Preparing for your cycle is essential to keep you safe and comfortable during the event; we’ve compiled some pointers to prepare you.
Cycling equipment
First things first – get the right equipment. These guides will help you get the right equipment, leaving you to benefit from the advantages of cycling, which are:
- You'll get fitter and feel better
- You can burn anything from 300 - 900 calories an hour
- It raises your metabolic rate, helping keep the weight off
- Cycling is a non-impact sport, so it's great for the joints
- It's environmentally friendly
- It's sociable and you'll meet new people
- It's often quicker round town than a car
Bike basics
- Ensure your bike is clean - this way you can see if there is any damaged equipment.
- Ensure your gears and brakes are in working order. Worn parts should be replaced.
- Never use new equipment for the first time at an important event – always try things out first.
- Give your bike a good once-over the day before your event – a short test ride should shake free problems that might spoil your day.
Essential kit list
- Bike
- Helmet
- Jersey
- Shorts
- Shoes
- Sunglasses
- Arm and Leg warmers
- Waterproof jacket
- Water bottles
- Energy gels/powders/food etc
- Puncture repair kit
- Spare tubes
- Pocket tools
- Cycle computer
- Sun block
- Mobile phone
