There’s a first time for everything. If you’ve never ridden a race bike or gravel bike, it’s a good idea to prepare for that beforehand. You won’t be the first to fall, step on a bike that’s too big or too small, or forget other handy things. If you’re starting out with cycling, here are a few tips to help you get started.
Good bike
This sounds like an open door, but if you’re going cycling for the first time, make sure you have the right bike. A racing bike should be the right size. Especially not too big, but also not too small. What you don’t want is to immediately start experiencing pain in your shoulders or knees because you don’t have the right bike. It’s important that the bike is comfortable, that you can sit on it well, so that you can concentrate on driving itself. Pay special attention to the saddle height and the distance from the handlebars.
Good equipment
When you start cycling for the first time, the right equipment is important. What should you consider?
- Helmet: this is a no-brainer. Riding without a helmet is sure to cause problems in today’s traffic. No matter how skilled you are, if a car doesn’t see you, you’re really out of luck. We speak from experience.
- Clothing: Make sure you have a pair of trousers that fit tightly, with a suspender belt in it. Otherwise, your first experience with cycling will not be a pleasant one. Wear a shirt that fits comfortably, that you can sweat in when it’s warm and that protects you well when it’s cold. Tip: also read our guides!
- Shoes: Ensure that you have suitable shoes. Too tight shoes cause tingling feet, and too large shoes cause slipping when cycling. So be sure to have suitable shoes.
- Pedals: If you don't have any bike shoes yet, you can ride with flat pedals. Otherwise, you need to check in advance which type of pedal is on the bike: Shimano SPD-SL is the most commonly used type.
- Sunglasses: always handy. Preferably ones with rubber feet so they don’t press against your ears or skull and so the glasses stay on when you start cycling.
Route planning
Plan your route in advance and choose a route that suits your level. If you are just starting out in cycling, it is wise to choose a flat or slightly hilly route, rather than a route with many steep slopes. You should also choose an area that you know a little about, so that if you have to turn back suddenly or if something happens, you don't have to think about it there as well. Plan your route easily with an app like Komoot Or just in Google maps.
Slowly build up
Start slowly and gradually build up your distance and speed. It is better to start slowly and build up gradually, rather than going too hard right away and getting tired quickly. This way you can build up your fitness and enjoy cycling without too much stress. The same applies to the number of kilometers. Don’t go for 200 kilometers at once like the pros, but build up slowly.
Take into account the weather conditions and adjust your route and outfit if necessary. For example, if it’s going to rain, a rain jacket or rain hat is handy. At such a time, choose an easier route to avoid getting into trouble on wet roads.
Other useful articles
- Do you have the taste for it and want to head to the mountains? Read our article here useful tips for first-time climbers
- Have you never been on a cycling holiday before? Our Convenient packing list helps you get well prepared to start the journey.
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.