Cycling is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding pursuits one can enjoy. It can keep you in shape, clear your mind, and allows you to take in the fresh-air and scenery at your own pace. For many cyclists, the most exciting part is getting a bicycle!
However the crucial part of this process comes after this, that can ultimately make or break the new cycling experience. Here at D’Ville Cyclery we do not find this occurrence uncommon as many excited new riders quickly get caught in certain traps.
Avoiding these mistakes in either a fitness setting, commuting, or just a weekend casual ride can make a big difference in your ability to build confidence and stay engaged.
1. Choosing the Wrong Bicycle
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to start riding on the wrong type of bike. Beginners often think they are saving money by buying the cheapest bike available or buying an unsuitable bike style.
A mountain bike is not great for a rider that is going to ride primarily on the road, just as a road bike is not the best choice if that rider is going to tackle gravel paths or trails.
To help avoid this mistake, consider carefully the biking you will be doing most of at first. D’Ville Cyclery in Durbanville is stocked with a full range of bikes; from road,mountain to hybrids and e-bikes. The staff helps the rider select the ideal bike based on riding style, lifestyle, and budget.
2. Ignoring Proper Bike Fit
Even if you have secured yourself a great bike, you might still be uncomfortable or sore if you don’t have the correct fit for your body. If the saddle is set too low, the handlebars too far forward or the frame doesn’t correlate with your body size – there would be many possibilities for aches and pains, or even injuries. Very few cyclists are aware that a professional fit to their bike can revolutionise their experience on a bike.
Having a properly fitted bike will allow you to be more efficient pedalling, better guard your back and knees from strain and improve the enjoyment of longer rides. One of the best things a beginner can do for themselves early on is invest in a good fitting.
3. Skipping Safety Gear
While it may seem convenient to ride without a helmet, it poses a significant risk. Beginners sometimes fail to use helmets, gloves or reflective gear because they believe something bad wouldn’t happen to them. The fact is that even experienced cyclists can find themselves in unexplained situations like slick roads or distracted drivers.
Always wear a quality fitting helmet and ensure your bike has lights and reflectors if you will be riding in the early morning or evening. Safety gear is not just to protect your head; it also provides peace of mind.
4. Not Learning Basic Maintenance
A mistake made by many new cyclists also involves not paying enough attention to the fundamentals of bike care. Keeping the chain clean and lubricated, tyres inflated correctly, and brakes in good working order is a small amount of preventative maintenance. Too many new cyclists will ride without checking the above until something goes wrong, at which point it is often more expensive to repair than it would have been as a regularly managed maintenance item.
Therefore, learning how to develop basic maintenance habits like checking your tyre pressure before every ride, and keeping your drivetrain clean, will save you money, headaches and frustrations.
5. Overdoing It Too Soon
One of the great things about a new hobby, is the excitement that comes with it. This however does sometimes lead to many inexperienced cyclists pushing themselves a little too hard within the first few weeks. Long rides without proper preparation can leave you feeling exhausted and sore, or even worse – not wanting to ride your bike ever again. Cycling fitness develops slowly. You have to build for endurance first, and then gradually increase speed and duration with each journey, and that all hinges on the distance being manageable.
Think of it like building a house. You do not rush the foundation. The more consistent and gradual you can build every ride on your bicycle, the more gradually you get better – that means you can ride 15-20 or even 30% longer before needing a break.
6. Poor Riding Technique
It may surprise you to learn that many beginners waste a great deal of energy for no reason other than inefficient pedalling. If you are spinning the pedals too quickly without resistance, or grinding away at too low of a cadence, you will tire out quickly.
Similarly, riding in the incorrect gear while climbing can make the hill so much more difficult than it has to be! Practice shifting gears and establish a rhythm that feels good to maintain. Maintaining a consistent cadence will not only improve performance; it will also allow for a much more pleasurable experience while riding.
Starting your cycling journey should be a thrilling experience, not an overwhelming one. By steering clear of these common blunders, cyclists and parents of new cyclists can set themselves up for success in their cycling journey for years to come. There are many ways to choose a bike, take care of it, remain safe, stay consistent, and build your skills, and they all truly matter.
At D’Ville Cyclery, we care about ensuring riders in Durbanville and greater areas have the very best experience on their cycling journey. Whether you supervise the purchase of your child’s first bike, need bicycle service or are looking for a supportive community, our team is ready to serve you in your cycling journey.
Let our expert team help you avoid these mistakes and find the perfect bike! – https://dvillecyclery.co.za/ Join our cycling family on Instagram today! – https://www.instagram.com/dvillecyclery/
