Tips to get you on the road
When I first got my bike I had no friends who were even vaguely interested in joining me for a cycle so I went on my own and honestly it was wonderful! Despite now having people who want to go with me I still love taking the occasional trip on my own. It allows me to go exactly where I want to go, at my own pace and with no one to mind how often I stop to take photos. It’s also a huge confidence builder, I get a real kick out of it and spending time on your own doing something you love is a great bonding exercise with yourself!
Here’s some tips to get you on the road:
Learn the Highway Code rules for cyclists
This should help you stay out of danger and create a good relationship with your fellow road users. Here's two useful sources:
Learn how to do simple repairs You don't need to be an expert but it's a good idea to at least know how to change an inner tube. There are some great videos online that can talk you though basic repairs or find somewhere local you can go and do a bike maintenance workshop.
Start small
Not only will this ease you in physically it gives you a chance to build your confidence, feel out any issues with your bike and work out what kit you need to take with you.
Plan ahead
I’m a huge believer in ‘front loading’, plan everything upfront so that when you’re on the road you can just relax and enjoy the ride. I plan out each section of the ride like this:
Use Google maps to look at possible routes and where there are cycle paths you can use
Note the times of any trains or boats you need to tie in
Go back to Google maps to look at each section in more detail, i.e.
How many miles
The profile (any large hills)
Estimated time to complete each section (adjusting it if you know there’s something you want to stop and see or bits you might complete quicker)
Here’s an example of one of my recent cycle plans. Give it a go and adjust it to fit your needs:
Be prepared
This is especially important if you’re cycling in Scotland, the weather can change fast and if it's not the weather then you’re guaranteed to get a puncture when you least need one. Read my blog on my suggested kit (http://bit.ly/2u8EOPw) to give you some ideas. It now takes me mere minutes to pack because I’ve weeded out the stuff I don’t need and added a few things which turned out to be really useful.
Safety
Make sure your mobile phone is charged and secured in a waterproof pocket
Wear your helmet at all times
Make sure your visible, high vis and lights are a must
Take a bike lock so you can stop for a cup of tea and a bit of cake now and again
Enjoy it!
It’s supposed to be fun so settle into it, find your rhythm and enjoy your surroundings.
