How Can I Be More Comfortable Cycling?
Cycling on bad roads can be uncomfortable and sometimes even painful, especially when you don’t have a shock absorber or suspension system. However, you can do many things to make cycling more comfortable in these situations. For example, you could add some extra insulation to your bike, use a seat cushion, invest in a good set of shocks and struts for your bike, or try some of the following tips.
Choose The Right Bike
Choosing the right bike is essential when you know that you’ll be cycling on bad roads. A mountain bike or a cruiser bike with a shock absorber will be much more comfortable than a road bike or a BMX bike.
Invest In a Good Set of Shocks and Struts
If you’re looking to upgrade your comfort level, investing in a good set of shocks and struts is a great idea. This will help reduce the amount of vibration and impact you feel when riding on a rough road.
Add Extra Insulation/Padding to Your Bike
One way to help minimise the bumps and jolts is to add extra insulation/padding to your bike. You can do this by adding some padding or foam to your seat, handlebars, or anywhere else that feels uncomfortable.
Tyre Pressure
One of the most important things you can do to make your bike ride more comfortable is to adjust your tyre pressure. This will depend on the type of terrain that you are cycling on. For example, if you are cycling on a smooth surface, such as a paved road, you will need less air in your tyres than cycling on a rough surface, such as a gravel road. You can use a pressure gauge to measure the air pressure in your tyres.
Seat Height
Your seat height is also crucial for making your bike ride more comfortable. You should adjust your seat height so that your knees are slightly bent when you are sitting on your bike with your feet on the ground. This will give you more power when pedalling and make it easier on your joints.
Handlebar Height
The height of your handlebars can also affect your comfort while cycling. If your handlebars are too low, you may find yourself hunching over, which can cause back pain. If your handlebars are too high, you may find it challenging to reach them. You should adjust your handlebars so that they are at a height that is comfortable for you.
Clothing
Another thing that you can do to make your bike ride more comfortable is to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and the terrain. For example, wearing shorts and a tank top may be fine for riding on a smooth, paved road, but it is not appropriate for riding on a rough, gravel road. In addition, wearing clothing that covers your skin will help to protect you from scratches and scrapes.
Gloves
Wearing gloves while cycling can also help to make your bike ride more comfortable. Gloves will help to protect your hands from blisters and calluses. They will also help to absorb some of the vibrations from the road.
Suspension
If you are cycling on a rough surface, such as a gravel road, you may want to consider investing in a suspension system for your bike, not to mention a strong headset bearing. This will help absorb some of the bumps and jolts from the road.
Gears
When cycling on a slippery surface, it is essential to use a lower gear. This will help you to maintain traction and avoid slipping. You can also try to keep your weight over the back wheel of your bike. This will help keep your front wheel from lifting and causing you to lose traction.
Brakes
When cycling on a slippery surface, it is important to brake slowly and smoothly. This will help you stay in control and avoid skidding. In addition, you should use the back brake to slow down the bike, and you should apply pressure gradually so that the bike doesn’t jerk to a stop.
Tyres
Tyres are another essential factor in making your bike ride more comfortable. Wider tyres will provide more cushioning and absorb more of the bumps in the road. You may also want to consider using tyres with a softer compound. This will help to provide more traction and make it easier to cycle on slippery surfaces.
Positioning
When cycling on a bad road, staying upright and centred on your bike is important. This will help you to remain stable and avoid losing control. You should try to keep your weight over the middle of your bike, and you should avoid leaning too far to one side or the other. It would also help keep your hands on the handlebars and your feet on the pedals. This will help you to maintain control of the bike and avoid falls.
Accessories
Using accessories, such as fenders and racks, can add comfort when cycling on bad roads. Fenders will help keep you dry, and racks will help distribute the weight of your belongings evenly. This will make it easier for you to cycle on bad roads and will help to prevent discomfort and fatigue.
Slow Down
A straightforward way to make your ride more comfortable is simply to slow down. When you’re going too fast, you’re more likely to feel every bump in the road. By slowing down, you’ll be able to take them in stride and enjoy your ride a lot more.
Take a Break When Needed
If you feel uncomfortable or sore, don’t be afraid to take a break. If you need to, get off your bike and walk for a bit. This will help to give your body a chance to rest and recover from the bumps and jolts of riding on a bad road.
Improve Your Comfort Whilst Riding With Aire Velo Bearings
Whether you’re braving the bad roads on your bike, following these tips can help make your ride a lot more comfortable. Using suspension, gears, and brakes correctly, positioning yourself on your bike correctly, and wearing the right clothes and accessories, you can minimise the bumps and jolts that come with cycling on a less-than-perfect surface.
In addition, by slowing down and taking breaks when needed, you can make your ride more enjoyable and less tiring. So, next time you hit a terrible road, don’t be afraid to try out some of these tips! Contact us for further details and shop our bike bearings today.