Bicycle Tips For Cyclists

Here are some of my favorite cycling tips that I have gained over time and also read over the internet. The top tip is to have loads of fun with your cycling. If you don't enjoy doing something, rather don't do it and find an alternative activity which you can enjoy. Don't try and push your cycling beyond your limits, rather take your time, build up your strength slowly, and in the end you will enjoy riding and have the stamina to do it for longer.

Tip Number 1:

Cycling takes a lot out of you, so within twenty minutes of completing a hard cycle, rehydrate yourself and eat something nourishing, or you will feel sluggish and will be ravenous later on. An energy or a protein drink will make you feel like new again.

Take extra vitamin C and E as these will help to repair muscles and abrasions if you happen to have a fall. In the mornings, make sure to eat breakfast. A nutritious cereal is normally best, and it will help to stop unhealthy cravings throughout the day. If you eat well, you will perform better.

Tip Number 2:

Even if you have never had an accident, replace your helmet as you need too. Your helmet does get worn out. Most manufactures recommend replacing it after about seven years, but it could be sooner if you are an avid cyclist. Factors such as sun exposure, cracks, and loss of form of the foam on the inside are all points to take into consideration.

Tip Number 3:

Use grease rather than oil on your chain. This is particularly true of mountain bikes where you ride through a lot of mud. The grease will last a lot longer than oil. Try mounting a 'Crud Claw' onto your cassette as this helps to scrap the mud out of your gears. To stop mud building up on your bike, spray with WD-40 or Pam.

Tip Number 4:

If you want to avoid a seized seat post, the best thing you can do is to grease the seat post, stem and bottom bracket often. Sealed bottom brackets can seize too, and this is a costly experience. Try wrapping a piece of electrical tape around your post and stem to mark the position, then remove them and wipe them down. Grease them and reinsert. You can avoid expensive problems later on if you do this every six months. Your bottom brackets should also be removed and cleaned once in a while, especially if you sweat a lot or ride in the rain.

Your spoke nipples will need a good oil about once a year. Put a drop of oil on every spoke nipple where the nipple meets the rim and where the spoke meets the nipple, working your way around the wheel slowly. In this way your spokes will be easier to adjust in the long term.

There are loads of useful cycling tips, and the above four are just the tip of the iceberg. Remember to have fun with your cycling, as the moment it becomes hard work, you are likely to quit.