Ok, so you’ve purchased the perfect bike that makes your heart pound with excitement every time you think of mounting that saddle.
It’s time to idiot proof your ride!
There are some serious things you must consider so as to not look like a knob on your ride. We’ve all been there at one time or another, caught with our baggies or spandex down around our ankles. Let’s look at some preventative measures!
Wear a Helmet – they aren’t just to hide bad hair jobs. These durable buckets actually act as a shield between your noggin and a hard surface, helping to protect that cushy brain of yours. Proper fit is important. Take the time to try on different models. Check out this video on ‘How to choose a bike helmet’ http://youtu.be/C-e7smsuyPE
Plastic Makes Perfect – too cool for an H20 cage mounted on your frame? Think that you can get away with that aluminium bottle in your back pocket instead? Ask anyone who has crashed with a hard bottle, listen to the broken rib cautionary tales, and you will know not to be such a weight weenie. Add a cage (or two), or consider upgrading to a hydration pack – who doesn’t want to land on a soft water bladder??
Know Your Anatomy - get to know your bike! And no, you do not need to know every component and how they work. But at least figure out which brake controls which wheel, and how to properly change your gears. Knowing these basics add to the flow of your ride (no rigid breaking or grinding of gears), and ultimately extend the lifespan of your drivetrain.
Check the Pressure - Make sure that your air pressure is suitable for the trail conditions. Take into account topography, loose or hard pack surfaces, and the type of riding you are engaging in (downhill, cross country, etc.).
The PSI (pounds/square inch) can range from 35 – 55 PSI for your mountain bike. The recommended PSI rating will be listed on the tire sidewall. Riding with an appropriate pressure makes a huge difference in how the ride feels, and how much control you have over your bike.
For example, pressure that’s too high will make for poor contact with the ground and a less controllable ride. While pressure that’s too low will make your tires behave unpredictable and susceptible to pinch flats.
Find out what tire pressure works best for you under normal conditions. You can then learn to adjust this pressure on the fly. On that note, consider investing in a reliable pressure gauge or a pump / pressure gauge combo. Tubeless tires are cool too .
Seat Position – Keep your joints and butt healthy with proper seat position. Your saddle can be moved back and forth, and tilted vertically. You should feel your seat bones doing most of the support work. The horizontal position should be set so that when your pedal stroke is at a 90 degree angle (furthest forward), an imaginary line from your knee cap intersects the pedal axle.
Ladies, if you have tried all seat positions and are experiencing numbness or pain “down below,” you may want to explore other saddles that are specific for our anatomy . Remember, we are built differently than men!
Born to Ride -There are basic fundamentals to riding a bike. Like any sport, skills are needed. Don’t confuse riding with skills training. The misconception is that you’ll get better by riding more. Wrong! Bad habits only grow more pungent over time. Take it upon yourself to get instruction from a coach, watch informative videos, and ride with more skillful friends. Learn the correct way to do things, then practice – “practice makes possible.”
Debunk Fear – Learn correct riding techniques, go at your own pace, take baby steps, and ride within your skill level. These are all steps to building confidence on the trail.
Remember to also breath calmly. Breathing centers your mind, relaxes your body, and encourages flow (not rigidity) on your bars.
Learn from your mistakes. Get one of your buddies to film you riding and play it back slow mode. Objectively see yourself in action, recognize areas for improvement, and course correct on the next go.
Search for publications, videos and clinics to improve your knowledge. Confidence comes through better understanding.
Most importantly, have fun!
