Prepare for a Bicycle Ride
Are you wanting to enjoy some lovely views but don't want to walk or drive in the car? Do you want to travel a more healthier way? Or are you just wanting to get a good workout? If your answer to at least one of these questions is yes, then read this article!
Steps
- Get your bike ready. Pump up the wheels. Check to make sure your brakes, chain, and gear shifters are in good condition. Make sure the seat is at the right height for you, and if you plan on wearing clip-in shoes, make sure you have the right pedals on.
- Dress appropriately. Don't wear baggy trousers that can get caught in the chain. Comfy trainers or sporting shoes with grippy bottoms are great shoes to wear, while heels or spikes would not work so well. Wear a hoodie or a jumper that won't blow lots in the wind, and be ready to take it off when you get too hot.
- Make sure to wear your helmet. You'll want that protection in case you get into any kind of accident. In addition, helmets are required by law in some jurisdictions.
- Wear sunscreen or other sun protection if necessary. Your arms, legs, and neck are particularly susceptible to sunburn while you're cycling.
- Invite friends! Cycling is always more fun when you're with people you enjoy. Cycling in a larger group can also help keep you safe in case of an accident.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks. You'll need to keep yourself hydrated throughout your ride, and a bite to eat can provide much-needed energy towards the end of your ride.
- Ideally, have at least 500ml (one bottle) of water for every hour you will ride, and a small snack for every 1.5-2 hours.
- Plan your route. Know the roads or bike paths you'll take and think about your destination.
- Be prepared for emergencies. Bring a cell phone and make sure it's charged. It's also a good idea to bring some money.
- Bring anything else you might need while on your ride. For example, if you're going to a picnic site, you might want to bring a pack lunch in a small backpack.
- Get going. Enjoy the ride!
Tips
- You could listen to music through your head phones and put your phone somewhere safe, but you will need to pay extra attention to vehicles since you can no longer hear them.
- Check the weather so you know whether to bring a coat or not, and what clothes to wear.
- Use the washroom before you leave.
Warnings
- Watch out for cars and know the highway rules for riding a bike, e.g stick your hand out to the left if you're turning left, etc.
- Always wear your helmet so you don't get hurt if you fall off of your bike.
Things You'll Need
- A bike
- A helmet
- Suitable clothing
- A tire pump
- Bike cleaning products
- A small backpack but big enough to fit the thing/s you want to place in it
- Snacks
- Water
- Lots of energy to have as much fun as possible
