If you are new to riding, perhaps one of the most intimidating things to do is find a place to ride. The good news? It is easier than you think.
There are three main options that I have discovered in seeking a route to ride. Each has its different challenges, and advantages, and depending on your mood and goals for the day, settling on the right choice can be pretty easy.
Option #1: The Solo Ride
There are many things to enjoy about a solo ride. It is a good stress relief – a time to clear your brain and just be alone with your machine. You can blare your music (make sure you have a weather and dust proof mount for your phone), talk to yourself, or, what I like to do the most, just take in the sights. Where I live is layered with paths for running and biking. While I don’t mind riding on the rode, I enjoy having courses mapped out for me (there are series of colored arrows) that crisscross the city. What I have learned – make sure you know where you are going. If you don’t have a map, take your phone and use an app. Be aware of construction zones and detours. Some people enjoy going out and “getting lost” (not my cup of tea) – just make sure you can find your way back.
Option #2: The Partner Ride
My first varsity letter was for cross country (stop laughing). Ironically, my letter was for being the manager of the cross country team. The reason I became the manager was because I hated running. Coach always talked about running at a “conversational pace”. It was impossible for me to run and talk. Biking, however, allows me to get a solid workout in and a fun chat with a friend. One of my co-workers is an avid cyclist and was kind enough to show me a cool route to ride. She also gave me a quick tutorial on how to safely ride the roads (looking out for pot holes, gravel, roadkill, etc.). It was the longest ride I had ever been on, but instead of it feeling like the longest ride, the conversation with a friend made it a fun and relaxing spin.
Option #3: The Group Ride
Another great thing about where I live – there is a Performance Bike location nearby. Aside from being able to pick up the accessories I need, or having my bike serviced, the Performance store is helpful for another reason – The Great Ride Series. Yep, every Saturday there is a group that leaves from the store and embarks on a short one hour ride. You meet-up, sign a release form, get introduced to each rider, get a quick briefing on the route, and then you are off.
The best part of these rides for beginners? They are “no drop” rides – meaning they don’t leave riders behind. If you have never ridden on the road, this is a safer way for you to learn the ropes (if you don’t have an experienced cycling friend like I do). I can’t speak for every group across the country, but the group I rode with was patient, kind, and fun to talk to during the course of the ride.
If you don’t have a Performance Bike store near you, there are other options. There are a number of groups that I’ve seen on Meetup, check to see if you have a local cycling organization, or check on other social media sites to find a local group.
Are there more than three options for rides? Sure. These are the three that I have focused on since kickstarting my new hobby. The bottom line is that there are a number of ways and places to find a good ride/route. If you are interested – go out and find one. If you are more introverted, buy some Onewheel accessories and go solo. Like company? Find a riding partner or group. Or, if you are into finding variety, mix it up and rotate your options. No matter the decision, get out and ride.
Disclosure: While I was not compensated for this post, Performance Bicycle did send me a bike and product to review which I will continue to do in upcoming posts as I continue to enjoy and explore this new old hobby. As always, my thoughts and words are my own.