BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO CYCLING.

Cycling is such a fun hobby; you can meet new friends or take the family out for a ride, and you get to see some of our gorgeous Great British scenery while you’re at it. Cycling is great for the body as well as the mind, and here is everything you need to know to get started. 

There are two main types of cycling that we deal in at PAU, road cycling and mountain biking. This journal entry is all about road cycling, which is a great place for beginners to start. 

Choosing your first bike 

If you’re buying your first bike, think about going for something entry level. We would love to sit here and tell you to get the shiniest, flashiest, nicest bike, but if you’re just starting out, you need something that you’re not afraid to get dirty, and something that will help you find out whether you’re in this for the long haul. You can get some great deals on decent bikes that will last you a long time, but won’t break the bank in the process. Check out our Bike Buying Guide here.

Get some gear 

You don’t need seven cycling outfits and head to toe Lycra if you’re getting started. Get some good gear that is going to keep you warm and dry, and then just get on the bike and go for it. You can add to your cycling wardrobe as you go, but don’t let it be the thing that stops you getting out. A helmet is a must, the rest can wait!

The Highway Code

Get familiar with it. If you’re cycling on roads then you need to know the do’s and don’ts and the ins and outs of the highway code, so that you can ride with confidence when you’re out and about.

Start off slow 

The Tour De France can wait. Start off slow and steady, and choose a route that feels familiar in terms of setting, so that you can see how you feel when you’re riding. You can build up your distance and get more adventurous with where you’re heading once you have been out a few times. 

Join a club

If you want to make an event of it, think about joining a local cycling club. We can confirm that they’re a welcoming bunch, but you might want to try a few to find one that fits the vibe and feel you’re after. Some are super serious, while others use it as a social and a trip to the pub. There are no prizes for guessing which one we prefer. 

Make it fun 

That’s what it’s all for, right? Enjoy yourself, stop for a slice of cake, don’t take it all too seriously, and have fun while you’re riding. We love getting out on our bikes and seeing the sights, and we love getting to do it with friends old and new, too. 

If you do need a bike or some gear, get in touch and we’ll point you in the right direction, or visit one of our three stores and we will get you kitted out and on your way. 

Enjoy the ride, 

The PAU Team