Restrictions on stay-at-home orders across the United States are easing, while we get used to transitioning into later “phases” of lockdown. Even a couple weeks ago, while the warmer weather helped draw people outside, it was difficult to think of activities that provided adequate social distancing guidelines.
With malls closed, some restaurants fulfilling pick-up or delivery, and nothing much to do outside, quite a few people are turning to cycling.
The COVID-19 world – and a drive for more sustainable-living habits – has led to a boom in bike sales:
“Consumers are looking for outdoor- and kid-friendly activities to better tolerate the challenges associated with stay-at-home orders, and cycling fits the bill well. Growth is stemming largely from children’s, BMX, and adult leisure bikes that carry a more approachable price-point than some of the more expensive bike styles that were selling well prior to the COVID-19 crisis. Ultimately, more people are likely riding today than in years past.” — Dirk Sorenson, sports industry analyst, at The NPD Group.
Earlier this spring, The Guardian recently published the top 10 reasons it’s a great time to start cycling, as lockdown restrictions begin to ease. The list is quite practical from our cycling friends across the pond – so I recommend giving it a quick glance, and absorbing a bit of the information if you’re new to the sport.
I think it’s a great way to get around town, and you manage to get a bit of exercise along the way. Not everyone needs to try to ride a bike like Lance Armstrong, though that seems to be forgotten sometimes.
Go outside, get a bit of fresh air, and have fun out there!
American adults add around five pounds of weight during the winter months, with increased caloric intake and less exercise leading factors for this physical change.
Compared to other cardio exercises, cycling is low impact and reduces stress on the body – helping prevent injuries, making it an ideal activity for anyone working your way through a rehab program. Riding a bike is a fantastic cardiovascular activity that doesn’t need to end because of shorter daylight hours or some rainy weather in the forecast.
Defensive Riding
Be aware of your riding style and hyper-vigilant of the environment around you, because the things we often take for granted suddenly can become hazardous. For example, paint lines on the road, railroad tracks, and the road surface itself can feel like riding on a sheet of ice. Ride with the assumption that vehicles are unable to see you, with a specific focus on cars pulling out of parking spaces or driveways.
Well Lit
Many state laws have rules in place that require cyclists at night to wear a headlamp, reflectors, and red rear lights to improve visibility. Despite most bikes already including reflective strips and material on the pedals and other locations of the bike, riders should still consider stepping up and adding extra accessories. The use of a blinking red light, attached to a helmet or backpack, is a welcome addition to the minimum requirements promoted by the DMV.
Clothing
Wear appropriate clothing, especially when it’s dark or raining. Think about wearing a reflective rain jacket, leg warmers, waterproof shoe covers, and similar accessories can make a rainy commute much more bearable. A search for rain cycling gear, or nighttime bike commuting tips, will yield plenty of shirts, jackets, pants, and other clothing choices that have reflective material built directly into the clothing.
Don’t Forget the Little Things
Wet conditions on the road means riders should reduce tire pressure – a recommendation of between 10 and 20 PSI reduction per tire is ideal, though that can be modified further based on rider weight. Also, be ready to use your brakes earlier than usual due to the wet roads, as the bike wheels require more time to slow due to moisture on the brake pads. In addition, water and road debris erode rubber brake pads, so be sure to monitor remaining lifespan before the pads should be replaced. For tips to properly fit a bike helmet, we recommend this short interview with Mike Morrison, R.N. and injury prevention educator at Legacy Health. Have fun, and be safe while riding your bike at night or in the rain.
Riding a bike is meant to be a fun experience. There are times while out on the road, or casually riding a local trail, that a flat tire – or some other minor bike incident occurs. Don’t be left stranded because something was forgotten at home.
Once you’ve decided which type of bike bag to attach to your bike, now it’s time to make sure it’s properly packed.
Here are a few things you shouldn’t leave home without if you’re going for a ride. Also, I’ll add a few outside resources and a YouTube video for you to check out.
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