Getting into road biking may feel daunting at first. It seems there is an endless amount of cycling specific gear to buy. But what do you really need and why? The following 5 essentials outline what you need most to be comfortable while road riding.
ROAD RIDING ESSENTIAL # 1 Road Specific Helmet
Helmets are essential for your safety in case of an accident. However, if the helmet is too old, it will not offer the protection you need. Helmets should only be worn for 5 years after their manufacturing date. There is a sticker inside the helmet that will state the year it was made. The foam is designed to absorb a fall by breaking apart on impact so after a 5 years, regardless if you crash or not, the foam will start to disintegrate rendering your helmet useless and unsafe.
When you are road riding, helmet visors limit your visibility particularly when you are riding in the drops. That is why road specific helmets are desirable as they do not come with visors. Also, road oriented helmets often are lighter weight with more vents than mountain bike helmets.
ROAD RIDING ESSENTIAL # 2 – Bike Jersey
You may be tempted to just wear a regular cotton t-shirt but cotton soaks up sweat making the fabric damp clammy and cold. On long rides, the technical fabric in cycling specific jerseys will wick away sweat, keeping your temperature regulated. The pockets on the back are a convenient feature that will prove to be helpful time and again for items such as your phone, keys, multi-tool or money.
ROAD RIDING ESSENTIAL # 3 – Lycra Shorts
Do not be afraid of lycra!
Although spandex may have a bad reputation for being lame, the benefits well outweigh the possible shame. Lycra material conforms to your body, compressing your muscles to optimize power. More importantly, the shorts’ chamois or padding makes a massive difference in comfort. On a long ride you and your bottom will be extremely thankful for the extra cushion.
There are two main styles of cycling shorts, conventional shorts and Bib shorts. Unlike traditional shorts, bib shorts have shoulder straps and no waist band. Many riders feel this is most comfortable because the shorts conform to your body better – there is no tightness around the waist or pressure points anywhere, and the chamois stays perfectly in place. The extra coverage also avoids any skin from showing should your jersey ride up while you are riding.
ROAD RIDING ESSENTIAL # 4 – Cycling Gloves
Cycling gloves gloves keep your hands comfortable on longer road rides. The padding reduces your chance of getting blisters, dampens road vibrations and reduces pressure on your ulnar nerve which can cause numbness.
ROAD RIDING ESSENTIAL # 5 is Cycling shoes and clipless pedals.
Clipping in vastly improves efficiency and increases your power transfer. The shoe’s stiff sole and snug fit helps with stability, and power. With your feet locked into your pedal, you optimize each pedal stroke by gaining power from both the upward pull and downward push motions. This in turn creates a more complete pedal stroke and uses more of your leg muscles.
With these five simple items you will be comfortable on any length of road ride. Now get out on your bike and ride!
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Click here for more cycling tips and tricks! If you are ready to take it to the next level and be self-sufficient on training training rides be sure to check out our article 10 must bring items on every road ride.