In the Saddle

Most of us learned how to ride a bike when we were kids, but over time it seems that most of us also hit a point where we stopped riding all together. For those interested in the rewarding and beneficial pursuit of getting back in the saddle here are a few tips that will help speed up your learning curve:

Find the right bike for you. As with every sport, the associated equipment has become highly specialized. Talk to your local bike shop and figure out what type of riding you want to pursue, be it mountain, road, or greenway. There are bikes made specifically for each area that will make the experience more enjoyable.

Fit your bike to you. If you take nothing else from these pointers, take this one. Every person has a different range of motion, flexibility, athleticism, medical history, and physique. To avoid aches and pains, and potentially dangerous situations, take your bike to the best fitting guru around. The money spent on a quality fit will far outweigh any money spent on the bike itself.

Invest in the extras. Other than the bicycle go ahead and get a comfortable pair of cycling shorts, a good pair of “clipless” shoes, and a quality helmet. Each of these items will make your experience safer and more enjoyable.

Find a local group. Cycling is extremely popular all over the country right now, and most quality bike shops offer “shop rides” multiple times per week. Find out the details on what rides are offered, and pick one that seems closest to your skill level. Riding with others will quickly speed up your learning and enjoyment.

Take it all in. Cycling is a great way to stay fit and healthy, and can be enjoyed with friends, family, and others in the community. In short, cycling is a lifestyle for most of us, shaping our habits and way of life; so relish the moments in the saddle, but know that riding a bicycle can be so much more.

Thomas Krajewski, Activities Manager