Hybrid - Fit for Tow Path's ?

Hi,

A little bit about me first of all, then I wondered if I could ask a few questions and get some of your expert advice

I'm new here and fairly new to cycling. I have just turned 30 and my first baby is due in January. I'm making it my mission to drop 3 stone and will be doing so by eating healthily and cycling regularly

I have just started cycling to the station each day, which is about 3 and a half miles each way and I really enjoy it, but hate the busy roads. I have therefore decided to start cycling at the weekends for enjoyment and to get my fitness up (Early morning before the wife stirs)

I have picked out a 20 mile route (I'm sick of circular journeys, so this one will involve me getting the train back) It's a little bit of road and then a canal tow path (Nice and flat) all the way north (Watford to Tring, if anyone knows the area)

A few questions if I may

1) Is this too much too soon?

2) Will my hybrid stand up to the vigours of 16 miles of tow path ?

3) Do I need proper cycling shoes? What are the benefits ? (My bike is a Town and Trail bike so I don't have SPD pedals

4) I'm 17 stone and go through a lot of water. Do you recommend a hydration pack?

and other tips, advice would be great. I don't have anyone that I know that is into cycling, so I'm really just winging it at the moment

I think that the typical 700x42 tyre size on a Hybrid bike & the 36 spoke wheels makes it almost as robust as a MTB; so, regardless of the condition of the tarmack along the path, your Hybrid should be stout enough to handle the challenge.

Because the majority of the ride you are planning will apparently be "flat" with a minimal incline, riding the distance will probably be more psychological than physical. Take your time on the initial outing ... stop when it seems appropriate ... walk the bike if you find you don't have the energy to ride ...

Of course, the less you coast, the more exercise you will get.

Cycling shoes are a good idea, but less necessary for casual riding -- i.e., speeds below ~12mph (20kph) -- or, shorter rides.

Because you will be sharing the path with others moving in both directions, you probably won't be going much faster than 15 mph at any given time. Don't worry ... just allow 2+ hours the first time so you won't feel harried to meet the "next" train.

Yes, a hydration pack would be a good idea ... or, you can buy a 1-liter replacement bladder & carry it in a small back pack ... not quite as good, but if you are on a tight budget, it will work. You can carry some "snacks" to eat when you reach your half-way point.

The BITE VALVE is different on different hydration packs ... some are more convenient than others.

You'll probably want to wear some sun screen for when you are riding AND a "baseball cap" (or, equivalent) for the train ride home!

A FRAME PUMP + patch kit + bicycle tyre irons + a spare tube (all for in case you get a flat tyre) are a good idea ...

While it will be very beneficial to know how to replace the tube (you'll need to learn how, eventually, if you don't already know how0, unless you are traveling where there are no other riders, someone will probably come along who will be able to help you if you get a flat & are have a problem making the repair.

Depending on the length of the pump you buy, if you get a medium length one, then it may fit in the pack you bring/use.

You don't want to carry too much additional weight in your hydration pack ...

"Cycling" gloves are probably a good idea.

BTW. Cycling shoe have a stiff sole (like a backpacking boot) to distribute the pressure of the pedal on your foot. When you do decide to buy a pair of cycling shoes, you'll want MTB shoes because ROAD shoes are not meant to be walked in.

A cycling shoe will NOT stretch-to-fit over time (at least, not in the first 1000 km) ... if a shoe is too snug, try a larger size ... you can snug up a slightly large shoe by wearing a thicker sock OR adding a liner to the shoe bed ... having (extra) wiggle room for your toes is a good thing.

Wow, I couldn't have asked for a better response. Thank you so much. I really do owe you one.

All of it makes perfect sense and a lot of it I hadn't necessarily considered

I'll buy some gloves and a hydration pack. I'll take a banana and a snack bar to eat at half way. Looking at the route, I think I'll be doing less than 12-15 most of the way as you said, so will leave plenty of time. I may even plan in a lunch stop at the end.

Fantastic, thanks again