As a newbie returning to cycling, what have I learned.

[Madders]

As my learning curve is a vertical line, I thought I would create this thread with a few observations that I have, humorous or otherwise. I will update it as my awareness grows.

On my ten mile commute, giving it the beans saves only three minutes against a more leisurely ride.

Mudguards are a good idea.

A good front light that helps you see where you are going is also a good idea.

Cycling fitness does not help your footballing prowess.

It is advantageous to be cycling behind my fiance'.

If something really is chasing you along a countryside road in the wee hours, it is scary

Try to take EVERYTHING that you need for your day at work rather than leaving it at home, in the wardrobe, or the fridge for example.

 

[gambatte]

Try to take EVERYTHING that you need for your day at work rather than leaving it at home, in the wardrobe, or the fridge for example.

If you can, leave spares at work and cover those things you might leave. Change of clothes, bit of cash etc.
I've got a couple of tins of food in my drawer, just in case.

 

[Madders]

Ah, yes, I've picked up on that trick already as I do take my clothes for the week in on the first day. Just lucky I had my 'emergency' pants in my locker when I forgot a clean pair after my shower. I guess you learn by your mistakes.

 

[MossCommuter]

Add to those, these:

• It is uphill both ways
• A morning headwind will turn through 180 degrees by home-time
• Microfibre towels are a con
• A beautiful weather forecast means pack waterproofs
• A bad weather forecast means pack waterproofs
• Always pack waterproofs
• Breathable waterproofs do not exist
• It is always warmer than you think; set off chilly
• You always need to carry one more thing than will fit in the panniers, regardless of the size of the panniers
• That cyclist only just ahead of you is way out of reach
• Your bike is always slower than all other bikes you encounter
• When you say "My bike is just perfect at the moment" your bike will hear you and exact its revenge
• You do not pay road-tax; you have no right to be on the road
• When it comes to lights; if you buy cheap, you buy twice
• Shared use cycle paths are for the sole use of dog-walkers (there shall be no exceptions)
• If you feel like you need a new bike, clean and lube the chain, adjust the brakes & pump up the tyres; it will feel like you have one

and finally...

• no matter how crap your day, remember; you will be getting to have a bike ride before getting home

 

[Madders]

Ha ha ha! That made I laugh. Very astute observations there MC and I fully understand each and every one.

Madders

 

[biggs682]

i keep a spare pr of socks and trousers at work , never thought about a pr of pants

 

[baldycyclist]

too much info biggs

 

[sidevalve]

To add just one more - the probability of a puncture increases with the importance of being on time.

 

[Madders]

Chamois cream is a viable option!

Madders

 

[Madders]

I feel a little guilty if I don't ride for a few days.

I actually do enjoy the ride home.

I now want HID lights on my bike.

There is more kit that I want than I actually need.

There is more kit that I need than I can actually afford at this time.

My work cycling course came along at the right time as did the subsequent issue of lots of bike gear.

 

[cloggsy]

On my ten mile commute, giving it the beans saves only three minutes against a more leisurely ride.

You'll get quicker...

Mudguards are a good idea.

Only if its wet and/or raining!

A good front light that helps you see where you are going is also a good idea.

Only if it's dark!

Cycling fitness does not help your footballing prowess.

Correct

It is advantageous to be cycling behind my fiance'.

You'd have to say that, or face the wrath of a woman scorned!

If something really is chasing you along a countryside road in the wee hours, it is scary

Seconded

Try to take EVERYTHING that you need for your day at work rather than leaving it at home, in the wardrobe, or the fridge for example.

Thirded

 

[AndyRM]

Try to take EVERYTHING that you need for your day at work rather than leaving it at home, in the wardrobe, or the fridge for example.

Fourthed.

Fortunately, my office is very close to an ASDA which has a large clothing section. On the (now rare) days when I forget something I simply tell my manager that I need to nip to my tailor for some appropriate attire.

 

[Madders]

I honestly believe in learning by your mistakes and had I had to 'go commando' for a day, rest assured, it would have focussed my mind not to forget 'those important little details' on the next occasion.

Madders

 

[Brains]

Clothing in the office.
I never, ever, take the last pair of sock, pants, shirt, shoes etc. home.
I always keep one spare everything in the office (even if it's worn and needs washing)

 

[TonyEnjoyD]

I take enough shirts n pants for the week and aways +1 on the smalls
Been caught out a coupla times when didn't get in at the weekend and backpacked a shrt to find no smalls.
Embarrassing wearing a suit with bright blue n red road socks on and no keks