When you are starting a new sport, you don’t know what you don’t know. New activities can be intimidating when you are not sure what to expect.
This year I am new to group cycling as a first-year member of the London Cycling Club. Before my first ride, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Fortunately, at the club’s kick-off meeting, leaders gave many great tips for those just getting started. The focus of the tips were on comfort and safety.
I’m going to share how I prepared for my first rider development ride, which was about 25km at a pace of about 15-20km/hr. This preparation eased my nervousness and helped me feel more ready to explore something new. If you are just joining another new group activity, hopefully some of these ideas might be applicable as well!
Gear preparedness
I got a bike tune up at the start of the season. But even without one, it’s a good idea to check for a clean frame, an oiled chain, sufficient tire air pressure, a comfortable seat height, working brakes, and a bell.
I tried on my helmet for fit, and ensured my front and rear lights were working. I brought my repair kit with a spare bike tube in case of a flat. At the pet store, while buying cat food, I made myself my own “dog tag”: road ID with an emergency contact.
Clothing preparedness
I checked the weather and wore well-fitting clothes and shoes that wouldn’t catch. High visibility/reflective clothing is good for evening rides, so I broke out my bright colours!
I learned that cycling clothes are called a “kit.” Many wear their full cycling kit, so gear up if you want to! Developmental rides don’t seem long enough to me to wear padded shorts/pants, so I didn’t. Most important is to wear what‘s comfortable and safe for you.
Route preparedness
I checked out the route in advance. Because I was a bit nervous, I cycled the route on my own beforehand (and I heard some people drive routes that are new to them).
As well, I checked the driving route TO the start point to give myself at least 15 minutes before the ride starts. An early arrival meant I was ready to hear any important information, and if I had to make a last-minute adjustment other riders won’t be waiting for me to leave.
Other stuff to bring (or not bring)
I brought a full water bottle that fit in the bottle cage. (In hot weather, some ppl freeze half the water first, then fill up the rest just before they go!) Sunglasses or tinted visor. I brought a granola bar and a small stuff bag to stash or add a layer. Many people ride light and don’t bring any gear bags at all.
Some people have odometers or phone holders for the route (as I do), but others just follow along. I brought my bike lock but didn’t need it. I brought $5 for a mid-way stop, but I just drank the water and ate the granola bar I brought. I brought earphones, but I found they impeded my practice with verbal and non-verbal communication on the ride.
Social preparedness
Turns out rides include small talk to get to know others. I brought a friendly attitude and questions with me to learn from others. The chat is not only social: it helps to build rapport and trust you need to ride well as a group.
I was also ready to keep my eyes and ears open, to listen to the ride leaders, then watch and follow what they do. After learning the hand signals, I practiced them. I did my best to communicate and stay with the group. All of this is done not just to have fun but to be safe and keep others safe.
What else would you suggest to prep for your first time out, more seasoned cyclers than me? Please share your must-brings or must-wears to this starter list!