Ride a Bike for an Hour

This article will tell all you need to know to be able to ride a bicycle for an hour. It includes information on being prepared in advance.

Steps

Make sure your bike works. Check the brakes, pedals and steering.
Prepare for emergencies. A small bike bag or cycling jersey pockets are generally more than enough space for emergency items such as: Tire repair kit and inflator, mobile phone, money (20 dollars)and a little snack (protein bars).
- If your bike does not already have one, get a water bottle holder and install it on the frame. Carrying water containers in a pocket or backpack is awkward both to carry and to retrieve while moving.
Dress for the weather. Cycling shorts are a good way to prevent chaffing. Wear them under other shorts if you feel self conscious.
Plan where to go. For instance, look at a local map for safe routes, such as ones that don't have many hazards. Choose a route with nice scenery too, and possibly a more quiet atmosphere than other routes.
Plan when to go. Choose a nice, dry day. Look at the weather outlook for that week. Choose the best day. This doesn't necessarily mean the warmest, but the driest at least.
Plan what time to go. In the winter, go at about midday, the warmest point and also you have plenty of hours to cycle withing before it gets dark. In the summer, you have more daylight hours to work with. An early evening cycle is great. Never cycle in the dark without proper front and rear lights.
Inform someone you trust that you are going out. Give them your planned route and timetable. This way, if anything should go wrong, at least someone will have an idea where you are.

Always wear safety equipment to protect yourself.
Never cycle in the night unless accompanied by someone.
Remember that riding in traffic is much safer than riding where traffic will not expect you (Such as a sidewalk).