DON’T MAKE THE SAME MISTAKES

Five long-ride rookie errors and how to fix them

[1] YOU SE T O F F TO O FAST A ND FEEL WRECKED

Ride easily for a few miles until you feel recovered.

[2] YOUR BI K E BREAKS DOWN

Get it serviced before your ride. You’ve trained hard and want to be able to enjoy it. Poorly adjusted brakes or gears, worn and/or damaged tyres can wreck your plans.

[3] YOU NEVER US U A L LY GE T A PUNCTURE

It’s a given it will happen this time. Make sure you know how to and have the kit to repair a flat – and don’t forget to check for what caused the puncture before replacing the new tube.

SLOWING D OWN G E TS YOU DOWN

Stay positive if you find yourself near the back. Every pedal turn will take you closer to the end.

[5] IT ’S A 1 0 0 MILE CH A F I NG SESSION

Don’t ever start a ride in brand new clothes unless they are exactly the same as the outfit you have worn in training previously. Make sure you wear what you know is comfortable.