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Cycling
Cycling is a recreation, a sport, and a means
of transport across land. It involves riding bicycles, unicycles,
tricycles, and other human powered vehicles (HPVs). As a sport
it is governed international by the Union Cyclist International
in Switzerland (for upright bicycles) and by the International
Human Powered Vehicle Association (for other HPVs).
Cycling for transport and touring is promoted
on a European level by the European Cyclists' Federation, and
normal conferences are held under the auspices of Vela City, whereas
global conferences are coordinated by Velo Mondial
Getting started
Road bicycles choice in price from fifty dollars
to thousands of dollars depending mostly on weight. The lightest
bikes weigh around 15 lbs and are the most luxurious. For most,
a good starting bike would be in the range of 18-22 lbs and would
cost just under $1000.
Common bike manufacturers for most skill levels
include Trek, Cannon dale, Giant, Lemon, Specialized, Klein, Bianchi,
and Fuji. Interested and more knowledgeable riders will also consider
Lit speed, Merlin, Omega, and Airborne for nice Ti frames and
Mercian and Roberts for Steel frames.
Being sized for a bike and taking it for a test
ride are both recommended before making a purchase. Most road
bikes include clip fewer pedals in which special shoes attach
to special pedals, which allows for the transfer of power to the
bike all through the entire pedaling motion.
The drive-train components of the bike should
also be considered. A middle grade derailleur is most likely enough
for a beginner. Also, unless a lot of serious climbing will be
done, a double-crank (2 chain rings) front gear system will be
enough in place of a triple-crank (3 chain rings) system.
Biking accessories that some consider obliging
include a lock, pump, gloves, cycling shorts (with pad), clips
to hold wide trousers/slacks/jeans, cycling shoes, spare tubes,
CO2 cartridges as a likely replacement for a portable tire pump,
water bottle and water bottle cage and tire levers.
Items that can be purchased afterward or omitted
include gloves, full sized tire pump, multi-tool, bicycle computer,
studded tires and degreaser. A bicycle helmet is obligatory in
some legislation, particularly for children.
Cycling is a reasonably low preservation transport
form / hobby / sport and the beginner can learn much from bike
shop personal. Many bike shops even hold complimentary maintenance
classes. Inspection and maintenance of breaks is important.
Organized rides and races
Many cycling clubs hold prearranged rides and
races varying that bicyclists of all types compete in. The typical
prearranged race/ride starts with a large group of riders. This
will thin out over the route of the ride. Many riders choose to
ride jointly in groups of the same skill level to take advantage
of drafting practices.
Most organized rides include list requirements
and will provide information either through the mail or online
concerning start times and other supplies. Rides usually consist
of 25, 50 and 100 mile routes, each with a certain number of rest
stops that usually contain refreshments, first aid and maintenance
tools.
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