TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

So you want to take up cycling? There is loads of information and resources available to beginners online. Check your local and state government sites for tips on cycling locally, as well as local bike paths and restrictions.

Join a Bicycle User Group, or BUG, with like-minded people who share a common interest in cycling together. The Bicycle Queensland website can provide you with more information on BUGS in your area. There are many other social, touring and racing clubs you can join.

You don’t need an expensive bike to get started. You might even consider hiring a bike first to see if recreational riding is for you.

When you get to know your cycling needs, you might consider upgrading to a set of wheels that suits how you intend to ride. Will it be for touring, commuting, racing, shopping or just some weekend fun? Will you be riding on suburban streets, gravel roads, bike paths or on the race track? Based on your aims, this will help you choose whether you opt for a utility bike, hybrid or touring bike or perhaps a racing bike, mountain bike, BMX or folding electric bike, for example.

The experts suggest riding 8km or half an hour a day as a great starting point to build from.

Familiarise yourself with bicycle road rules and safety information. As a bicyclist you must obey the same general road rules as other motorists, as well as specific rules for bicycle riders in your state.