IT’S LIKE RIDING A BIKE
It is time to trade in your irons for spandex and rubber. Cycling is taking over as the new networking and hangout sport for young and old alike.
It certainly looks cool, and definitely does more to increase your fitness. So just how does one get into the new cool crowd?
Cycling is probably one of the most daunting sports to take up, not only because there is a significant financial outlay at the start, but also because there is so much jargon to learn that it is easy to get confused. It really doesn’t have to be such a scary step, though. After all, everyone that now enjoys the invigorating feeling and health benefits of regular cycling also started off thinking that a “frameset” is one of those picture frames for multiple photos that you get at your local Clicks. Forget about the jargon. For now, let’ s start with the basics: you, the bike, and movement in a forward direction. **Et voilà!** You’re cycling!
So maybe I jumped a step. You still need the bike. At this point, it is important to decide what type of cyclist you want to be. Road bikes simply don’t work on mountain trails. Mountain bikes will get you from A to B on the road, but not particularly fast. Basically, where do you intend to do most of your cycling?
For those who prefer the twists, bumps and dirt, mountain biking is for you. Out in the bush, there are no cars, fewer people, and you get an opportunity to get up close with nature. You’ll find off-road bikes are heavier, with knobbly tires and more of a suspension to allow you to get over some gnarly stuff.
Road cycling tends to be a little more competitive. The events are faster and obviously all on road. This does mean that you will have to contend with cars (and taxis), though. The focus with road cycling is speed and distance. Feel that wind in your hair... uh, whooshing over your helmet!
Regardless of which type of bike you want, head to a cycling specialist store and speak to someone that can point you in the right direction. In helping you to choose a bike, they will consider your height, weight, and budget. In the short run, you may save money by getting a second hand bike at a garage sale, but the key to happy riding is finding a bike that really suits your body. The right sized bike, with the correct set-up (bar height, seat height and angle) will transform your cycling experience, so it is worth paying that little bit more upfront to get it right.
The store will also kit you out with the essential safety items, such as padded cycling pants, cleats, helmet, and gloves, as well as a basic repair kit, as you **will** get punctures. They will also be able to advise on how best to service your bike, or even better, where you can learn to do it yourself.
On the Road
Most seasoned athletes are keen to share their knowledge. Take the time to speak to fellow cyclists. Don’t be shy to ask questions, and to share your struggles. There could be a quick and easy fix for some of the problems that you are experiencing, and it is quite likely that an experienced rider will have a solution. There are also some basics when training that would be worth keeping in mind.
At first, always try to finish a ride with some energy in reserve. You want to start slow. Going too hard, fast, or far at first will only sap your energy and take all the fun out of it.
Practice consistency. Try to set your training days, and follow them. In the beginning, you don’t need to ride for long, just get out the door and make it a habit.
Find your comfort zone and play with the gears on your bike. Try out different cadences and practice anticipating your next gear shift. Try to find a rhythm where you pedal consistently, rather than pedal, coast, pedal, coast.
Part of the fun of cycling is riding with others. There are clubs all over the country that always welcome new members. Go for a few rides with different groups before considering which one to join officially. Club members will help to keep you motivated and hold you accountable for those early morning training sessions.
Finally, be patient, the fitness will follow!
*Disclaimer: See your family doctor before starting any exercise regime, and then ride safely.
Sidebar Races to Consider
It’s always worthwhile setting some goals when you start a new sport. Why not consider one of the better known races in South Africa as your first big goal? South Africa is home to the two largest timed cycle races in the world. If you tell someone that you cycle, chances are they will ask if you have tried your hand at one of these:
Momentum 94.7 Cycle Challenge:The “94.7” takes place in November each year. As the name suggests, you’ll get 94.7 km of cycling around Johannesburg in a vibe that few other cities can compete with.
The Cape Town Cycle Tour (aka The Argus): Every March sees a flood of cyclists descend on the Mother City to take part in one of the most beautiful races in the world. As with all good things in Cape Town, you can enjoy the sea and the mountain for 108 km of stunning scenery.
Mountain bikers like to take a couple of days out to spend in the bush, and many of the bigger races, like the Absa Cape Epic or the Nedbank Sani2C, are ridden over a number of days. However, as a beginner, this is probably biting off a little more than would be advisable. In fact, when it comes to mountain biking, the races are generally pretty tough. Rather take a little longer in training before starting with a single day event such as the Lions Karoo to Coast. This 100 km off-road race goes from Uniondale to Knysna via the Prince Alfred’s Pass.
SA Express will for the period from the 05th March – 10th March transport passengers bicycles free of charge Bloemfontein,Durban,East London, Port Elizabeth and Walvis Bay.
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