Get to Know... Starting to Ride

Riding your bike is one of the best ways to get to know it. For many, getting out and riding can be intimidating: When, where, and how does one ride? These types of questions are what keep some at bay while others go ahead and take the plunge. Those riders that find themselves contemplating these types of questions need to remember that more riding equals a better understanding which leads to an increased comfort level with bikes and riding. So get out there and become one with your bike.

It is good to ask questions like when, where and how. An informed cyclist with a plan will enjoy their ride to the fullest.

When: Finding time to ride is often more challenging with people’s busy schedules these days than saying if one time of day is better than another. As long as you give yourself plenty of time to complete your route with adequate light, when you ride is up to you. If you do choose to ride in the middle of the afternoon bring lots of water, as it is usually the hottest time of day. If your ride is later in the evening, bringing battery-operated lights to assist you on your way home is a good idea. There are many other factors that may affect when you ride but find the best time for you and get out there.

Where: As for where you should ride, this is closely related to your fitness and skill level, type of bike you are riding and where you live. If you live in a big city, avoiding routes when possible that have heavy traffic is always a good idea. Going out and climbing the biggest hill in your neighborhood is probably not a good idea if it is your first ride in a while. Being honest with yourself about what you can handle is a good first step in mapping a route. Sometimes exploring a possible ride in your car is a good way to assess if it will be a good ride for you. Your local bike shop should also be able to help you find a route that would be suitable for your skill/fitness level. If your local shop ends up not being so helpful, using guide books or Internet resources is also a good way to find the information you are looking for. Do not be afraid to ask other cyclists for information– you just might end up with a riding partner.

How: How a cyclist chooses to ride is yet another decision to make. Many cyclists are intimidated by riding in a group– will you be fast enough? What if you cannot keep up? This list of “ifs” could keep going and going. There are a couple of things to know about riding in a group that will help you know if it is the group for you. Most group rides will have policies like “drop” or “no drop” and will often have an average mph, elevation gain, and distance to help perspective riders know if the ride is for them or not. Drop rides are rides where the group does not wait for straggling riders; these rides are usually fast paced and grueling for fit or seasoned cyclist. No drop rides are just the opposite; the rest of the group waits on straggling riders. These rides usually vary in intensity and distance but no one is left behind. No drop rides are a good place to start and tend to attract friendly riders ready to share information and help each other. Check with your local shop to see what kind of rides they have or know about in your community. If you choose to ride alone, be prepared carry a small repair kit, plenty of water and let someone know where you are going.


Get out there and go ride!!!
Sara and Kelli