Welcome to Road Cycling

Pedals

New road bikes don’t usually come with pedals – and if they do, the pedals probably aren’t going to be very good. Most road riders use pedals that you clip into (which are confusingly called clipless pedals – it's a long story). Most newer riders prefer double-sided SPD-style pedals, while more advanced riders often opt for road-specific SPD-SL pedals. New pedals will also include cleats for your shoes.

Shoes

Along with pedals that clip in, you will want a pair of cycling shoes. Your first pair of shoes does not need to be fancy, a basic pair with straps or laces will do the trick. A good fit is much more important than any fancy features. Make sure to get a shoe that is compatible with the pedal system you have settled on: SPD pedals require 2-bolt mounts on the bottom of the shoe and SPD-SL pedals require 3-bolt mounts. Some shoes are compatible with both, but most only work with one or the other.

Water Bottles & Cages

If you plan on riding for any length of time, a bike-specific water bottle and bottle cage is a must. If you find yourself riding in hot weather, you might also consider an insulated bottle.

Lights

As your certainly aware, riding on the road can be hazardous. A tail light that is bright enough to use during the day is one of the best safety investments you can make. For additional safety, radar units, such as the Garmin Varia, can be used in conjunction with a bike computer to alert you to approaching vehicles.

Helmet

This is a no-brainer (pun intended). Many experienced cyclists can tell you about a time where their helmet saved them from a far worse injury. Modern helmets are lighter, stronger, and more effective than ever before. Don’t skip on this essential piece of cycling kit.

Route Finding

A safe and successful ride begins with a good route. Use services like Strava, Komoot, or Ride with GPS to find the best bike routes in your area. Tools like Strava’s Global Heatmap can show you where other cyclists ride and can help you to avoid highly trafficked car roads. Out on the road, use your phone or a bike computer to follow the route.

On The Road

When the inevitable flat tire or loose bolt shows up, a basic roadside repair kit will help you get home. For starters, your kit should include a spare inner tube, tire levers, multi-tool, and mini pump. To carry it all, you might want a small saddle bag.

At Home

A floor pump is the best way to inflate your tires and check your pressure before each ride. You should also lubricate your chain regularly. Make sure to use bicycle-specific chain lube, WD-40 or other general-purpose lubricants will not work for this and may actually damage your chain.

Padded Shorts

Riding a road bike can take some acclimation, but you can make it much more comfortable with a pair of padded shorts or bibs. Padded shorts for road come in two main styles: bib shorts – which have suspenders to keep them from slipping down – and padded bike shorts – which don’thave suspenders and require a tighter fit around the waist. Most experienced cyclists prefer bib shorts; however, suspender-less bike shorts are often popular with more casual riders and women: since it can be difficult to go to the bathroom in bib shorts.

Jersey

When shopping for your first jersey, fit is the most important consideration. Jersey sizes are not always the same as your t-shirt size and might be smaller or larger depending on your preference and the brand. Look at the size chart and compare your measurements and then check the “manufacturer fit.” A relaxed fit jersey will feel more like snug t-shirt, whereas a race fit or aerojersey will be skintight as these are generally designed for slender bike racers.

Check out our amazing selection of entry-level road bikes. These bikes are perfect for getting into the sport and are totally capable of handling any level of riding.