first timer - ANY ADVICE?
Thread started by
G rider at 09.14.07 - 12:23 pm
If able to make it, tonight will be my first (group) ride. So far, just the gym and bike paths for me. Any advice for this lil' lady? I'm really looking forward to it just don't know what I can expect. A little fear of the unknown. I might be alone, might not. (Depends on how the date goes.)
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A working bike, bike lights, spare tube/patch kit and a good attitude. You'll do fine and you'll have a blast. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself to people. You'll find most people out there are extremely friendly and willing to hang out.
brassknuckle09.14.07 - 12:31 pm
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Just ride like you normally would and you should be fine.
Especially if the ride has been branded a leisurely cruise, everyone will be cool and many are willing to help you out.
I've only been on two myself so far, and I felt from the get-go that I fit in perfectly.
Tell you what, it sure beats the hell out of my everyday, forced-solos.
bentstrider09.14.07 - 12:33 pm
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#1 Make sure your bike is in decent condition
Pump up your tires, Check your chain, and spokes.
Show up early to the start points and talk to people and hang with them when you ride. Let them know it's your first time. Stick with others who will help you if you need it. Have fun.
If you can bring extra bike tube and possibly a pump in case you get a flat. Get a spoke card with the directions. Hold your line, don't swerve. Dont stop suddenly in a group, get to the right. Make noise when near other cars so they are aware of your presence. Open yer Mouf.
Dot com.
Joe Borfo09.14.07 - 12:36 pm
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Thank you. Thank you!!!! I'm out to get a bike light, etc.... Thanks again!
G rider09.14.07 - 12:39 pm
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Where are you riding from?
If you are riding from Los Angeles this may not be a good first ride since officially it's only one way.
marino09.14.07 - 12:39 pm
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I'm considering the 8 mile starting from Culver City. My friend lives in Venice so I'll have a ride home. Thanks for the consideration.
G rider09.14.07 - 12:44 pm
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A Helmet? Not a bad idea.
And maybe a bike lock so you can enjoy yourself if you stray from your steed and not have to stress about it too much.
And watch out for the SM Police....
Stevo
stevo409.14.07 - 1:00 pm
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safety third
get a pigeon
poke butt
mustache to pass
Joe Borfo09.14.07 - 1:33 pm
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keep the straight line...
look behind before doing any passing or slowing down...
usually slower riders are to the right...
be aware...of what's in front also...
listen and watch for warnings...when you're in a group, there are times that you will not be able to see road conditions, or any kind of obstructions coming up...
make sure your bike is in working condition before the ride, not during...
HAVE FUN!
adrian09.14.07 - 2:23 pm
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I'm not sure how familiar you are with riding in general, since you did not specify. So please excuse me if this is common sense to you.
Anyway, check out the following:
Bicycling Street Smarts
kyber09.14.07 - 2:27 pm
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Helmets? Lights? Common sense? Neeah!
Just kidding...
Not really.
No seriously.
The most dangerous thing on the road is those 3,000 pound cars roaming around often with drunk people on weekend nights.
Your best protection is to be surrounded by dozens and dozens of fellow bicyclists. (stay away from the BMXers though). When you are in a group of 200-300 bicyclists you are part of a big convoy, no car will hurt you. It's also a great high.
Try to stay between the front and the middle of the group. Often newcomers stay way back and that's not good because then they get caught in red lights which makes it even harder to catch up. And then you are isolated in small groups which makes you more vulnerable to cars. Then you really need big lights and thick helmets.
If you are riding in the rear 10% you need to speed it up and move forward. These are slow social rides, if you are riding way back it's usually out of neglect not lack of physical ability.
I've also seen people left behind in the flats while pedaling really fast on a small gear. They just don't know how to change gears. Maybe they are on a loaner bike that they are riding for the first time. Try the bike before the ride starts. Ask for help if you don't know how something works.
Don't drink in front of the SMPD cops. They'll give you a ticket.
marino09.14.07 - 3:33 pm
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