Taking Your Bike Out for a Spin? Read This First

You’ve made the choice to use your bike as your main way to get around and there are plenty of reasons why that’s a brilliant decision.

Maybe you want to reduce your carbon footprint, avoid traffic, save on transportation costs or simply enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle. All of these are pretty solid reasons and you’ve probably noticed the perks firsthand.

Nonetheless, there might come a time when you need the services of personal injury lawyers for bicycle accidents. Even if you’re the most cautious and experienced rider, accidents can happen. And when they do, you’ll surely need a lawyer who can help you get the maximum compensation from the at-fault party.

Types of bikes available

These are the main types of bikes used by other bike users across the country.

Road bike
These types of bikes are designed for speed and efficiency on paved roads. They’re great if your commute involves long stretches of road without a lot of stopping and starting.

However, the trade-off is that they tend to have a less comfortable riding position and aren’t as versatile as other types of bikes.

Commuter bikes
Built for comfort and practicality, commuter bikes often come with features like built-in racks, fenders and lights, things that can make your daily ride easier and more convenient. They’re not as fast as road bikes, but they’re more comfortable and can handle different types of terrain.

Electric bikes (E-bikes)
If your commute is particularly long or hilly, you might want to consider an electric bike. E-bikes give you a boost when you need it, making your ride faster and less tiring.

Some cyclists see E-bikes as “cheating” but if it gets you to your destination without breaking a sweat, who cares?

The must-have accessories

These are the accessories you’ll be needing:

Helmet
You probably already know this, but it’s worth repeating, always wear a helmet. It’s the most important piece of safety gear you have.

Lights and reflectors
If you’re riding at night or early in the morning, lights are non-negotiable. A white front light and a red rear light will make sure you’re visible to drivers, while reflectors on your wheels and pedals add an extra layer of safety.

Lock
If you’re leaving your bike outside, invest in a solid lock. Don’t skimp here, a cheap lock is easy for thieves to break and once your bike is stolen, it’s gone for good.

Bike rack or panniers
If you’re carrying stuff with you (be it groceries, a laptop or a change of clothes), a bike rack with panniers is a game-changer. It lets you carry your belongings without straining your back or throwing off your balance.

Bike maintenance

The level of maintenance your bike needs depends on how much you ride, but a good rule of thumb is to give your bike a check-up every few weeks. You should pay close attention to the tyres, brakes and chain because these are the components that are most likely to wear down over time.

A breakdown can leave you stranded in an ungodly place or even late for work, so don’t wait until something goes wrong to give your bike some attention.

Here are a few maintenance tips that’ll keep you ahead of the game:

• Tyres: Keep your tyres properly inflated and check for signs of wear, such as cracks or bald spots. Underinflated tyres make it harder to pedal and increase the risk of a flat.
• Brakes: Make sure your brake pads aren’t worn down. If you hear a squealing sound when you brake, it’s a sign that they need replacing.
• Chain: Clean and lubricate your chain regularly. A dry or dirty chain will wear down faster and make pedalling less efficient.

Image by Mircea Iancu from Pixabay