Get ready to ride
Not buying new shorts or saddle? At least get your bicycle tuned up
Karen Vance | Enquirer contributor
It's time to pull the bicycle out for that first spring ride.
But before you head out, check to be sure it's working properly, and consider an
upgrade or two for safety and comfort.
"It doesn't take long to get out on a ride and have it ruined by a flat tire or
something not working properly," says Brandon Webb, a mechanic and salesman at
Cycle Sport in Loveland. "It can quickly become unenjoyable. Then the first ride
of the year might be your last one."
Before the first ride, check the tires for dry rot, tighten all the bolts, dry
lube the chain, and take it for a quick spin. If the bike is squeaking or
locking up, try a professional tuneup.
Ralph Mitchell, a member of the Cincinnati Cycle Club, recommends checking the
ABCs before every ride: A ir pressure in the tires; the Bottom bracket; and the
C hain and gearing.
But if you're not interested in maintaining your own bicycle, consider renting.
The Loveland Bike and Skate Rental has bikes for all abilities and equipment for
taking the kids along.
"We get a lot of people [renting] who do have a bike, because it can be easier.
You don't have to load them, fix them up and pump up the tires," says Martin
Schickel, owner of the shop.
If you're looking to buy new, Mitchell, 51, from outside Burlington, recommends
seeking out professionals.
"The only way to get a good bike fit is to go to a bike shop," Mitchell says.
"The bikes at mass retailers are designed to fit everyone, and consequently,
they don't fit anyone."
But if you want to upgrade, you can get a new saddle or handlebars.
"If you've got an aggressive bike and all you really want to do is a gentle
pleasure ride, fatigue will become a real factor," explains Matt Brice,
assistant manager of Montgomery Cyclery in Montgomery. "You'll have a lot more
enjoyment with the right bike and clothing."
Webb and Brice both strongly recommend padded biking shorts or underwear. It's
also important to avoid cotton because it traps moisture, Mitchell says.
"Be aware of the weather, and know that when you're riding, you're going to
generate a lot of heat," he says. "Wear lightweight, stowable layers."
For the most fun, ride in groups, Mitchell says.
"Being a new rider and out alone can be formidable," he says. "Going out in a
group will make it a lot easier and a lot more fun."
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YOUR TURN
What: Springtime bike ride
When: It's always a good time to ride on your own or with people you know.
Or head out on the road with the Cincinnati Cycle Club, which has group rides
for nearly all ability levels every day. They are free, with no obligation to
join the club, but you must wear a helmet.
Visit www.cincinnati
cycleclub.org for schedules, routes and contact information.
What you'll need
Bicycle ($230 and up)
Helmet ($30-$200)
Padded biking shorts or underwear ($30-$80)
Biking jerseys and gloves ($35-$80)
Consider these upgrades:
Newer tires
($15-$30 and up)
Comfortable saddle ($30-$45)
Handlebars ($30)
Adjustable stem, where handlebars are
attached ($30)
Professional tuneup ($45-$120)
Prices courtesy of Cycle Sport (513-683-0550) and Montgomery Cyclery
(513-793-3855). Rentals near Little Miami Scenic Trail run $8-$35 an hour, and
$15-$45 per day, from Loveland Bike and Skate Rental (513-683-0468;
www.lovelandbiketrail.com).