They're made of stretchy high-tech fabrics that wick away moisture and allow your skin to breathe. Bike shorts are created from eight to 12 separate panels to fit your cycling form. They have flat seams to reduce chafing. Best of all, they have padded liners that cushion your ride and prevent both bacteria growth and chafing. These shorts are designed to fit like a glove, so you'll have to forgo underwear, which causes seam irritation. Bike jerseys are also good investments. Like shorts, they are made of high-tech fabrics that release moisture and dry quickly. In addition, they have arm vents to release heat and perspiration and pockets for handy storage.
Bike Safety
The final cycling basic is safety. Get a certified bike helmet to protect your head. Wear reflective gear and use a light when cycling after dark. If you're riding in traffic, use a rear-view mirror so you can see what's coming in all directions. Cycling laws differ in each state, so learn the rules for your area. In general, cyclists should ride with traffic and follow the same rules of the road that apply to vehicles. Stay to the right side of the road and use bike lanes when they're available.
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