When you start cycling, there is a lot of information that comes at you. Not all the information is useful at the time. Because does it matter whether you have a 10-speed, 11-speed or 12-speed group? And whether you have SRAM, SHIMANO or CAMPAGNOLO on your bike? SPD or KEO? Doesn't matter does it? That's why it's important to start with the basics. So here are 10 must-haves for novice cyclists. Nice and easy to understand and not too difficult, so that you can start as soon as possible with the best thing: cycling!
Text and photos: Nynke Cuperus
1. A good pair of cycling shorts
As a novice cyclist, you might be shocked by the price of cycling shorts, but our advice is; don't skimp. Trousers with a good chamois prevent a lot of annoying pains and therefore contribute enormously to your cycling pleasure. Of course, we are big fans of the Basque brand Etxeondo. If you still want to choose first, the website of Coat highly recommended. We recommend it when buying trousers because, thanks to its many filters, you can quickly and easily search for one that suits you.
2. Cycling shoes
If you start cycling, then of course a pair of shoes should go with it. The first thing you look at when buying shoes is the type of pedal system you use. Many cyclists use SPD-SL, recognisable by the yellow plates. Gravel bikers and mountain bikers usually use SPD because less dirt can get between them, making it easy to click in and out even in muddy conditions. When choosing your shoe size, bear in mind that your feet are probably
swell a little when you are on the bike. The size of cycling shoes may therefore differ from your normal shoe size. Make sure the shoes are snug but not pinching.
3. Useful apps
A bike computer helps you navigate, keeps track of your distance and speed and also tells you, for example, how steep a mountain is. Such a device not only makes cycling very relaxing, but it can also be great fun to keep track of all kinds of data. If you are just starting out in cycling, you will spend quite a bit of money on your new hobby. We understand that a bike computer is therefore something for your wish list. Good news: there are a lot of apps on the market that can also help you just fine! For example with Komoot find and plan the most beautiful routes, for example, and on Strava you can track your stats and share them with others.
Both apps also allow you to navigate, just keep in mind that this demands a lot from your phone's battery.
4. Cycling socks
They come in all sorts of colours, materials and price ranges. As far as we are concerned, it is fine to go for a cheaper pair, you are unlikely to notice the difference with more expensive socks. A pair of socks with a cool print can make a nice birthday present.
5. Cycling shirt
Unlike cycling shorts, you need to be a little less selective with a cycling shirt. So you can also go for a slightly cheaper model. A good cycling shirt is made of a fabric that is comfortable, breathable and moisture-regulating. Most jerseys are made of polyester, for example. Our preference is for a shirt that also has a zipped pocket, which can be handy for your keys, for example. Etxeondo has in its 'pro-line' a handy pocket for keys and for your waste of your bars.
6. Gloves
They may seem superfluous at first, because you don't wear gloves on your city bike, do you? But if you do some longer rides, you may start to feel a numbness in your hands without gloves. This is due not only to the duration of your bike ride, but also to your posture. On a road bike, you generally sit more forward, putting more weight on your hands and wrists. Gloves prevent this unpleasant feeling and also protect your hands if you fall.
7. Helmet
A good fit is essential for a helmet. Make sure the helmet sits firmly on your head. Can you move and shift the helmet? Then it is too big. Also make sure the helmet does not pinch and that it covers your whole head well. A mountain bike helmet can be recognised by a flap at the front of the helmet, helmets for cyclists are more aerodynamic.
8. Repair kit
Not the most fun purchase, but necessary. Always carry a multi-tool, spare tyre, tyre tensioners and a small bicycle pump. Nothing more annoying than being stranded in the middle of nowhere and having to call someone to pick you up. On YouTube, you will find a lot of videos explaining repairs. Bet you can manage to change a tyre too?
9. Bottle cages and bottle
Drinking enough is essential when cycling. This is because it allows you to last longer. If your fluid loss drops, so does your performance. At 2% fluid loss, you cycle according to the NFTU already some 20% slower! To avoid that, you need to empty a big water bottle every hour. So we recommend mounting two bottle cages on your bike. Optionally, you can add an isotonic sports drink like Isostar to your water. The sugars and salts in this will help you keep going for longer.
10. Cleaning products and a bicycle pump
Your new bike is something you want to last as long as possible, right? That means polishing and lubricating! In our opinion, a bucket of soapy water, chain cleaner, a cleaning brush and chain lube are indispensable to keep your bike running smoothly and prevent unnecessary wear. Another tip from us; don't throw away old t-shirts etc., save them to polish your bike with.
One Response
Personally, I would start by buying a well-fitting and comfortable-fitting bike helmet. In my opinion, we read too often and too much about accidents with severe head injuries caused by not wearing a helmet.