It’s probably your goal this year to finally learn how to ride a bike. And the now the year is coming to a close and you still haven’t learn how to ride one.
Before, both of your parents tried to teach you, but you were too afraid to listen because you thought you may trip over something or fall to the ground. Until your parents' workload made it impossible for them to continue teaching you how to ride a bike, you lacked the incentive to learn. You didn't give it much thought because you don't actually have to ride a bike. You used to commute with your older sister to school every day, and you only visit your friends who live in the same area by walking or jogging.
You are currently 27 years old and the sole adult at your place of employment who is unable to ride a bicycle. And now you find yourself in a situation where the people at work are pressuring you to learn how to ride a bike. The company is currently trying to be more eco-conscious and is encouraging its employees to either walk, run, or cycle to the office. And when you do so, the employee and the department the employee belongs to will get an incentive. You live quite far away from the office so walking or running is not a viable option for you. You need to learn how to ride a bike.
To start with, there is absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about. Now is your time to finally discover how to ride a bike if you've always been curious about what it's like. Just keep in mind to be gentle with yourself. Don't push yourself to learn it right away. When you are physically fatigued or when you are feeling angry, take a break. If something doesn't work, you may always revisit it later and try again. Another reminder to remain calm and persevere even though the process could be more difficult for you than it is for others, you still have a chance to obtain it in the future. Just keep on practicing and you'll be a cyclist in no time!
So how to do it?
Get the proper equipment.
Make sure the bike you have is the right size for you. One indication that you are straddling is that your feet must be flat on the ground and able to touch the floor. You must have your crotch above the frame. It's simple to maneuver and control your bike if you're at ease with it.
Don't overlook wearing a helmet that fits well after making sure the bike is the proper one. The front end should be an inch or less over your eyebrows, snug but not too tight, and level with your head. Before elevating the seat, you could gain confidence if you could put your feet firmly on the ground.
Find the appropriate location for a beginner to learn how to bike.
Since this will be your first bike instruction, find a place that is open or a vacant lot. For gliding and coasting instruction, it's preferable to choose a big, flat, paved surface rather than a grassy location where you can't go quickly.
On your bike, practice getting on and off.
Although it might seem uncomplicated, most individuals are terrified of riding a bike for the first time. Breathe deeply and follow these instructions if you're scared. Lean the bicycle in the direction of where you are standing. While the second foot is moving forward and settling on the pedal, use the other foot to pedal. Continue doing this until you feel comfortable.
Get comfortable with the brake.
Learning to stop a bike is just as crucial as learning to start one. Make sure you understand using brakes because they may prevent accidents. Consider how much pressure you need to apply to the hand brakesto slow down and stop your bike. You partially use the brakes to slow down. Squeeze both the front and back breaks simultaneously. The next skill to hone is a controlled, smooth stop. Keep in mind that it shouldn't be abrupt. Every time you travel a distance of 15 to 20 feet, practice applying your breaks until you can do it effortlessly.
Take up pedaling.
First, practice pedaling while stationary. Place one or both of your feet firmly on the ground and the other on the pedal that is lifted to between 1 and 2 o'clock. To advance, depress the pedal firmly. A different strategy to attempt is to scoot while keeping one foot on the pedal in the down position. Allow your feet to land on the second pedal by taking a "scooter" step. The final option is to push off with both of your feet simultaneously while attempting to go ahead before they simultaneously touch the pedals.
Learn to turn and steer.
You've mastered how to pedal, accelerate, and start and stop; now it's time to turn to the left and right directions and guide your bike in the desired path. Doing figure eights is a useful exercise. Prior to making smaller turns, it will be simpler to make a wide turn. Try to avoid pedaling as you are turning since you will accelerate too quickly and lose control. When you're ready to turn, apply the brakes halfway, let the bike coast while you do the turn, then start pedaling again when you're back on the straight line.
Maintain proper bike storage.
Make sure you've got storage placed in your garage if you want to extend the life of your bike. To make room for your bike, start by organizing your garage. Once there is a free space, you can put a flexible bike hatch rack from FlexiMounts or a hanger wall-mounted bike rack. Both will prevent your bikes from taking up any floor space and will keep them in an upright, lifting-secured posture. Both of these are sturdy and can carry multiple bikes. Both are foldable, adjustable pieces of cold-rolled steel.
