All you need to know to get back in the bike saddle and on your bike

The recent resurgence of cycling has been both unstoppable and unmissable.
There is a lot to consider when getting back into cycling.There is a lot to consider when getting back into cycling.
There is a lot to consider when getting back into cycling.

And numbers are likely to increase further as the government is investing heavily in other cycling initiatives.

If you’re considering a return to cycling, here’s what you need to know to get yourself back on your bike:

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THE BIKE: If you have an old bike, dust it off, check the brakes and the gears are working properly and enjoy it. If you’re buying a new bike, consider the kind of riding you want to do and typical routes. If it is hilly – make sure you get a bike with enough gears to handle it; if you are commuting, then 3-6 gears should be enough but if you’re looking to road or mountain bike, you’ll want to consider more than 10 gears. Next, consider the weight of the bike. Modern road bikes are designed to be very light so even the heaviest will do you well – but aim to go as light as possible. For commuter bikes, the weight can be an issue. As a guide 10-12kgs is pretty heavy, still easy to cycle especially if the route is quite flat but you’ll notice it on an incline.

Catherine EllisCatherine Ellis
Catherine Ellis

THE SEAT POSITION: I often see cyclists around with a bad seat position set up – usually the seat is too low so they’re overworking and putting unnecessary strain on the knees. To set up your bike properly use The Heel to Pedal method: Sit on the bike while holding on to a wall or chair for stability. Place your heel on the pedal and pedal back to 6 o’clock position. Your knee should be completely straight.Increase the height of your saddle until it’s straight; that is your perfect position.

THE ROUTE: The route is crucial to an enjoyable journey. Always take the back streets; they’re quieter, safer and much more interesting. Fortunately, picking your route has never been easier. There are lots of cycle routes now across the country and they are definitely worth taking advantage of. Most city and the country routes are in cycle maps that are easy to follow. For your local paths have a look on your council’s website or try Sustrans: https://www.sustrans.org.uk/national-cycle-network/

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FREE YOUR BACK: Getting the bag off your back and on to the bike is a real joy. It takes the strain off your spine and reduces back sweat. The solution is a pannier rack. They attach over the back wheel of your bike and you can attach pannier bags and baskets on them to carry whatever you need. As the rack is on the back of your bike and is low on the bike, it doesn’t affect your steering or stability.

BUILD CONFIDENCE: If you still want a bit more Dutch courage (so to speak) before cycling on your own, then you need your own personal peloton (cycling group). Cycling is really friendly, with lots of groups keen to help other cyclists get started with advice, buddies and supported rides. There are groups all over the country, so you’ll definitely find one in your local area.

Most of all don’t rush. Enjoy it. Life from the saddle will always make you smile.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Catherine Ellis is founder of Hill & Ellis, which produces a range of high quality, stylish cycle bags. Each bag, designed in the UK, is created to transition perfectly from home to bike to boardroom to bar. Web: www.hillandellis.com; Twitter: @hillandellis; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HillEllis/; Instagram: @hillandellis