Road Cycling Tips - Nobody talks about this.

You want to be safe, clean, healthy and not broke, Check out these cycling tips.
How to look back without weaving into traffic - How to get your chain back on - Group ride etiquette. Not every cycling tip should be about "How to get faster".
About me:
I am Jurgen Beneke, a 50 year old Bicycle nut, dog fanatic and recovering raceaholic. Former MTB World Cup winner, X-Games Winner and National Champion. Owner and operator at www.dahanger.co

[@cyclingskills]

Hi there 🖐️Before you add another comment about using a mirror (like the other hundreds of riders) please watch me testing mirrors and a radar. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qn-Qk6Roh9B3qtksi=ic8FO3bfQm8GhhJ0

[@Archiconocido]

That neck lifting idea killed me. Live and learn.

[@dannyphantom121]

Is the chain made of battery acid? Just grab the chain and put it back on lol.

[@jamesbuckingham8073]

@@dannyphantom121 That's why cycling shorts/bibs are black

[@InvictaView]

Here in the UK, looking over your shoulder is called a lifesaver. It was drummed into us on my motorcycle training, over 30 years ago, and my cycle training, nearly 50 years ago. To this day, it hacks me off when other cyclist's change direction but don't look over there shoulder. Your other tips are more amusing than useful lol. 👍🛠💯🇬🇧

[@ronaldmadican2393]

@@InvictaView Well, I didn't see that coming!

[@fozfactor]

I remember dropping my chain to the inside going up a low grade climb in one of my early Cat5 races many years ago, one of the more experienced riders put his hand behind my butt pushing me along and said "pedal slowly and upshift". The guy saved my race and taught me your valuable tip #2.

[@benedictearlson9044]

He was likely waiting years to do that, touch another man's butt.

[@johntechwriter]

Yeah, the fastest way to recover is using the front derailleur to move the chain back to the big ring.

[@dooleh84]

Did he remove his hand after that?

[@johnagorman]

​@@dooleh84hahaha

[@zhaoyue9559]

who could forget a golden palm

[@carelvdm]

"Best bike for you is the one you already own". Love that! So true!!!!

[@JR-rr9ek]

Until it gets stolen

[@scott4981]

33?

[@mooorecowbell4222]

My Pugeot Legacy bike purchased in 1985...6 saddles later plus new wheels, new chain rings...new handle bars... wait, the only thing original is he frame.... 🚴‍♂

[@blacktelescope]

Friends don't let friends buy bikes on credit. Love it! Top advice!

[@cyclingskills]

Yup, just keep riding that old bike and save up for the new one.

[@tilleylepew5944]

Never trust a bike shop with a finance dept. !!

[@secretagent86]

I do not borrow for anything. No car payments in over 25 years. Ok tiny mortgage .. but that is all

[@huffmac]

If you really want to buy a bike, save a dime, quarter or dollar per mile cycled each week. You'll get there soon enough.

[@A67255]

@@secretagent86 yeah well done you , what a pity that not everybody in life has had your financial availability. To some credit is the only way to attain something . How dare they want something eh , according to your self indulgent mantra they should just do without …

[@kathleenkeeler4225]

Learned "turning your head" the hard way. Put new front/back lights on the bike to be able to cycle in the winter (no snow in Houston generally) and kept twisting to see if the rear light was working. Long story short, ran into a curb at speed, body went forward into the handlebar and the gearshift lever punctured my groin through fleece sweatpants. Lot's of blood and a trip to the ER where they determined the lever knicked the artery in my right leg. Funniest part was the instructions from the ER to stop on the way home & pick-up a 10 lb bag of potting soil to use as a compress on the abdomen while the artery healed. Was really drugged and my son told me I loudly kept asking if these were medieval times and were going to send me home with a bottle of leaches as well.

[@Ferrari255GTO]

Oof, you REALLY got lucky there! Could've been much worse. Turning my head is something i've been slowly developing for the last 4 or so years as a MTBer since i also use my downhill (and only) bike for groceries or stuff like that. Been riding for far longer but since i've been sharing more and more the road with traffic i've had to learn to check my back whenever needed. It's almost impossible to do with a winter jacket on the rain since the hood blocks most of your view to the sides, not even talking about behind, as much as i hate them i'd consider buyng rear view mirrors for thoose days when i need/want to ride on the rain.

[@MunichUWH]

​@@Ferrari255GTOI like to put the hood on first and the helmet on top. The helmet straps keep the hood in place when I turn my head.

[@Ferrari255GTO]

@@MunichUWH i've been getting unlucky tryng to get a helmet, every time i'm ready to buy that full face helmet i want something happens. Just before this christmas my rear shock blew, and the previous time my front brake pissed itself and since it was of "unknown origin" (Hygia elite) i ended up getting a set of Code R brakes instead

[@LordVarkson]

Were you running stem shifters?

[@ManiPlaysYT]

And especially slow down if you’re turning your head!

[@thegeneral388]

I’ve been riding with bar end mirrors for 25 years. Best investment I’ve ever made. Love your chain tips. Keep on riding!!😊

[@roshi98]

Being a year-round cyclist in the Adirondacks, the head-turn is probably the single most important tip to follow when on the road. I know when I'm driving a cyclist with their head on a swivel is much more noticeable than one with their eyes laser-focused ahead. And since it's a form of communication/recognition of surroundings I think it creates some appreciation from all parties involved. Plus, it's just safer!

[@kramnam4716]

Turning your head really helps us drivers too because we know you are engaged with us. Love tip 3! 😂

[@cyclingskills]

Yes, and most cyclists are drivers too. Thanks for the feedback

[@ChaulThe]

I'll have to think about that. The first tip is the one that caught my eye. Most drivers don't give any space. They pass the cyclists within half a meter, or a foot, and I don't think it's related to whether I look at them or not. I can turn my head without turning the handle bar but there's a chance the next one passing is a truck and the side wind would hit me. Road cycling is dangerous where I live. Must be a different culture. I've been passed by a bus that only left me 20 centimeters of space on the side of the road.

[@ObjectiveDynamics]

@@cyclingskills yep, something that all too many drivers don't give credit for. I'm a walker, runner, cyclist and car driver

[@lonegroover]

Your third chance of getting the chain on without getting your hands dirty - keep a pair of disposable nitrile gloves in the saddle bag.

[@MeneerHerculePoirot]

Yep, been doing the same for years.

[@ScottVanHorne]

Or wax your chain and never have dirty hands or bike again

[@chrislesner]

Even if wedged a short stick can be used to free it and place the chain back in place. This is done from the bottom up on the front.

[@PavolFilek]

YOu can ask people around to do the job for 10 €

[@gaypreator8547]

Dog poop bags work great too. God fore-bid you get dirty. 👍 😂

[@dave0783]

I really enjoy your video style mate. Also the statement 'The best bike is the one you own' is so true. I'm just getting back into cycling after some bad injuries and my bike is a Giant SCR 3.0 from 2005 with a broken front derailleur (i just ride in the center ring - yes its a triple :) ) I look forward to more from you :)

[@cyclingskills]

ahh, the good old triple chain rings. Tell a youngster that you mostly ride in the middle ring is like speaking a different language. :)

[@secretagent86]

I ride a triple. In spring front derailleur broke. I put it in the middle for the two weeks for a new one to arrive. Shocking how often ( who derailleur off) the chain popped onto the big ring.

[@bryankinney6025]

i have the same year - mine was the least expensive model (ocr 1 or ocr3 i can't recall now). but was so 'embarrassed' that it was a triple. not my newer bike but i love it still.

[@LadyPelikan]

2005 was a good year. My Trek is from then!

[@markbowden1976]

I love triple! Blimey if I'm building a tourer for myself it MUST have a triple up front, I'll hunt one for the build because for me, the more options when distance riding the better.

[@molon___labe]

Absolutely solid advice! I’m an introvert so I prefer to do all my cycling on myself however being able to turn your head without your bike moving is a MUST to learn! Also who cares about brand new 10k+ bikes I tend to look more at the old frames those are what catch my eye! Although a new aero frame with deep wheels does look amazing can’t lie haha! Great video!

[@Machoman510]

Wow, Tip 1 might be the best safety tip I've heard in a long time. Completely agree!

[@DerekTrent-ej1fx]

As a 35 year old new cyclist I’ve been looking for a channel like this! 👍 that last bit is the best I have a grand record that’s kinda clunky and heavy but I love riding and it’s all I have or could afford but I’m slowly putting miles on it and have never felt better.

[@ghostdog7306]

The head-turning tip was excellent. The other two I had learned over time. Thank you for sharing. P.s. I love my old bike!

[@ccid7822]

Love your article. I did see that a couple of people did note that you said , " you can't have a mirror on your helmut or your bars". Absolutely , you don't put a mirror on you bars. But, I've ridden over 125,000 miles on roads , and I would never ride without my small mirror attached to my sunglasses. I don't even have to move my head , to be able to see perfectly behind me. Just like driving a car...I spend just as much time looking back , as I do looking forward. Thanks for your tips..... Appreciate it.

[@JR-rr9ek]

I have a bar end mirror-used it for 40 years-suits me!

[@presidenttnediserp428]

They're my handlebars so I put a mirror on them because I can. Goodnight

[@masterkamen371]

​@@presidenttnediserp428 But that's not aero!!!!!

[@JugglinJellyTake01]

1) relax and drop shoulder 2) move opposite hand towards centre of handlebars 3) I'd add stop or slow down on the pedals and practice it somewhere safe. The tendency to swerve could increase in a more tense situation so certainly one to practice straight away and compare turning with and without peddling. I've just started cycling again after a 4 or 5 year break and the difference in confidence and competence over that time is surprising in particular, for me, flexibility when looking back so maybe some kind of stretching is in order too. That chain tip is a useful one too. Thanks for this.

[@ElSantoLuchador]

The look-behind is a good thing for recreational cyclists to practice before testing it out in traffic.

[@juliocesarpereira4325]

Great tips. I'll try them next time I'm on the road. A great tip nobody talks about is to signal for the person behind if there is a pot hole, a cone, or any obstacle instead of just avoiding it. When this happens, the cyclist in front is hiding a cone and the one behind cannot see it and may not be able to avoid it. In general, tips like these when people are riding in groups.

[@kovie9162]

I always do this, it's common courtesy.

[@imagistatheimagista1870]

Some of the best no-BS advice ever! You’re so right about expensive bikes! Here in NYC, as I’m sure I’m other parts of the world too, there’s so much pressure to ride an expensive bike. After playing into that game and spending over 10K on a bike I ask myself “am I really enjoying myself more?”. My honest answer is “no”. As a weekend non-racer the bike only gave me some bragging rights but didn’t make cycling more fun to be honest.

[@ashurany]

For those who might struggle w/#1 as I do, I'd suggest a garmin varia radar. Been a game changer for me.

[@vgerster]

Also don’t forget the super powerful balancing skills you gain being able to look back, could save you in an emergency situation

[@GordoGambler]

WTF use is that on a 70 mph FREEWAY when you are looking for a gap to cross a merge lane?? Half of my highway rides involve hundreds of big and BIGGER trucks going by. I have no use for Saturday peloton pussies rides.

[@MrAudioBill]

While in Panama during the early 80's, I cleared my nose, and it hit the ground with a SPLAT. A local rider exclaimed "Cuarto de Libra con queso". (Quarter Pounder With Cheese). Everyone cracked up. I was stationed there for 3 years. Every weekend there usually was a race on the Pacific side on Saturday and the Atlantic on Sunday. The races were "open" shall we say. Riding etiquette can cross language barriers. Glad I came across your channel.

[@cyclingskills]

That is a great story. Thank you for sharing 👍

[@bryanm1498]

Although I know this video applies to riding on the roads, I would also add using trail etiquette as well. I’ve seen way too many occasions where riders do not announce when they are passing walkers. This is easy to do but yet so many bikers fail to do it. Recently, I was riding and coming toward me was an elderly couple probably in their mid-80s, out for a leisurely stroll. Behind them also coming towards me, was a biker moving at a pretty good clip. He decided to pass this elderly couple just as I was passing them, meaning he was in between me and the elderly couple. He nearly gave the elderly woman a heart attack as he almost clipped her arm. This kind of stupidity gives all bikers a bad reputation. If I would’ve thought about it sooner, I would have turned around and apologized to the elderly woman on behalf of all bikers.

[@petermcgreevy6386]

thats what the bell is for......😊@@escapedfromnewyork

[@feedigli]

@@escapedfromnewyork You (the biker) are the one moving at speed. Are you waiting til too late? Especially with older walkers, ringing a bell or speaking up 50 - 70 feet out isn't too early, to avoid startle reaction. I could be in the middle of conducting an orchestra on my earbuds and throw my arm out at the bassoons just as you spin by. The one coming from behind is the one responsible for not having a collision; you might even have to slow down (gasp!).

[@estherwatkinson6424]

As a bassoonist and a cyclist, I find this very funny

[@arterialturns]

I've experimented with bells and vocal warnings at different distances away from pedestrians, and it NEVER fails to startle the daylights out of them. I feel terrible, but better than a collision. But truly no distance seems perfect.

[@sharpuslf]

@@arterialturns I have also done this type of testing. The best and safest method is to approach at speed with a silent drive train. Do not let the hub click. Aim right at the middle of their back while watching their walking pattern. About ten feet before you get to them swerve quickly to the left side and around them. Often they are starteld and jump, but who cares you are past them at this point. I have actually called out to people while 200 feet back, and had them movve to the side...then JUMP IN FRONT OF ME at the last moment.

[@ToddNZMTB]

As a mountain biker [who avoids road riding as much as I can, except to commute to the trails] #1 was really helpful 👍🏻

[@cyclingskills]

Great, thank you for sticking around as a MTB-rider. Bikes are bikes.

[@ToddNZMTB]

@@cyclingskills I tried it out today, brilliant!

[@gerrysecure5874]

I too know some MTBikers who get 🤯 when 2 cars pass them. What lame whiners 😋

[@toomanythoughtsinmyhead]

​@@gerrysecure5874I like @cyclingskills attitude! 😊 Yours....

[@dmmchugh3714]

As an older rider, thought I was the only one who didnt have the right knack for turning to look back while in traffic. Thanks for these tips. PS: per your final comment, I think I'll also keep going on my Marin 18 speed, upright, Lady Fairfax(2018) - so far, so good !

[@petesig93]

Yes, dropping the traffic-side arm is a really great technique. But the primary safety strategy is to keep a sustained and easy view of following traffic by good use of a high quality rear view mirror.

[@alasdair4161]

Yes agree 100%, I finally found a good mirror after trying several, and living on a busy high speed narrow country road I ride with one eye on that mirror all the time. It's wide angle gives me a smoother view when handlebars move and the optically even convex makes it more predictable as to how many seconds I have until the approaching vehicle passes. One of my spare bikes doesn't have one (yet) and I find it way more challenging to ride and dealing with traffic, especially ultra quiet EV's.

[@xmateinc]

Even with a mirror an inexperience rider can drip into traffic without knowing.

[@petesig93]

@@xmateinc I use the mirror to monitor traffic and actually deliberately "drift into traffic" to ensure they get the wake-up call that they must overtake with a suitable safety margin. They need to 'change lane to pass'. * Stay Safer; Ride Wider!

[@alasdair4161]

@@petesig93 Good strategy. It's probably a good thing for them to think you haven't seen them either, that will encourage them to give you a wide berth if your line isn't dead straight.

[@petesig93]

@@alasdair4161 yes, that is my exact strategy. I monitor the mirror routinely and any approaching vehicle that appears aggressive, or in any dodgy road/traffic setting I utilise what I call 'the wiggle' - a calculated wander out into the road, when the following car/truck is 100-200 metres behind me.... sometimes even when just 50-70m back. It. Works. *Stay Safer; Ride Wider!

[@trignals]

Tip 2 is pretty neat! Will try it at the next opportunity. Chance 3 would be to wax your chain, not perfectly clean to touch but fairly close. Plus I've never had it mark long pants legs & if you have to bring your bike into your home it's not smelly or liable to stain anything nearby.

[@nhung7592]

Thanks so much for the "no swerve" advice!! I never thought to bring my shoulder down. Will give it a try on this weekend's ride. Cheerios!

[@silentumexcubitor6747]

find a no-traffic road, or empty parking lot, and PRACTICE FIRST, before that group ride....

[@tomreingold4024]

Excellent stuff. Here is my corollary from your first tip. I have a mirror and use it to see who and what are behind me. I turn my head, not to see, but to SHOW people that I see them. I often turn my head twice to make sure people pay attention to me. I believe it works, but I can’t prove it.

[@cyclingskills]

Good stuff! That's exactly it, I truly believe that looking at the drivers changes their behavior. ( I also don't have any proof of it :))

[@Gregorius421]

Great tips! Btw at 2:35 there's one more option to get the chain back on: pick a stick from your surroundings to help guide the chain.

[@vidarv.9010]

..while easing the chain tension by pulling the rear derailleur pulley wheel slightly forward. I hope your r.d. is clean!

[@simonalbrecht9435]

Or some leaves to grab the chain with, so you don't touch it directly.

[@bootsybadger]

@@vidarv.9010 I use 2 sticks, one in each hand. First I dismount and rest the bike on its saddle, so that I'm not wrestling with a bike with a mind of its own. I push the (ususally dirty!) r.d.with one stick, using the other to lift and guide the chain back on. Time doesn't matter, as I'm retired and don't do cycle racing!

[@briz1965]

The trick I use is get off, grab the chain at the bottom of the chainring, plonk it on the ring and spin the chain ring counter clockwise. If you keep doing it by the slow peddle way you'll eventually bugger up your front mech.

[@mlee6050]

I do by grab chain and lift on but joy of waxed chain, personally I haven't had a chain issue in say 12 years, even SRAM etap front derailleur doesn't throw chain

[@johnybrokeit]

That snot moment got me laughing out loud, mannnn 😂 good one! This is my first video of u, my friend, and I've subscribed simply because of your choice to encourage cyclists to stay away from credit cards for their dream cycles. The best bike for me is the one I own! I love it! Cheers, Sir!

[@cyclingskills]

Thanks 🙏

[@jamesbuckingham8073]

There's got to be a market for cycling snot

[@adamweb]

I've actually never heard about the downshift/upshift trick to fix a dropped chain, brilliant!

[@ohiomoto]

Great tip. Here is mine: A good class 1 or class 3 eBike might be the best bike for you. Not you Cyclingskills, the less fit "you"(s) out there. I'm getting older, and heavier, and don't cycle on a consistent basis anymore. So I did what any sensible person would do, buy eBikes and I am riding more than I have in years. I I thought I would ride further than my existing fitness would allow, but I'm finding that I'm mostly riding faster and I'm sustaining higher heart rates without blowing up. Especially on the MTB where you're standing a lot and there is a lot of bike handling involved. It's been a game-changer for me and I encourage anyone who can afford it without going into debt to do the same if they are struggling to be the athlete they used to be. Ultimately, we all want to have fun and increase fitness. There is no shame in using technology to improve your cycling.

[@cyclingskills]

100% agree - my wife also has an e-bike- She loves it.

[@JulianStokesIt]

Tip 1. Just the other week I was slowly riding on some gravel, heard something coming up from behind, looked round, obviously pulled on handlebars a bit and the front wheel slid out from under me. At least it was the left side so no damage to the bike's derailleur. My ribs are still a bit sore, but not as sore as my pride at making a fool of myself in front of the neighbour's 8 y.o. kid! 😀

[@cyclingskills]

Sending healing vibes

[@leefury7]

Great vid. Im 75, have been riding the same Schwinn (the best $260 investment I ever made) for the last 8 yrs with over 25K mile recorded. Same chain but a new sealed-bearing sprocket unit. My friend's TREK is half the weight and twice the cost (plus the required maintenance he's experiencing). I ride for the exercise. so I guess the Schwinn's weight isn't a negative.

[@cyclingskills]

That is awesome! Great $ per miles value on that Schwinn :) Thanks for watching

[@LLewis-vu9qf]

This was an informative, humorous video even though the chain hack was the only one I hadn't heard of. It's not a trick I could use (long story) so I make use of latex gloves leftover from Covid. I really like the 'sponsored by nobody in the bike industry' statement at the end. 😅 Very clever. 😊

[@christopheryellman533]

Another way to put a chain back on is with a stick. Run the stick up above the chainring and you can put the chain back there. Where I ride there is always a stick within 10 feet.

[@seagulls4life12]

As someone who has been riding bikes since I could walk I never thought the head turn was something people needed to learn. I thought it was just second nature. Great tip for teaching my wife, she recently expressed interested in road riding

[@cyclingskills]

Exactly, not everyone has been cycling forever. Simple tasks can be hard for beginners. Thanks for the comment 👍

[@j.helmenstine227]

EXCELLENT video! I love your special effects. Got a good laugh and valuable insights. Thanks and keep up the fine work.

[@ahmeds.mansour1293]

That’s actually fun, on point, concise and highly beneficial.. what caught my attention to the video is the thumbnail, suggesting the way to turn you head while riding, and the auto demonstration of the video confirmed it.. this is an issue that I’ve seen no one talking about. This is really important and it’s a struggle for those who don’t know how to turn their head back while riding “me included, but not anymore”. And for the best bike for you is the one you already own, that’s the truth! I’d love to watch more of your content🎉

[@cyclingskills]

Thank you so much. Really appreciate your comment. 👍

[@markanderson3870]

The bike you own is really the best bike. I have a mid-90s part-carbon bike, and I pass and "race" lots of people on the bike trails who have much better bikes, but just aren't as fast or as demented, haha. It's always more about the rider than the bike (btw, it's not about "beating" anyone, it's more about racing against yourself and having fun).

[@arnisbrown5848]

Love that first one especially. Learned some surprisingly useful 'why didn't I think of that' tips from taking a motorcycle safety course recently that applied to (solo) road cycling. My favorite is bobbing slightly to the left and right (with a front light on) as you approach an intersection or driveways/parking lot entrances. Vastly increases your visibility to oncoming left turning cars and cars pulling out in front of you.

[@cyclingskills]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ussling]

Brake levers are for braking, and shifting is done with the levers properly located on the down tube. 30,000+ miles on my 1980 Gios Torino Super Record, from when bicycles looked like bicycles.

[@lesride]

I've always wondered about number 1 and now thanks to you I need wonder no longer! Very helpful indeed!

[@cyclingskills]

Coolio -thanks

[@kimmytuna5180]

Get a mirror!

[@davidrowe8747]

I've never seen that neck lift technique to raise the rear wheel off the ground. I learned something new today!

[@gimmeagig]

I love this. Turning around without swerving has always been difficult for me.I'm going to try your tips

[@cyclingskills]

You got this!

[@WanderingOldGuy]

Really enjoy your videos for their plain-speaking, this is it delivery. Mirrors, no thanks. Upright, 8-10 MPH commuter, knock yourself out. Otherwise, they're a distraction that can get you hurt. I use both methods you've shown to look behind and have had riders ask how I do it without swerving? Your ways are how! I have always carried a micro-fiber cloth tucked under the seat (to preserve the hallowed aero') for chain crisis, cleaning glasses, wiping sweat at a stop... now I'm going to try your method! As for 'keeping up,' I don't try. I ride a '95 Benotto 850 Italia with stem shifters and toe traps! I wave at the carbon-riding Lycra Mafia when they zip past and cycle on happily. :D Stay safe!

[@cecilecorpuz5735]

Great video! Been riding since the 70's and all of your tips are right on, one thing for sure I have never done was to drop a chain, new tech is not for me, I'm still pushing steel bikes with friction shifting along with tubular tires, one of my best riding rigs was a Steel TRACK bike frame that was Modified to a road bike a screamer it was, I've done many 100 mile plus rides on it with many mountain rides in the mix as well. I'd ride from Down town San Jose over the Santa Cruz mountains to the Santa Cruz and back. One thing I would do when riding when hearing an approaching car coming from the rear, I'd stick my arm out while pointing out a few fingers to let them the motorist know that this is my space, this way I am able to continue with my ride without braking my pace, this also worked out well for me when approaching and navigating my way through high way over passes. Keep on peddling.

[@cyclingskills]

Great comment, thank you 🙏 Ride on

[@webart3938]

Old school, I too like steel frame from Germany

[@arterialturns]

Wow, did you ride on 9?

[@christopherwilliard7444]

@@arterialturns There are much better routes than 9...up OSC, cut across on Summit, and absolutely fly down Soquel-San Jose Rd to Capitola!

[@seanlewis7203]

Enjoyed this common sense video. To see what's going on behind me, I often sneak a peek under my armpit. It's upside down but it works well especially if you're riding on the drops.

[@paulflory3532]

Tip #1 - Get a Garmin Varia RTL radar unit. Then you don't need to turn around nearly as often. Just to double check when turning across traffic making a left (in the US) or right (in the UK) turn.

[@zimmejoc]

I love my Varia but my buddy who rides with a mirror knows there is a car behind us before I do. Still, I prefer the Varia

[@paulflory3532]

@@zimmejoc Is your Varia's audible alert turned off? Mirrors are great but you have to be looking at them, Varia alerts you. Plus gives you 10-15 actual speed readings for the vehicle (about every 10 yards) as it approaches, and logs that into (together with location and time) into your .fit file for that ride. Can be handy later at court f something bad happens.

[@zimmejoc]

@@paulflory3532 the beep is on. It’s just he sees a car in his mirror about a second before I get the beep. I know how fast it is coming though, he does not. He’ll say, “car”, I’ll hear a beep and I’ll say “It’s coming at 45 mph” it actually works really well.

[@paulflory3532]

@@zimmejoc I mostly ride solo, and I guess I just like to focus forward, enjoy the scenery, and not stare at a mirror. To each his own. I also frequently hear the vehicle, sometimes before the Varia picks it up.

[@zimmejoc]

@@paulflory3532 I'm not a mirror guy either (hence the varia) but depending on wind conditions, I don't hear the car until I get the beep. When I used to ride in Texas with the speed limit being 75 and cars often approaching at 80+ mph the beep would sound and the car was on me within a second. Thank goodness for super wide shoulders.

[@miketayse]

I'm going to try the handlebar thing next time I'm out. I'm one of those guys that looks back over his shoulder and weaves badly, thanks!

[@GaryCanterbury]

Riding my '96 Benotto 850 Itslia with rim brakes, downtube mechanial shifters and loving it. Great tips! Stay safe!

[@cyclingskills]

Thank you. Down tube shifters 👍 yeah 💪

[@damo5219]

4 years riding, and im still learning 👍👍

[@indjke]

10 years and still :D :D :D

[@MrTeff999]

Holding your bike up with your neck to fix the chain- Great tip !!! Taking a hand off the bar to look back? This is what caused me a bad crash. Just before I got my hand back on the bar I hit a bump that bounced me forward and I missed the bar, fell forward over the bars, landed on my back on burning hot asphalt shattering my scapula.

[@gpe1279]

Great tips, good advice, making people laugh and think...whats not to like?! Love from England bro 🙏

[@mrjackdog]

I follow all these good guidlines. The video is GOOD, full of humor, good sense, And NOT SPONCERED BY ANYONE! Attaboy!

[@jillpennington3366]

Thank you so much for Tip#1! I'm horrible for swerving, to the point that I was contemplating getting one of the radars. I'd already tried the mirror which was useless for me. Now I have two techniques to practice and I'm excited.

[@cyclingskills]

Thank you for watching and your comment. I did a test of one of the radar units and they are pretty amazing. Not cheap, but worth it. Check it out. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4ecpqqJpbWmY7ssi=pBxNhqRo_C4j1RVV

[@blueridgepics]

Great advice. I've actually recovered the chain that way several times over the years. Thank you!!!

[@petermcgreevy6386]

just get a mirror for $30 and you can see well ahead for any wide loads, trucks, cars when they are coming and may be a problem to you.....problem solved as you know well ahead of time.....😊

[@GordoGambler]

I sold my last deFaileur bike 5 years ago. Good riddance. I still do solo 100+ miles anytime I feel like it on my 50 and 70 lb IGH steel is real bikes. My 2 tours had 120 lbs for my Rohloff14 to scoff at. LOL.

[@briannewbold3530]

Hi Jurgen thanks! And in response here are my top 3.. feel free to make a vid on them: 1. City riding at stops just drop the big ring down 1. Your knees will thank you as you start up and spin. Then just gear up the big ring and your back to where you were before having to stop. 2. On climb, fully sweep levers on both left and right at the same time. You will go from big chainring to small chainring but will be about 1 gear down. This sets you up for further downshifting without having to manage a big ring change on its own. 3. Riverbed riding under bridges, or any short valleys.. push as hard as you can on the down, and you’ll thank yourself as you exit the up at nearly the same speed you started. Have fun out there everyone!!

[@obikedog]

I've never thought to lift with my neck from the saddle. Great tip! Btw - the third way to reset a chain without ever getting your hands dirty is to use a waxed chain. Definitely agree buy what you can afford. That said - my priority is cycling. I drive a 2012 pickup and live in a modest dwelling. So I can spend on my passion without any guilt whatsoever. For me, new kit is inspiring and I like to be inspired to ride.

[@cyclingskills]

Love it - shiny expensive cars are so overrated. 100% agree with you. I only have one hobby and it’s cycling. So that’s where I spent my money. Cheers-

[@dalexflores]

For a dropped chain, find a stick on the side of the road to wrap the chain from the bottom of the chainring back onto the teeth to keep your hands clean. Or wax your chain! Also… It’s like the algorithm knew I move been wanting to buy a brand new bike, and pushed this video my way. Thanks for that last free tip about keeping up with the Jones’.

[@ralphsuffield8658]

Brilliant, don’t swerve into traffic and don’t spit on people.Thanks a lot there Tips.Shouldn’t be on the road without a rear view mirror!

[@sunnybeaches1331]

I don't walk or pedal well and I ride an E-Trike that I converted. I used to drive a car but when I became so badly injured that I was confined to an "E- Hospital Bed" for 3 years, ALL I COULD THINK ABOUT was getting out of my bed and onto a Bike! I dont know if I will ever go back to driving a car. I use my E-Trike as my PRIMARY mode of transportation. I trained my large Service Dog to PULL the Trike and he LOVES IT, as much as I do! It has changed my entire LIFE! Great video, BTW.

[@cyclingskills]

Thank you so much for the comment. Your dog sounds awesome. I too have a dog that loves to pull me. Dogs are the best. Be well

[@joshualancekemp]

I wax all my chains so I have no fear of dirty hands…. Great video!! 👍🏼👊🏼

[@dannyphantom121]

Is the chain made of battery acid? Just grab the chain and put it back on lol.

[@DanielGonzalez-td4mo]

Tip 1 and 2 were the best advices Ive ever seen in biking! Thanks a ton

[@michaelfasher]

Easiest way to look behind you without weaving is to use a mirror.

[@KRIGBERT]

Easiest way to avoid dropped chain is to use belt drive

[@MatzeMumpitz]

This is the easiest way to make a fool of yourself, too. No cyclist uses a mirror.

[@KRIGBERT]

@@MatzeMumpitz honestly, if you're afflicted by that kind of vanity, biking might not be for you :l

[@MatzeMumpitz]

@@KRIGBERT Biking with a mirror is not for me, yes.

[@KRIGBERT]

@@MatzeMumpitz and that's okay, just don't go shaming people for not caring about stuff like that.

[@steveferguson698]

Good stuff. Thanks! And if you see a rider screwing up, not following rules of the road, not announcing and such. Remember he or she is not only risking injury but making us all look bad. Don't be shy about letting them know!

[@shellypalumbo5297]

If you don’t want dirty hands, WAX YOUR CHAIN!!😂

[@JoeC-v3s]

That, and if you don’t want to be buying a new chain every 2000 miles… wax it. EASILY triples the lifespan of your chain and reduces wear on the entire drivetrain.

[@shellypalumbo5297]

@@JoeC-v3s Yes!!

[@saprophytics]

Appreciate the tips! Another way that I have used to avoid touching the chain, especialy when it is wedged, is to get off the bike and use my foot to manipulate it back onto the gear. That leaves a hand free to work the cranks and help release the wedge aswell! 🚲❤️

[@thomashughes_teh]

When an automobile overtakes and immediately shows brake lights Watch Out: They are about to do something sketchy.

[@grouchy88]

Yeah, learned that the hard way. Crashed into a Porsche Cayenne last year who decided to overtake and brake to park on the road. Smashed one of his rear lights, those things are pretty expensive 😕

[@David-ys4xb]

Favorite part about riding bikes is the awesome snot rockets that you produce. Simple things in life.

[@Hunter_Bidens_Crackpipe_]

Use a bar end mirror....

[@dirkhaar2243]

Nose blowing/sneezing or whatever: You - most probably - will have a shower after the ride - simply sneeze/blow into the inside of your shirt. Most pros pee or even shit their pants, so what? Chain: You will always find a straw strong enough to pull your chain up, even in winter, while I prefer to always have 3-5 disposable gloves with me. Mostly for emergencies, but always useful. You may also transport 1-2l of water in them, esp. to rescue animals you find, to cool bruises or whatever.

[@freshouttanope]

O M G I love you for this. ALL of this. Bravo! And your face is wonderful.

[@Outsideville]

Learned a couple of things here. Especially liked that neck stand idea.

[@VANTYCSolutions]

Another etiquette measure in group rides is to point out dangers on the road such as holes to those behind you. The tips for backflipping are pure gold, thank you very much.

[@monkeyb1820]

good tips. In certain situations, I'll still pull over to the right and entirely stop to make sure I'm seeing everything well, and then I'll make my left turn, or I'll go beyond my left turn, turn right onto some little-used street, then come out and make my left. Lots little ways to make a ride safer; but I was never really obsessed with maintaining a certain pace at all moments.

[@wooglins]

Thanks for this. We lost a great cyclist on Friday, and this might have helped.

[@cyclingskills]

I am sorry to hear that. My condolences. I had many close calls with driver being distracted by their phones. I wish they would disable cell phones as soon as you start your car. Not sure if that is what happened. Be well

[@andretim75]

I have a tip for all who live and cycle in countries where cars sometimes ruthlessly pass by super close without any traffic coming on the other side . So when you hear a car coming quickly from behind ( I also turn around regularly anyway ) then try to fix the car with your eyes for some seconds before it is passing -- you can see how close it is coming and you also signal the driver that you are aware of him/her and that often makes him or her being aware of you and taking care a bit more !

[@funkhauscanada7240]

terrific tips (especially the first and second)- shocking how prevalent swerving is especially when going at a good clip.

[@MarkManner]

Great tips, and your background looks like an old fashioned periodic table of elements! Cool!

[@manustanley7155]

Quite practical and valuable tips explained in a simple and funny nammer. I use the rearview mirror most of the time I am on the road. But when I don't have mirrors, I practice the "hold-the-handlebar-on-the-center-while-turning-back" method quite effectively. Keep sharing!

[@charliegalliher]

you can also tuck your head under your left shoulder to prevent swerving.

[@neiljackman2511]

the over shoulder look is a good tip, my dad taught me to look back by bending my elbows and looking back under my armpit. 50+ years I never really mastered it.

[@JeremySwiftj]

thanks Jurgen, great tips and demos. I like the suggestions about buying also...but

[@Timberius]

When your dérailleur doesn't get the chain back on, if you have a candy bar wrapper, piece of cardboard, or I your setting there, a vine,shift onto the small chanting, fold it over the (bottom part) chain, pull down and forward, starting to place it onto the chain ring as you turn the crank backwards (no 3rd hand needed, once the chain is tested on the bottom teeth simply continue until it's all back on.

[@bikingal4283]

also I was taught that turning to make eye contact with cars behind you alerts the driver that you know they are there and more or less puts them on an even keel.... they may give you more space since they know you've spotted them... also I had a friend in my local bike club in his 70's riding a 30-40 years old bike, never shifted gears at all and beat the tar out of us youngsters 50 years old... he never wanted (needed) a new bike...finally had a club member give it a new coat of paint and it looked amazing...

Really cool guy! Down to earth and he brings it on point. Cheers from Germany!

[@cyclingskills]

Thanks 🙏

[@SORTIECycling-dl8wd]

Garmin Varia and a rear view mirror works very well for me. So does a pair of latex gloves - takes up little space and next to no weight. They keep your hands clean during many roadside repairs. I think everyone knows about blowing snot rockets, especially since Covid.

[@aiaiaiaiiaiaiaiaiai]

randomly came across your content. great stuff! just useful information and no 20 minute comparative aero study. People forget that 1000 units of your local currency buy you a better bike than lance had.

[@dface6447]

Great tips as a 50 years young cyclist,now a LOT of drivers should be taught these pearls of wisdom 😂

[@cyclingskills]

So true!

[@tommy-trump-1967]

great advice all the way through, down tube shifters oh gosh, bringing back some memories there : )

[@cyclingskills]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@cd0u50c9]

Such a refreshing video from the world of cycling which nowadays only wants to sell you new unattainable gear. Turning around - when on the road I genuinely sometimes feel I'm the only person doing it in traffic or on a group ride..

[@jacob8949]

As a new cyclist, tip #2 blew my mind a bit. I had _no idea_ that was possible. Usually just do it by hand and bring some alcohol wipes 😅

[@kimgrey9454]

I like your tip 3, my bike is old but in virtually new condition. Upkeep!

[@cyclingskills]

Love it

[@halloweenjack2562]

Great tips. Especially the techniques for looking over the shoulder. Cheers! 😊

[@terryhollands2794]

You're giving some good advice, I been an avid cyclist for almost 50 years. Even your advice on credit, because credit can be a trap.

[@iragould4932]

Love the practicality of this video! Looking over your shoulder (after checking for upcoming potholes) using your tip is really smart. The slightest adjustment to how you bend your elbow and where you place your hand on he bars can allows you to turn your head much much easier for sure. I made the mistake once of not looking far enough down the road before turning my head. Not good when there may be a pothole or even stones on the road that don't belong there!

[@vinchezmo8864]

Great tip on hands free chain fix, I always keep a couple pairs of nitrile gloves in a ziplock bag in my paneers. Just in case the chain requires a bit more persuasion.

[@gabrieljohannson6777]

Great tip on keeping up with the Jones’s on bike envy. Great tip. Want vs Need is the perennial battle.

[@JWNRW59]

Super difficult to not swerve when turning your head. This tip is genius!