Cycling is a great past time to get into. Not only is it a fantastic way of getting around, but it’s also incredibly good for you. More and more people are turning to cycling as their main mode of transport. It has seen significant growth in the last ten years as a hobby alone. That’s not to mention the amount of cycle to work schemes which have cropped up. It doesn’t take much to see that cycling is going from strength to strength. But what are some of the things you need to consider before you go out and buy yourself a new bike? If you feel that you are at a bit of a loss, here is a guide to what you need to think about. Read through this before you do anything else.
The Right Type of Bike
Firstly, it is really important that you choose the right type of bike for the purpose you will be using it for. In other words, if you are an urban user, don’t get an all-terrain mountain bike! The type of bike you need to use varies hugely depending on where you live and what you will be using it for. If you plan to take it to somewhere very hilly, then you will need a bike with plenty of gears. However, if you are going to be riding solely on the road, then a three-gear bike will probably suffice.
The Accessories
It is likely that you will need one or two accessories as well. Some of these are absolutely basic, and some not so, but nonetheless are desirable. For example, a helmet would be a basic requirement for any bike user, along with mud flaps. However, there are also extras which you might like to consider purchasing. Something which people often overlook is insurance. The fact is, this is an important part of having a bike. Have a look at a bike insurance quote before you buy.
The Clothing
There is much debate within the cycling community regarding clothing. Some people maintain that it is necessary to wear certain clothing in order to ride a bike. However, most people would not agree with this viewpoint. While there are certain clothing trends within the cycling community, none of them are essential. Nonetheless, there are probably some things you might like to consider regarding clothing. The main thing to think about is the fact that you may be cycling in all forms of weather. It is probably wise to invest in a good set of waterproofs for this reason. There’s nothing worse than splashing through a puddle and being soaked!
By the same token, you may want to think about buying proper shoes for when you are cycling. Wearing the right shoes can make all the difference. Not only do they help to stop chafing when you use the pedals, but they also help protect against athlete’s foot. The main concern with clothing, however, is visibility. If you are planning to ride in low visibility, such as in the evening, then you need to ensure you are visible. For that reason, it may be wise to invest in reflective vests.
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