With the cost of gas and diesel fuel - and other living expenses - being so volatile this year, cycling is becoming increasingly attractive – not to mention is it’s healthy, liberating, and good for the environment! Switching to a biking lifestyle can be a bit of an adjustment for some, but once they’re Here are some easy and practical ways to help you get the most out of your new bike.
Before buying a bike, get clear on what you really need: Do you have a busy lifestyle? Do you have kids or pets you need to bring along from time to time? How far do you live from work and is your workwear formal? Are you on the smaller side and prefer lighter bikes? So much to think about!
Before buying a bike, imagine yourself riding it! Do you want to get fit and get some exercise during your commute? Do you want to spend more time in nature or with your family? Or, perhaps you want to save money so you can meet a future financial goal? It's important to get clarity because this will help you pick the perfect bike that meets your needs now and in the future.
Before getting your first bike, try out different bikes: Momentum bicycles come in all shapes and sizes and can be customized to fit the rider's needs – commuter, electric, cargo, utility, and more! If you’re not sure about the differences between all the bikes, no worries! Check out our Momentum community hub where we cover what’s unique about different bikes or see the full selection on our website.
Before you fully embark on the biking lifestyle, it’s important to learn the basics before you venture out. As a general rule of thumb, safety and comfort always come first. You’re not only responsible for your own safety but also for the safety of other bike riders, pedestrians, and even drivers – it pays to be aware of your surroundings.
When it comes to comfort, make sure the bike saddle (where you sit) is at the right height and all the other bits and bobs have been adjusted to your preference. Don't forget your biking gear too! Make sure you wear a helmet and a reflective vest or jacket at a minimum. Our article on What you should wear for your bike ride is a great place to start to learn more.
Ready? Here are a few simple rules to always keep in mind while riding your bike on the road:
Check out our full list of 17 handy bike safety tips for a great ride!
Remember, your biking lifestyle is not a race; you choose the pace. Do practice spins around the neighborhood or an empty parking lot during the weekends or whenever you want to get familiarized with your new bike. Try riding maybe once or twice a week and gradually build up. Soon enough it will become second nature for you to hop on your favorite two wheels for a quick grocery run or a spin around the block. That’s when you know you’ve cracked it! The key is to be consistent and not be so hard on yourself if you fall off the wagon.
If you ever want to take it up a notch, we shared useful Tips on how to stay motivated when biking. Why not grab a friend, a family member, or even your pet to join?
Cycling gives you the freedom to go wherever and whenever you want. Pick a destination, plan your route, and hit the road. Or wing it! Bike to work, the corner store, explore your neighborhood or the city – Go Your (own)Way – that's what momentum is all about. And the best part is it’s never too late to start! We’ve heard many wonderful stories about people learning to ride in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s . It’s gentler than running if you want to get some exercise. It’s much quicker than walking and it helps you avoid road rage! We can go on and on about the many reasons why we love biking. Our favorite part is rewarding ourselves afterwards. Some people stop by their favorite coffee shop or store to pick up something nice for themselves. Some love spending a quiet afternoon reading or having a picnic at the park. Do something you love!
Building your unique biking lifestyle will take a while. From identifying what you want, to getting your perfect bike and accessories, getting familiarized with your bike and building up stamina over time – sometimes it takes months or even years! No one has ever become a pro cyclist, enthusiast, or an everyday biking commuter overnight. And neither should you – do what makes sense for you. Most important of all – have fun :)
