Getting started with road cycling? Avoid these common mistakes

If you're just getting started with road cycling, you've probably already read up on things like what kind of bike you need and how to set it up. Still, there are a few things almost every beginner cyclist tends to overlook. We've already made the mistakes, so you don't have to. So, symbolically chosen: the thirteen biggest beginner mistakes in one overview. 

1. Heading out on an empty stomach

It's true that it's better not to exercise on a full stomach, because your body is still busy digesting food. This can lead to cramps and nausea. What can also be risky, however, is exercising on an empty stomach. Especially since road cycling is an outdoor sport that takes you far from home (so you can't just pop into the kitchen mid-ride), it's important to have a proper meal before you start. Wait about an hour after eating before you get on the bike.

2. Bringing too little food for the ride

So it's important to head out with a solid base in your stomach. But especially on longer rides, it's also important to bring food with you. A muesli bar isn't enough to keep your energy up when you're riding for three hours. So make sure to bring something like sandwiches, for when real hunger kicks in on the road. Of course, skip heavy meals so you won't need a long break before you can get back on the bike. 

3. Not bringing a spare inner tube

Nothing is more frustrating than a flat tire. And a road bike is not the same as a city bike, so unfortunately punctures are a bit more common. So make sure to bring a few spare tubes, so you don't end up walking home for hours. It could also save you an expensive taxi ride or an awkward phone call. 

4. Going road cycling in the wrong cycling clothing

It's important to wear the right clothing when road cycling. Choose quality so you stay comfortable. It's also important to keep an eye on the temperature. Below 18 degrees, it's strongly recommended to wear arm warmers. And if you do get too warm, you can always take them off again. 

5. Not cleaning your bike properly

A good road bike is an investment. And although you may not feel like cleaning your bike right after hours in the saddle, it's still recommended to do this regularly (every ten rides). You want to prevent wear as much as possible so you can enjoy your bike for longer. For example, when it rains, it's important to clean your bike chain. It makes a big difference in the long run. 

6. Braking too hard on your road bike

It may sound obvious, but a new bike always takes some getting used to and, as mentioned earlier, it’s not the same as a city bike. Your road bike is much lighter, and your brakes may also respond more sharply than you’re used to. The center of gravity on your road bike is further back, so in general it’s better not to rely slightly more on your front brake than your rear brake, to avoid skidding. Do use both brakes, however, and not just the front brake, because if you only squeeze that one, you run the risk of going over the bars. And of course, we want to avoid that.

7. road cycling without a helmet

If you do happen to fall off your bike, wearing a helmet is incredibly important. You ride fast, so unfortunately you also hit the ground hard. A helmet may take a little getting used to, but nothing is worth risking your health for. Wearing a helmet on the road bike is not (yet) mandatory, but we strongly recommend it. Make your helmet part of your cycling kit and always ride safely.

8. Not taking the sun into account

To stay on the topic of safety for a moment; don’t forget to wear sunscreen on summer days. You’re active outdoors for long periods, so you can burn quickly. Even if you naturally have darker skin, it’s still important to apply sunscreen when you’ll be in the sun for a long time. The advice is to reapply every two hours, so on a really sunny day, definitely bring a small bottle with you.

9. Starting too enthusiastically

You’re probably really excited to start road cycling. That’s great, of course, but take it easy when building up your rides. Trying to set your fastest time every single time right away is not the best way for your body to get fit. In fact, it can really only lead to injuries. The best advice we can give you here is to use a training plan and build up your training gradually. And don’t forget the wind either, because even if the ride out feels smooth, the way back can still be tough.

10. Riding in the wrong gear

Although (or perhaps because) the Netherlands is generally nice and flat, many cyclists still ride in too heavy a gear. This causes unnecessary fatigue, so you’ll tire sooner and may feel tempted to stop earlier. So always check whether riding in an easier gear feels better.

11. Wearing underwear under bib shorts

It may seem completely normal, or maybe totally surprising; you’re not supposed to wear underwear under your bib shorts. It’s not comfortable, because the fabric of your underwear will cause chafing. And as we’ve said before, comfort matters. So just leave the underwear at home!

12. Forgetting to unclip when getting off

The first few times, it always takes some getting used to having to unclip when you want to get off your road bike. Dutch people are naturally so used to cycling that getting off happens automatically. But if you do that while your feet are still clipped into the pedals, you’ll slowly tip over to the side. So keep it in mind as soon as you spot the traffic light up ahead.

13. Drinking alcohol before (or during) road cycling

Alcohol and sport don’t mix. You’ll be far less fit, which means your performance will drop, and your reaction time will also be reduced, making you more likely to end up in an accident. So save that beer for afterwards! And while a beer after cycling is usually fine, alcohol also slows down your recovery. So think about your progress and drink in moderation.