10 thing I wish I knew when I started cycling

As a long time cyclist, I must say you've compiled an excellent list. Ride safe & have fun.

I am an avid cyclist and Carolin absolutely nailed it. The only other thing I would mention is to always use high protection sun screen as cyclists we are exposed to the sun.

Another rule: When trying a new hobby, interest, pursuit, etc., start slow and small and don't go overboard right away. Like, don't go from not riding a bike much if at all to doing 3-5 hour rides regularly. That's bound to lead to injuries, health issues, frustration and burnout. Work your way into it and if it take you'll be doing it for years. You're not looking to prove anything or make up for lost time, but to enjoy yourself and get fitter. This applies to bike maintenance and repair too, of course. While it's important to understand how your bike works and be able to do basic maintenance and repair work on it, as you won't always be near a bike shop that's open when something goes wrong, you shouldn't try to learn and do too much of it too fast. Start by learning how to fix a flat, adjust derailleur and brake cable tension (if you have traditional ones, and the corresponding adjustments if not), center brake pads and keep them from rubbing, reattach a chain that's fallen off, clean and lube your chain and parts, replacing a cassette, etc., and work your way up to more difficult tasks (if you so wish) like replacing your cables (or hydraulics and wiring), adjusting play in bearings, truing a wheel, etc. But, even if you never bother with more complex maintenance and repair tasks (and that's fine), everyone should be able to do the ones that come up during rides, or else you're likely to have to get a ride back home. Oh, and, of course, take all the tools and parts you might need for these on your rides, e.g. multitool with chain breaker, tire levers, spare tube or two, patch kit, spare quick links, etc., and lights if you get stuck out after dark.

G'day Carolin, that is a great list! One thing I would add for anyone who is riding on the road is to buy a decent set of front and back lights for you bike. Not just for night - but on a daytime flash during the day. Being seen by (increasingly distracted) drivers on our roads - hundreds of metres out from where you are - is one way to avoid being hit! And if you ride a lot on quiet, country roads, a tail light with an integrated radar to warn you of vehicles approaching behind is another brilliant addition to your bike. Worth the investment!

I'm 65 years old and have recently taken up bike riding, I've a lot to learn but sites like this is just what I need, thanks

A couple more: 1. Take a little bit of $ + travel card with you in case you run out of food or maybe need to get public transport if you have a mechanical 2. Don't let your bike sit in the garage wet after a rainy ride, wipe it down, wipe the chain and relube to prevent rust, 3. If you are out and about and need to lay your bike down, do so on the none derailleur side. Also, it's amazing how many people you see with the seat way too low- your knees shouldn't come up round your ears! I like the seat as high as is comfortable to stretch out the legs properly Last one, helmets need to be on properly and tight enough round your chin so it doesn't fall off your head if you crash! Actually this is the last one- Cars might not see you- be careful and assume they can't if you are passing intersections where they pull out. At night have lights!

You are so great! Your voice is so needed. Thank you.

Agree with all. Well said. I do wear a seamless undershort. This allows the layers a bit of slide without binding.

Very well done video! Clearly articulated and you hit all the salient points a beginner needs. Kudos!

Thanks the info on the video is so good for beginners been riding since the end of pandemic but started on bmx when i was in grade school

Fantastic advice, Carolin! great job! be safe and I hope to see you around the roads near SF!

You are right about a flat, it's a skill that needs practice. Good technique is a real help.

Very useful tips either as a reminder, validation or just additional technical information all bikers need to do every ride.. tfs!

4:14 YES. FINALLY finally, someone else, AGAIN , said something on How to Fix a Flat! Thank you very much.

Great video. I've just taken up cycling again after some years away and these tips will really help. Thank you and happy cycling 🤗

Along with eating on a regular basis drinking water at the same pace or sooner is mandatory. I carry two bottles and always start out with both of them full. You have put together an excellent list, I really enjoy your channel.

Carolin -- I have been road bike riding for 40 years, you have made a good list that will help beginners,

Fantastic tips. Thank you for this!

Well said, thank you!

Soreness tends to be from muscles; pain tends to be from joints. Nice breakdown, Carolin, especially the chapterization!