As the weather starts to get warmer, the thrill of outdoor activities begins. Road biking is a great way to get your daily exercise while enjoying the gorgeous views and nature. To make sure that you get the most out of your biking experience, having the proper equipment, health gear, and knowledge is key. Here is a detailed road biking checklist – full guide on everything that you need to get the most out of your journey.
Essential Supplies for Road Biking
1. A Comfortable Bicycle and Accessories
A good, comfortable bike is the number one essential for road biking. Make sure to choose a bike that is suiting your frame and needs. Also, check the brakes, gear, tires, and all other components of your bike before setting off. Accessories such as a bike helmet, rack, water bottle, phone case, and bike lights are also essential and should always be taken along.
2. Basic Tools for Bike Maintenance
A basic repair kit consisting of an air pump, spare tube, patching kit, tire levers, and multi-tool should be taken along. This will enable you to tackle basic maintenance while out on the road.
3. Comfy Clothes and Cycling Shoes
Always wear comfortable clothes and cycling shoes when going out road biking. Clothes that do not restrict your movement and cycling shoes help with road biking performance, as they provide extra power while biking.
Health Gear for Road Biking
1. Water and Refreshments
Keeping well-hydrated is essential for any form of outdoor exercise or activity. Make sure to bring along at least 1-2 water bottles, or plan a route where there is a gas station along the way for refills. Pack some snacks for an energy boost for the ride.
2. First Aid Kit
In the case of any accidents or injuries, it is important to bring along a basic first aid kit. This should include items such as bandages, gauze swabs, painkillers, antiseptic cream/spray, scissors, and tweezers.
3. Sunscreen and Insect Repellant
It is essential to wear sunscreen when biking outdoors. The sun’s rays can potentially cause skin damages such as premature aging, sun spots, and skin cancer, so make sure to apply sunscreen before and during the ride. If you are going somewhere with plenty of bugs, insect repellant is also a must.
Useful Apps for Road Biking
1. Map Apps
GPS map apps such as Google Maps, Yahoo Maps, etc. help bikers to mark locations, get directions to and from places, and create additional points. These apps also provide bicycle-specific route ideas, track directions and elevation, and more.
2. Workout Apps
Workout apps such as Strava and Endomondo keeps track of metrics such as speed, distance, and duration of your ride. It also allows you to set goals, plan routes, and track progress.
3. Maintenance Apps
Maintenance apps such as Bike Repair and Bike Maintenance help with bike repair and maintenance. It provides illustrated step-by-step tutorials on how to maintain and fix your bike.
People Also Ask
What is a road biking checklist?
A road biking checklist is a list of essential supplies, health gear, and helpful apps that a cyclist needs to be aware of when embarking on a road biking journey.
What supplies should I bring for a long distance road biking trip?
For long distance trips, it’s best to bring a comfortable bike and accessories, basic tools for bike maintenance, clothes and cycling shoes, water and refreshments, a first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellant and map and work out apps.
How do I know what type of bike is suitable for me?
It’s best to get the advice of an expert at your local bike store. They will be able to help you find the right bike for you according to your size and needs.
What safety gear should I wear while road biking?
It is important to wear a bike helmet, and protective clothes and shoes to ensure a safe ride. Also, make sure that your bike’s brakes, gears, tire pressure and all components are functioning properly.
What apps can help me plan my road biking trips?
Map apps such as Google Maps, Yahoo maps and others can be helpful in planning your biking trips. There are also specific workout apps such as Strava and Endomondo, which can help you track your route, metrics and progress, and measure your performance.
Final Words
Having the right equipment and health gear is essential for getting the most out of your road biking experience. With the right bike and accessories, basic tools, proper clothes, and healthy snacks, you will be prepared and safe for any road biking trips. With the help of handy map and bike maintenance apps and drones, the cycling journey can become even more enjoyable. Proper maintenance and bike care are essential and should not be overlooked, so make sure to check all the components and carry out repairs if and when necessary.