Let's Cycle
Decide if you want to mountain bike or cycle on the road.
What is your cycling goal: casual rides on the weekend, exercise, or planning on eventually doing long-distance rides?
Mountain bikes are meant to ride off-road and are less suitable for long distances.
Road bikes are lightweight with skinny tires meant for riding longer distances at higher speeds.
Beginners
First you need to size your bike. Your local bike shop can help with this.
Pick a bike that fits your budget and riding style.
Get geared up
Most important a helmet.
Helmets must be worn at all times while riding.
Lock (if you plan to leave the bike anywhere).
Bike lights.
Gloves.
Padded cycling shorts or longs for winter, a base layer, jersey and quality waterproof jacket.
Shoes
Track pump (for use at home), mini pump, puncture repair kit, tire levers, spare tubes and a multi-tool.
A water bottle or two.
You can also opt for a cycling computer to track mileage and navigating routes.
Starting cycling with standard flat pedals and athletic shoes.
Later you may want to transition to road bike shoes and clipless pedals.
Create a Habit
Your first few rides might be tough, your body is adjusting to the stress of a totally new activity.
Make riding a habit.
Don’t expect to magically become a morning person just because you have a new bike.
Start small and grow from there, don’t plan to ride 100km in the first few months.
Lay out your kit, fill your bottles, and pump up your tires ahead of time.
Preparation will prevent excuses.
Setting a long-term goal is a great way to stay engaged and track progress. You can aim to ride a certain number of days a week or look for a local charity ride, or create your own long-term mileage goal.
Ride safe
Wear your helmet
Wear a cloth face covering in public and social distance.
When riding alone, always carry a basic multi-tool, a form of identification, cash and your phone in case of an emergency.