Too often, the bicycle becomes a means to an end. We use them to stay fit, pedaling our way to healthier limbs, lungs and hearts. We compete either for a victorious win or to support a cause. Even the need to get from place to place gives us an excuse to use our bicycles. But that may not be why we started to ride in the first place.
“Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride.”
John F. Kennedy, U.S. president
Riding offers something to our spirit, something we might have felt when we initially started to ride as adults. The simplicity, the thermos-dynamics, the reminiscent recapturing of childhood, the thrill of the downhill pull, these sensations are the very embodiment of freedom.
“Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race.”
H.G. Wells, novelist
As you reflect on the independence our country enjoys this 4th of July weekend, consider committing your next ride to freedom. Unplug that GPS, leave the calorie or mile counter at home, and let the wind lead you. Choose a favorite route, someplace new, or a trail that allows you to enjoy beautiful nature- or cityscapes. Bask in the joy of riding. Make frequent stops, breathe deeply, and take in the view. Scream “wee” when zipping down a hill like you did as a kid if that will rekindle the fun aspects of riding for you.
There’s a whole lot of riding going on. This weekend that is. (If you happen to be in the Waxahachie area this Saturday be sure to check out the Cow Creek Country Classic Ride that we blogged about yesterday.) Another option for wheeled weekend recreation is happening Saturday June 27th in Seymour, Texas. The Wild Pig Pedal put on by the Seymour Chamber of Commerce offers a shorter course and a smaller community. For registration information, check out www.cityofseymour.org/chamberofcommerce/wild-pig-pedal. Chamber Chairman James Stanlee, an active participant and eager fellow rider, tells all below.
Why join your ride?
It is fun, good exercise, and since it is small it gives you a great opportunity to fellowship with other riders. Our ride is challenging enough to practice for other endurance rides. Many people use our ride to prepare for Wichita Falls Hotter than Hell 100.
How long has your ride been around?
2015 is our 6th Annual ride.
What was the motivation behind starting the ride and who benefits from it?
We began the ride to generate tourism and community involvement for the month of June as well as develop a fund raiser for the Chamber.
How have they been able to utilize funds in the past?
The funds are put back into the Chamber to support and promote the next year’s ride and supplement other programs such as our Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day programs , Christmas and rodeo parades, and other annual events. It helps provide a free BBQ lunch and homemade ice cream after the ride. There are always signs to replace, flyers to print, and banners to create. Since the Chamber is membership based it often needs extra funding to help with its mission.
Logistically can you give us an idea of how many volunteers, finances and planning it takes to put on this event?
We have great volunteers who help register, make the homemade ice cream ( our signature!), those who work the 5 rest stops, and sponsor the ride itself which helps pay for the free T-shirts that are distributed to the riders. Because we are small, we work with a small group of dedicated people. Those include staffing from the hospital and many other businesses that man the rest stops (up to 5 each stop), help serve the meal and work the SAG wagons, along with the EMS, the police force, and the county sheriff’s dept who help us make it a safe ride. It probably averages one volunteer/supporter per each participant. We begin the first week after the event while it is fresh on our minds with a wrap-up session. This meeting discusses the rights, the wrongs, the new vision for the next year, and the sharing of stories – our reward for putting on the event. Meetings continue monthly at our Chamber meetings until two months out from the event where we begin our weekly plannings.
What is the most rewarding experience of hosting this event?
Those who volunteer for this event love what they do. That is the glory of having volunteers. They wouldn’t do it if they didn’t like it, unlike say, some paid employees. We enjoy the feedback from the participants. It’s the camaraderie that keeps us excited to invite riders back year after year. We enjoy the opportunity to meet new people with the same common bond. We enjoy the entertaining aspect while the economic impact is certainly an advantage to our businesses. It is our desire that the riders drive away with a happy thought about our community in hopes that they will want to return and more often than to just participate in the annual ride.
What is the average number of participants?
We have about 50 to 60 participants. However, our ride is not necessarily focused on quantity but more about quality. To us, the smaller rides are more personal. We like the one on one contact. We have many who return each year and call us by our first name. However, many admit it is the homemade ice-cream and often request a certain flavor in an early email, this year it is peach and chocolate most requested.
What can folks do to support you and your mission?
Our new brochures say, “We Love Company!” Just being able to promote our community and all the events we do annually, especially this event, is our mission. We really do love tourist and recognize the importance of them for a healthy economy.
Do you ride, and if so, what kind of bicycle do you have?
Yes I do ride, a lot. It is my escape from day to day stress. I get anxious if I can’t ride everyday. I don’t even care if it is raining. Some of my most enjoyable rides have been in rain. I have many stories to tell while preparing for rides all over Texas and Oklahoma. One involves hitting a deer, while another where I was thrown over the hood of a farmer’s pickup truck. Both of those took a little time to recover from but I’m here to tell about it. I must enforce the fact here that neither incidents were on the routes we have chosen for our event. My bicycle is an Orbea with Italian components (gears, etc) and French wheels. It weighs 16 lbs and you might say it is of a European style.
Anything else you’d like to tell folks about this ride?
Our event is not a race. It is designed for any purpose you wish to use it as. If it is endurance, we have the hills and often the wind and the heat. If it is for a family outing we have the friendly rest stops with peanut butter sandwiches! And if you are just trying to beat your own time, we have no time limit. A time limit is often practiced at other rides. We leave no rider behind!! The event is over when the last rider pulls in. And we keep close tabs on all riders. It pleases us when someone finishes that last mile pushing him/herself to overcome the agony they might be enduring. We rejoice when they make it and are there for them when they suffer defeat – never being judgmental – always glad they chose us!
With the first day of summer behind us and the weather improving after a long, crazy spring, the opportunities to ride are increasing. Our blog will be filled with riding interviews to help you plan your ride schedule for the season. Many are happening all around Texas this weekend. One such ride is the Cow Creek Country Classic in Waxahachie, where the Rotary Club is excited to host it with many projects and causes in mind. Waxahachie Rotary Secretary Melissa Ballard is going to give us the 411 on their super fantastic fundraiser and encourages you to join the friendly citizens for a fun packed Saturday! For registration information, go to www.cowcreekcountryclassic.org/Information.aspx.
Why join your ride? It has a route or distance for all types of riders, from the family to the hard core.
How long has your ride been around?This is the 29th year.
What was the motivation behind starting the ride and who benefits from it? It was created as a fundraiser, and has become our largest fundraiser. All of the proceeds go back into our community such as YMCA, Senior Citizens Center, scholarships, wheel chair ramps, Ellis County Youth Expo, United Way of West Ellis County, disaster relief, plus many more.
Logistically can you give us an idea of how many volunteers, finances and planning it takes to put on this event?It takes us approximately 150 volunteers and we work on it year round.
What is the most rewarding experience of hosting this event? Seeing the friendly riders who enjoy themselves in our community and come back year after year. I have been working on this ride 13 years and see some of the same faces I saw back then.
What is the average number of participants? 1,400
What can folks do to support you and your mission?Word of mouth, social media and join us!
Do you ride, and if so, what kind of bicycle do you have?I do not have the time.
Anything else you’d like to tell folks about this ride?Come to Waxahachie and enjoy our beautiful community and the friendly faces!
It may be far off, but the HOT Recumbent Rally and Rodeo taking place in February 2016 has a limited number of spots, and they’re filling up fast! The original HOT mama Jane Knight tells all below and encourages participants to grab their spot for a one-of-a-kind experience!
Why join your ride?
The HOT (Heart of Texas Recumbent Rally and Rodeo) is a three day celebration for those who like to ride reclined! The Hot is NOT an “organized ride” where you arrive, wave to a few people, eat a couple of bananas and a cereal bar and go home.
The HOT consists of three days of being in the recumbent culture. There is a Laid Back Social for everyone to bring a “pot luck” snack and meet and greet the other Bent riders. During the Social, there will be trikes and bikes to test ride, as well as several neat “gizmos” that will make riding more fun. Would you rather ride than sit around and yadda, yadda, yadda? Head to the Veloway with a group to ride around in circles!
On Saturday, set your alarm to be on time for school! Don’t worry, you will NOT sleep through these classes! Recumbent University is held to teach us a thing or two about recumbent mechanics and some great riding tips from Dan The Man Hansen, who rides ridiculously far and fast in his big yellow “banana” (recumbent velomobile. Don’t miss the fantastic raffle we have to raise money for charity – lots of FANTASTIC prizes to be won. Saturday afternoon will be the much anticipated HOT Rodeo. Hey – this is Texas – we need a rodeo to make the event true Texan! Saddle up your bent to run the barrel race, pole bending, and for those with a need for speed, the “HOT Shot” all out drag race for the bragging rights to fastest recumbent bike and trike in Texas! In 2016, Austin Events and Lighting is the host of the Rodeo. Bring your boots – there will be boot scootin’ music and a DJ during the rodeo to make us rock and roll the entire time!
Sunday morning, all the bents get together for a farewell ride. This is NOT a fancy smansy organized ride with cute high school girls handing out Gatorade and cookies. This is a totally unsupported, on your own chance to just do some riding with birds of the same feather. No police to make sure you don’t get run over. You can call us and some one will show up in a minivan to pick you up if you have trouble or just poop out. There are 4 ride levels – the Cowpoke Crawl for those who like to stop and smell the roses (or are going so slow they don’t even have to stop to take a whiff while they pass the roses) that is about ten miles. For those that like to go a little faster and a little farther, there is the Scenic route that goes about 10-12 miles an hour for about 15 miles. The Semi Tough will clip at about 15 miles and hour for a little over 20 miles, and the Warriors go ridiculously fast (18+ miles an hour for forty miles – DO NOT do the Warriors if you cannot keep that pace — you will get left in the middle of nowhere and left to fend for yourself.
A ticket to the HOT will get you lunch on Saturday, a TERRIFIC messenger bag you can carry everywhere you go and look good, a “fandana” microfiber skull cap, headband, scrunchy – whatever you can think of uses for it. We don’t like pin on paper numbers that ruin your expensive jerseys and shirts with those annoying pin holes. Besides, our backs are against a seat – where do you PUT those tacky numbers? Instead, we have super nylon neck wallets that can hold a cell phone, money, keys – anything small that you always have a hard time finding a place for. And to show you just how far we go to make this a unique event — you have COLOR CHOICES for these items. Lots of other perks come with registration – too many to list.
What is the average number of participants?
The HOT is a unique chance for those who ride recumbents to spend time with the other bent people in the world to celebrate the fun of owning a recumbent. Easy Street Recumbents in Austin, Texas is the sponsor of the HOT, and they roll out the red carpet for those attending. However, there is a limit of 100 HOTties (the ones attending). When the number goes over 100, the fun starts being lost. They want a quality experience for the HOTties. So register as early as you can – once the 100th spot is taken, the HOT is officially off limits.
What was the motivation behind starting the ride and who benefits from it?
The HOT first started with just a handful of Catrike recumbent trike owners setting together to have fun in 2009. It has grown by leaps and bounds. In 2015, the HOT was sold out by January 2. Riders from all over the country (even the United Kingdom!) all become Honorary Texans for three days. Riders from New York, Ohio, Minnesota, Michigan, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Illinois, Kansas, Florida, Oregon – ALL OVER – descend on Austin for the HOT.
The HOT has raised money to provide trikes to the physically disabled who otherwise would never know the joy and freedom that comes with riding a recumbent. Also, the HOT raises money for Ataxia research, as some of our HOTties are battling this disease. In essence, the HOTties work to help those who could benefit from the tremendous benefits from riding reclined.
Jane Knight is the official “HOT Mama.” Jane first started this venture when she purchased her Catrike 700 in 2008. She wanted to become friends with others who rode recumbent cycles, and started organizing everyone to have rides. Easy Street Recumbents could not resist becoming the host, as the recumbent world is tight knit and likes to have fun. Easy Street generously became the force behind hosting the HOT. Shelley Stracener has brought her top notch skills to help Jane on board, and the HOT always comes off as being a three day party for recumbent folks. Many close friendships have been made by those attending the HOT, and the HOT has become more of a family reunion of recumbent riders than a “cycling event.”
Anything else you’d like to tell folks about this ride?
So for the Bent cyclists in the world, plan to join us February 26, 27 and 28, 2016 for one of the most fun experiences you will ever have with your recumbent trike or bike. Check out the HOT website (www.heartoftexasrecumbentrally.wordpress.com) and take time to visit every tab. BE SURE and watch the videos from the past HOT rallies so you can see the huge smiles and laughter of all those there. Don’t miss the rodeo segments — TOO FUN for words to describe!
Ever notice the pulse in your blood, the increase in energy, and all around vitality that seems to follow a ride? Granted, most of that is adrenaline. But some additional theories have been hypothesized about a link between exercising and an incredible elevation of the bodies immune system. Though none of these theories have been proven, they do align with the general patterns our bodies operate under for optimum health.
Flushing Out the Lungs
Low impact, aerobic movement often give people a quicker heart rate and leaves them out of breathe. Believe it or not, there have been those who claim that the deep panting may aid in the clean out of bacteria in your air ways and lungs. By doing so, your body is lowering your risk of viral and sinus infections. There has to be some truth to it since deep breathing techniques in yoga and other relaxation routines have been proven to do something similar.
Circulation of White Blood Cells
The police and hospital of your blood, the white blood cells in our immune system, seem to work sluggishly in people who don’t exercise, and in high gear in those who are regularly active. So not only does cycling help get rid of bacteria in your airways, but also in your life liquid. Similarly to adrenaline, the boost to your immunities is temporary, lasting less than three hours. However, that time frame is plenty to keep illness at bay. A person who works out their muscles daily is more likely to stay healthy than someone who does not.
Your white blood cells after a ride.
Slows Stress
Another level of healthfulness cycling and other exercise can give your immune system is in the production of neuro-hormones to improved cognitive function, elevated mood, and learning. In a nutshell, it drops stress, pedals you plum out of depression, and cranks up creativity and mood. Strangely enough, despite this physiological system improvement, our stress hormone cortisone actually temporarily raises during intense exercise. But the quick fall upon workout completion is what seems to fire up all the advantages our bodies get from any given ride.
A Word of Caution
All this great information doesn’t mean to go hog wild with your rides. Never push yourself too far or beyond realistic limits. Over working your body can and will erode away all the advantages above, dropping your immune system into hibernation and rendering you ill.
For maximum immunities, continue your ride habits or challenge yourself slightly. As Edward Stanley, the Earl of Derby once said, “Those who think they have not time for bodily exercise bicycling will sooner or later have to find time for illness.” (Slightly modified.) So to avoid bodily plaques, keep on riding!
If you’re looking to participate in a great ride supporting an even better cause, consider joining City House’s Collin Classic on June 13th. All profits of the ride and bike raffle go to children in need in Northern Texas. We got in touch with Rob Scichili, who’s leading the event. Check out the interview below for all the details.
The Collin Classic Bike Rally has something for everyone – from the serious cyclist to the weekend rider. We even have a Family Fun Route! With complimentary steak burgers from Texas Land & Cattle at the finish line and Crazy Water to rehydrate along the ride, and so much more. Starbucks will get you fired up with some coffee prior to the start. Chose a route from 21 to 63 miles.
Why join your ride?
All of us at the Collin Classic pride ourselves with running a top-notch ride, with convenient parking and a very good route, no matter what distance you choose. Plus all of the proceeds benefit local homeless and abused children. Come ride with us before the real heat of the summer comes along!
How long has your ride been around?
This is the 24th year for the Collin Classic. We are proud that is has become a staple on the schedule and one of the primary rides in North Texas every June.
What was the motivation behind starting the ride and who benefits from it?
The ride was started in 1991 by Collin County riders who wanted to start up a ride to call their own. The event is now owned and run by the people at City House, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to help at-risk kids in North Texas due to abuse, neglect or homelessness. The focus will always be on the ride and the cause is one that everyone supports.
How have they been able to utilize funds in the past?
City House puts the funds to good use toward the operation of its emergency youth shelter in Plano, as well as it Transitional Living Program for homeless youth.
Logistically can you give us an idea of how many volunteers, finances and planning it takes to put on this event?
There are over 300 volunteers who make the Collin Classic go – from parking attendants to SAG drivers to break point volunteers. City House has invested into the ride each year, dropping supply expenses and operating costs as a result. We work on the event year-round but we really kick it in from the first of the year through the ride in early June.
What is the most rewarding experience of hosting this event?
The reward is two-fold. We are proud to put on a ride that cyclists enjoy and come back for, keeping up the tradition that was born 24 years ago. But we are also so happy that the Collin Classic serves as a major fundraiser to help local homeless youth through City House. Everyone wins and we try and build upon it every year.
What is the average number of participants?
We have anywhere from 2,200-2,500 riders at the Collin Classic.
What can folks do to support you and your mission?
The best way people can make an impact, cyclists or otherwise, is participate in the event as a rider or volunteer, and purchasing a raffle ticket (or a five-pack) for the GIANT Bike Giveaway is huge for us. Plus you could walk away with a $10,000 bike!
Do you ride, and if so, what kind of bicycle do you have?
I do ride, having recently gotten into the sport. I have a GIANT AnyRoad bike and I love it. They make such good products and the boys at Plano Cycling & Fitness took care of me. I highly recommend them.
Anything else you’d like to tell folks about this ride?
Again, you can help us immensely buy buying raffle tickets for the GIANT bike. They are only $25 per (5 for $100) and you need not be present to win. Take your pick from a mens GIANT or a ladies LIV bike!
Maybe it’s a bit extreme to compare buying a bicycle to getting married, but the decisions and options are nearly as endless. Like many other purchases, the cool features and different bicycle styles could leave you a little befuddled. But we’ve created a handy guide to help you not only figure out which type you need, but to consider which features are worth the money for your cycling plans.
Types of Bikes
Firstly, you need to know which of the four basic types of bikes you’ll be using on the types of terrain and rides you’ll be on: Road bikes, cruisers, mountain bikes, and hybrids.
Road bikes offer a sleek and aerodynamic design for high speeds on paved surfaces. Their shape and seat put you in a riding position that bends you over the handlebars for balance and easy maneuverability. Because of the lightweight construction, road bikes can’t handle extended periods with heavy loads, and their thinner tires aren’t idle for rough paths.
Road Bike Built For Speed
Cruisers are a comfortable cousin to a road bike. Their wide seats and tires, as well as upright handlebars are made for a fun, easygoing ride rather than speedy races. Most have a single gear reminiscent of 1960s and 1970s movies set at the beach. People often chose these for their simplicity and easy maintenance.
A classic cruiser in a feminine color.
Mountain Bikes’ names imply exactly what they are used for. Wide, ribbed tires, bulky frames, and a plethora of gears create a machine that can tear up a rough mountain trail. While they may not go as fast as road bikes, they tend to last longer. Mountain bike owners can expect a comfortable riding position from their high, upright seat and straight handlebars. The popularity of mountain bikes in the last twenty years and their reasonable prices makes them an easy sell for most local bike shops. They come with lots of awesome features such as X for Just be sure that if you will be using your bicycle for ANY paved riding, you consider the last type of bicycle instead of a mountain one.
A red mountain bike ready to tear up the earth.
Hybrids are the last type of bicycle on the market. Again, their name is pretty self-explanatory. If you’re rides will be a good mixture of on and off-roading then a hybrid might be just what it demands. There are loads of options for both trail and paved rides on these kinds of bikes. Generally, they have skinny smooth tires that can go faster than mountain bikes, but seats and handlebar positions that are more upright and comfortable. A lot of college students in Eco-friendly areas chose hybrids for their campus and city rides, especially ones that include hills and require durability and cost efficiency.
A hybrid ready for anything.
These are the four basic types of bikes, but in addition to these standards the bicycle market has filled with other options.
“Road bikes come with mountain bike brakes and there’s suspension for mountain bikes,” said Gordon Johnson, Service Manager at Bicycles, Inc. in Arlington, Texas. “Even five inch wide, low pressure tires designed for snow and ice.”
With the image-based society that’s grown in America, it’s no surprise that a monster all its own, marketed as a Lifestyle Bike, has taken the market by storm. With swooping handlebars and brilliant, wild colors and patterns, this all-about-comfort machine is a highly stylized version of a cruiser. It appeals to every faucet of the just for fun crowd, from reminiscing older citizens to younger generations looking to stand out and make a statement.
A lifestyle making a bold orange-and-green statement amid its drab hangout.
Another thing many cyclists are concerned about is the material of their frame. Carbon offers an eco-friendly, conscious clearing, light-weight frame. Of course, as with most things you will get what you fork over for. Lower cost carbon frames will probably be of inferior quality and not last as long. Aluminum or an alloy carbon mix are available at a lower cost, but the ride may be a tad stiffer and rougher then you desire. Steel and titanium are close seconds compared to carbon as far as aerodynamic and durable frames are concerned. It all depends on what’s comfortable and what works into your budget.
Even if you go into a local bike shop (LBS) with some idea of what you are looking for, there are a lot of other things to consider. That is why guys like Gordon are there to ask you questions about how your bike will fit into your lifestyle.
“We ask them [patrons] whether they ride, if this is a first or second bike, what else they do to get or stay fit, and how much money they are looking to spend,” Johnson said. He knows how important some other accessories are for riding if someone new to the sport comes in, so that also gets figured into the total cost. “[People usually spend less on] a helmet and cycling shorts [than they should]. Those are for protection, and they save your butt.”
Often people also forget to take into consideration a few more necessities for their bike purchase. For example, be sure to buy a pump or CO2 canister and corresponding pump to inflate tires. Another example Johnson offered is a way to transport your bicycle to wherever you’re riding if it’s not super close. “There are some great trails at the Metroplex, but you’ve got to get your bike there.”
Once you’ve figured out the best style of bike for you, it’s time to start shopping. Here are tips to help you make the best purchase possible.
Consider Buying Used. Online and paper classifieds can be a great way to find a steal of a deal. This is especially a great idea for anyone that is just getting into cycling, has a low budget, or isn’t sure if the sport is for them yet. Be sure that you take the bike for a test ride. Most people looking to sell their two-wheeled good are reasonable enough to let you get in a good ride. We’d recommend 30 minutes or more on terrain similar to what you would be riding on. Don’t be afraid to ask after any accessories that might go with the bike. Either they’ll have some they won’t need any more that can be worked into your deal, or they are professional riders looking to upgrade and need to keep bike racks and tools for their other machines. They’ll be forthright about it either way.
If you’re still on the fence about cycling, consider this!
Borrow a Friend’s Bike. This is a great way to really know if the sport is for you, as well as the style or feel of the bike they use. More than anything else, you need to feel comfortable on the machine you invest in. So borrowing a bike for a few days or weeks and really getting a realistic feel for its style and form will help you make the most informed decision when it comes time to purchase your own.
Don’t Go Cheap. We mentioned in the frame material comments above that the adage “you get what you pay for” is especially true in the cycling market. As tempting as it is to base your decision on price tags, in the long run you’ll be wasting money. If you buy cheap, you will be back for another bike sooner because it will break down sooner. Or you’ll find yourself back in your LBS for maintenance. The bottom line is that if price is the biggest concern, save up a little longer and get what you need and are most comfortable with.
Let Your LBS Help You Out. There’s a reason LBS is a commonly known acronym in the cycling community. Most do so much more than offer bikes, accessories, and safety equipment. Your local bike shop can assist in maintenance or learn to care for your own machine. In addition, they can adjust seat and bars to your body for maximum efficiency and comfort. Many also have bulletin boards covered top to bottom with used bike ads, event information, and other great resources. Others, such as Bicycles, Inc and The Bike Stop in Wichita Falls, have awesome websites chock full of resources and blogs with great topics. They’re here to help, so let them.
Of course, we here at Wheel Brothers also are here for you, so feel free to shoot us questions or comments via email, or add your input on buying a bicycle in the comments below. We love hearing from you.
Like we mentioned, buying a bicycle is a big investment in your future. Okay, maybe not quite as big as marriage, but as you can see its going to take some time, perspiration, and serious thought to commit.
If you’ve taken up cycling in the last year and find yourself desiring to complete your first 100 mile ride, you might have a lot of questions. What should you take? Should you go with a group? How can you make sure your body is up to the task? What if you get lost?
These are all great questions worth taking the time to find the answers to before you attempt it. A successful century depends on two things; Preparation is vital for body and machine, and follow through on your plans will get you all the way to the last mile. Use the information we’ve gathered to make it a great first century of many to come.
Prepping
A century is a thrilling and extreme ride, and not to be taken lightly. Before you even hop on your bike, you need to consider what you’re currently riding on a weekly basis and see if you need to gradually add more in order to prepare for the big ride. Once you are comfortable at around 100 miles per week, you’ll be better able to tackle a full century. If you can managed to do more than that prior to the big event, so much the better! It’s ideal to do at least one 70 mile ride prior to the century. A spreadsheet or riding log can be helpful to keep track of these training miles. In addition to total distance, you can also monitor your route, speed, and heart rate.
Don’t despair if you have a hard time getting in this many hours. It is possible to only ride on weekends and still be prepared for completing a century. But make sure to get out for a ride a couple times each week to keep the muscles in shape, and do some other form of exercise as well. Strength and cardio training can increase every facet of your health for the ride. The more you flex your muscle memory and strengthen your body, the less pain and frustration you’ll feel on the 100 mile ride.
Try to increase the length of your longest ride toward the century mark gradually. Don’t increase your longest ride from 25 miles to 70 in one week. But do try to do at least a 70 mile ride prior to doing the actual century. Your overall pace on the 70 mile ride should be a good indication of your pace on the century. Make sure that hills are included in these rides so you can get used to not only the change of pace needed to overcome them, but even if your century will be a fairly flat ride, hills do wonders for your endurance and strength.
Whether your century will be a solo affair or a group ride, consider training with friends. Not only is it more fun, but it’s cheap accountability and great practice. If you don’t have any friends inclined to cycling, consider reaching out to a local group. Often local bike shops or health clubs will have flyers with contact information or planned rides and their meeting points. Getting involved will make a world of difference for your resolve. Plus, riders who’ve already rode in one or more centuries will be full of great advice!
In addition to mental and physical preparation, keeping your machine in top shape and knowing how to fix any problems you may encounter on the road is a wise way to spend some time.
A century isn’t an excuse to buy a new bike, but it may be a good idea to change the tires to something slick and narrow. They’re available in sizes that fit mountain bikes or hybrids and work just fine. It might also be a good idea to invest in bar ends if you have simple and short flat bar. As long as your bike is comfortable, then it will work great for your first century. You want to make sure you’re not over reaching for your bars or sitting awkwardly on your seat. If you’re worried about bike fit, make sure to head down to your local bike shop and gather some expert advice.
Just before the actual century, it’s also very wise to check tire pressure, brakes, gear shifter, bracket, headset, and wheels. Also check for loose bolts, bottle holders, fenders, and pedals. An in-depth inspection will ensure that no surprises hit you on this endurance ride. Another good idea is to practice changing or fixing a flat so you can do it quickly and efficiently in a real emergency situation. Just don’t over tighten things or you may have a hard time shifting.
If you don’t feel confident in doing a thorough review of your machine, take it on down to your local bike shop and explain what you plan to do. They can help you get everything in order for your century. Do this at least four days before the ride and use the bike at least once before the ride so if the shop makes a mistake, you’ll have time to let them correct it.
It’s worth it to learn some minor bike repairs, so first century might be a good excuse to do it. Ask a veteran rider or the local bike shop employees to show you the basics. Flat changing and adjusting the derailleurs are a couple examples of things you might want to know.
Alright, your body and bike are ready, but maybe you have no idea what to pack for 100 miles of possibility. Check out our recent post on the basics your fanny pack should hold, including flat repair items, basic first aid, money and identification, and quick energy fixes. In addition to these, you should also through a rain jacket and additional clothing relevant to the terrain and weather of your century, some additional tools such as chain break took, spoke wrench, screwdrivers, hex and box wrenches, and of course a map or GPS to keep yourself on the right route. Also, you may want to give your water bottle(s) a good, germ killing scrub out to avoid stomach problems on the ride. Also, a sore bum is a possibility, so it’s important to invest in some thick biking shorts and some chamois butter. Chamois butter is available at most bike shops and worth its weight in gold.
The Actual Ride
You’ve researched, worked out, packed, and tuned. Now it’s the big day. Here are a couple tips to occasionally remind yourself as you’re doing your first major ride.
Firstly, stay as loose as you can. Clinging to your handle bars or constantly being tense will knot up your muscles and make starting again hard once you’ve stopped for a break. Staying loose is also important to maintain communication with your fellow riders or vehicles you may be sharing your route with. Relaxing your shoulders and slightly bending your elbows will keep your neck and back strong for the entire ride.
Remember that map or GPS we recommended? They may not entirely keep you on route. If you think you’ve become lost, don’t panic. Keep a level head and get yourself back on track.
It’s very tempting on the ride to push as long and hard as you can, ignoring your body’s signals for food and water. It’s super important to eat something before you start, as well as maintaining energy sources and hydration. Don’t forget and don’t resist. You’ll never finish the ride if your body is too weak to do so.
With these suggestions, your first century can be a major source of enjoyment, fulfillment, and memories. Are you planning your first century now? Please tell us when it is and how you’re getting ready for it in the comments below.
Whether you’re riding on your own or in a group, there is a set of rules you should follow as a courtesy to everyone you share the road or path with. This post is a reminder for the veteran cyclists and a mini-lesson for newer ones.
Relaxed and Steady Riding
This courtesy suggestion is three fold. Not only do you need to keep your speed and line steady, but you also need to keep arms relaxed and off the aero bar to avoid wobbling, and ultimately, crashing. (The only exceptions for the aero bar are if you are leading the pack and pulling or solo riding, otherwise, use the grips!) If you need to move to the front, maintain a steady speed; don’t accelerate! Don’t bounce around as this can cause nervous energy among your group. In addition to speed, the pressure you put on your pedals should also be steady regardless of whether you are going up or down steep inclines, battling or leveraging winds, or excessively using brakes. (If you must use your brakes, gently do so in short, quick tugs of the front and pedal against the resistance. By doing it this way, you can moderate speed without scaring your rear group mates.
Never Overlap Wheels
If you have this bad habit, now is the time to break it! You’ll save yourself some group loathing and road rash if you do. When two tires rub, someone is going to get hurt. It only takes one person in front of you to move over a couple inches and unknowingly tapping your front wheel. This usually happens when someone zones out or fixates on something else. Pay attention and consume an energy gel if you need it to snap you back into cycling mode.
Changing Positions
It is common for beginner rides to stop pedaling just before pulling off the front. If you do this, it will cause a pile-up of slowdowns along the whole group. As mentioned above, keep a steady pressure on the pedals until you have cleared the front. Once you’ve pulled off, soft pedal and let your group mates pull through, only applying more pressure to effortlessly take your spot at the rear. Be sure to time it well or a gap will open up and you’ll be playing catch up. A suggested method to return to the line is to ease the bike sideways before your body. In doing this, you will have the chance to pull back if necessary to avoid collision. But if the bike moves in correctly, follow through by leaning your body over as well.
Incline and Decline
If you need to stand in order to climb up a hill, shift up a gear to compensate for a slower rhythm, keeping steady pressure on your pedals. Not only is this considerate for your rear wheel brothers who might end up riding your butt, it also gives you stability. When you change to a sitting position, do the opposite; downshift, and then keep steady pressure on pedals to maintain constant speed.
When navigating down a decline, your actions should be determined by your position in the group. Leaders need to keep pedaling to compensate for wind resistance, and rear riders should back off a few lengths to fend off drafting acceleration. If you happen to be a middle man (or woman), you’ll need to sit up, use light breaking or the wind for resistance, and keep pedaling to help maintain spacing and cool down legs from the last major incline they conquered.
Ooze Predictability
This suggestion is a biggie, and all the rest we mention below piggy back off of it. When people know what to expect from you they can act and react accordingly. While you might be aiming for style by riding smoothly and efficiently, it’s also a matter of survival. If you can’t keep steady and don’t maintain predictability in every facet of riding (changing positions, following traffic laws, etc…) you are putting you and any riding partners in a dangerous situation. While your riding fellows may not admit to the amount of stress your actions are causing, drivers are sure to. Cyclists won’t be taken seriously or be safe if they don’t ride responsibly.
Signal
This one doubles back to predictability. Signaling let’s your whole group know what you intend to do. Make sure to make eye contact with oncoming traffic when you reach intersections or places you need to merge. Stick your right or left arms out depending on which way you intend to turn. The whole bent arm signal is inefficient and has been shown to confuse vehicle drivers. If you are part of a large group, use your voice along with arm signals.
Broadcast Hazards to Your Pack-mates
The lead wheel brother is responsible for keeping everyone safe, so announcing potholes, rocks, traffic issues, or other problems you foresee is vital to everyone’s safety. Don’t be afraid to be vocal; make sure they know when slowing, stopping, turning or any other actions are going to take place to keep the group suave and cautious. If you’re not in the lead position, it’s still your job to relay the information you’re given further back in the group. Also, if problems are coming from a side or rear approach, it’s important that the eyes and ears send the message forward. Every person in the group needs to keep communication open for the good of all.
When Separated
At intersections it’s common that the group can get split in two. If this should happen, the lead group should soft pedal until the stragglers catch up again. On the other hand, if you happen to be the one that gets stuck a red light, stop! Running the red light to stay together isn’t worth the risk of injury or raging traffic reactions.
If you happen to be biking on trails or in areas without intersections it’s wise to preplan certain points on your route for breaks. If you do this, it can give any one that needs to regain his or her strength or energy time to return to the group.
It’s important that everyone is riding cohesively to stay safe and enjoy the route. We hope you found these helpful and will put them into practice if you aren’t already. Are there any other courtesies during a group ride you’d like to mention? Please tell us in the comments below!
Being prepared is essential to any long-distance ride. Things happen to even the most careful of cyclists. You don’t want to be the person dropping things from an overfull pack like crumb trail for other cyclists or weighing yourself down. But it is important to have a few essential things tucked away just in case. Here’s a list of bare minimum needs for every ride.
1. Spare tire tube, tire levers, patch kit, pump or co2 cartridge
A flat is the most common and worse slow-up a cyclist can have. Therefore, a spare tire tube needs to be readily available. What’s great about the tubes is they don’t take up much space, so they’re a great fanny pack filler. A patch kit is worth taking space as well in the event of another flat. (Hey, cyclists have bad days!) Of course, having a tube will do you no good without the proper means to air it up and remove the old one. So you need to also have two tire levers stashed in your waist pack. Getting air into a new or patched tube can come in two forms. Either keep a CO2 cartridge in your fanny or keep a pump in a jersey pocket or strapped to your frame. CO2 cartridges are a little more expensive, but they are super quick to fill the tube and get you back on the road.
2. Multi-Tool
There are a myriad of screws and bolts on your bike, and bringing that many tools in your fanny pack isn’t realistic. A multi-tool is the best solution. There’s a slight chance it might not have what you need, but that slight is sliver thin. The other benefit is that you might just have what you need to help another cyclist out if you happen to see one in need of some assistance.
3. Sunscreen and Lip Balm
This one is especially important in summer months as cyclists gear up for major riding events. The health of your skin should be a priority. No one enjoys trying to pedal and feeling the skin of their thighs or knees painfully crinkle with the effort. Not only does the sun wreak havoc for your skin, but the hot air, wind, and your breathing as you ride will dry out your lips faster then anything else. Having sunscreen and some sort of lip balm will cause you a lot of discomfort both on and off the bike seat.
4. Cell Phone, I.D., and Money
These are strictly for emergency situations, but they don’t take up much space so slip them in there before each ride. You’re going to need some cash for a quick snack if you run low on energy (and didn’t bring something along. See #5) or if you get in a bad crash and need a cab home.
5. Energy Gel or Bar
It happens. You’re riding along and suddenly, your energy level dives. Having a quick energy gel shot to guzzle or a carb-stuffed bar to reenergize you for the rest of your ride is a lot more convenient than having to find a place to buy one.
6. Road Rash Treatment Kit
It happens to every cyclist at one point or another. You’re going to fast and start to wobble or swerve to avoid being nicked by an inconsiderate road ragist. The bruises can’t be helped, but if you end up in a crash that causes some serious road rash, you’re going to want a small first aid kit with the right kind stuff to get you back on your wheels. A small roll of gauze, some non-adhesive bandage material (that won’t rub the rash in the worst way), and antiseptic gel should be enough to sooth and cover up any major scrapes or skids on your skin.
A fanny pack with just these elements should be enough for any local rides, and provide anything you might need in dire circumstances.
Did we miss anything you consider a priority for your pack? Please tell us in the comments below!
