If you’re like many people, you’ve probably taken up cycling because you want to get fit and save on the costs of transportation. However, while owning a bike may have many benefits, you should still take precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. Here are some tips.

Finding the Right Bike

Finding the right bike is key to your safety and comfort while you’re riding. For example, getting a bike that’s too tall may make it difficult to stop or to catch yourself should you tip over. It also gives you less control over the pedals. Riding on a bike that doesn’t fit your size can also result in backaches, injured wrists and a greater likelihood of crashes. If you’re really having trouble finding the right bike, you may want to ask for help at the local bike shop.

Making Space

Your bike is as good as the care you give to it. Just like your car, your bike can take a beating if it’s left out in the elements. This contributes to the wear and tear on your bike, making it harder to ride and less safe. If you get a bike, please make sure you properly store it. It’s ideal if you can store it in the garage. If you don’t have a garage, you can get mini-bike storage units. They’re portable and contained. They’re like a little shed for your bike.

Take It Slowly

Chances are you’ve recently taken up cycling in part because you want to get back into shape. However, your motivation may wane if you overdo it at first. It’s easy to do, given how motivated you may feel right now. For example, on the first week, you may want to only do about 30 minutes of biking on smooth ground.

Each week, you can bump up your time a bit. This allows you to gradually get into the swing of cycling and deal with the inevitable soreness that will come with it. It’s also enough to get you started, without encouraging you to overdo it. This will be key for your long-term success in cycling.

Buying a bike can really give your fitness and your mood a boost. It also can benefit your pocketbook: Instead of taking your car everywhere, you can take your bike. However, it’s also important to take precautions, particularly if you haven’t biked much. Doing so allows you to gradually become adjusted to your bike and minimize the chances for injury at the same time.

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