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Cycling

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Get Cycling!

 

Cycling is a fantastic way to get into the great outdoors and have fun - the extra health benefits don't really need to be pointed out! You can have a gentle cycle along flat country paths or a strenuous trek along mountain trails so whatever your fitness level cycling can be enjoyable.

If you're feeling brave you can even start cycling to and from work. Some cities have good provision for cyclists like dedicated cycle lanes and if the alternative is heavy traffic, you might find that your commute becomes shorter and cheaper.

Cycling is also a great way to meet new people. There are local cycling clubs in most towns for various abilities, from families with children to dedicated semi-pros. They always like new members and you can discover new trails with a ready-made support network.

Cycling Facts 

The original 'boneshaker' bike, popular in the late 1800s, weighed about 160lbs!

Cycling around 20 miles a week cuts your risk of heart disease to half that of non-cyclists.

Cyclists consume one-fiftieth the amount of oxygen that a motor car does, and of course cycling doesn't pollute!

You can travel over 1000km on a bike using the energy equivalent of one litre of petrol.

Cycling burns about 600 calories an hour.

Cyclists are actually exposed to less pollutants than car drivers.

Eight bikes can fit into the same space as one car.

1 in 3 adults in the UK owns a bike.

Cycling Pics 

Cyborg gaze by KarlOnSea

Cyborg gaze

Person On A Bike's gaze by KarlOnSea

Person On A Bike's g...

Cyclist gaze by KarlOnSea

Cyclist gaze

Cat Special by k.steudel

Cat Special

Complete bike by eddo.kloosterman

Complete bike

Paastreffen IX by eddo.kloosterman

Paastreffen IX

Just assembled it by eddo.kloosterman

Just assembled it

Nice Bike Drawing by KarlOnSea

Nice Bike Drawing

Clear instructions for motorists. by KarlOnSea

Clear instructions f...

"For your safety" by KarlOnSea

"For your safet...

Cycling RSS 

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Cycling Kit 

So how do you know what kit to buy to get you on two wheels? Well, a bike is the obvious starting point! A rough guideline is to spend around £500 on your first bike - this will give you the quality to do whatever you like on it but without breaking the bank. Beware of cheap bikes that offer things like 'full suspension'. The parts will be cheap and won't last!

If you're using your bike mainly to commute you might want to get a road bike. These go faster on tarmac so take less energy to move than slower mountain bikes. If off-roading is your new hobby however a mountain bike is for you. Don't be swayed by the number of gears - look for quality in the production of the bike and spend your money where it counts.

There is a good range of female-specific bikes available nowadays. These are built to women's measurements - for example they have a shorter reach from seat to handlebars. They're designed to make riding more comfortable and easier for women so you should try one out and see if it suits you better than a standard bike.

You don't really need cycling clothes - any sportswear will do, although you should beware of long trousers that could get caught in your gears! A cycle helmet is a must however for safety so get used to wearing one - you're better safe than sorry!

Some essential pieces of kit are a good bike lock, a water bottle and reflective patches for when you're cycling in the dark. A comfortable rucksack is also advisable for carrying all your things in!

Cycling Links 

Bikes
Huge range of road and mountain bikes along with lots of useful info.
Cycle Chat
Friendly cycling forum to chat with other enthusiasts.

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