Tips for News Riders - Getting Started

Assuring you get the ABSOLUTE BASICS before getting started on a lifelong adventure - the bicycle!

Understanding how to use your gears is one of the most fundamental skills for making your cycling more enjoyable and more efficient. Here are some ideas on how to get them straight.

Dealing with Dogs

Dogs are not as unpredictable as you may think. Check out these practical guidelines from an old hand.

Riding in a Group

One of the most intriguing and thrilling parts of road cycling is the collaboration and commaraderie that occurs as a result of group riding. In contrast to running and similar sports, riders of widely varying levels can enjoy riding and training together. An 8-minute miler might not enjoy running with a 5-minute miler, but this is what cyclists can do by 'drafting'. Stronger riders cut through the air on front, while weaker riders hang out on the back - and everyone can stay together.

However, group riding can be dangerous if basic rules are not followed. Check out this excellent article to assure your rides are as safe and enjoyable as possible!

Mountain Biking 101

Dogs are not as unpredictable as you may think. Check out these practical guidelines from an old hand.

Mountain Bike Factoids from the IMBA

The International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) is the primary source for information and guidelines on the world of mountain biking. The IMBA website is extremely will organized, full of useful information, educational materials, news, advocacy notes, scientific studies on environmental impact (or lack thereof) of mountain biking and much much more. Check out this link to whet your appetite with an interesting list of facts and trivia about MTB'ing.