Get Started Cycling 1-2-3-4

Road biking is a great way to stay in shape, can be an effective mode of transportation and also a fun social activity. You can start cycling with a cheaper steel-framed bike. However, if you plan to pursue cycling on a regular basis, you'll appreciate the lighter-weight benefits that an aluminum, carbon fiber or titanium bike frame can give you.

To learn and exel quickly, consider joining a local cycling group. This will help you stay motivated and committed to cycling on a regular basis, and you'll find that you enjoy the sport much more. (You don't have to be an expert cyclist to be part of a biking club.)

Some tips for staying healthy and injury-free: While cycling, always bring water and stay hydrated. Wear a bike Helmet. Change your hand and body positions frequently to avoid stiffness. Keep your arms loose and elbows bent to better absorb shock. Don't pedal in high gear for long periods of time, as this will put strain on your knees. Ride the correct size bike and have it property fitted to your body - most bike shops will do this for you.


Cycling How-toRoad Cycling Skills
Discover the secrets to faster, easier riding

The experts at Bicycling Magazine have tips for all types of riding - including fitness, racing - even commuting. If you want to be able to tackle hills, not tire out as quickly, or simply keep up with your friends, you'll find that this information really helps your ride. (Take it from another beginner!)

  • Discover your perfect riding position for a comfortable ride, including 6 ways you can grip the handlebar and how to pedal to save energy and increase speed
  • How to strengthen your uphill climbs & reduce downhill risks
  • Tips for riding in different weather conditions and how to tune up your bike in 8 steps
  • City cycling, road rules & survival skills, quick and safe cornering techniques
  • How to improve your ride with weight training and cross training, what foods to eat & how they affect your performance, how to avoid common aches & pains
  • Get Started >> Beginner Cycling Made Easier


Long Distance Cycling Tips  

With years of experience, cyclists Edmund Burke & Ed Pavelka show you how to build the strength, skills and confidence to ride as far as you want. They cover everything you wan to know - from nutrition, gear, training schedules and more. Here's an idea:

  • How to conquer 100 mile rides, 200 mile rides and longer with better bike handling skills
  • The best gear to use and food that will get you through the ride
  • How to improve your performance with the "mental edge"
  • How to avoid common health and comfort problems
  • Get Started >> How to do Long Distance Bike Rides

What to Get: Cycling Gear Performance Bicycle


Cycling News & Tips

  • Strength Training for Cyclists
    This online training guide - with your own personal online trainer - can help you get the results you want from the convenience of your own home. Strength training is a simple way to increase your riding speed and reduce potential injuries.
  • Weight Training for Cycling
    Don't waste time with cookie-cutter training programs that aren't customized. Using this exclusive FitnessGenerator technology, you'll receive a fully customized training program based on your specific goals designed by your very own professional fitness trainer.
  • How to Fix a Flat Tire
    You'll have to know how to do this at some point, so you might as check this out. Heck, I got a flat the first time I rode my new bike. Now how's that for fun?

Video: How to Change a Flat Bike Tire


How to Change a Flat Bike Tire

Where to Go: Cycling Routes

  • Bicycle Tour Packages
    Review a wide selection of bicycle tours worldwide, including dates, location, cost, length of trip and trip highlights. If you like adventure and unique travel experiences, you'll like these vacation packages. Request Your Free Brochure!
  • Great Bicycle Trails
    Cycling trails listed by state, including Canada. Helpful descriptions containing distance and location information, plus links for additional information. BikeTrails.com also includes information on a variety of bike trails, for beginner to advanced riders and everything in between.
  • RentABikeNow.com
    Find bike rental shops nationwide, so you can turn a regular vacation into a biking vacation - and not have to haul your bike around.

Who to Go With: Other Cyclists 

cycling routes

  • Find People to Bike With
    Find people in your area who are interested in cycling, and make new friends who enjoy spending time pedaling as much as you do.
  • USA Cycling Clubs
    If you want to find a cycling club in your area, this is the place to start. You can find many bike clubs, with contact and event information posted on the site. If you can't find what you're looking for, you can always try the Yahoo Directory for Cycling Clubs and Teams

 

More Cycling Tips

  • Road Bike Buying Tips
    What is the right bike for you? First, you want to figure out how much money you want to spend and how often you think you will ride your bike.

  • Here is a quick list of the equipment you need to get started cycling, with helpful explanations and recommendations from bike specialists.

  • What's the point of biking if you don't enjoy it? Being comfortable on your rides will help you avoid extra strain, unnecessary chaffing and an aching back.
  • Training Techniques for Cyclists
    Get more power, speed, endurance & better biking skills
  • Bicycle Maintenance & Repair | Spring Bicycle Tune Up Checklist
    Keep your bike costs down and avoid problems on the road by learning basic maintenance and repair techniques you can do yourself.  Learn from expert Todd Downs, who shows you how with over 450 photos and step-by-step instructions.  Great for beginners too!
  • Help for Beginner Cyclists
    How to ride with confidence and avoid common pitfalls

Cycling Organizations: Adventure Cycling Association | League of American Bicyclists