Five Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Cycling

Five Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Cycling
Hindsight is a fantastic thing. When I started cycling all those years ago I knew very little. I just got on my bike and rode away. If only someone had given me some advice back then.
If you are getting in to cycling and have some questions, I hope that this film will answer them. Today I share with you five things that I wish I knew when I first started cycling.
Here is my bike maintenance playlist: • Bike Maintenance How To's
Francis Cade's video: • 5 Things I Wish I Knew...
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[@YH-rk9uv]

I'm 110kg started cycling, now im doing 16km every two days on mountain bike, hope to continue, your videos helped me a lot thank you.

[@roadwarrior8560]

I'm much the same, need a better bike though.

[@fishmut]

Y H ..I. The same as you weight wise and distance riding my mountain bike, I quite enjoy it now but didn’t at the start because of being so sore every time I put my backside down. But getting better at it now and the distance is starting to grow as is yours. Well done by the way , keep it up it’s going to get better, I can’t afford a road bike so Im Sticking with the good ol mountain bike . 👍

[@tinniswood2577]

There is always a massive assumption in the cycling world that "beginner" means the road to Tour de France hero status! Whereas in reality beginner might mean the ambition to ride to work, ride to the pub or like most I guess ride to get fitter and enjoy the countryside and fresh air.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Exactly.

[@mattbalajadia]

So true! Just two weeks ago I couldn't even ride a bike. At the age of 33 it's quite embarassing to admit that I just recently learned how to ride a bike, but this week I started cycling to work. I guess dreams do come true🙂

[@robstanley7247]

@@mattbalajadia I've had a bike for years.. but overtime became too lazy and unfit to ride it... lockdown was the kick up the arse I needed. And now i do narrow country lanes @20kph just to anoy car drivers... does this make me a bad person??? :-D .

[@theautumnalcyclist7629]

"Ride as much or as little, or as long or as short as you feel. But ride." -- Eddy Merckx

[@jollygoodvelo]

Classic quote and very true.

[@andyc18865]

@@jollygoodvelo hi, whats your take on ebikes. Do you class ebikers as cheaters or still a health benefit to those cant pedal for too long?

[@jollygoodvelo]

Definitely a health benefit. You still have to pedal quite hard. You will get out of breath and it will raise your heart rate.

[@andyc18865]

@@jollygoodvelo thanks for your reply

[@DynamiteDB]

I don’t think there is one Cycling video on KZbin that doesn’t have the standard Eddy Merckx quote in the comment section 😆. Nice!

[@crazyjoedavola9002]

I was roadie till 2016. when I get diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and for 3 years I could't ride because medications did't work untill I found drugs that work...kinda. Finaly, last year I was good enough to start riding. I bought entry level mtb and started riding as much as I could. 30km rides was far away in the beggining, but 3 months later could do 80. Just a few days ago I sold my mtb and now I'm looking for a road bike. Since 2016 I gained almost 20 kilos of weight. Cycling helps me to cope with autoimmune disease much easier.

[@bigmort6916]

Lj M try the ketogenic diet, carbohydrates cause inflammation inside the body, arthritis is reversed on keto 👍🏻

[@Flix-f6q]

When you decide to use your bike for everyday commuting:Put your head on a swivel, be aware of the traffic around you, not everybody follows the rules. Know your roads, know your potholes. In traffic, be visible, be predictable, be nice and follow the rules of streed code. Stay in the road next to parking cars, getting doored is partially your fault and not fun. Stay hydrated. If you are wearing a backpack, add reflective material to your backpack. When riding in winter and its dark, wear bright coloured gloves so traffic is able to pick up your hand signals. Buy warm gloves and socks for winter, its worth it, also a bacalava to protect your lung from cold air. Invest in good bright lights, perhaps use redundant backlights, you won´t notice if the battery of your backlight fails. Winter pro tip: overdress your body core, therefore your body tries to get rid of the heat via your extremeties which means your extremeties keep warm. Keep an extra lightweight bag in your packpack in case you overpack. You can clip it to your backpack with a carabiner. For rain, keep 2 garbage bags in your backpack as an extra protective layer. Always carry tools, spare tube and money with you.. A rain radar app on your smartphone can show you when it is smart to ride home without getting caught in the rain. Get a map with all the bikelanes from your city. Always be aware of pedestrians, they don´t hear you. When kids are nearby, be always prepared to brake hard. Kids always have the right of way. Never ride bike lanes in the wrong direction, this so dangerous that it is statistically the No.1 cause for bike accidents. When overtaking other bikes, announce it either by bell or by voice. When changing clothes, you can get rid of sweat with babywipes. When you don´t want to sweat, ride slower than 12 Mph/19km/h in the flat. That is the speed, the dutch ride in everyday clothes. No sweat, still 4 times faster than by foot.

[@nigelstanley3674]

Sage words. Basically - Just Do It!

[@jollygoodvelo]

Exactly

[@benburton1875]

I bought my mountain hybrid June 2, 2020. I was barely able to get it home, and that required me to walk it up a hill. My first "official" ride leaving the apartment I was huffing and puffing and nearly passed out after 0.2 miles. Today I rode 16.6 miles fairly easily. I was 307 pounds and now I'm 266 thanks to riding, diet, and exercising. I'm finding these videos extremely helpful and encouraging. Please keep it up sir.

[@robingay3995]

Just started to completely fall in love with biking again. My first adult bike is my cannondale that I bought 31 years ago. It still works beautifully and even handles my excessive weight which was not a problem before (I am almost 50). Looking forward to enjoying it and improving my fitness. I love your videos. Thanks for making them!!!

[@jollygoodvelo]

Thanks for watching them and enjoy your cycling.

[@3cloudes612]

Thank you for this! I did cycle a bit when I was younger but not enough. At 53 I started again feeling unfit, uncool and like everything I saw was for people who could at LEAST ride 10 miles without a sweat. That's not me, just yet, even though I have been riding again for 6 months and am now 54. I do feel better and want to improve, but few videos cater to people like me.

[@AndreasMic]

I started again cycling at 35 after being diagnosed with diabetes and loosing most of muscle mass due to diabetes! My first ride was a short 7km loop around where I live! I was so disappointed with me that I thought i would never be a ”cyclist”! Today and 2 years later i am fitter than i ever was before i did 70kms and i am sure i can do 100kms which is my next goal! I can climb mountains and i feel like i am flying!! There are much stronger riders out there but this is not a competition!

[@3cloudes612]

@@AndreasMic You are so right! Thanks for your comment! Ride on!

[@kate2903act]

Yes! I'm 63 and hadn't ridden for 45 years. I just got my bike last week and have to relearn everything. I'm not looking to be a long distance cyclist, but after a string of lower body injuries I want to be more flexible, fitter and to actually enjoy movement. I have discovered these videos. I'm loving them.

[@airgead5391]

I bought a bicycle repair stand in the first year when I started to ride a racing bike. It turned out to be used way more often than I imagined and it is much more a basic tool than I imagined. (sorry for my English, I am Dutch)

[@iangbarton]

In the UK Aldi used to do a decent one for £30, but it doesn't seem to be available at the moment.

[@jollygoodvelo]

I would say it is pretty essential if you can afford one. Thankfully they are getting cheaper.

[@brucezwecker8750]

No need to apologize; your English is better than that of many native Americans!

[@Methodical2]

I purchased one when I got back on the bike. A must have if you ask me. It doubles as a work stand and bike storage.

[@teddyedward5529]

Middle of Lidl currently selling repair stands £24.99

[@anshultiwari1982]

Thanks for motivating. I'm 106 kgs and just started cycling...

[@josephryan5949]

Excellent video. Very helpful and inspiring. So glad I got back into biking in recent years. It's a huge thrill to see the amount of folk who have rediscovered the joy of cycling during the recent lockdown.

[@jollygoodvelo]

I agree. Amazing to see so many people on bikes.

[@kevinshort3943]

Don't underestimate how easy a modern bike is to peddle. I was surprised how easy my 2019 mountain bike was on the road, modern bearings, tyres and gears made cycling home from the shop far less evil than I was expecting- for a first ride in 25 years.

[@jollygoodvelo]

It’s as much the gearing as it is the bike.

[@mattbalajadia]

Hi Leonard, massive thanks for this video! I needed this, specially today when my self-defeating thoughts almost got the best of me. I have a garmin watch which records my rides + provides me with other data. Please keep the videos coming! Off for a bike ride I go!🙂

[@joejones2700]

Thanks for encouragement. Good advise even for someone who over my life riding since paperboy days in elementary school. Keeping motivated is definitely the biggest challenge for me and I liked your comment about not where you are but how far you have come. Keeping a journal is a great idea.

[@_b_u_l_l_s_h_a_r_k_]

Thanks so much. You’re quickly becoming my go-to source. Much appreciated!

[@jollygoodvelo]

Glad you are enjoying the channel.

[@danielpunt7]

Thank you for all the inspiration you have provided me this year, I completed my first 100km ride on Wednesday and am already looking forward to joining in events such as Isle of Wight randonnee once the world starts turning again. Great video, keep on pedalling!

[@jollygoodvelo]

Nice work!

[@TheGreenhillsCyclist]

I love your videos. I used to cycle as my main mode of transport years ago. Was involved in a serious road traffic accident. Got knocked down of my bike from behind. Took the full impact on my spine. Driver was on his mobile. That was 18 years ago. I recently got back on the bike. To say I was nervous at the start would be an understatement. I'm glad I took that leap onto the bike again. I first thought at 49, I'd be too old to take up cycling again, glad I didn't listen to my doubts. I live in the suburbs of Dublin, can't see myself cycling into Dublin City Centre, roads are way to dicey. I do cycle to the local supermarket & back, which Mama appreciates during these Covid times. It is good for positive mental health. If I haven't cycled for almost a week, I find myself getting weighed down with the Covid related stresses. Even if someone has never cycled since childhood, I would tell them to get back on the bike & not to listen to peoples mantra of "Are you not a bit old to be getting a bike?" I didn't listen. Now, those same people are asking to do shop runs for them, hee hee!

[@jollygoodvelo]

Well done for getting back on it.

[@waltp3373]

Please get a mirror if you haven't all ready. That way you can see erratic drivers coming up from behind and get off the road if necessary. You're definitely not too old. I did my best riding in my 50s.

[@Themanfromglad]

Excellent advice. The most important part, just get to it!

[@paulmullins4676]

Love your stuff😁 Thank you for your efforts and especially like that you respond to comments. My 70 trip around the sun and still love my bike(s).

[@jollygoodvelo]

Good for you Paul.

[@tonylee-UK]

Excellent video as always. Thank you.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Thanks for watching.

[@lililili3]

I am new riding the bycicle and I like your videos very much very useful and very exciting thanks keep on

[@padgepadgham3238]

Love your videos, they give me confidence. Thanks 🚲

[@jollygoodvelo]

Glad to hear it!

[@tracker1009]

Another great video👍

[@jonlouis2582]

Well said. For me, learning to change/patch a tube and tire really reduced my stress level.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Its not so bad once you know.

[@Gee-xb7rt]

I teach my neighbors basic maintenance as they need it, I think it encourages them to have a better relationship with their bikes. In my experience the majority of flats are pinch flats, so just keeping your tires inflated will keep you from a lot of worry too.

[@kevinrowe456]

Not where you are, it’s how far you’ve come, so true!!...great vlog once again..Atb

[@jollygoodvelo]

Kevin Rowe Thanks Kevin.

[@beachesbikescoffeecats1917]

Another great video. Thanks!

[@jollygoodvelo]

Thanks Anita.

[@dennisang5608]

Thank you. Great advice.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Glad you found it useful.

[@ianleaver4967]

Another great and informative video.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Thanks

[@CycoWarriorx]

Absolutely great tips/points!!!

[@jollygoodvelo]

Thanks Mark

[@stevenwhalley2522]

Nice to listen to someone talking sense for a change 👍🚲keep it up

[@elmerrichardson6413]

Good tips, Len. Here's how i started back in '17: Thru my AMEX reward program, I got a cheap Walmart road bike using points I accumulated in the reward program. It had 7sp freewheel, Shimano tourney mech, triple crankset, aluminium frame, etc. I was in 7th heaven! After about six months of riding it, I wanted something better, so I sold that bike, went back to the Rewards store and got a Trek Domane AL2! Now jerseys, shoe and a lot of other stuff soon followed. Now I'm all in on the fun of cycling! Cycling turned into an obsession, I began to ride as much as possible. In '18 got a bike from Nashbar close out sale, its called Cavalo, aluminium, shimano 105 mech, performance setup, etc. Now cycling is a hobby. Late last year got Canyon Ultimate, the heavens opened up! Sold the Trek (I learned a lot about cycling riding this bike). N+1, not buying anymore bikes for now too busy having fun. Thru out this experience, I found you, Francis, GCN and many others who helped me enjoy cycling immensely. Ride on.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Sounds like you are doing great. I'm glad to have helped in some small way.

[@skepticalmechanic]

It’s not where u are ... it’s how far u have come! ❤️

[@tomrichardson5508]

I am off to buy my first road bike, the prices seem pretty scary, but i have a cheap mountain bike now and after riding a friends road bike there is a HUGE difference in peddling and speed. Wife isnt happy about it but when she buys her bike I hope she realizes what i have come to realize. Love your videos , I and a new subscriber and love the vids. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. BTW starting out at 360 lbs.

[@annettefournier9655]

I picked my bike out of a mud hill in a backyard. A Trek, slowly rusting. Luckily it was all justvorange surface rust. A few hours elbow grease, a tune up, new cables, a little adjustments and I have a beautiful quality bike that cost under 100 dollars. I've been riding it for three years. Love it.

[@twitch1965]

In 30+ years of cycling (on and off as life ebbed and flowed), I am going back to "paper" or recording my rides. My cycle-computer keeps all my rides and I've found re-loading them to Strava tedious, so back to spreadsheets for the data driven metrics for me. Keep the great videos coming, love your channel!

[@carmoe17]

You're an inspiration, Sir!

You are one of the reasons I am back on the saddle

[@MikeJenicCycling]

Great video Leonard, I've seen a lot of new cyclists here in York over the past few weeks! One additional thing for me would be to check out the highway code and safe cycling advice from Cycling UK and BC. I've seen some bad riding on some quite busy roads over lockdown, it hasn't been malicious just a lack of education.

[@jollygoodvelo]

You aren’t the first person to say something about the Highway Code.

[@stuart3744]

All tips were brilliant, also for newcomers to cycling beware of poor road conditions and be prepared for some abuse from drivers.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Great extra tips, thanks.

[@markl2815]

Yep, good advice for the average starter. I’d drop in a couple of additional ones ... If looking for a first bike, make sure to check out reputable secondary hand cycle shops locally. You’ll get a decent bit of kit, which is checked out with ongoing service relationship for much less cash Ride logging .... if you have a smart phone, look at some of the free apps out there to help. Komoot is pretty good. But as Leonard said, the first thing is to start by just riding a bit ... and enjoy it

[@jollygoodvelo]

Great additional tips, thanks

[@Greenjuiceman]

i love your vids - thank you

[@christaylor751]

Another great video Leonard, unfortunately 50 years too late for me, mum bought me my first bike when i was 5 or 6 and i haven't looked back, There's a lot of emphasis on the perfomance side of cycling these days, but for me its just the ability and freedom to get out and explore that floats my boat....

[@jollygoodvelo]

I think for many of us that started cycling at an early age it is this sense of freedom that we never lose.

[@tryan137]

Hi Leonard I would always recommend eye protection. Nothing worse than being hit in the eye with an insect especially on a fast descent. Sometimes just nice not to have a specific route and just turn onto some quiet lanes you normally fly past when in a car.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Absolutely. Eyewear is essential. I hope that me wearing it in the film sort of implied that but maybe I should have said it.

[@pirish28]

Great advice and spot on points. With all this craziness, my club stopped group rides, which was a big downer. Instead I've been riding with my wife who is very much a recreational rider. We've had a great time, I stopped worrying about PR's, and MPH. Just ride, enjoy the scenery and company. Thanks for the great videos Leonard ! Stay Well !

[@jollygoodvelo]

Hopefully club rides will start up again at some point

[@Bullitluna]

I've done the same but with my daughter we try to get out 2to 3 times a week, it stopped at the minute having injured my back.

[@stephenwhite546]

I’ve kept a log (Diary) of all my rides . Fun to look back on how far I’ve come over the years and where I’ve been and miles I’ve gone . Plus I set goals every month and like to compare .

[@jollygoodvelo]

And its quite inspiring as well I would imagine.

[@waterside13]

Thanks Leonard, great comments, Cheers John

[@jollygoodvelo]

Thanks John.

[@markfeldman6509]

As the old Nike commercial said..” just do it”...... get out there and learn and persevere . It takes determination and discipline and the immense feeling of great satisfaction as you improve, have fun `and get more fit!

[@jollygoodvelo]

There is a lot to be said for just getting on and doing something.

[@BlackGirlsDoBike]

Great advice!

[@leedorney]

A mate of mine runs a cycle shop and he had 1 bike left and he's having problems getting the basics, tubes etc... astounding when you think of it!

[@jollygoodvelo]

As I say, the new toilet paper!

[@Freedomone153]

I bought my new bike Tues... picked it up today Friday. It's Autumn in Australia now...

[@jollygoodvelo]

Enjoy.

[@jamiecox2506]

Beware friend. So many Aussie drivers tend to hate cyclists. Mainly because you don't pay rego. Go figure. You've been warned. Ride safely

[@ColemansU2B]

Just stumbled upon your videos the other day, and you've got a great production quality! Would love to see a video on your recording set up.

[@jollygoodvelo]

I’ve made a film about how I shoot my rides.

[@cameronlesley2428]

I love the the word quite and it’s context

[@jollygoodvelo]

Guilty!

[@richcrompton6891]

Exactly! Get your arse on a saddle and have a go! The best advice

[@jollygoodvelo]

Surprising how many people just don't follow it!

[@richcrompton6891]

leonardmlee I know!! It’s sometimes something ridiculous that stops you. For me it was my inability to get up a climb I thought I should be able to do easily. My assumption was stupid as I’d had a very long lay off. Put on a few stone, lost fitness, but was expecting I would still be able to manage it. I was with a friend when I failed to get up it. My heart rate was maxed and I felt demoralised. Fast forward a couple of months. I got over myself, took things in easy stages, have built up my fitness a little and spanked that climbs arse!

[@ridewithgae1467]

Great suggestions

[@jirdesteva]

Thanks again Leonard. I wish I had known : It's addictive. (I can't wait for my next ride) The "right" size bike isn't easy to find off the peg.(Adjustments can be made) Not all saddles are created equal. (What a pain) *What you think others will think about you DOES NOT MATTER !* (It's all about what you think about the person in the mirror) Learn to ENJOY THE RIDE rather than having to ride. (Don't make it a CHORE) Lycra is NOT a requirement. ( Be yourself create your own look and be COMFORTABLE) ENJOY

[@jollygoodvelo]

Great additional tips.

[@MrJules1977]

Your videos help me a lot, one thing i am unsure about is my struggles with hills, i am 15 stone and probably need to lose some pounds to help, i dont know if i should really push myself and train going up and down hills or be patient and hope my legs slowly strengthen improving my ability on slopes. Great stuff thanks.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Climbing is never going to be easy. That’s one of the reasons it is one of the key things in cycling. Give yourself to build up some initial climbing strength and then try and improve slowly but gently pushing yourself. Good luck.

[@Robutube1]

The first tip is the most powerful. "Get on a bike, any bike and get started.". I have had a real block on this one: is my bike the right one, is it up to it, what if I get a puncture? etc.". "You WILL get better at it". Thanks Leonard - sounds simplistic but is so true. The basic servicing bit is only needed after the bike starts getting ridden regularly and this, unless you're very unlucky, deffo won't be on your first trip out.

[@jollygoodvelo]

I think the coming up with excuses not to cycle is very strong.

[@johnbroadmeadow7652]

Brilliant vlog Leonard. Cycling is a brilliant way to getting fitter and for good well being. An hour on the bike seeing the countryside around is a real release from life's pressures. Also cycling is such a versatile thing to take up.. Its as cheap or expensive as you want it to be and costs very little to maintain a bike once you've got one. I only started cycling again 4 years after a long break on the cheapest oldest bike i could get my hands on. The bug really got hold of me and lost 3 stone, and slowly upgraded to a better road bike as my interest took hold. After 20 thousand miles of cycling in 4 years, my health and mental wellbeing are a million miles in a better place. (and think of money I've saved on fuel and pollution) It's always great to see new people getting out there, regardless to there ability. When i first started, the encouragement i got from experienced cyclists was fantastic and still is. Everyone always says hello to fellow cyclists. Many thanks for the great content 👍👍

[@jimyoder6594]

Well done video, as always.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Wow! 20,000 miles in four years is incredible.

[@feizalglencross545]

Hi man, hope your well,,,,, haven't rode my bike for a while but the last 2 weeks I've been getting back onto the bike for quick 5 milers to build back up. Fell off at zero mph on a steep hill whilst mounting a curb and lost momentum, the spd's have reminded me to carry a basic first aid kit ie sterile wipes and couple skin patches,,,,,,, could be a little area you could add into one of your vids, to remind and enable folk to learn from my mistake of having to ride a few miles home before being able to clean up the road rash. Once again Cheers for your great content mate :)

[@jollygoodvelo]

Sorry to hear about your crash. Yes carrying a small first aid kit is a great idea.

[@duanescot]

Nice looking Trek you have there....

[@kevinfrost1579]

Leonard agree 💯% always worth repeating hence posting. I’d also add riding a bike will take you to visit people and places you never imagined, what once seemed impossible will become possible (relatively quickly)…… 3miles …….100 miles……..riding through Africa ?……you name it. Mental restrictions will evaporate………age is generally not a limiting factor…….rides just take a bit longer. On the practical side seek knowledge, try out a cycling club (road, MTB, social ….whatever) ……..often lots of willing help for cycling entrants, get right size bike 1st purchase, make a smart used purchase, learn to look after it. Patterns ……. Set new ones for commaraderie, adventure, longevity. 👍👍👍

[@pmorton7960]

@2:35 it's all totally true! But is sure is fun. Just get out there!

[@waltp3373]

I thought maybe I was Obsessive Compulsive keeping track of my mileage every year going back to 2005. It's good to see that I'm not the only one. I'm sure it motivates you to ride more often and further. It does that for me. I don't do graphs or any technical stuff: just yearly mileage, maximum weekly mileage and repairs. I do all my own repairs since the bike shop had my bike over a month waiting to fix my crushed crank bearings. I only use thorn resistant tubes. I haven't had a flat in years.

[@jollygoodvelo]

I think any sort of cycling log is incredibly valuable.

[@DaveCM]

One reason I like Strava is because it shows you how you perform against past efforts in segments. I also have a 31 mile route that I use to gauge how I am progressing. (If you do that, keep in mind that a lot of factors affect your speed and performance. So, use an average of attempts.) It is nice to see "awards" when I go over Strava after a ride. Especially since I'm trying to get back in shape and lose weight.

[@jollygoodvelo]

It’s great to compare yourself with previous efforts.

[@Keepinitreal61]

I have a bike for flat road, hilly roads, very hilly roads, gravel, snow, rain, shopping, TT, long distances & comfort, oh forget the E Bike for fun. I had to buy another storage unit, the neighbours complained to the council, I had to move & got bungalow, know its just me & the bikes, the wife left & took the kids, just climbing over the bike to get to bed can be a pain. Happiness on 2 wheels.

[@TexasNightRider]

I laughed out loud at your post and woke my wife.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Made me laugh too.

[@whazzat8015]

Look at the bright side. You now have room for more bikes. I had better luck and just suggested my wife move into the shed. Amazing how that moved things along.

[@hondasaurusrex6998]

Love the comparison: bikes are the new toilet paper. It is very true, my daughter works manages a bike store here across the pond. Bikes are selling like crazy, all sorts. Keep pedaling my friend, stay well and safe.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Its good in a way that so many people are getting on bikes.

[@johnm5385]

I'd say take your time and enjoy the scenery. Theres enough people chasing there personal best

[@jollygoodvelo]

Absolutely, but for some they also enjoy chasing the numbers, me included.

[@esa4141]

Excellent video, again. Would like to emphasis for beginners, you should not always try to beat your previous ride time, avg speed nor max heat rate. That habit has its drawbacks, worst is the overtraining syndrome. And you would gain benefits only short time and then condition stagnates.

[@numberstation]

“What can be measured can be improved.” Trust me, not everything.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Generally, though.

[@gabej1893]

It’s a bike ride. Put on a helmet and play! Like any other interest, you get to determine how far to take it.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Well said.

[@Robutube1]

I wish I'd read your comment before posting my (much more verbose) one - a lesson in getting to the point!

[@petinka721]

I remember well when I start ride and struggle with 70 km in week and felted that in body and the first time I did a 55 km ride with pain in ass and how tired I was.Today I easy can do 70 km ride in mush higher speed and still not that tired.

[@christhomas2644]

I started out 6 years ago on a cheap Giant MTB, started doing 10 15km rides, then was doing 40 km on this bike untill I rode it into the ground. 3 road bikes later Im hooked. Just have to start.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Glad you are enjoying it.

[@floydie9255]

Nice Vlog Leonard, basically agree with what you said but my one piece of advice is when you have decided to take the plunge and buy your first proper bike, before you do, GET A BIKE FIT. Even a basic one will ensure that you get the right size bike, (I always size by 'Reach and Stack' not top tube length).

[@jollygoodvelo]

A correctly fitting bike is extremely important but if having a fit is putting you off, then getting on one that is, perhaps, not quite right will be much better than not riding.

[@floydie9255]

@@jollygoodvelo Perhaps I didn't make my point clear. What I meant was getting a bike fit before you dig too deep into the piggy bank will in the end save you a lot of money. I agree that if you use the interweb/youtube as a source of info when getting your first bike to see if you even like cycling is a good idea especially during this time.

[@NylonVoice]

thank you for the cycling tips. may i ask how long have you been cycling now? what was your initial weight pre-cycling and current weight? hope you don't mind. please continue your vlog journey - you are an inspiration.pardon me if these have been answered before. more power and ride safe always!

[@jollygoodvelo]

bigjan godinmaster I’ve been cycling seriously for over 40 years so my weight back then was much lighter than it is now!

[@bcunni2]

3:05 "Get your ass on a saddle, and start peddling"

[@zennor_man]

Will never forget my return to cycling after 50 years!.....I foolishly laid out much money on a bike & clothing etc......but in some ways it panned out well as I have kept up cycling regularly tho' in a less competitive way.....it's much better fun now.......

[@jollygoodvelo]

Good to hear it.

[@leftywedge]

Words of wisdom.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Thanks.

[@jamiecox2506]

Here's a tip, if I may.. The folks at your local bike shop might not always have the needs of a new rider at the forefront of their agenda, nor the patience required to ensure you get what you really need as a beginner. Don't be put off and give up. Hopefully another shop won't be a million miles away and remember, if the bike doesn't feel right, it probably isn't and never ever purchase a bicycle without riding it first, for at least a few minutes.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Absolutely. Never buy a bike without riding it.

[@biform13]

Leonard, I don't see your bikes with mirrors on the traffic approaching side of the bike. I wouldn't last 5 minutes without my handlebar mirror (here in America) on the end of my left handlebar. When there's traffic around I check to see when safe to take some lane room. When no traffic around I check it to verify. I use it so much that now I look for the non-existent mirror on rentals and scooters.

[@joanneginever1890]

Hi Charlie I agree, have a mirror in both my bikes, use them constantly. I don't feel confident turning my head to look behind me. The mirrors make me feel so much more secure and confident!!😊

[@vincewhite5087]

I think the Dutch got the best idea of commuting with bike.

[@wasupwitdat1mofiki94]

Here is why I like the content you produce. You stated that the look and performances of the Pro Peloton is the standard some people think you have to aspire to, example, the GCN Show, "Global Cycling Network". That is all they care to talk about yet they call themselves Global Cycling Network. I don't think that fits the Global cycling community at all. Your content is much more fitting and real. I think you really are on to something that more people who want to ride bikes can relate to. Not to cause any pressure but if you had the time you could create a channel that people could learn new things from, like more affordable bikes and gear. I've seen that look of sticker shock on many faces in shops when people come in to buy a bike and accessories to start cycling. We need more content creators that refute the belief that to be a cyclist you need to look like a Pro and train you butts off. We are never going to be a recreational and commute by bike society until we show people how much good just getting on a bike and getting some fresh air can be for the mind and body. I could go on and on but I'll quit with that.

[@jollygoodvelo]

While I like the more traditional ‘roadie’ aspect of cycling I totally agree with you that a huge aspect of cycling that is becoming increasingly important is the transport/ recreation/ fitness for regular people.

[@peterbaskind9872]

Bikes not being stockpiled? I guess you haven’t seen my garage.

[@jollygoodvelo]

I think we would all like a secret stash!

[@peterbaskind9872]

leonardmlee SECRET? My wife enables me. For Christmas, I got a GRX Di2 drivetrain. Blame her!

[@scotsshuggie]

I have been cycling for approx, 4 years now. I am lucky that where i live in the North East of Scotland I am 1mile from the old railway line. The bike i use on the old track is a Norco 29er, and when i am doing road miles i use is a Giant Defy. I will be 70 years old come September but feel as sprightly as a young thing. Hahaha....but would like to be a bit lighter..weighing in at 96Kg but i enjoy my bike runs and my food.

[@jollygoodvelo]

Sounds like a great place to cycle.

[@scotsshuggie]

I live in Peterhead 35 miles north of Aberdeen, plenty of quiet country roads up here..and i can cycle the old railway line all the way to Aberdeen ( spoiled for choice )

[@primus7776]

I never got the whole thing with the lycra, the branded cycling vests and the implied preoccupation with the "look" if you're just a regular guy who enjoys bike rides. As 99% of the cycling public are. Baggy shorts, a loose collared shirt, a wicker basket full of jam butties on your handlebars and lashings of ginger beer in your mounted flask are just as much about the cycling ethic as a ten grand carbon bike that you can counterbalance across your little finger, a tapered helmet and pricey designer socks. I'm 64 and cycle 30 miles daily. If I feel so inclined, and its a sunny day, and everything's flowing I double-up on the distance, but I sometimes I get pins and needles in my left hand, or perchance a mild fibrosis in my right shoulder if I push myself much above the 50 mile marker. No big deal. If I was challenged to do a 100 mile ride?... no issue whatsoever. Piece of Cake. A few aches and irritations, possibly? I ride a steel Genesis Cross bike. I love it dearly. I see lots of vastly overweight guys riding bikes in a variety of cumbersome attire. I don't judge them. Fact is (and this applies across the board) people are only concerned about how they, themselves appear to others. Not the other way round. I ride (as Robert Penn so eloquently observes) to bathe in air, light and space. Also, to commune with nature at a moderate speed. To take in sights otherwise missed. To get the endorphin highs. To feel good about myself. Not enough is said about these simple sensations. ps: I'm borderline pissed so take my remarks accordingly !

[@jollygoodvelo]

Borderline pissed! Good for you.

[@intangibletingles3412]

I, too, am a 'new' cyclist (in the sense that I am 37, know how to ride a bike since being a kid but chose not to use it in favour of...well lets be honest, being lazy (ish) and taking public transport or getting lifts from people since I can't drive). I've an 'old clunker' Dawes Shuniah 26" MTB that has sat in my yard, exposed to the elements for the last 7+ years (owned since 05/06) that I recently got back on in the hopes of getting fit(er) and losing some weight. Problem I am facing is my ass & hands, pretty much as soon as I get on the bike both hurt! Since it has suffered elemental abuse for a considerable amount of time it DOES need a lot of parts replacing to get it back up to snuff so I think I might get a shorter stem & see if that helps any, as well as a better saddle. First outing out was only about a mile & I was ready to lay down & die. Second was nearly 3 miles that felt pretty good but then the booty pain kicked in properly & have given it a miss today. Hope to go out again soon though!

[@k.r.lionheart6460]

ride on👍

[@jollygoodvelo]

You too

[@robertwalkerdine1178]

I started theee years ago on an old MTB and I used to see all the road bikes fly past. Had a road bike now for two years and love it. Seeing you on that old MTB reminded me of mine. What does it feel like riding something like that after a road bike? I haven't got mine anymore but I'd love to try it and feel the difference in speed and weight lol

[@jollygoodvelo]

It certainly feels very different.

[@kwacker45]

Full blown typhoon in Edinburgh today so I'm on turbo zwifting soon. Be safe be well

[@jollygoodvelo]

Windy down here too today.

[@michaeltattershall7566]

The handle bars on your red Raleigh bike look different than what you would see on a regular bike .

[@jollygoodvelo]

It’s a bike that I was given so I have no idea what the person that owned it before me did to it.

[@jodlazexploresexplore6669]

Nice couple of cameos for my cycle club#PNECC

[@jollygoodvelo]

My first club too!

[@DynamiteDB]

Wicked hairdo Leonard 😊

[@jonkjon]

Love watching your videos. You have some great tips and suggestions that have proven to be very helpful. I like your "common man" style too. Thank you for making them! Sadly, where I live in the U.S., people despise cyclists being on the roads. I live in a rural area and no longer ride on the roads outside of my own neighborhood as I just don't feel safe. I have never been able to figure out why people are so outraged by cyclists here. It's unfortunate that it makes trying to ride a lot more difficult as it means packing everything up into the car and heading out to designated bike trails. It may just be my perspective from watching KZbin videos, but it seems that people in Europe are generally more welcoming to cyclists when encountering them on the roadways. I also wonder if you have any sort of rear view camera or something that I am not seeing in your videos. I would never even think about riding here in the U.S. without a rear view mirror. Anyway, thanks again for the great videos....

[@jollygoodvelo]

Sorry to hear cycling is so difficult where you live. To answer your question, I don't use a rear view mirror but I do turn my head to look back.

[@jonkjon]

@@jollygoodvelo lol, I suppose that does work well! I didn't intend my comment as a dig at you so much as a necessity here in order to watch your back. I have friends here who have had water bottles actually thrown at them while riding on the roadway. With a rear view cam or mirror, at least I can see it coming! It doesn't appear that's a problem where you live. Thanks for the reply.

[@ChrisinOSMS]

The fear is real. I had a co-worker struck twice, unfortunately the second time was fatal. Another cyclist was killed (in a bike lane) and the driver wasn’t even cited for crossing the solid painted line even though there is a cyclist protection law on the books. Drivers on phones were the causes of all three incidents, but the first claimed his sandwich fell on the floorboard and he must’ve swerved while attempting to pick it up. Ghost bikes are far too common in Mississippi.

[@arnoldreynaldo7661]

100% agree

[@jollygoodvelo]

Thanks.

[@mmd1957]

Hi, thanks for your recordings, they’re very insightful. I have a bike which I don’t presently ride. I’m very over weight (23st and 6’1”) with underlying health issues (diabetes and arthritis) I need to exercise and lose weight but am very conscious of my size and fearful of not being able to ride very far due to hills (quite a few around my way, SW NewForest Hants). Any tips or words of wisdom?

[@jollygoodvelo]

Hi Mike, I know the area as I am near Portsmouth myself. My advice is to start cycling and not worry about what you think people will think. Most will actually be very supportive. The bottom line is that you probably will struggle to ride long distances but just start by doing what you can and doing it regularly. That way you will get fitter. Stick to the flatter routes to begin with if you can. You live in a fantastic area so enjoy it. Good luck.

[@mmd1957]

leonardmlee thanks for that, I will endeavour to try it out very early one morning this week to see how it goes. Thanks again.

[@joannelouiserodriguez5966]

Great video m8 love it mom does too lol

[@jollygoodvelo]

Thanks John. Hello John's mum!!

[@joannelouiserodriguez5966]

@@jollygoodvelo mom says hi back and says you a very sensibly young man who gives some very good advice and to keep doing it but avoid the cake her words not mine lol we need cake sometimes she don't get it does she lol?

[@robstanley7247]

Ive been using the bikes for the last 2 years for commuting to work and back.. not sure if im actually getting any fitter because the few bumps I have to get over getting to work get no easier when heading into a headwind.. What I am getting though is angrier with the poor standard of driving and lack of respect some drivers have for other road users. Over the last 3 months since being taken out by a taxi driver rushing to get to his local temple for his dinner before they closed the kitchen ive been filming my rides with the cycliq fly6 and logging all the car number plates who have either close passed or cut me up at junctions in a spreadsheet.. and 90% of near misses have involved the same 9 vehicles: 4 cars, 3 Uber & 2 Taxi.. Now at some point based on Heinrich's triangle theory im going to run out of luck with one of these drivers.. Lets hope that they do a damn good job and im not able to stand!! I’m far too old to go to prison lol

[@jollygoodvelo]

Let’s hope Heinrich is wrong.

[@robstanley7247]

@@jollygoodvelo he was right.. rear-ended tonight by one of the usual uber culprits.. apparently he couldn't see my lights... and I use 2 cateye viz 300s.. not saying its bright but i bet you could see me from the moon... blind twunt!!!!! Shame he refused to leave details and legged it... I'm going to take real satisfaction reporting this one..

[@knightwish1623]

Hi Leonard .... nowadays most people are buying Ebikes ( I must admit I don't like Ebike), and as long as I can ride under my own power and still be faster ( at 68) I won't buy one .... if an Ebike rider said to me at the top of a hill, after passing me going up, I should get an Ebike, I'd say ... "I could ride up on your bike but could you ride up on mine"( 30 gear fitness bike) ... when I get to the top I have achived something, with a motor nothing ... here in Germany normal bikes (without motor) are becoming a rarity

[@jollygoodvelo]

It’s the same here. Ebikes are becoming very popular. I’ve got nothing against them but I feel that as long as I am able I’ll ride a regular bike.

[@lienquanmobile7994]

5:00 It's not where you are, it's how far you've come.

[@bautistanyc]

I do for all 3 reasons transport fun & exercise

[@jollygoodvelo]

Good for you. Me too.