You Love Riding A Bicycle? Here Is How To Enjoy It Even More
Biking starts as a means of transport from adolescence for many of us. We often look back fondly on those days and the memories made with families and friends. All the trails we would ride through and the adventures had. For many, this is just a memory of the past, however, for others, the urge to pedal out on the open road just for the thrill of it carries on through till adulthood.
If you’re a keen biker looking to enjoy your rides even more, here are some tips:
Set Yourself Challenges
Some people cycle for leisure, and some people cycle to compete. For those of you with a competitive streak, it may be wise to start setting yourself some challenges so that you feel like you’re getting more out of the activity. For example, you may decide you want to compete in a century bike ride. A century bike ride is a long-distance cycling event that covers a distance of 100 miles (160 km). Riders typically complete the ride within a set time, such as six or seven hours. Century rides are popular amongst competitive cyclists. Many riders use the event as training for longer races, such as multi-day stage races or ultra-distance events. Some century rides are organized as fundraisers for charities, while others are simply recreational rides.
However, these cycling events are most certainly not exclusive to the more competitive cyclists within your area. If you’re a leisurely cyclist, you can also join the fun. Just be warned, preparing yourself for a 100-mile bike ride is not for the faint-hearted. Although this event isn’t as intense as many other cyclist sporting events, it still requires some training and preparation so that you don’t burn out. Build your miles up each day slowly with ease, and eventually, you’ll be cycling to 100 miles with your eyes closed.
Invest In A Good Bike
This may seem like an obvious one, but having a quality bike makes all the difference. Not only will it be more comfortable to ride, but it will also perform better and last longer. When you’re looking for a good bike, there are a few key things you should keep an eye out for. Firstly, make sure the frame is made from a strong and lightweight material like aluminum or carbon fiber. Secondly, check that the wheels are of good quality and size – 26 inches is a good all-around size. Thirdly, pay attention to the gears and brakes – they should be smooth and easy to use. Finally, take a look at the overall design – it should be stylish and comfortable to ride. With these factors in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect bike for you.
Get The Right Gear
In addition to a good bike, you’ll also need to invest in some quality gear. This includes things like a helmet, gloves, and proper clothing. A good helmet is absolutely vital when riding a bike because it can protect you from serious injuries if you happen to fall or crash. In addition to protecting your head, a helmet can also help protect your face in the event of a fall or collision. This is especially important if you ride in traffic regularly, as the chances of collisions are typically more common.
Plan Your Route
One of the best things about riding a bike is that you can go wherever you want! However, it’s still essential to plan your route ahead of time so that you know where you’re going and how to get there. You don’t want to end up lost or in any sketchy places on your own, especially when it gets dark! Use a smartphone for your journeys so that you always know how to get home from an off-track route.
Take Your Time
One of the best things about riding a bike is that it’s a great way to relax and clear your head. So, don’t feel like you have to race through your ride. Instead, take your time and enjoy the scenery. Additionally, the fresh air and scenery that you’ll encounter while out on a bike ride can also help to improve your mood and alleviate stress. Just you, the fresh air, and the open road are what it means to be present and in the moment. So sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty of it all.
Enjoy Your Ride!
In sum, riding a bike is a great way to get some exercise, relax and enjoy the scenery. However, by following the tips listed in this article, you can not only make your journeys more enjoyable but also a lot safer. Happy riding!