Road Biker’s Guide to Newbie Greatness
Friday, July 11th, 2008
With gas prices somewhere up in the slap-in-the-face range, road biking isn’t just for athletes and DUI’s anymore. Looks like everyone’s jumping on the bandwagon, which is great-there’s plenty of room. Just don’t kill yourself. As you start to ride, you’ll eventually pick up a few tips here and there that’ll make things easier for you.
Instead of letting you learn on your own, I thought I’d butt in and throw out some things that are handy to know and will make your biking life a lot easier.
Learn how to fix a flat. In fact, practice it in your garage, because it’s a long walk home if your bike gets messed up. Be able to change a flat. Any bike shop has the tools needed to remove the crappy inner tube and put in the new one. Just go to where you bought your bike and ask for a tube change kit. They’ll hook you up.
I’m not patient enough to list out how the change a tire, so here’s John. He’ll help you out.
Also, I know that you look like a knob, but seriously, wear a helmet. It’s such an easy way to not become a vegetable. In fact, I’m going to go find some helmets that don’t suck and post them for you (ahem, Dan).
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point taken!
Yeah, biking is great and all, but its also pretty expensive, at least at the beginning. So much for the saving money cuz we’re not driving the gas guzzling truck anymore.
PS – this makes 3 comments for you today – and you say I’ve never left you a comment…
Thank you for this blog! I’ve had a modified road/trail bike sitting on my porch for 5+ years having only ridden it once. My big fear is getting a flat and having to walk my bike 50+ miles (I’m a dreamer) back to my car/home. After reading this entry, I may be brave enough to air up the tires and try once more.
When I had my dreads my helmet continued to grow smaller and smaller…so eventually I started riding without, being the cheapskate I am, commuting to work, etc…
But let me tell you it only takes one guy to nudge you on your bike with his crazy too high 4X to make you go out and buy one!!!
thelains