Sumrell Strength

In another interesting plot twist to the current state of affairs we see lots of people resorting to the first alternative mode of transportation they learned to use. The bike. I must say this is one of the better outcomes. I’m completely here for more people taking up cycling. So as we welcome an influx of bikers I figured I’d share some insights that’ll help you get the most out of your bike.

Ive broken it up into sections that cover all the major keys to having the bike experience.

Taking Care of Your Bike

This is probably one of the most neglected things. I see so much bike abuse from people who think their bike is something that they just ride until it falls apart. But a bike can easily last 10+ years if you take care of it. I’ll just outline a few of the basics that’ll help extend the life of your bike especially if you ride a lot. All things that are very doable.

Lube Your Chain

Think of your chain as the lifeline of your bike. It connects big rings being turned by the pedals in front to the rear cogs that attach to your back wheel. This ultimately moves the bike and does so thousands and thousands of times. As you can imagine, this constant metal on metal contact between these surfaces will wear away at the parts. A strong lubricated chain will keep this transfer smooth while a worn out rusted chain will reek havoc on the rest of the components and make riding clunky, rough, harder to handle. Below is a simple video on how to lube your chain to keep your bike running smoothly.

Clean and Wipe Down Your Bike

When you ride, dirt and grime get picked up off the road and can lodge itself into the nooks and crannies of your bike. Every now and then its good just to clean it up. A clean bike just looks and feels better to ride. A simple hose and scrub down or doing routine wipe downs can make the difference in keeping your bike looking like it did the day you got it. Not to mention it will last longer.

Store Indoors and Protect From Elements

This should be pretty obvious. Its the best way to keep the rust off and protect from ever-changing weather. Especially here in New England. And of course there is security. Bike thieves do exist and you can help by storing your bike indoors when possible to remove the treat.

Keep Tires Properly Inflated.

If you’ve ever had a flat, then you know just how demoralizing and annoying it is. One preventative measure you can take is to keep your tires inflated with enough air. Underinflated tires may feel fine but they put you at greater risks for flats. As a simple rule of thumb you want to inflate until they’re firm with very little give when squeezed. The best recommended practice would be to inflate them to the pressure specified on the side wall of the tire. Its also a good idea to keep a patch kit handy and learn how to fix a flat tire.

Get Tune Ups

Develop a relationship with a local bike shop and pay them to tune your bike up every now and then. They are trained experts and can often times let you know how your bike is doing and will be willing to answer any questions you have. And on top of that, you’re going to need to buy your bike accessories from somewhere and its better to support local business if doing so.

Riding and Commuting

Get Comfortable Riding in The Street

A lot of this will depend on where you ride as some places are just more bike friendlier than others. Understandably, having a bunch of cars moving around you can be nerve wrecking. So you may wanna ease into it if you’re going to do that. My advice would be to avoid rush hour initially and try to find streets and paths that have bike lanes (preferably protected) and are a little more bike friendly. Over time you will develop confidence and be unbothered by the presence of cars. Also, just having common sense is always a good idea.

Follow the General Rules Of the Road

You should follow general the rules of the road. However, there are exceptions where you should think as a bike and not a motorist. At the very least, make sure you’re traveling in the same direction as the traffic. Going against the grain is ill-advised and there’s no need to play chicken with cyclists and vehicles traveling in the correct direction. Also, sidewalks are for pedestrians. Please don’t terrorize them by riding on it (I used to be guilty before i changed my ways).

Be Smart

Or better yet, don’t be dumb. Its just as much your right to ride in the traffic lane as it is the cars. But also recognize that there are those that feel you shouldn’t be on the road with them and be mindful. And accidents happen fast so its good to try and stay a couple steps ahead while you’re riding to reduce the chances.

Visibility is key.

Make sure you are seen when riding. If you ride at night, make sure you have lights and reflective gear.

Wear a helmet.

Better safe than sorry. Admittedly I don’t always wear one but its still a good just in case measure to take.

For Enjoyment

Get in tuned with your bike.

Ride it, learn it, become one with it. Learn what it likes and what it doesn’t like. See how fast you can go, find if you like certain gear combos, etc. Just get comfortable with it.

Get Your Skills Right

Make sure you get your handling, steering, stopping and starting skills right as that will allow you to effortlessly maneuver thru a variety of scenarios. Get good at pedaling in and out the saddle.

Explore

This is one of my favorite things to do on a bike. And it was my common excuse for leaving the house on 2 wheels as a kid. It may mean finding a nice path or scenic route to ride. It could even mean finding alternative routes to and from your regular destinations. All of this helps add to the fun component and keep your rides from getting boring. It’s also a great for when you’re traveling.

Make it social

Whats better than going on a ride? Going on a ride with friends. Even making new friends in the process. Not only will it be fun cause you’re with friends but it’ll also make the miles go quicker.

That’s all I got for you today. Whether you’re new to biking or been doing it for a while, I hope this helps you get as much as possible from your biking experience.