Use your head
The debate around helmets continues, but if you are a new cyclist, or starting to cycling a bit faster, protecting your head is a good idea. In terms of safety, most helmets are created equal (make sure it has a European CE EN 1078 sticker) and be very careful if you buy a second-hand lid as helmets are made for one impact and are then useless. To be safe, always purchase a new helmet from a reputable bike shop and dispose old helmets.
But which one?
You are standing in front of a wall of faceless head models and helmets, how do you choose? First, comfort. Find one that fits your head with minimal adjustment. This is where shops score over online sites, even if they are cheaper. There are lots of different styles from recreational to the more aerodynamic, some with visors, and some in bright colours. Go wild!
Clothes
When it comes to cycling clothing, comfort is key. Some like the streamlined lycra look, and others prefer a more casual city fashion look. Luckily, there are some great cycle-specific retailers out there to make sure you can get technical cycling kit and still look good. There are a couple things to look for in cycling kit though. Water resistance is a big one: something to keep the water from the (inevitable) wet streets from soaking you. Cycling tops tend to have well placed pockets for your snacks and essentials and are made so the seams will not dig into you while on the bike. It’s worth trying on a few of them to find a good fit. A pair of cycling trousers with a chamois will keep your undercarriage happy, and the longer you ride the more important this will be. Trust me.
You don’t have to pay a fortune
High end, beautifully designed cycling clothes are now everywhere, from Rapha to Vulpine. If you love that look and have the cash, then go for it – but remember you don’t have to spend a fortune. Wiggle is a good site for a broad range, and has good sales. Plus: Haribo in your order.
Is a bell necessary on a bicycle?
Bike computers, polka-dot bells, panniers, or mud guards? There are a lot of extras to add to a bike that can customise it to your specific needs, and no one but you knows what they are. Mirrors can be useful but are no replacement for being able to safely check over your shoulders and be aware while on the roads. Panniers or bike bags are good for those who have to transport a lot of stuff around while on their bike and can make errands like grocery shopping much easier. Consider, essentially, what you will be mostly using your bike for.
What about tech?
Bike computers are great for recording the data from your rides, and the hi-tech kind have options to upload maps to to keep you going in the right direction. If you like to research and read reviews before you buy, check DC Rainmaker. If it goes around a wrist, attaches to a handlebar or counts laps, the odds are he’s tested it.
Long rides
If you are riding a long distance than comfort is even more important than usual. Instead of cycling trousers, which may be great for commuting, many cyclists choose to wear cycling bib tights or shorts for long distances as they remove the mid-body seam and over a few hours that can really make a difference. Try in a shop before you buy, though of course, it’s hard to replicate how you will feel after hours in the saddle.
Saddle up
A good and well fit saddle will improve your long ride. Sitting comfortably for hours on an uncomfortable saddle will not add any enjoyment to your day out and could even bring it to a quick end. However, everyone is different so you have to do a certain amount of trying before you find the shape and style that’s right for you.
Adventures
One of the best bits of owning a bicycle is the places it can take you. Long rides to places you might normally take the train, discovering new towns (and delicious lunches) can be the most enjoyable experiences you have on two wheels. A kit list for adventures is as long as a piece of string, but there are some essentials that will improve your cycling adventure experience: clothing to cycle in (again, make sure it is comfortable) and spare warm/dry clothing to change into when you are off the bike are also essential. Packing a small charger or solar charger for your phone, bike computer and other electronic kit will help if you are camping outside far away from any electricity. Waterproof ‘stuff sacs’ or bin bags will keep your kit dry inside your panniers or backpack. Don’t forget the basics too: sun cream, insect repellent, a first-aid kit and earplugs!
Learn some skills
It is always a good idea to bring your own maintenance and repair kit and know how to use it. Learn how to repair a puncture, and consider investing in a basic bike maintenance book. It could save you a fortune in the long term.
