Simple Cycling Tips for Riders of All Levels

Always Remember to Remove Excess Grease.

While every bike chain needs regular oiling, it’s crucial not to leave grease buildup on the chain. After each service, wipe down your chain with a clean rag. A clean chain is essential for optimal bike performance, so keeping it free of excess grease is key

If you need help with how much oil to apply to your chain, a straightforward approach is to oil it while rotating it and wiping it down with a clean rag.

Protect Tire Tubes with Plastic Wrap.

Many of us keep spare tubes in a bag without adding any protective layer, risking damage from rubbing against other items. To prevent this, a simple fix is to wrap your spare tube in plastic wrap. You can even secure it directly to your bike above the pedals instead of storing it in a bag

Regardless of your storage method, wrapping and protecting your spare tube can save you a lot of hassle if you ever need it on the road.

Include Wet Wipes in Your Kit.

Wet wipes are a versatile, compact addition that everyone should have in their bag. They help clean your bike and yourself, especially for removing grease and grime. Plus, they’re great to have on hand if you want to freshen up before stopping for a meal or a quick snack during a long ride

Simply put, they take up minimal space and are extremely useful, especially if you plan to be on the road or trail for an extended period.

Carry a Bottle of Tire Sealant.

Tire sealant is essential for riding on rough terrain, protecting you from being stranded due to a puncture from sharp rocks or glass.

It typically comes in a compact bottle that’s easy to store in your bag or attach to your bike above the pedals. It’s always wise to have some on hand, just in case you encounter any issues

Most sealants can fix multiple leaks, but it’s a good idea to read some reviews before investing in a product that could save you significant time and hassle.

Wrap Noisy Chains with an Inner Tube.

Chain slap can be annoying but quickly resolved with a few simple materials. A quick fix is to wrap your chainstay with an old inner tube, preventing the chain from hitting your bike when you stop

pedaling or ride downhill. Alternatively, you can use insulation tape, but an inner tube is just as effective and more accessible to remove

When you have a moment, it’s a good idea to determine why your chain is loose, as the problem could worsen if not addressed.

Add a Derailleur Bag to Your Bike for Storing Parts.

If you’ve ever been stranded with a broken bike, you’ve likely wished for extra spare parts or tools. A derailleur bag is an excellent way to pack these items efficiently, allowing you to store spare bolts, a chain, or any other essentials you might need

The great thing is that derailleur bags are compact, leaving plenty of room on your frame to attach other essentials.

Use Warranties to Repair Your Shoe Tension Systems.

When you’ve invested in cycling shoes, you want everything, including the tension system, to work perfectly. If a dial falls off or breaks,

remember that most companies will repair or replace it under warranty. Just contact customer service to discuss your options

There’s no need to replace the entire shoe—you can return to pedaling quickly without spending much on new shoes.

Use a Card to Separate Brake Pads.

Brake pads can develop various issues during a ride, often needing only to be separated and repositioned. A simple way to do this is by using a credit card or any card from your wallet to create a gap and reset the pads back into place

It’s a quick and easy fix if you lack proper tools, but make sure to use a card that you don’t mind damaging or no longer need

Use a Koozie for Extra Storage.

Bicycles offer many creative storage options, from inside your helmet to various spots on the frame. If you need extra space, a beer koozie can be handy for storing small items like folded tires, spare parts, or tools. While the storage capacity is limited, it works well for compact items

It’s also easy to attach to your frame, whether you use a hard or soft koozie. Remember, we don’t recommend storing beer in it—save that for after your ride!

Save Your Old Bike Packaging.

Exploring new places on your bike is one of the joys of cycling, but flying with your bike can feel overwhelming. A simple solution is to securely disassemble your bike and use its original packaging

to wrap everything, from pedals to helmets. Don’t forget to reuse any bubble wrap and foam that came with it for extra protection

This not only protects your bike but also simplifies traveling and shipping. Plus, it allows you to recycle old packaging materials.

Include Latex Gloves in Your Kit.

Along with wet wipes, latex gloves help avoid greasy hands when making repairs or fixing a flat on the trail. They help keep your bike and helmet cleaner and offer protection against abrasions during maintenance or repairs. It’s always a brilliant idea to keep a pair in your bag.

The gloves don’t have to be latex; any material that provides some protection will work. The goal is to avoid painful cuts that could irritate you while riding or exercising.

Keep Your Bike Skewer Clean.

Your bike has many moving parts that need regular cleaning, especially the axle, where dirt and grime can accumulate. If too much debris builds up, the axle can seize. A quick-release skewer can help simplify cleaning this area

Be sure to apply some lubricant before you set off again to ensure everything operates smoothly without any friction.

Use Dollar Bills as Emergency Tire Patches.

If you’re out on the trail with a blown tire and no patches available, don’t worry. A dollar bill can temporarily patch a hole in your tire’s sidewall. While it won’t last forever, it can get you far enough to find help, especially if it’s a newer polymer note

You can also use a folded bill as a makeshift boot by placing it inside the tire before inflating it.

Freeze Some Water for Hot Weather Rides.

In hot conditions, cycling can be challenging. If it’s warm where you live, try freezing half your water bottle before heading out. This keeps the remaining water cold, gradually becoming a refreshing slushy during your ride. You can drink it or use it to cool down later

Depending on your bottle type, the ice should be melted into cool water about an hour into your ride if it doesn’t, try freezing a smaller amount next time.

Raise Your Handlebars to Reduce Discomfort.

Cycling comfort is crucial for your well-being. If you experience wrist or back pain after long rides, consider raising your handlebars slightly, about a centimeter. This adjustment can significantly improve comfort and reduce strain on your hands and body compared to lower handlebars

Finding the right balance is critical in cycling, so you may need to try several different handlebar positions to see what works best. However, it would help if you didn’t experience significant pain in your hands or lower back

Use Ski Straps for Versatile Attachments.

Cycling can be an expensive sport, especially with all the accessories. To save money while enjoying your rides, consider using rubber ski straps to secure items like sleeping bags or tents on your bike. It’s a cost-effective alternative to pricey cycling-specific gear

There’s no need to spend much on new equipment if you already have sleeping bags or tents at home.

Hook Your Hand in Your Pocket When Looking.

Hooking your hand’ is a cycling technique where you place the hand closest to the curb in your pocket when looking back. This minimizes torso rotation, helping you maintain better balance. It takes some practice to master but can enhance safety around traffic and other cyclists

Although it requires some practice, mastering this technique is worthwhile for enhancing cycling safety. Just be sure to hook the hand closest to the curb.

Attach a Cue Sheet to Your Bike.

Ideal for competitive cyclists, securing a cue sheet to your bike helps you navigate without distraction, allowing you to focus more on the race. You can customize the cue sheet based on the course layout to make navigation more accessible.”

The purpose of a cue sheet is to simplify navigation, so keep the directions minimal and study the route beforehand for better preparation.

Avoid Excessive Torque.

Although bikes are durable, their small parts aren’t designed to handle extreme pressure. It’s important to avoid using too much torque when making adjustments or replacing parts. However, be cautious not to use too little torque, which could cause components to come loose or fall off.

Consult the manual to determine the correct torque for each part or repair. Failing to do so could damage components or cause the loss of a pedal while riding.

Enhance Your Water Bottle Cage Security.

While most water bottle cages, especially metal ones, are sturdy, you can improve them further with skateboard grip tape. This adds extra grip, keeping your bottle secure on trails, inclines, and rocky roads. If you sweat heavily, grip tape is essential to prevent slipping

Wrap grip tape around your bottle to prevent it from slipping out. This will save you from having to retrace your steps to recover a lost bottle.

Use Your Helmet Strap to ‘Lock’ Your Bike.

This trick won’t deter a determined thief but can prevent a quick grab-and-go theft. Loop your helmet strap through your tire to secure it when you step away briefly. It’s not a solution for long-term security, but it’s helpful for short-stops

This method is free since you’re just using your helmet’s straps. However, if you plan to leave your bike unattended overnight, it’s best to invest in a proper lock.

Repurpose an Old Water Bottle for Tool Storage.

Instead of buying a specialized bag for your tools, you can use an old water bottle. Cut it in half, fill it with your tools, and tape it together. It’s a cost-effective and practical solution for carrying your essentials

It’s a cheap and effective solution that can be conveniently stored in your bike’s water bottle holder between the pedals. Just ensure it’s securely fastened.

Use a Level to Align Your Seat.

Balance is critical in cycling, so it’s essential to have your seat correctly aligned. You don’t need a costly tool; any standard level from around the house will work. While a shorter level is more convenient, the main goal is ensuring your seat is level

The ideal seat height varies depending on the type of cycling you do, and plenty of resources explain the best setup for each style.

Apply Carbon Assembly Paste to Bike Parts.

Few things are more frustrating than a slipping seat post, but there’s an easy fix that only takes a little space in your pack. Use carbon assembly paste on your seat post or any other bike part to prevent slipping. The paste provides extra friction to keep everything securely in place

It also helps prevent over-torquing when reinstalling parts. The paste is effective on other components, such as handlebars and stems, if you’re experiencing issues with them slipping.

Pack Snacks in a Box.

While it’s easy to pack enough food for a ride, it can be frustrating to end up with crumbs after a long journey. Use a sturdier pouch or a box for packing to keep your snacks intact. This helps prevent items like cookies or granola bars from getting crushed and turning to dust before your snack break

While there’s no cheap hack for a snack box, they are worth the investment since you can store various items in them and offer better protection than pouches.

Replace Your Tent with a Tyvek Sheet.

Biking and camping go hand-in-hand, but packing all your gear on a bike can be challenging. To save space, consider swapping your tent for a Tyvek sheet. It provides sufficient shelter in most situations while significantly reducing bulk and weight

This swap eliminates one of your bulkiest pieces of gear, freeing up space for other essentials and reducing your overall weight—a crucial factor when biking.

Always Carry a Pump.

A small pump is one of the most essential gear you can bring on a ride, second only to your helmet. It can get you out of many tricky situations, like a flat tire, allowing you to inflate and get back on the road quickly

A pump is also essential for various roadside repairs, from patching a puncture to replacing a tire. Many fixes rely on having a pump handy.

Opt for Bigger Tires on Rough Roads.

Reducing tire pressure can smooth out your ride but also compromise safety and cause tire failure. Instead, use larger tires for bumpy roads. They can be inflated to slightly lower pressure without sacrificing safety, offering a smoother ride and better grip

Most bikes are designed to accommodate tires of various widths, making tire swaps as easy as changing pedals. However, it’s always wise to consult your bike’s manual for specific guidelines.

Invest in a Pocket Protector.

With you and your bike in constant motion, items can easily fall out of your pockets while cycling. A pocket protector is a wise investment to secure essentials like wallets, keys, and phones. It not only protects your belongings but also makes it easier to notice if something slips out

If you have enough storage space, keeping the protector in a saddle bag is often better. If not, it keeps all your essentials securely together in your pocket.

Use Old Tires to Store Your Bike.

Bike racks can be expensive, so it’s great to have alternative options. If you have a couple of old tires, you can create a DIY bike rack that serves as a temporary solution until you get a proper one. While it may not be the sturdiest option, it works well, especially if your garage or shed is already filled with exercise equipment

Numerous online resources provide step-by-step instructions for making a DIY bike rack, which is pretty easy to assemble, as shown in the photo.

Clean Your Shoes with a Magic Eraser

No matter what sport or exercise you enjoy, keeping your shoes clean can be challenging, especially if they’re white. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution: use a magic eraser to quickly scrub and refresh white shoes after a few rides, making them look brand new

Wet the magic eraser, which will effectively remove all the dirt and grime that builds up from your pedals and bike.

Pack the Night Before.

Whether you’re a morning person or not, the last thing you want to do before an early ride is scramble to gather your gear. To avoid this, prepare everything the night before, including your helmet and other essentials, so it’s all in one place and ready to go in the morning

Creating a checklist of items you need or want to take can be helpful. Mark them off as you pack the night before to ensure everything is remembered.

Be Creative with Bike Photos.

When you’re in a spot that’s not level, your bike stand might not work or make your bike lean too low. Get creative by using a stick as a stand—wedge it between the ground and your pedal to make your bike appear more level for the photo

This method will make your bike look much better than using a stand, which often causes it to lean too close to the ground and appear uneven.

Use a Spray Bottle to Clean Your Bike.

Bicycles have many moving parts, and avoiding getting your hands caught in them is best. A spray bottle is an excellent tool for cleaning components like brakes or chains after a ride.

Spraying everything down helps protect your hands from debris and sharp objects like glass that can get lodged in the moving parts

A hose can work, too, but if you’re on a multi-day trip, bringing a spray bottle for quick evening washes can be very useful.

Create Fender Shields from Old Soda Bottles.

Protecting the rear of your bike is crucial, especially with all the moving parts back there. Fender shields are great for riding in the rain, but you can make them from old soda bottles if you don’t have any.

Cut the bottles in half, glue them together with superglue, and you’ll be prepared for wet conditions and rough terrain.If your existing fenders are too short, use soda bottles to extend them to your desired length.

Fig Newtons: A Budget-Friendly Snack for Cycling.

Exercise snacks can be pretty pricey, but there are affordable options that are both nutritious and effective. Fig Newtons are excellent for providing quick energy with their high content of fast-burning carbohydrates, and they’re far more cost-effective than most other options. Fig bars are another similarly affordable choice

Dried fruits like raisins or apricots are also excellent choices. These are great, cost-effective alternatives to granola bars and other pricey snacks.

Consider a Handlebar Bag.

A handlebar bag is an excellent choice for most cyclists. While it doesn’t offer much storage space, it’s perfect for carrying essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys. Easy to install and stylish on most bikes, handlebar bags are also more affordable than many other bag options

If you need more storage space, consider exploring other bag options with greater capacity.

Don’t Forget the Essential Snacks.

While quick snacks like fig newtons are perfect for moving, remember to pack something more substantial for lunch, especially if you’ll be biking for an extended period. Foods like bananas are excellent for keeping your energy up while cycling.

For a heartier option, consider an Uncrustable—it’s a favorite among long-distance athletes for sustaining their endurance

What snacks you choose matter little, as long as you remember to pack them and keep them safe during your ride. This way, you will have enough energy on long trips.

Be Cautious with Your Bike Rack.

It may seem common sense, but many people forget about their bikes when pulling into their garages, often damaging both the bike and the house. Always be mindful of your bike rack when arriving home.

The same goes for other places, like drive-thrus. Avoid becoming the person who accidentally crashes into something with their bike rack still attached

If that happens, you’ll probably need to replace more than just the pedals—you might need a new bike and garage door.

Regularly Replace Small Parts.

This isn’t a hack—it’s just good bicycle maintenance. Like a sports car, a bike is designed for specific purposes, but its parts can wear out and need regular replacement.

That’s why replacing small parts and performing routine ‘servicing’ on your bike is crucial. For instance, even if your chain is still intact, it could be time for a new one

This is particularly important if it’s been a while since you’ve replaced these parts. The last thing you want is a breakdown on the trail or roadside.

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