This article is from the REI web siteWelcome back to the saddle! By reading this, it means you already taking that first step towards getting back on a bike for fun or transportation. We think that's awesome, and we're here to help you go for it. So what has you thinking about riding your bike? There are in fact lots of great reasons to dust off your bike (or even ride for the very first time) and start pedaling: - High gas prices (ah, perhaps you've heard of this?).
- Paying all those other car-related expenses: parking, repairs, insurance.
- Getting some exercise.
- Doing your part to be more "green."
- Getting some fresh air.
- Reducing your stress level.
- Seeing your environs at a slower pace.
Sounds great, you say, but let's get real for a minute, too. Most of us have found plenty of reasons NOT to go riding, so let's take on those fears one by one. 12 Cycling Myths, Exposed! Myth #1: Biking requires too much gear.
Reality: The basic necessities for cycling are just you, a bike and a helmet to protect your noggin. You don't need fancy-schmancy biking gear to ride a bike. Of course, the gear is nice to have, but that can come later. Just get on a bike and go.  Myth #2: It's costly to buy a bike and all the gear for cycling.
Reality: It's actually far cheaper than buying and operating a car. Parking is free. A bike doesn't need gas. It has fewer components and requires less-expensive maintenance. Myth #3: Only expensive bikes are any good.
Reality: While pricey bikes can be "nicer" to ride, almost any bike in good working condition can get you to where you want to go. Even an old-fashioned single-speed will work. It may just take you longer and you don't have the luxury of gearing up or down for hills, but you will get where you want to go. Myth #4: Biking takes too much time.
Reality: It does require a little extra planning to ride, but, depending on the distance and traffic, it might actually take less time to bike than it does to drive. Plus, you burn calories and can run errands while you ride. Myth #5: Biking is too dangerous.
Reality: Most cyclists ride for years without mishap. Acting like a driver, being predictable, wearing bright clothing, being aware of your surroundings, anticipating driver behavior, making eye contact with drivers, having hands ready on brakes, watching for car doors opening, following traffic rules and claiming your lane will help improve your safety. Myth #6: Bike seats are uncomfortable.
Reality: Bikes generally come with a generic, unisex saddle. If yours feels uncomfortable, try upgrading to one with gel padding or one that's gender specific. Bike seats also come in different sizes and shapes, such as cutaway models. Myth #7: I'm clueless about how to maintain my bike.
Reality: Maybe so, but it's easy to learn the basics. Sign up for a class at your local REI or take advantage of our online how-to videos and articles. Or, if bike-maintenance is really not your thing, there's no shame in taking your ride to your REI Bike Shop for a professional tune-up or repair. Myth #8: I'm too out of shape to ride.
Reality: Riding your bike will help you get back into shape. For a little inspiration, try our savings calculator. In the beginning, don't be afraid to stop and walk—especially on a hill. The more you bike, the easier it will get. Of course, if you have a serious health condition, check with your doctor before riding. Myth #9: You can't carry much stuff on a bike.
Reality: You'd be surprised how many groceries or work items you can bring on a bike. Start by wearing a daypack or messenger bag, or add a rack and carry your things in panniers or attachable bags. For even bigger loads, consider a bike trailer. Myth #10: It's too far for me to commute to work.
Reality: You can always ride just part of the way or only one way. Drive to a different starting point to reduce the distance. Catch a ride to work with someone and bike home. Or take the bus—most have a rack in front for bicycles. Myth #11: I'll get sweaty.
Reality: Sometimes this can be difficult to avoid, but you can always just ride casually to avoid too much exertion. If possible, ride in the morning when it's cooler. Remember, when you're cycling you will usually catch a breeze to help cool off. Myth #12: My work clothes will get wrinkled.
Reality: If you decide to ride to work, pack along work clothes with fabrics that are less prone to wrinkles when packed, or use packing folders and cubes to reduce wrinkles. On those days when you're driving or going by bus, bring clothes for your bike-riding days so you don't have to carry them on your ride. |
