Getting started in cycling
So you want to get into cycling, but you’re not sure what kind of bike to get. Before you head to your local bike shop with your wallet in hand, here are a few things you should consider.
Here are three types of cycling I’ll discuss. (There are other types of bike riding such as trick bikes and BMX bikes, but that’s not my area of expertise).
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you want to just throw on a pair of shorts and t-shirt and ride your bike to the store to get some milk and bread that you put in your bike basket?
- Or do you want to go out on trails in the woods?
- Or do you think you’d like to ride on smooth roads or multi-use paths?
The reason for the questions is simple. Once you know what kind of riding you want to do, you’ll know what type of bike to buy. Basically, there are three types of bikes: a hybrid bike, a mountain bike and a road bike.
Choosing the right type of bike
A hybrid bike is good for casual riding to the store, around your neighborhood, on multi-use trails and paths and even on some dirt and gravel roads. The seats are comfortable and you ride in an upright position. You can even add baskets to your bike to use to carry a small dog or a few items from the grocery store. A hybrid bike also has multiple gears and you can easily ride this bike wearing shorts, t-shirt and your sneakers.
A mountain bike has specific gears and brakes that are specific to riding on rough terrain such as technical, single-track trails or even on gravel roads. Depending on how much you want to spend, you can get a mountain bike with suspension to make for a more comfortable ride on rough surfaces. You’ll notice the tires are wide and knobby like jeep tires. While you can ride a mountain bike in your sneakers, you’ll really want to wear mountain bike shoes and use mountain bike pedals to clip in so you can utilize more power from pushing and pulling when you pedal, and prevent your feet from coming off the pedals when you’re riding. And getting out of the pedals is easy after practicing turning your ankles outward to release the cleats from the pedals.
A road bike will have really skinny tires and a seat (saddle) that looks uncomfortable as hell. This type of bike is best for riding on smooth pavement. You can ride on multi-use paths and on roads that are shared by cars. But be careful to know the rules of road cycling before riding on busier roads. Again, you can use your sneakers for a road bike, but it’s better to use cycling shoes that you clip into the pedals for a more powerful pedal stroke and to keep your feet in place while riding.
The items you’ll need
When you decide which type of bike fits your cycling interests and budget, be sure to note these other items you’ll need too.
For mountain and road bikes, you’ll eventually want to get cycling shoes, pedals and cleats. You’ll also need a tool bag that fits under the saddle (seat) that you’ll stock with the appropriate tubes, CO2 cartridges (to use on a new tube if you get a flat) and/or a bike pump, and an Allen tool. Even if you don’t know how to use any of these items, you’ll still need them on your bike. Chances are you’ll find someone who can help you if you have a flat or mechanical.
You’ll also need cycling shorts for added comfort, a jersey with three pockets in the back, gloves, a helmet and a bike pump.
Don’t forget to get another water bottle cage, since your new bike will probably have only one. And you’ll need two water bottles.
Nutrition is a complicated topic, so get some gels and try those and ask other cyclists what they use. You’ll eventually find a nutrition you like, whether it’s gels, bars, electrolyte drinks, calorie drinks or plain water. Your nutrition source depends on the type and distance riding you’ll be doing.
If you drive a small car, you’ll more than likely need a bike rack. Bike racks come in various forms. You can use one that hangs from the hatch, that rests on the trunk or that uses a hitch. The type of rack you’ll need depends on the type of car you have, how many bikes you’ll be carrying and how much you want to spend.
For hybrid bikes, you will need a tool bag with the same items listed above, a helmet and a bike pump. You may want to get a bike rack if you plan to take your bike to ride other places besides your neighborhood.
Great places to shop
Check out Performance Bicycles (www.performancebike.com) for some good prices on bikes and equipment.
I also like Sierra Trading Post (www.sierratradingpost.com) for clothing and shoes.
And Got Body (www.gotbody.com) has great deals on nutrition.
Your local bike shop
Check out the bike shop in your area. Chances are you’ll find a staff of people passionate about cycling who can help you get started on where to find group beginner rides and help you with basic bike maintenance.
Getting connected
When I first started cycling in 2003, I joined the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training (TNT) program. For five months, I trained with other new cyclists on how to complete a century bike ride (100 miles). We worked with a coach and learned about nutrition, cycling apparel, cycling safety and the rules of the road. We had group training rides, social gatherings and even had help on how to do the required fundraising. I recommend that new cyclists get involved with the TNT program. Once you’ve completed your five-month training program, you’ll go to your century ride with the team and have a blast! With the TNT program, you’ll feel great knowing you helped a worthwhile cause, you’ll learn a lot about cycling from experienced riders and coaches, and you’ll make great friends.
Need additional help?
Post a comment with your question and I’ll get back to you and help if I can.
Good luck in your cycling endeavors! Cycling is a great way to stay in shape, see the world in a different way, have fun and meet people who are also looking for an adventure.
