Nowadays to buy a bicycle is not a problem. The problem is to choose the right one from the widest range of models presented in today’s market.
If you already have a bike, then it’s time to take the next responsible step – properly prepare for biking.
Before you go on a trip (even with a group of tourists as inexperienced as you), it is very desirable to have some prior experience in cycling, for example, in your neighborhood park. And even if you have already gained some experience riding a bike, it is probably worth to practice riding at a pace that is recommended to keep the group that you want to join.
In addition, before you go on a bike trip, it is necessary to decide for yourself in advance a number of issues – how to dress, what to take with you, how to be if the bike breaks on the road, how not to get lost along the way, etc. In our school you will gain the most valuable knowledge on how to prepare and successfully pass the route.
HOW TO WEAR?
Optimal clothing for cycling is the one that is most comfortable to ride at a given pace at a given air temperature.
You can use almost any sports clothing for a day bike trip, although specialized cycling clothing sold in sports stores is most comfortable and practical in such situations. In addition, it is very desirable that clothing was bright colors (especially the jacket and T-shirt), so the cyclist was clearly visible from afar and did not merge with the surrounding space, otherwise it will be difficult to see on the road (especially at dusk or in low visibility).
As for the specialized cycling clothing, in the first place it includes the so-called “cycling shorts” – special bicycle shorts to the knees, equipped with special leather or cloth padding that protects the cyclist from abrasions on the saddle.
These shorts can be worn as basic clothing or can be worn under regular athletic pants as a “bottom layer.” In addition, there are “long” versions of “cycling shorts” – cycling pants made of warmer material.
Also popular among bicycle tourists enjoy special biking shirts, bright, comfortable and well ventilated.
Going to the whole day out of town, we must understand that the temperature during the day can vary greatly, so it is recommended to take insulating clothing, which will be useful to you on the halt or when returning home in the evening, when the temperature can drop significantly. For example, riding all day in cycling shorts and a T-shirt, if it may get colder, you can put on top of sports pants and a jacket.
In addition, going to biking, you must consider the possible rain, and therefore it is desirable to take with a rainproof jacket or cape.
Another necessary detail in biking – gloves that can be purchased in a sports store or use an old leather. Without them, palms are very quickly chafed, in addition to gloves help keep your palms in case of falls.
It is also a good idea to have a spare pair of socks.
Going into the campaign, it is advisable to take dark glasses to protect your eyes from the bright sun, dust and insects, as well as a hat with a visor (in winter – insulated), or a special bicycle helmet that will protect you also when you fall.
It is very important to choose the right shoes – they should be comfortable in every way, so that the foot felt comfortable, was well fixed and did not fly off the pedals. There are a number of models of cycling shoes in different price categories, which can be bought in specialized stores, but beginners can do quite well and ordinary comfortable sneakers with a ridged sole, bought at your nearest clothing market. However, it is desirable (based on my own experience) that their sole would be more rigid. This is necessary so that you would not feel discomfort from long pressing on the pedal, which is far from flat relief.
