A road bike or bicycle can be either a racing bike or any bicycle for on-road use. Using a road bike for commuting and doing your daily errands such as shopping or going to work is a great way to keep fit, save fuel and is environment friendly. It is very easy to learn how to ride a road bike and this article will guide you in the process.
Things needed
- Helmet
- Bike
- Pump
Preparation before you start riding a road bike
- You must always wear a helmet when you are riding a road bike. You can land hard on the road. Even if you are very careful while riding, other bikers on the road may not be as careful; therefore you need to be prepared.
- Get a tool such as a pry-baby to help loosen the tire from the rim of the wheel. If you want to become a regular road biker, you will have to practice and become a pro at changing tires.
- Inflate the tires of your bike using a road pump. A pump that has fittings for Schrader and Presta will be useful as it can be used for other tires also.
- Use clip-in pedals or toe-caps as they will help you get more out of your stride. You need to learn how to step out of them when necessary. For this you will have to reprogram you reflexes.
- Wear bike shorts and t-shirts while riding to minimize air resistance.
- Carry some spare tires with you just in case you get a flat tire.
- Learn all the traffic signals and road signs
Steps to ride a road bike
- Now that you have taken all the necessary precautions, it is time to start riding the road bike.
- Always start off by riding in an empty parking lot or a playground. Don’t practice anywhere near traffic to avoid accidents.
- Ride slowly in the beginning and ride only at a speed that is comfortable for you.
- Don’t look directly in front of the wheel; instead look at least 10 feet ahead to ride smoother and straighter.
- Don’t be tense and avoid squeezing the handle bars tightly. Keeping your elbows flexed and having a relaxed but safe grip will improve the ride.
- Once you are comfortable riding in the open space and have managed to increase your riding speed, you can attempt riding in traffic. However, you will have to keep many things in mind when you are riding on a busy road.
- Always look over your shoulder to see any oncoming traffic before you change lanes.
- Practice changing gears as much as you can.
- Signal with your arms when you are about to turn by putting your left arm out for a left turn and the right arm for a right turn.
- Stop at a red traffic signal and put one foot down. When the light changes, swivel the pedal in the up position for the first stroke.
- Be very careful when you cross a road. Drivers usually find it difficult to locate bikers on the road because of blind spots; so make sure the driver has seen you before you cross.
Tips & Warnings
- Always watch out for pedestrians and bus lanes when you are riding a road bike.
- Ride in bike lanes wherever applicable.
- A chain tool is very useful for riding. Always keep your chain lubricated.
- Learn all the road rules, traffic rules and traffic and road signs by heart. This way you will be able to avoid accidents.
- Always watch out for traffic when changing lanes or crossing a road. Make an eye contact with the driver so that you know he has seen you and then only change the lane or cross a road.
- Always wear a helmet to prevent head injury.
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