Mastering basic cycling skills is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience when starting out on a cycling journey. Whether you’re hopping on a bike for the first time or returning after a break, these ten essential skills will set you on the right path.
1. Bike Familiarity
Get to know your bike. Understand its parts and functions. Familiarize yourself with brakes and gears. If your bike has a front and rear brake, make sure you know which hand operates which brake. Applying full stop on the front brake can make you go over the handlebars head-first into the ground. Make sure the bike fits you. To see how to adjust your bike, check our bikefit section.
2. Dismounting and clip-in pedals
Practice mounting and dismounting smoothly. Ensure balance and control while getting on and off the bike. If you ride with clip-in pedals, practice clipping in and out while balancing against a wall. Every new cyclist has tried falling over at a red light, because they were unable to clip out.
3. Balancing Techniques
Work on improving your balance. Simple exercises like coasting in a straight line or riding with one or both hands off the handlebars, will help boost your balance and feel how the bikes turn with your moving body weight.
4. Braking Methods
Learn to use both front and rear brakes effectively. Practice gradual braking to maintain control. Blocking the brakes can be dangerous, as you will brake slower, or the bike might tip forward.
5. Shifting Gears
Understand how gears work and when to shift. Adjust gears according to the terrain and your effort level.
6. Riding Posture and Positioning
Maintain proper posture while riding. A comfortable and efficient posture prevents fatigue and reduces the risk of injury. A saddle sore is one of the worst injuries. Try to focus on your sit-bones being the primary area of contact with the saddle.
7. Hand Signals and Communication
Master basic hand signals for indicating turns and stops. Arm out to either side is a turn indication. Hand in the air means you are braking. Communication is vital, especially when riding in traffic. Riding in a group? Pointing at a hole in the ground can help others steer around it. Hitting an unexpected hole can make you puncture or lose grip on the handlebars, which may result in a crash.
8. Road Safety Awareness
Stay aware of traffic rules and potential hazards. Be visible to other road users and always stay alert. Be careful with wearing headphones, as they will reduce your awareness on traffic. An unexpected car from behind can be dangerous.
9. Basic Maintenance Skills
Regularly check tire pressure, optimal pressure means less rolling resistance and better grip. Lubricate the chain. Depending on whether, apply lubrication every 2-300 km. The lubricant is supposed to be inside between the parts moving against each other. Lubrication on the outside only collects dirt and dust. Make sure to wipe off excess oil after it has soaked into the chain. Making sure the brakes work optimal is also important. Establish a maintenance routine every week or month depending on your milage. Everyone can do the basic maintenance.
10. Confidence Building Exercises
Boost your confidence by practicing in a safe environment. Start with short rides and gradually challenge yourself. Riding on a field of grass or a gravel road can also be beneficial.
Mastering these basic cycling skills lays a strong foundation for your cycling journey. Remember, practice makes perfect. Embrace continuous learning and exploration, and enjoy the ride!