Bought A Bicycle - Tips And Advice, Please...

[jimharri]

See all those traffic lights dotted around and about? Just ignore them. Same applies to those damned pedestrians on the pavement; they're just taking the piss. And those cycle lanes? Avoid them like the plague. Ride nice and slowly (preferably two abreast with a fellow earth lover) in a "normal" lane; bound to annoy all those nasty, polluting motorists.

 

[BlueMoonRisin’]

Thank you.

Look like I’ll be spending some money on everything for the aim of saving money on petroleum haha

No probs mate. I intend to cycle the Cheshire ring sometime, I think it's about 100 miles or so and I intend to camp. Probably be a long weekend, no rush as a steady pace is better to observe the surrounding scenery. Canal cycling is a lot more pleasurable than road riding IMO, and we have some really nice countryside in the greater Manchester area.

 

[jimharri]

No probs mate. I intend to cycle the Cheshire ring sometime, I think it's about 100 miles or so and I intend to camp. Probably be a long weekend, no rush as a steady pace is better to observe the surrounding scenery. Canal cycling is a lot more pleasurable than road riding IMO, and we have some really nice countryside in the greater Manchester area.

*Bryan McFadden joke alert*

 

[JOGAMIGMOG]

I can guarantee that once you get fit, the cycling will become an absolute joy and something you'll look forward to doing each day. Be great for a progress report in say six months and also how you feel about the standards of motoring now and in six months. Welcome to the world of cycle-commuting. It's absolutely brilliant!

 

[Metal Biker]

Trouble is they don't clean some of those designated lanes and they are full of debris. Or parked cars.....or cunts walking home from the match in the cycle lanes.

Cunts

Because most cycle lanes are death traps; not thought out, placed anywhere and designed by people who don't commute.

By the way, cycle lanes are an optional lane for cyclists "safety". Most cyclists have already worked out their safety is put at more risk by using them as most pedestrians walk in them and cars park in them.

 

[Deleted member 77198]

See all those traffic lights dotted around and about? Just ignore them. Same applies to those damned pedestrians on the pavement; they're just taking the piss. And those cycle lanes? Avoid them like the plague. Ride nice and slowly (preferably two abreast with a fellow earth lover) in a "normal" lane; bound to annoy all those nasty, polluting motorists.

Having seen many cyclists over the years it’s apparent there are as many bad ones as there are bad drivers. Both are an absolute nightmare.

Both have taught me enough lessons while I’ve been driving to see how not to act behind the wheel or on the saddle.

I’m looking forward to being a good cyclist, that’s for sure.

 

[Uncle Wally One Ball]

A well laid trap this. Should catch a fair few cycle haters.

Im not biting for that reason

 

[discopop]

Maintenance wise perform an “M” check every other day or so, start at the hubs make sure your tyres are free of debris and correctly inflated, under inflation is pretty much the main reason for punctures especially the dreaded snake bite, check the axle skewers are nicely tightened most are quick release so it’s a doddle to do. Check the seat post and saddle and then down to the bottom the bottom bracket and pedals to make sure there is no play same for the handle bar contact points and check the brakes.

Regular maintenance, use a micro fibre cloth (it’s tip I picked up off a few of my commuter mates) to wipe the chain down once a week and reapply oil muc off brand is well regarded and Aldi always seem to have offers on. Invest in a track pump for the garage/shed and a decent small one for out on the road, carry at least one spare tube and don’t be fucking about trying to patch an inner tube whilst out it’s a waste of time and effort especially if it’s pissing it down as Sod’s law it will be when you puncture, in fact multi buy offers on tubes make it a complete waste of time to do anyway so bring the old tube home and bin it.

One thing worth doing is when you have your saddle height sorted make a note and every now and then remove the seat post and clean off otherwise it could quite easily seize up

Out on the road just keep your wits about you check wing missions on cars if they are in you are safe if out beware and give yourself the right space because being car-doored is no fun whatsoever believe me I have done the superman shit and it hurts. Avoid puddles for the main reason the grid could be gone!

As already mentioned fuck off the cycle paths they are puncture city, invest in a small bell as they are mandatory in fact any new bike whatever the spec should have one supplied.

Clothing wise there is masses of stuff for general bike riding out ther but if you do cycle regular invest and learn to use clipless pedals believe me they are a massive step up from flatties and your cycling becomes a lot more efficient you can get Mountain bike or road versions and eventually you just forget you are clipped in.

Insurance wise check out British cycling membership in case of any accident they are excellent.

Mainly just enjoy it because when you are out it’s just brilliant for clearing the head of clutter not to mention the other fitness benefits

 

[denislawsbackheel]

Cheers fella, I’ll take that all on board.

I remember doing the Cycling Proficiency test when I was in Primary School so remember the hand signals.

Think I’ll start watching some bike maintenance videos online.

Never realised denim was good cycle clothing martial. Think I’ll be alright over the Summer months, but need to buy some suitable clothing and lights for the Winter though.

What about a bell? When I went to Amsterdam everyone seemed to have a bell on their bike.

In which case wear the badge with pride and put the yellow pennant felt flag on your handlebars to let everyone know you are not to be trifled with.

 

[denislawsbackheel]

A bell is essential to warn others of your presence, especially if you ride on the canal... I used to be a road cyclist and it's important to ride in a straight line within a metre of the kerb. Too many cyclists weave in and out to avoid potholes on the road. Also worth turning your head when going around parked cars to avoid being hit. It's all about being seen and riding safely, so hi-vis clothing a decent helmet and lights are a must. I think being a cyclist and ex motorcycle rider has made me a more considerate and conscientious car driver towards bike riders.

Riding on busy roads these days is not for the faint hearted however proficient the cyclist is, and I think having bike insurance is something I'd have if I was a regular road rider.

I have a bike but the frame is too small for my height. I'm looking to buy a second hand hybrid with a 21-22" frame. If anyone is selling one in good nick for a fair price PM me.

Get a wet suit.