Choosing Cycling Equipment

Choosing the correct cycling equipment can be a confusing process. The huge amount of choices available can be overwhelming, but armed with some information you will be able to choose equipment suited to your needs.

It is important to concentrate on equipment that will provide comfort, safety and performance based on your own fitness and training targets. Even for purely recreational cycling, your safety and comfort must be paramount considerations.

The first choice of equipment must, of course, be the bicycle itself.

If you are intending to purchase a new bike, you must first assess the type of cycling you wish to do and the terrain you will be covering. There are many different types of
bicycles on the market today, and it is important to match the type of bike you buy to the style of riding you intend to do.

Choosing the Bike – Different Types of Bikes

If you intend to ride primarily on paved surfaces then your choice will be a road bike. These have a light frame, narrow, smooth tires and numerous gears and are designed for speed on hard surfaces.

In contrast, if you are planning mainly cross-country riding over rough terrain then you will need a mountain bike, heavier of frame and with wider, deeply treaded tires for increased grip.

For cycling holidays, or where you intend to carry a large amount of equipment for camping or fishing, a touring bike is the perfect choice for all types of terrain and carrying luggage.

If you are undecided about the type of riding you will do a sport recreational bike is the ideal compromise. Lighter than a touring bike and more comfortable than a road bike these are the best choice for a beginner or fair-weather cyclist.

For serious cyclists who want to be involved in racing there are also time trial bikes. These are designed for speed, not comfort and are not a good choice for every-day cycling.

Other Essential Cycling Equipment

The next most important item on your cycling shopping list needs to be a helmet.

A correctly fitting, quality cycling helmet is an investment in your safety and should not be overlooked. There are many stylish as well as functional helmets on the market so choose one that you like and it will not be a chore to wear it.

Shoes & Pedal Systems

Selecting shoes and a means of attaching your feet to the pedals is a matter of personal preference. Most riders today choose a clipless pedal system although some still prefer the more traditional method of toe clips and straps.

Shoes relate to the type of bike you ride. There are off-road or mountain shoes for use with mountain bikes and rough terrain riding; racing shoes with racing cleats
mounted into the soles, these are stiff and not comfortable for walking; touring shoes are similar to running shoes in appearance but also have built-in cleats.

Carrying Water

Proper hydration is vital for your health and well-being whilst cycling. A water bottle or preferably two and a bottle cage that can be mounted to your bike for easy
portability of your water bottles are cycling equipment essentials.

Saddlebag Emergency Kit

Your bike should have a saddlebag containing a puncture repair kit and, if you do not have a bike mounted pump, then air cartridges should be carried for the inevitable puncture. A small first-aid kit is also a good idea.

Clothing & Eyewear

Sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes from debris and insects.

Gloves worn even in warm weather protect your hands from damage.

The clothing you wear for cycling depends entirely on the weather. Remember to check the forecast before setting out and carry extra clothing in case it becomes colder than anticipated. Cycling shorts and a thin jersey are usually enough for warm weather cycling.

As you progress with your cycling, there are other types of equipment that you might like to own. For example a bike computer and a heart rate monitor to track your improvement in fitness. These, however, are not important in the early days.

Above all, cycling should be enjoyable. It is an excellent form of exercise for cardiovascular fitness and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

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