7 tips for new cyclists

Cycling is a fantastic hobby with huge fitness benefits, as well as the added bonus of being able to get outdoors and explore the local area. It is also a hobby that is easy to get started with, all you really need is a bike and the essential accessories, no monthly membership fees to pay or booking of classes.

If you are taking up cycling, here are seven tips that will help you to get started:

1. Buy your bike from a local bike store

The first part of advice seasoned cyclists will usually give you is that you should buy your bike from a local store, so you can get help and guidance from the experts both when you buy your bike and for maintenance in the future. The assistant will be able to help you find the right type of bike for the main ways you will be using it, such as whether you need a road bike, mountain bike or hybrid, as well as making sure you get the right size frame. Getting a bike that you are comfortable on is particularly important and can save you from injuries.

2. Learn how to fix a puncture

Getting a puncture can be massively inconvenient, so if you don’t want to end up stranded miles away from home, it is a good idea to get used to fixing a puncture. The first few times you do it can be challenging but you will get used to doing it and it will become easier to get your new tyres off once they have been used a bit. You can watch online videos to learn how to fix a puncture or replace your innertube, so make sure you always carry the right equipment with you.

3. Get your accessories

There are several essentials you need to buy for safety, such as a good helmet and lights. A good quality lock is also recommended to help prevent your bike from getting stolen. Other accessories you might want to buy are glasses (flies in your eyes can be a pain!), gloves, padded shorts and waterproof jacket.

4. Read the Highway code for cyclists

If you are planning on cycling on the road then you should make sure that you know the rules and how to keep yourself and others as safe as possible when using the road with other traffic.

5. Check your tyre pressure

Before you set off on any bike rides, make sure that your tyres are the right pressure. The right pressure is written on the sidewall of your tyres, so make sure the tyre pressure is not too high or too low. Tyres constantly lose air, so you should check them regularly.

6. Plan your routes

If you are a bit nervous about getting started, make sure you find an easy, flat route with no or minimal traffic. You can use sites like sustrans.org.uk to find routes in your area that are traffic free and plan your route before you set off, so you know exactly where you are going.

7. Buy a cycle carrier

You are likely to get a bit bored of all of the local routes after a while, so having the option of driving to a new location to cycle will give you more bike adventure possibilities. You will be able to drive to the best cycle trails and scenic places with the help of a cycle carrier and you can try cycling on different types of terrain.

PF Jones is one of the leading cycle carrier suppliers in the UK, with a huge selection of carriers to use with the majority of car models.

Shop your cycle carrier now.