Riding a bike for the first
time, or the first time in a long time, can be a scary experience. There are so
many things to look out for, avoid, and pay attention to while pedaling. Riding
in traffic, riding too close to someone else, making sharp turns, trying to
avoid things in the roads, there is a lot you need to get used to.
Find the right bike for you-
in order to feel steady, it has to fit and feel comfortable, so make sure it’s
not too big.
Get a helmet and other
accessories that make you feel safe. If mirrors or a bell make you feel more
comfortable on the road, then go for it!
Build your confidence. If you
are not ready to ride on the road, then don’t! Find paved trails, empty parking
lots, do whatever you need to feel comfortable first. Once you start riding on
the road, try riding your route in low traffic times first to ease into it.
It can be intimidating to ride
alone, so bike with friends! Go with a more experienced rider, or a beginner
that wants to start together. Finding group rides are a great way to meet new
people and ensure you always have someone to ride with. Your local bike shops
should have listings of group rides and trails, and your local My City Bike app has them listed too!
Lastly, don’t let one fall
hold you back. It’s bound to happen, you hit a rock and your bike slides, you
have to stop suddenly, whatever it is, understand that it’s normal and keep
riding!
