How to start cycling 101

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So you want to know how to start cycling? It’s really quite simple. Get a bike, start riding!
No! Give me the long complicated answer and confuse me more!
Okay then, here goes – cycling class 101. I’ll try and address a few questions related to cycling and how you can start cycling.

Topics covered in this post

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How to start cycling 101 – bikes and types

What kind of bike do I need?

There are three broad categories of cycles: MTBs, hybrids and road bikes. Each of these have number of sub categories, we’ll leave those for now. If you’re in the market for your first bike, you’ll need to look for a bike in one of these categories.

Which bike you should buy depends on the kind of riding you’re planning to do.

Riding in the mountains and/ or a lot of off-roading – Get a MTB
Mostly city riding with the occasional off-road section – Get a hybrid
All riding in the city or highways – Hybrid or Road bike
All riding on tarmac while doing long distances at a high speed – Road bike

Price is an important factor to consider. MTBs and Hybrids are cheaper than road bikes. You’ll need to decide how much you want to spend on your bike. MTBs start at INR 12,000 for basic bikes. While road bikes start at around INR. 40,000/- for an entry level road bike.

How do I choose the right bicycle size?

Most manufacturers publish sizing guidelines for their bikes. Typically, the bike size is related to the height of the rider. A number of manufacturers go further and advice bike sizing based on height, inseam, height of breastbone, shoulder width and arm length.

However, unless you’re into racing or are really into getting that perfect fit, your height is a good indicator for the bike size you need.

Companies will typically have a bike sizing chart as follows.

If your height is in an overlap zone, get the smaller size as it will likely be more comfortable. Example, if your height is 170 cms, I will advice you buy a S frame size. However, take this with a pinch of salt. You must try out the size before you buy the bike.

Are there gender specific bikes?

Yes, there are. A number of manufacturers offer gender specific bikes. Canyon has a range of women bikes which have “WMN” suffixed to the name of the bike. While Giant has a brand named Liv which offers women specific bikes.

From a technology, manufacturing, material or component point of view, there is no difference in the bikes. The difference is in terms of the frame geometry. Gender specific bikes are designed keeping in mind body shapes, inseam length, shoulder width, arm length etc.

If you’re in the market for a gender specific bike, check if the manufacturer offers one. It might suit you better.

Should I get disc brakes or rim brakes?

Most manufacturers are switching to disc brakes based bikes. In all likelihood, if you buy a new bike now, you’ll get one with disc brakes.

That said, I prefer bikes with disc brakes for my routine rides as they give me all weather braking. However, on my race bike, I still prefer rim brakes for the tiny weight saving and the “feel like a pro” feeling!!
I’ve recently picked up a Gravel bike with disc brakes and I’ve been riding it throughout the mountains, and I have to say, in these conditions and terrain, I find the disc brakes way better than rim brakes.

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What do I need in addition to the bike to start cycling

Which cycling accessories should I buy with the bike?

At the very least, you should buy the following

• A helmet – this is a must!
• Puncture repair kit
• Bottle holder. Get at least 1, I recommend 2
• Tail light
• Front light – if you’re planning to ride in the dark
• A small saddle bag
• An air pump with a pressure gauge
• High visibility reflective jersey or reflective belt to wear above your cycling jersey or jacket

I recommend that you buy tire liners. These will protect your tires from punctures. I haven’t had a puncture on any of my bikes in more than 2 years now.

What kind of cycling clothes do I need?

You CAN cycle in normal shorts/ track pants, cotton t-shirts etc. There isn’t anything stopping you from doing so. That said, cycling clothes do help. Buy a cycling jersey and a pair of padded shorts. These will make your life easier. For winters, buy a base layer, arm and leg warmers.

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It’s time for my first ride!

How much distance will I be able to cycle on my first ride?

30-35 kms on your first ride isn’t difficult. Go easy, go slow and you’ll be able to cover it in 2 hours. Most important is to enjoy your first ride. That is going to make sure you ride the second time.

Traffic scares me. What do I do?

Start early in the morning. Usually traffic is less at this time of the day. Find a cycling group which you can join. Most cities in India have cycling groups which you can join for free. Riding in a group will build your confidence and can be fun.

And make sure you use a tail light and a reflective vest to be visible.

Am I doing well? What is a good cycling speed for a beginner?

Forget about speed for now. Are you enjoying cycling? Do you come back happy from your rides? These are more important than speed.

If you’re really keen on speed, then start training! And follow this blog, I will probably write a few posts on training.

What time of the day should I cycle?

Any time when you feel you’ll be able to handle the traffic and you’ll be safe. Most cyclists head out early in the morning.

Should I join a cycling group?

It can be a fun thing to do – groups will usually motivate you to get out of bed early in the morning and head out for your ride. There’s safety in numbers and usually group rides are a fun social experience. You might also find mentors who can help you get to the next level in cycling.

If socializing first thing in the morning is your thing, joining a group may not be a bad idea at all.

What will I need while I’m on the road? How should I carry it?

For daily rides, you’ll need the following

1. A spare tube
2. A pair of tire levers
3. A multi tool set
4. A saddle bag to put all the above items in
5. 2 bottles of water which go into the bottle cages on the frame
6. An energy bar, banana, chocolates, dry fruits – whatever you prefer!

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How to start cycling 101 – the mechanics

How do gears work?

By using the shifters!

Here are the basic rules to keep in mind while changing gears:

First the terms:

Chain Rings – These are the front gears. Your bike could have 1, 2 or 3
Sprockets – rear gears. Your bike could have 1 or from 7 to 12. Single gear at the back means a single speed bike. VERY high end bikes have 11 or 12 gears at the back. Most common number of rear gears are 7 to 10.

1. Big chain ring (gear 3) in the front is best used with medium to small sprockets at the back (gear 4 to 10)
2. Middle chain ring (gear 2) in the front is best used with middle set of sprockets at the rear (gear 2 to 7)
3. Small chain ring (gear 1) in the front is best used with the biggest 3 sprockets in the rear (gear 1 to 4)

Number 1 above is for speed and downhills. Second combination is for flats, easy cruising and mild inclines. Number 3 is for inclines. The above are thumb rules. As you gain strength and experience, you’ll be able to figure out what you need.

How do the brakes work?

By pressing the brake levers!

Jokes apart, press both brake levers at the same time. It’ll give you predictable braking. Pressing only the front may topple you over. Pressing only the rear may make you skid and fall.

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Okay, I read your post and did my first ride, now what?

Congratulations. You’ve just stepped into a super rewarding world of unlimited expenses  Welcome aboard!

How often do I fill air in the tires?

Once in a week should be good enough, if you ride regularly. In any case, check air before every ride. If you feel it’s less, pump it up. Tires have recommended air pressure written on them – keep it in this range.

The bike is making all kinds of weird noises. What?!?

Get it serviced. If you’re using it regularly, a normal service once in six months is good enough. It’ll fix up all your niggling issues and remove all those weird sounds.

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I have more questions on how to start cycling – what do I do?

Comment on this post – I’ll be happy to help with whatever I can help with 🙂