Having a new bike and going on a ride across the city or to the countryside is a dream for any biker. Anyone who loves to ride waits eagerly for the exceptional feeling of the air blowing across the head and through the hairs, the feeling of being free, something that can only be felt and never truly explained. That adrenaline rush one feels while speeding down terrain is something only another rider can comprehend. However, in the quest of choosing the best bike and enjoying the ride with friends or alone most bike riders make some very common and silly mistakes. First of all choose the right bike according to the surface like road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, cyclocross bikes, sebikes, folding bikes, and more. If you are an amateur just starting to enjoy your ride on the bike, make sure you do not make these common mistakes:
- Going out without repair gears: This is one of the common rookie mistakes. Since a bike generally does not seem as complicated as a car or motorbike, most of us never consider keeping spares and repair toolkits handy. But, when you are on a ride across the country road, make sure you have everything o to get yourself out of any sticky situation. A punctured tire or a loosened nut is enough to get you stranded nowhere. Finding a ride back home is not always easy. A simple toolkit is easy to come by and will be a lifesaver in such a situation. Get one, know how to fix common issues with the bike, and keep it always when going on a trip. Ideally, two spare tubes, a small pump, a saw, tools to open the bike should be enough to get you through any situation.
- Not having enough food and water: Have you ever thought about how will you ride a bike without sufficient energy? In the excitement of going on a ride if you forget to pack enough lunch and water you will be really sorry at times. Without enough fluid in your system, you will have hardly any energy left to walk back, let alone ride back. So, always keep water and food in excess when out riding.
- Not knowing the right gear setting: This, again, is a mistake made by novice riders. Having a fabulous gear set is all well and good but make sure you have the right set of gears for terrain and mountain bike. Also, know how to control the gear settings as per need. If you are pushing too hard or paddling too fast then you are not using the right gear.
- Having the wrong saddle height: Know the optimal saddle height for yourself. Ensure that the saddle is set at just the perfect height so that you are neither too low nor too high. You should be able to touch your foot down if needed and your leg should not stretch completely while reaching the lowest paddling point.
- Not knowing to use brake wisely: The brakes are not to be pushed too hard every time. This will wear off the brake shoes too fast. Also, while you are riding fast, you might lose control if you are braking too hard. Most of the time light braking is enough to make sure that you gain control over the situation.
- Wearing your helmet in reverse: I don’t know if that looks cool to some, but that is a terrible mistake. It will not get you anywhere in case of an accident. There’s a high probability you will end up getting even a major injury. The bike helmets are shaped to prevent an accident from causing major injury, wear it the right way.
- Using too much lubricant in your bike: Using too much lube does not make it any better. Using the right amount will keep the bike smooth and running. Using too much will harm the bike. Also, use bike lubricants only. Do not use motor-vehicle lubricants for your bike.
- Not wearing the right type of clothing: Not all type of clothing is fit for riding. Get a bike-riding dress. Also, do not wear shorts or underwear underneath the riding shorts. This does not look good at all.
- Engaging too much too fast: Cycling is obsessive. It is quite a sport and has its perks and adrenaline rush with it too. The sense of exploration is hard to ignore. But do not let that get to your head. Professional bike riders ride for years before being able to compete professionally. Doing too much too soon land up you in some hospital easily. Overexertion is never good for health, no matter the sport.
- Not keeping enough cash and mobile: You can never be too sure about your preparation and the difficulties you might face. Without having enough cash on hand can bring you a lot of trouble. Also, keep a mobile with you that will let you connect with family and friends in case of need.
Keep these few points in mind, so that your next bike ride becomes a perfect lifetime experience
