General / Off-Topic Need advice from any experienced cyclists here.

[Minonian]

I also have a stationary bike in front a TV for when it is nasty outside but I still need to get my cardio in...

In this case have some meaning. But you know? Otherwise a stationary bike is just... Meh!

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A very keen mountain biker here... Generally ride in the region of 1,000 miles over the course of a summer, living in the mountains in the US.

I currently have a Giant mountain bike, and really like it, and perhaps they will have something in the style you are looking for. I'm presuming you will be primarily on roads or smooth bike paths / trails, so perhaps something like this. Definitely a wise move on the helmet, and proper padded biking shorts will probably also make a bit of difference in the comfort level.

For me, cycling is a great way to keep fit (except when I fall off and break stuff ), and a two hour ride feels like fun compared to one hour in the gym. Start easy to build your stamina, flat bike paths are good if there are any near you. At least you are at sea level, I ride at 6,000+ feet.

Good luck with your new regime, and I hope the biking helps.

I only using biking gloves. You need that in longer journeys helmet? that's for the really rough terrain.
my advice? Learn how to not fall / fall without getting into hospital. And stay on the bike in the roughest situation. That's where Crazy mountain biking starts. Otherwise, if you can't take care yourself? Don't think about it!

 

[Deleted member 110222]

I'll defo' get some bags for this thing. My own little cargo-mover!

Don't want those heavy loads in a backpack... While I live with my mum, I mostly buy my own food and such.

Maybe I should get a basket for my dog to sit in...

 

[Minonian]

Basket is a good idea. As far you can take it off easily, because it can be on the way, increasing the bike weight. But here is a word of wise. Either use backpack or basket but never think about to place a handbag to the bicycle handle! If the wheel spokes caching it? That's when you can fall so big the seismographs showing it in china.

 

[jojon]

This does not provide any of the advice requested, but I feel it deserves a place here anyway:

https://www.reddit.com/r/Vive/comments/5y11xu/elite_dangerous_virzoom_perfect_vr_workout/

:9

 

[Hell Razor5543]

I will make two suggestions.

First, please (for your safety, and that of those around you) try and find out about the Bikeability test. I drive for a living (over 30,000 miles a year) and I cannot tell you how many times I have had to take avoiding action when idiots on two wheels veer across the traffic without a care in the world (which is one reason I have a dash camera fitted in my van). When I was at primary school I took the Cycling Proficiency Test, so I learned how (as a cyclist) to behave safely on the road. I believe that I am clearly aware of cyclists. Here is a link about Bikeability;

http://bikeability.org.uk/

Second, when you do get a bicycle, make sure you maintain it properly (or get it maintained by a professional), and PLEASE make sure to get the lights set up properly. When I took the CPT I learned to set them up so that the front light showed you the road ahead (so the beam lit about 10 - 15 feet in front), and not so that it dazzled on coming traffic. Lights that flicker or blink are much more distracting than steady lights (OK, that may make a cyclist more noticeable, but might distract a driver from another issue, such as a pedestrian about to cross the road).

Please do not assume I am anti cyclist; I am not, but I am anti avoidable accidents. Be safe, and I hope that you are able to get into better shape (and better health, with an increase in longevity and quality of life).

 

[Smykes]

Kudos to you Un1K0rn..

rule #1.. never fly without rebuy.. oops wrong scenario..
rule #2.. look after Numero Uno (take care of yourself)
rule #3.. have fun in all you do

seriously tho.. another alternative to buying a brand spanking new bike..
maybe check out local Police Auctions?
I know a guy who buys the bikes that were completely wrecked when found/recovered and re-sells them after reconditioning them..
but you can also pick up some really nice bikes that are almost in pristine condition..
..just a thought..
o7

 

[Cyclosphere]

Plenty of good advice on this thread, nothing much to add other than I have a Brooks B17 leather saddle which is the most comfortable saddle I have ever had. Hope you get a suitable bike and have a fantastic time.

 

[Minonian]

there is an ages old rollerblade safety comics strip about what's happens how it's looks alike if you push safety measures too far. Sadly i don't find it. snoopy maybe? Anyway my point is, we given him enough advice. for starter, pro tips and use every accessory is just stupid and useless to him. helmet? good idea, if you go wild. Gloves? necessary, if you don't want blister and callus on your hands. But to use all kind of safety device? Ummm... You will get some bruises. you can't avoid that.

So i only saying this. Be mindful, and enjoy the ride! That's the whole point of it right boys?

 

[Gédéon_Lecanard]

I will make two suggestions.

First, please (for your safety, and that of those around you) try and find out about the Bikeability test. I drive for a living (over 30,000 miles a year) and I cannot tell you how many times I have had to take avoiding action when idiots on two wheels veer across the traffic without a care in the world (which is one reason I have a dash camera fitted in my van). When I was at primary school I took the Cycling Proficiency Test, so I learned how (as a cyclist) to behave safely on the road. I believe that I am clearly aware of cyclists. Here is a link about Bikeability;

http://bikeability.org.uk/

Second, when you do get a bicycle, make sure you maintain it properly (or get it maintained by a professional), and PLEASE make sure to get the lights set up properly. When I took the CPT I learned to set them up so that the front light showed you the road ahead (so the beam lit about 10 - 15 feet in front), and not so that it dazzled on coming traffic. Lights that flicker or blink are much more distracting than steady lights (OK, that may make a cyclist more noticeable, but might distract a driver from another issue, such as a pedestrian about to cross the road).

Please do not assume I am anti cyclist; I am not, but I am anti avoidable accidents. Be safe, and I hope that you are able to get into better shape (and better health, with an increase in longevity and quality of life).

Sorry, but since I use a bicycle in a urban environment, these sort of "advices" are hard to swallow.

Of course cyclists should be cautious, but.

You know, there's a reason why you don't need a licence for a bicycle, and you definitely need one and more for motorised vehicles. Cycles are not dangerous, motor vehicles are. Just stating a fact. Driving the most dangerous vehicles, drivers are the one who are supposed to be careful *by law*. And you could prevent a few hundred "idiots" from using a bicycle, that'll still left the regular cyclists to deal with the thousands murdering idiots raging behind a wheel everyday because they aren't allowed to use nitro boosters in a urban environment, or feel that red signs are a vague invitation to calm down on the accelerator. I know that for a fact too, as a law abiding, cautious cyclist in Paris. The amount of cyclists disregarding the code is ridiculous compared to the amount of drivers doing so. And those drivers are supposed to have a licence.

Bicycles may be dangerous for pedestrians on rare occasions, but cars are deadly to everyone, everyday. I'll be nice and spare the lesson about pollution and oil dependancy. So get your facts straight, and yes, open your eyes.

Please do not assume I am anti cyclist; I am not

I bet you have cyclists friends too

 

[Deleted member 110222]

I'm going to ask this once: Please don't turn this into a bikes vs cars thread.

I made this topic to get advice on what to buy for the sake of getting fit.

I am well aware of the dangers of the road, plan on using good quality lights, high-visibility clothing, helmet, and gloves for comfort... I do know the laws of the road, how to respect the danger of cars, etc.

But I digress. Please don't turn this thread into a flame war. You have enough YouTube videos of road rage for that.

 

[Whipley]

You know, there's a reason why you don't need a licence for a bicycle, and you definitely need one and more for motorised vehicles. Cycles are not dangerous, motor vehicles are. Just stating a fact. Driving the most dangerous vehicles, drivers are the one who are supposed to be careful *by law*. And you could prevent a few hundred "idiots" from using a bicycle, that'll still left the regular cyclists to deal with the thousands murdering idiots raging behind a wheel everyday because they aren't allowed to use nitro boosters in a urban environment, or feel that red signs are a vague invitation to calm down on the accelerator. I know that for a fact too, as a law abiding, cautious cyclist in Paris. The amount of cyclists disregarding the code is ridiculous compared to the amount of drivers doing so. And those drivers are supposed to have a licence.

Bicycles may be dangerous for pedestrians on rare occasions, but cars are deadly to everyone, everyday. I'll be nice and spare the lesson about pollution and oil dependancy. So get your facts straight, and yes, open your eyes.



I bet you have cyclists friends too

Yep, I drive and bike and the amount of idiots in cars is exponentially higher than the amount of idiots on bikes. Not to mention that the idiots in cars can do way more damage to you (whether you are in a car or on a bike).

 

[Deleted member 110222]

Apologies for getting defensive. This is just one thread I don't want derailed.

 

[Deleted member 110222]

I'm seriously considering getting a pet trailer for my dog. XD

 

[Gédéon_Lecanard]

Apologies for getting defensive. This is just one thread I don't want derailed.

Sorry, you're right. This is indeed a heated debate, but it has nothing to do with your thread. Won't happen again.

About the dog, make sure the fella is ok with the idea. It's an investment. Though you could build one yourself.

 

[Riedquat]

I just wanted to add that although cycling is a great aerobic activity and will certainly burn the calories and help with your fitness, you should consider examining your diet to see why your are heavier than you would like to be, if you are taking in too many calories on a daily basis then the cycling will have less impact on your weight loss.

Diet is king when it comes to shedding the pounds, just making some changes here and there would make all the difference.

I lost a load of weight a few years back and it wasnt anywhere near as hard as I thought it would be and I didnt go on any of these fancy diets ( I dont believe in any of them).

 

[StiTch]

I used to do some fairly serious mountain biking endurance races.

If mentioned already I apologise, but I would consider a semi decent bike and a turbo trainer, though I shalln't recommend brands etc...picture below just for reference.

Spoiler

You can obviously take the bike out when you want to get out and about, but the turbo trainer then lets you take a real bike and make it effectively into an indoors exercise bike in short time.

That way if it's miserable as sin outdoors, or you break your bike lights, or you just want to watch TV anyway, you can set yer bike up with less space consumption than a full exercise bike.

I used to play PS3/PS4 while on that kind of thing. You'd be amazed how much you can push when you're paying attention to something else.

On a side note, regarding training on exercise bikes/turbo trainers and the like, don't just put on a high gear and push. It sounds like the most manly way of doing it, but the real way to achieve burn is to start on a low gear for an amount of time that suits you, then move up through the gears with the same amount of time on each. By the time you're at the end you won't have snapped any muscles, but hot damn you will wish you have just so you have an excuse to stop

 

[ethelred]

Keen mountain biker here, also a veteran of enduro races. All on hiatus now as I have too many children and not enough time or money.

I also work from home a lot so my cycling is mainly limited to riding a couple of miles to Bristol Temple Meads and back (though when in London I use the bike share religiously)

It's important to remain firmly tongue in cheek whilst cycling and to stay motivated here are some links and blogs I suggest you follow:-

There's a Pilot's Federation equivalent for cyclists called the Velominati and All True Cyclists follow The Rules.

Red Kite Prayer features my number 1 all time cycle blogger Elden Nelson aka "The Fat Cyclist" who started cycling to lose weight, then when his wife was diagnosed with cancer used cycling as his "escape" and to keep sane. I think this may resonate with you and your alluded to illness - the writing is excellent and it is a real journey Elden goes on. Heartwarming stuff. Along the way he has also become an excellent cyclist, competing in some insane (to me in Blighty) races.

Bike Snob NYC casts a snarky but funny eye over the ridiculousness and smugness that can be part of standing up in a party and saying "I AM A CYCLIST", including the stupidness of bikes and drivers, clothes, carbon technology and weight saving.

Finally it's great that you want to make a change, that's the hardest step! Small steps first so get your first bike and get out on the road, you don't need anything except a sense of balance and some spare time, the rest of it can all come later.

As an adult I bought my first bike as a second hand mountain bike (and Orange Gringo in fact), and I would strongly recommend getting something as light as you can afford, not only because you will get a better bike for less cash than what you could get new. And if you have a cycling buddy of the right sort (s)he will be able to point you in the right direction for a steed from eBay, Craigslist, Gumtree or somewhere else.

Good luck, follow the rules and happy riding.

 

[bootsam]

Neil deGrasse Tyson‏ - "Wanna lose 1200 Calories a month? Drink a liter of ice water a day. You burn the energy just raising the water to body temp."

I am not hugely overweight, but Ive been following this to get rid of some innertube around my waist before it gets inflated. I have to say at first it was yeeuk, but now I feel much better for replacing tea with a glass of ice water. I feel more alert and switched on during the day.

I walk everywhere now. Again at first it was omfg, I'm knackered. Even my ears are tired. But now I really enjoy it. I walk fast too.

Stop sugar and milk. Stop snacking. Ive replaced biscuits with bananas and grapes. Fortunately I walk past witrose on my way to work, so I pick up my stash as I go.

I'm 51 and I want to stay relatively healthy despite being a lazy so and so. Good luck Uni. You can do it.

 

[Deleted member 115407]

I suggest looking into urban bikes. Here's mine.

http://www.khsbicycles.com/06_urban_xtreme_09.htm

These bikes are a hybrid between racing bikes and mountain bikes, so they are sturdy enough to handle rough terrain, but zippy enough that you can get some good efficient speed out of them.

Also, for good, clean energy, I highly suggest you invest in this...

https://www.humann.com/products/superbeets/

Trust me - try it once, and you'll be amazed.

Also, if you don't prepare your own meals, start. Let me know if you want a meal plan and I'll make one for you.

Also, hate the gym? Check these out.... an excellent way to supplement your cycling. Start with 30 min sessions, from warm-up stretch to cool-down stretch. You will easily work up from there at your own pace.

https://fitdeck.com/product/FitDeck-Bodyweight

Lastly, and I can't stress this enough... start and progress at your own pace. The reason many fitness resolutions fail is because they are too aggressive.
- Starting from scratch, I'm going to do heavy cardio three days per week and heavy weight three days per week. One hour per day, each! A resolution like this is easy to fail from starting, because it's overzealous. In contrast...
- I am going to exercise three days this week, for at least twenty minutes per session. This is a good starter plan, because it's flexible both in time and intensity. And as you increase fitness, you should naturally be inclined to exercise harder and more often.

I won't say best of luck! Because luck implies lack of effort.

I will say that YOU CAN DO IT. You just have to be motivated and realistic about your short and long term goals.

 

[Hell Razor5543]

Un1k0rn, you have my apologies if you feel that I may have turned this into a cars versus bikes thread. It was NEVER my intention for that to happen. I believe I made my suggestions for the best of reasons, which is the safety of you and others. I genuinely took the Cycling Proficiency Test in the mid 70s' (when I lived in Scotland)and I feel that it helped me to be a better road user (both when I used to ride bicycles, and now when I drive). I know of 4 friends who do cycle (one who does a lot of mileage), and they do have good road awareness. Despite this they have had occasions when THEY have had to take avoiding action when drivers have not given them enough room.

Please do consider my suggestions. It has been a long time since I rode a bicycle (it would not be practical in my job; I am a field service engineer, with over 50,000 miles in 18 months), but if I were to start again I would see about Bikeability (and I would go practise my skills somewhere I would not be a hazard to road users).