What should a well prepared Cyclist have?
Remember cycling is great fun but as with all sport and activities a few sensible precautions together with forward planning will minimise problems. It is your responsibility to ensure you make adequate plans for your own and your families needs before setting out. It is a good idea to carry a rucksack for your requirements, i.e. food, drink and spare items of clothing, camera and mobile phone. Here we give you some ideas of the equipment and clothing that you might need.
Your bicycle – Before you start make sure all the bicycles in your party are fit for purpose and preferably have been recently serviced. Check brakes, look for frayed cables, is your seat correctly adjusted for your height? A properly set seat can save you and your fellow cyclists huge amounts of effort. Carry spare tubes and puncture repair kit, pump and wheelnut spanner.
Clothing – take into account the time of year aware how far north Highland Perthshire is and as a rough guide there is a 1 degree drop in temperature for every 100feet (30m) rise above sea level. So when you set out the temperature can feel reasonably warm but the weather can change quickly especially if you climb to a higher altitude along your chosen route.
Food – It is always a good idea to take some food and a drink especially if you have younger members in your group. A few calories when you are tired can make a huge difference.
Children – Make sure your child’s seat is secure and is suitable for their weight, if in doubt drop in to one of our dedicated cycle shops, they will be happy to offer advice and assistance. Ensure they always wear a helmet. Remember they will be immobile so their body temperature can drop, so check them regularly during your ride, and carry extra clothing for them.
All year equipment – take waterproofs, overshoes and tight trousers. Consider bicycle to save you problems with clothing getting caught up in your chain. Lights on your bike even in summer are a must, better safe than sorry! If you are following road routes, make sure drivers of other vehicles easily see you. Use reflectors and reflective clothing. A map is a must a compass is essential if you are going off road with your mountain bike and a torch can be sensible.
Winter clothing – a scarf and padded gloves are a must
Summer clothing – sunglasses are probably a good idea to keep out the flying insects.
Off road general rules when cycling – It is sensible to keep to the left. If you are coming up behind walkers especially if they have children or dogs sound your bell or give them a friendly shout. Let anglers know you are about as it is both embarrassing and dangerous being tied up in his line or worse still being hooked.
Remote cycle routes – always let someone know where you are going, what route you are taking and when you expect to be back. Carrying a mobile phone may help but it is not foolproof, as there are areas where you will find there is no signal.