As a member of the UF Road Cycling Club, dental school student Alec Simonson enjoys road cycling in his spare time and exploring the local trails of Alachua County and Lake County. This article will take a closer look at road cycling, providing practical tips and pointers for beginners, as well as an overview of the kit required and advice on choosing the right bike.
For those seeking to get involved with road cycling, it can be difficult to know where to start. Distinct from simply riding around on a bicycle, road cycling presents a world of possibilities to cover vast distances with a heavier emphasis on physical fitness. Road cycling not only presents opportunities for cyclists to challenge themselves but can also be a highly competitive sport.
In recent years, interest in all forms of cycling have seen a sharp uptick, transforming it from a niche activity to one enjoyed by millions of people each week in the United States. For those seeking to make their entry into the sport of road cycling, following a few key strategies can help them get the most out of their early miles.
Road bikes are designed to cover greater distances, incorporating features like drop handlebars and skinny, slick tires. Designed to be as light as possible, road bikes are a specialist type of bicycle that come with a slightly higher price tag than the average bike. While novice cyclists need not spend a fortune on top of the range options, they will need to invest a reasonable sum to get started in the sport, with budget road bikes available for around $600 upwards. For those on a tight budget, buying second-hand is a popular option, although there is always the risk that they may incur a large servicing bill to get their bike up to scratch.
In terms of accessories, a helmet is a must. However, beginners should keep in mind that spending more does not necessarily equate to better protection since all cycling helmets must meet the same safety standards. That said, it is better to select a mid-range option rather than a budget helmet, since these are likely to be cooler, lighter, more comfortable and a better fit than cheaper options.
In most parts of the world, bike lights are a legal requirement for cyclists. The cyclist will also need a sturdy bike lock to keep their bike secure when left on the street. As a general rule, cyclists should invest around 10% of the value of their bike on a lock. If they cannot find a bike lock that matches that cost, this suggests the bike is simply too expensive to be left unattended.
For road cyclists, it pays to be self-sufficient. Cyclists should bring along a pump, spare inner tubes, tire levers and a multitool on all trips. A bottle cage and water bottle are inexpensive yet indispensable cycling kit, keeping the cyclist hydrated on long and challenging journeys.
In terms of clothing, investing in padded cycling shorts and going without underwear helps to keep cyclists comfortable while on the road. For those who are prone to sore hands or the occasional fall, gloves are a prudent investment, along with a breathable top or jersey. For road cyclists keen to take their sport to the next level, specialist shoes and clip-in pedals can be a gamechanger.
Once the road cyclist has purchased all the necessary kit and is ready to hit the roads, it is important to ride as decisively and predictably as possible, communicating their intentions clearly to other road users, and moving confidently when they have checked it is safe. Road cyclists must take care to give both themselves and other road users space, keeping in mind that the faster they are travelling, the greater the distance they will need to stop safely.
