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Bike Skills – Twelve Tips

Bike Skills – Twelve Tips Here are some basic bike skills you probably knew but may have forgotten. If the tips don't have enough information then use a search engine to explore. These twelve items represent the areas other cyclists ask about.  1. Learn to Ride in a Straight Line Being able to ride smoothly and predictably is one of the most useful cycling skills. Look ahead rather than constantly watching your front wheel, relax your shoulders and keep a light grip on the handlebars. Try to maintain a steady line while pedalling smoothly. Avoid sudden movements unless you need to avoid a hazard. Practising on a quiet, flat road or traffic-free path can help you build confidence. Once you are comfortable riding straight, many other cycling skills become much easier. 2. Learn How to Use Your Brakes Good braking is about being smooth and controlled rather than simply grabbing the levers. Use both brakes together, applying pressure progressively. The front brake provides much of y...
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Bike Ride Etiquette – Twelve Tips

Bike Ride Etiquette – Twelve Tips 1. Read and Follow the Ride Instructions Every organised ride is likely to have some instructions about the route, meeting point, distance, speed, facilities and what to bring. Please take a few minutes to read them before setting off. They are there to help you decide whether the ride is suitable for you and to help the leader organise the day. If something isn't clear, ask beforehand rather than trying to sort it out as the ride begins. A little preparation makes things easier for everyone. 2. Arrive Early and Ready to Ride Please arrive at the advertised meeting time rather than the advertised ride start time. Allowing 10–15 minutes gives everyone time for introductions, signing in, bike checks and the ride briefing. It also gives you a chance to settle in and meet other riders. The ride leader may have a lot to organise before setting off, so arriving on time helps the whole group get away smoothly. Nobody minds waiting for a ge...

Beginner Bike Rides

Introduction   If you are interested in leading or participating in rides aimed at beginners or those returning to cycling then you're in the right place. The headings are aimed at ride leaders who need this information to put on a ride.   Ride type: Guided Ride Ride suitability: Local Rides Easygoing Ride title: Beginner Bike Ride from Kenton GPX Route: It is suggested you use the classic but be ready to use other routes depending on the participants and weather on the day. Classic ; a five-mile circular route.  Classic Plus ; an eight-mile circular route that extends the Classic route  Options ; a five-mile out and back with options for individuals to take a break and do less distance. Three Miles ; a three-mile route route starting with a lap of the park then a loop the other side of the subway avoiding the Kenton Road.    Two Loops ; a three-mile route starting with a lap of the park then crossing the Kenton Road by Sainsburys. Start Postcode: HA3 ...

Kenton to Canons Park via seven parks

Ride type: Guided Ride Ride suitability: Local Rides Steady  Ride title: Kenton to Canons Park via seven parks Start Postcode: HA3 8AX Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot route Introduce your route: New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this relatively flat route which does involve crossing a main road with fast moving traffic. Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at the excellent Liam's café in Canons Park. What to bring: Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake adjustments...

Headstone Manor to Eastcote

     Ride type: Guided Ride  Ride suitability: Local Rides Steady Ride title: Headstone Manor to Eastcote Start Postcode: HA2 6PX Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot route Introduce your route: New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this relatively flat route. Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at the excellent Eastcote House and Gardens café.  What to bring: Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake adjustments and repairing punctures. Bring a spare inne...

Harrow to the White Horse pub

    Ride type: Guided Ride  Ride suitability: Local Rides Steady Ride title: Harrow to the White Horse pub Start Postcode: HA1 4QW Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot route Introduce your route: New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this relatively flat route. Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at the excellent Daisy's café.  What to bring: Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake adjustments and repairing punctures. Bring a spare inner tube of the correct s...

Harrow to Eastcote and Daisy's

   Ride type: Guided Ride  Ride suitability: Local Rides Steady Ride title: Harrow to Eastcote and Daisy's Start Postcode: HA1 4QW Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot route Introduce your route: New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this relatively flat route. Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at the excellent Daisy's café.  What to bring: Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake adjustments and repairing punctures. Bring a spare inner tube of the correct s...