Preparedness a Plus on the Old Biking Trail
Biking is a great activity to be involved in. Whether you like to race down a country road or follow a winding trail in the woods, biking is an extremely refreshing activity. Being out in nature feeling the wind whip by your ears can feel like flight. The only thing that can put a damper on a biking excursion is not being prepared.
The first thing every biker needs is a helmet. Helmets are the single most important piece of equipment for a cyclist. Personal identification is also a necessity. A card with any medical information on it should also be carried. The name number and address of an emergency contact is also important. Keep these cards in a safe place that can be easily accessed.
A flat tire is a common problem for cyclist. There is no reason to let a flat tire take the air out of your ride. Take along the necessary tools to repair a flat tire. These tools include an air pump, patch kit, tire levers, and spare tube. Where can you keep these things? Well, if you have a handlebar bag this is a great place to store things. Buy a mini tire pump so it can be slipped into small spaces. Stick these items in the pockets of cycling jerseys.
Those that compete in bike racing have a nifty trick for storing this spare tire gear. They take tow water bottles and cut them so that one fits into the other. Racers stuff their equipment into these bottles and put them in the extra water bottle holder.
Be sure to know what type of weather will be occurring on your ride. Watch the forecast but also be ready for the unexpected. Even a low percent chance of rain could still mean it is going to rain. Dress accordingly.
Another preparation cyclist need to be aware of is food and water. While it may sound like an obvious rule of thumb, it can be easy to end up thirsty or hungry. That means keeping your body fueled with both water and food. Take snacks with you and stop for a meal if you are going on a long ride. Never ride without something to eat and drink. If you get lost your want to be able to keep your strength so you can continue riding.
Taking a cell phone with you is a great idea. If you do not wish to be disturbed on your ride simply turn the phone off and slip it into your pocket. If a dangerous situation happens to arise you will be able to call for help or a ride if you get too tired to peddle home.
Also tell someone who is not riding with you where you are going. If you fall and are injured you will be missed in a few hours. Someone will know where you were headed and they can get people to go out and look for you.
Having mace or pepper spray is also a good idea for any cyclist. Of you are riding down a street and a stray dog approaches you it can be very handy to have some type of repellant. Speaking of repellant, spray legs and arms with insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito’s and deer ticks.
Being prepared to take on the biking trail is important. The length of the trip is also very important. Plan accordingly and do not head out on a bike ride without the appropriate equipment. Make a checklist of the items you need and check them off as you pack them.
