Everything You Need To Know If You're New To Road Cycling

[@gcn]

Are you new to road cycling? Did you find our tips helpful? Let us know 👇

[@eufscrew]

Beautiful video , but please you can make some videos like : pro vs amateur vs non cyclist 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏❤️

[@slwsnowman4038]

The most important one was forgotten - follow your local traffic laws.

[@Alexander-zb2pe]

Is still in the planning faze of getting a propper road bike. Have biking every where for 20-25 years but have never really biked just biking. Now is the time to start i think. Very nice video with what i hope is also useful advices ;)

[@pedronalesso1464]

Yeah it´s inspiring, perhaps more humble videos, like how to fine tune Sora shifters or budget gravel bikes. Manon you are so adorable!

[@thierrylabeye5649]

nice video but I have to say that sometimes it is better not to really plan your ride - especially for short ones lik said in begining of this video. Getting "lost" is sometimes a great feeling even if you cannnot really got lost :) / Also when I ride I ride "unplugged". Just me and my bike: no apps, no speedometer, no power measures, just enjoying the ride… let's get disconnected from tech and reconnect to the joy of ride :)

[@nickw6175]

and remember its not against the rules of cycling to just stop and admire the view.

[@JanStrojil]

Yes! Unless you’re a pro training for a race (and maybe even then) cycling should be fun! If you make it enjoyable, you will do it. If you make it hard, you will avoid it. Just have fun and enjoy yourself. And stay safe.

[@rik5384]

And take pictures!

[@ElLenadorLA]

Yes! I did that yesterday for the first time in a long time. I forgot how pretty it is around me. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in your data.

[@kenhadiwidjaja7291]

And... take some photos too

[@fernandodias4528]

So true I find myself missing out on the breath taking views because of data 😫😫

[@mr_x1703]

Most important: don't compare yourself to more experienced cyclists

[@gcn]

Yes, comparison is never that useful!

[@linglingjr]

You should be getting at least one KOM on each ride. lol

[@kenhadiwidjaja7291]

Haha indeed

[@darklight6921]

unless ur competitive. then it gives you a goal to chase.

[@britshell]

That is the core idea Strava, comparing yourself to better riders. If it was not fun, no one would use the app.

[@emmettroche313]

First cycle: didn’t bring water, pushed myself to hard, nearly passed out, fell and cut my knee and hip, got lost. Exact opposite of this video.😂

[@stanislavvasic6799]

Emmett Roche falling from bonking and forgetting to unclip happend to me on my 2nd ride... hahah, so ridiculous

[@joaocastro924]

In one of my first rides, I completely forgot my water bottle, it was horrible because it was a summer day, 30 celsius, warm air. The worst part is that before I headed out for the ride I knew something was missing but I didn't know what.. Until I was thirsty and when I was trying to reach for the water bottle, THERE WAS NONE FOR ME. To make matters worse I live in a hilly island, literally anywhere you go you have a hill climb

[@db8458]

That's how you learn =), keep going.

[@Angel_EU34]

Well, that's how experience works! xD

[@Huss_110]

I was oversafe on my first ride . I took two bottles and I was going very slow (avg speed was 13 km/h)because I was nervous. It was a 20 minute ride 😂.

[@davidf2281]

0:50 I remember cafés! They were those places that accepted money in exchange for food and beverages, right?

[@campyc40]

I remember riding outside, it's like Zwift but then for real.

[@folding1490]

You could even sit with other people as I recall.

[@lifeincycling]

I vaguely remember something delicious called a flat white, if I'm not mistaken. Can't be sure what it was though.

[@peteT269]

They're all open again now in Switzerland. Can head back to the Alps again as normal.

[@robertlight2370]

davidf2281 In the BeforeTimes.

[@jakubfabisiak9810]

Or just ride fixed, and you won't have to worry about being in the right gear, cause you're always in the wrong one.

[@Nicka2003]

😂

[@gaulron2010]

😂😂

[@mrvwbug4423]

And no worry about brakes, there aren't any haha

[@Hellosayer]

underrated comment ;)

[@trenthollingsworth2817]

I feel attacked

[@Mazurizi]

Is it just me or has Manon's presenting skills improved so much since she started. I know she was really self conscious at the beginning but now she's a natural! Ride on!

[@spicypretzel7616]

Absolutely agree! She is killing it !

[@Alex-yk6he]

Yeah she is amazing

[@Yes-ml4bw]

She has been stellar since the beginning.

[@deadendfriends1975]

Settle down

[@endcensorship874]

She's doing great, and is really starting to find her flow.

[@FX_productions]

Did a three Km ride today on my first ever road bike. That's 3Km more than since I was kid and I enjoyed myself even if I was out of breath when I got home. By next year I hope to be able to do 100Km and be two stone lighter. The tips were great and of course very sensible as the roads can be dangerous if you don't take care.

[@timp7341]

Great work, if you keep up the riding, 100km in a year's time is well within your grasp!

[@jamesoxford4260]

nice! keep it up =D I lost 45 lbs on the bike last year, and it didn't feel like some herculean task. just stuck with it and tried to continue to push myself.

[@cosmosnomad]

Small tip, pacing is crucial. If you ride hard it's a sure way to wear yourself out quickly. When you know your body a bit better you'll be able to ride further and get fitter easier.

[@Kocan7]

You don't really need to push for 100km, just ride the way you enjoy the most, some of us prefers long distances, other climbs, downhills, time trials or gravel just search for what you enjoy the most. Ofc, apart from road bikes there are many other types of bikes and use cases.

[@ghowell13]

Congratulations, and welcome! I just started about 2 years ago now. 16 months on a road bike.

[@dalechen521]

I bought myself a gravel bike at the start of quarantine, and I found myself installing bar extensions and obsessing over getting faster and more efficient. Absolutely life changing hobby. Cardio is no longer a chore 😃

[@Mylity66]

I'm having a hard time keeping my weight up! I keep eating like a pig but i'm just stuck at 55kg when i should be at least 65kg

[@kaantosito409]

@@Mylity66 then you gotta eat more or bike less

[@thepassenger733]

@@Mylity66 A bit late but... Try a big ball of rice milk everyday and lots of nuts for snacks, peanut butter protein balls (nice recipes online)... etc. People saying « just eat more » are ignorant about how fast metabolism works. And it’s non sense to say that when someone has already mentioned to eat a lot. 🙄 It’s not always about quantity but essentially about the type of nutriments the body will process. One thing also, make sure you’re always warm, especially at night. And go to pee before bed, don’t ignore the need to pee. Your body will use energy to keep urine warm inside of your body or to warm you up if you not covered enough (head, neck and feets are the parts where heat leaves faster so protect them well). I have a fast metabolism, very difficult to gain weight and cold is my worse enemy so i often sleep with a cap and it makes a big difference. I don’t wake up at night anymore being angry despite having ate a full dinner just before bed. Then I would just advice you to pay close attention to how your body works, and analyze how external elements have impact on it. We’re all very different (already genetics have a massive impact) and what works for someone might not work for someone else. Make research and with common sense and education about it, try. Of course never try something that would put you in danger. Good luck ✌🏻

[@Mylity66]

@@thepassenger733 what a good answer thank you, when it comes to cold I should be alright, it's always over 30°c where I live, it's a struggle to actually not feel hot.

[@thepassenger733]

@@Mylity66 oh I see! Well, hope you drink lots of water where you are then 😁 Since your last message, did you find something that helped you to gain some weight ?

[@fletcherchambers7175]

My favorite gear tip for new riders so they don't need to worry about front vs back gears when shifting: As the chain gets closer to the bike, (front OR back) it's easier to pedal and good for hills. As the chain moves away from the bike (again, front OR back) pedal resistance increases and you go faster... :)

[@aretethought7298]

This is so inspirational. Sigh, where was Manon when I was 19 watching GCN and just getting into cycling? So great to have a female role model for young cyclists represented on the channel! ❤️🚴🏻‍♀️

[@dnb888]

One of the biggest struggles I'm having with getting into cycling is deciding which bike to buy... it is so overwhelming. It's a big purchase for me too so it needs to be the right one

[@disgruntledtoons]

Buy a used one. You have to do a lot of research, but you can get good quality for a good price if you go used.

[@Black_Rose1234]

I'm watching videos such as these because I'm struggling to decide which bike to buy... It is very overwhelming, the brands and prices range from affordable to a small fortune!

[@dnb888]

@@Black_Rose1234 I ended up getting a Trek Checkpoint and love it

[@wildsurfer12]

Buy one off Facebook Marketplace, and then customise and upgrade it yourself. That’s the best way to learn maintenance skills and the purest way to fall in love with cycling!

[@argh1989]

For anyone else wondering the same: Try and get a frame size that somewhat fits your body measurements. Every other component can be swapped and/or adapted to fit you. I got myself a 30y/o road bike in spring and together with new tyres, I had to invest about 200 EUR and a bit of elbow grease to have a usable bike. Keep in mind, that budget will almost double if you take a helmet into account, but yeah, that's about the price range if you go for outdated, "no name" quality.

[@1974gkar]

I sold my car in January and have been cycling everywhere on my old heavy mountain bike. I hadn't ridden a bike in years and must admit i found it it tough to begin with but I watched lots of GCN vids for advice and confidence and now I'm lighter, fitter and faster. My commute is the favourite part of my day even in the morning when it's all up hill and that little nod of the head to other cyclists as you pass them makes you feel your part of a large community.

[@pompeymonkey3271]

You are part of a larger community! :)

[@lihtan]

It doesn't matter what you ride, as long as you're riding! That heavy old mountain bike will improve your fitness faster than riding a fast light road bike.

[@Ivan-vw2ne]

A godsend, especially in these times when there is so many new riders, GCN, once again you outdid yourself!

[@gcn]

Cheers Ivan!

[@rik5384]

Never too many new riders. Everyone just needs to learn the ropes, and I have come across way more people who have either been riding for a long time (experienced) or had too much enthusiasm and seriously deep pockets, who were bad road users, rather than new ones. Slower less cocky ones are often the safer ones.

[@sdolman79]

Keep an emergency £5 note in your saddle bag for emergencies only, ie to purchase food, drink, inner tube, also can be used if you split your tyre.

[@Hannaaafy]

Or the fare for a bus/tram direction home if you really get stuck for whatever reason.

[@SeanBlader]

Was on a group ride on the other side of the world (Cape Town) and when I braked hard for a stoplight, I got rear ended by a really nice local! Oh no! Fortunately all that happened was my derailleur got bumped, knocking my chain off. Had a random pedestrian come over from the sidewalk and ask if he could help. I literally just said, "hold this", handed him my US10k Tarmac and used the bloke as a bike stand while I put my chain back on. Said thank you, gave him 5 rand, and was off before the light changed. Later the guy that bumped me said "You gave him 5 rand?" And I'm like yeah it was about 1 US Dollar, no biggie. Perfect time to have had that fiver with me.

[@Demon09-_-]

Def agree on this i have a pretty dirty 10 usd note in my saddle bag for that same reason.

[@pigletofgreed7747]

or something in the currency of the country you are in..non-Brits watch these too

[@rollandjoeseph]

$5 ? For food and drink? What's this 1960? Lol

[@DerRofflers]

as a new rider GCN has been extremely help- and resourceful. I didn't know cycling was this fun and rewarding

[@frazergoodwin4945]

Great little video Manon - you're such a natural infront of the camera! Another tip for absolute newbs would be to get in touch with a local cycling club - as soon as you're allowed to ride with others doing so with more experienced riders can provide a wealth of learning - from local routes to ride to tips and hints on the bike...

[@ridlerfisherable]

Another one I would give is get some sunglasses to prevent flies or anything else to get in your eye.

[@Demon09-_-]

100% agree on this one when I first started out i did a few rides without them. And def never looked back after the first ride where I got some gunk in my eyes. They don't need to be fancy ones but even cheapo ones will keep them random gunk out

[@pigletofgreed7747]

get a bee or hornet in your eye & you'll never ride without glasses again

[@realtvw]

Just had bug hit my dead in the left eye yesterday I keep thinking I need some riding glasses.

[@pigletofgreed7747]

@@Demon09-_- regardless of bugs, all the airflow w/o glasses tends to dry one's eyes out

[@Demon09-_-]

@@pigletofgreed7747 was that meant to go to realtvw as hes the one who mentioned bugs. but I do agree glasses are almost a must for me

[@MizzSlim1000]

I just transitioned from a hybrid bike to my first road bike yesterday! I fell 2.5 times.. Not ascending, not descending, but stopping. My feet used to automatically jut out if I began to lose balance. My muscle memory now has to account for the fact that I’m CLIPPED IN!!! Practice clipping in and out somewhere soft! Take it from me, your body will appreciate it.

[@newsbuster292]

As someone in my early fourties, I very much regret not going into cyling when I was younger, even though I was given the chance. So my tip would be, if you want it, go for it at a young age and see what you can do! It's a generally healthy way of living, building up condition, being outdoors all the time, seeing beautiful scenery every day. As opposed to drinking, smoking, partying every weekend...and then feeling like shit the day after. Even if you won't get very far in cycling, for whatever reason, it will have many side benefits to live that kind of life.

[@gregoireb3032]

yes, I wish I didn't wait until I was 59 to start riding regularly!

[@stuartsimpson-smith6140]

@@gregoireb3032better late than never. I was really into MTB and DH in my late teens and wish I’d have kept it up. Now I’m 42 and just about to get into road cycling 👍

[@l3ds92]

I've used to ride when I was younger until I got to high school, now because of lockdown with closed and home workouts not being that fun, I've decided to pick up the old bike and ride with my dad. Long story short now I have a road bike, and I'm riding almost every day plus making good memories with my old man!

[@jackglossop4859]

Great stuff. Keep it going!

[@zyghom]

you forgot the killer advice: always have your mobile phone with you (especially when you are new)

[@JMcLeodKC711]

Having a mobile phone falls under the heading of "Be self sufficient"

[@edwardcullen3251]

And a battery pack with wire.

[@round3706]

@@edwardcullen3251 Most phones now have a battery life of up to 10 hours. I can't see a beginner riding longer than that.

[@jeremyemilio9378]

@@round3706 not if you ride in the cold

[@ainteasya]

You dont have to remind millennials to remember their phone you bell end.

[@dootdoot644]

my dad has been a cyclist for 7 years and he has persuaded me to try it out, this was a big help!!

[@KingUry2-2-2]

This Video will help me a lot because I just learned Cycling About three weeks ago 😂 and I have to Say it's very Enjoyable Sport not to mention that it gives Confidence . I'm very thankful for all the tips you gave us up there 👌 for real they're very helpful ..thanks GCN 💝

[@gamby16a]

Welcome! I wish you many happy miles to come! 😃

[@hutchmusician]

Welcome to the cycling community Mahjoub! You’ve chosen a hobby that will serve you well for your whole life.

[@KingUry2-2-2]

@@hutchmusician Thank you very much 👍

[@sjc93]

This is great! Need more of these videos please. Just finished completely overhauling my 40 year old road bike that had been neglected by previous owners - often using GCN videos of course. Now finally ready to begin in earnest!

[@satrioesar7151]

My recovery from broken bones is the reason how I got into cycling. I'm so gratefull that I found this sport from an unfortunate accident

[@evanmacdougall9715]

Definitely take it easy. I vividly remember my first ride 3 years ago. Hadn't ridden a bike in over 10 years and thought I was in great shape from running. I rode my dad's titanium bike instead of my 30 year old steel bike. I was amazed and excited about how fast I was able to go. I learned that you can ride a bike really fast and your body doesn't realize you need to breathe until after you finish. I nearly passed out in the driveway and had to lie down on the floor for a few minutes until I could catch my breath.

[@bluemodize7718]

huh

[@attackedbywaterfoul]

Because of an IT band issue preventing me from running, I have started to really get into cycling. All the GCN videos are super helpful, especially the stuff on bike maintenance and gear shifting how-tos.

[@187amit]

Great video for beginners. As you said I also wish I had these tips when I was starting out. Helmet, bike, hydration, tools to fix a puncture and a little enthusiasm is all you need to get started.

[@F87-b9c]

Got back on a bike for the 1st time in 20 years recently. I'm slowly getting into it but videos like these really do help.

[@awakenedbahamut2574]

I started in October 2019 and I improved my average speed by about 6 kmh in 7 months with the same equipment and cycling kit, and with more elevation gain.

[@jshepard5840]

Really nice video and you covered most of the basics for newbies. I would, however, like to add one important tip that wasn't covered. She mentions planning your route, but leaves out one of the most important aspects of that planning. Wind. I had to learn the hard way when I started out. Plan your route so that you have the wind at your back on the way home. Don't ride 10 or 15 miles, turn around, only to find that you now have a healthy wind in your face. It'll make that ride home miserable. So that's it, follow her advice and always keep the wind in mind and you'll be fine.

[@monsters8730]

this! I have made it a routine to check wind conditions before any longer rides

[@spherelance72]

You missed being careful when swerving to avoid a pot hole to not lose your balance and end up in a hedge... Not one of my finer moments it must be said.

[@Gmny1MOA]

This played in my mind like a movie 😂😂

[@bamsuth9650]

Hahaha i remember when i tried to flat out a corner but then i realize there is a gutter in front and i drifted like an initial d movie luckily i didnt end up in a wedge

[@FrankB69]

Why am I watching this I have been cycling for 8 yers & racing for 5. Go to sleep

[@jeffmcilroy7081]

Your watching it for the same reasons as me.. Manon 😍

[@stickymiky123]

@@jeffmcilroy7081 Me too...

[@darklight6921]

@@jeffmcilroy7081 she said she wasnt wearing underwear.

[@euri948]

@@darklight6921 I replayed that a few times😂

[@jeremyemilio9378]

Because Manon is cute

[@makkrohero59]

I started biking a few weeks back, just to get in shape. I have not trained in years, so i’m in pretty bad shape. I usually bike for about an hour. But a few days ago I really felt it, I was in the zone. I ended up biking a route about 50km long. Maybe that’s not so long for you pro bikers, idk. But it was certainly long for me. I didn’t acutally feel that tired while biking, I actually felt pretty good. I managed to complete the trip and I was so proud of myself. But then later that day I all of a sudden started feeling awful. My body ached a lot and I felt sick and tired, even cold sweating. I just had to go to bed at like 8pm. I couldn’t even sleep. I felt really sick and awful. It could maybe be that I pushed my self a little to hard. So my «pro» tip as a beginner is to respect your body, and don’t push yourself way to hard. I’m proud that I did it, but maybe it was a little too much. Idk, it could be another reason why I felt so awful, but I don’t think so.

[@luke_almquist]

i’m going to pick up my road bike TODAY! perfect timing!!!!

[@michaelelison1006]

Enjoy

[@si7273]

How's it going with your bike?

[@ClassicGal]

Thank you so much! I live in NYC and I've always admired cyclists, and have desired to cycle as well. Unfortunately, I have been too intimidated by these streets. Now that I've been running for a minute, I feel more compelled to branch into other areas, and I've been fortunate enough to connect with a couple of individuals that cycle here in the city -- and I am SO freaking excited to start on this journey! Now I just need to get myself a bike which is so hard to do/find these days.

[@paulgal]

I just started cycling about 5 weeks ago. My 1st ride was 3 miles I'm now doing 60 miles. I'm training to do a cycling, kayak and climb Ben Lomond for charity I'm loving it.

[@stefkais]

I personally think it would be cool to see a short Manon series of these that go over beginning cycling tips in varying levels of detail. What I mean by that is, I am pretty new to cycling, but really fell in love with it! My handling skills are now good, I ride safely, and I now commute to work every day. But I am interested into getting into the more sport side of cycling, but when I hear riders talking about FTP and power meters and riding in the optimal gear and doing long rides and the more "advanced" stuff, I get lost. So in my opinion it would be great to see a video structured similar to this one, but geared towards more nuanced/confusing/racing-oriented cycling tips. I know there are new and old videos on GCN that kind of cover portions of these topics (still very helpful) but to see a new one, short and sweet, would be cool!

[@Abshirmaxamed]

Monon, you nail it. Very helpful tips to all of us. GCN thanks again for tremendous support.

[@NickMaovich]

Manon - supernice More Manon!

[@rhysmaybrey7739]

I used to be a runner but had to give up through recurrent injury. Took up cycling 4 years ago. Did the coast to coast 2.5yrs ago from Whitehaven to Tynemouth, 150 miles in 2 days for charity. I had to have a hip replacement last year. Was back on a bike in 6 weeks. This morning I did 38 miles in 2hrs 20 mins. My longest ride in over 2 years (due to hip arthritis, hence the total hip replacement). It’s a great form of exercise. Some good tips for beginners here. My firs5 ride when I took up cycling was 3 miles.

[@aleaflm4663]

This is the best GCN video I've seen in a lot. Keep it up Manon :D

[@Arshiya99]

First ride today. Feels as exciting as learning to walk I think. Trying too hard to learn everything ie; actually pedalling, balancing, speed, changing gear etc then the choice of which bike, how to maintain it, gosh there's so much. Thank you Manon and team GCN.

[@danlancaster2239]

This was excellent. I've shared this with workmates who just started since Covid.

[@amytrumbull156]

I got my hybrid comfort bike five years ago and it's changed my life...profoundly! I'm fifty and hadn't exercised in over thirty years so I started slow and built up. I still ride at least five times a week for just thirty to fifty minutes and I push hard when I have the strength! I absolutely love it and can't picture my life without my cycling....it's my exercise, it's super fun, confidence and morale boosting and stress relieving all in one. I'm not hard core like these folks and I don't have the bike shorts, etc but I still get the enjoyment and benefits that I want. Have never crashed my bike(yet) and I do nod to other riders, of course!

[@Mylity66]

I found cycling to be the ideal exercise because its all the effort without the joint impact. I had a bad accident when i was 15 that left me barely able to walk, years later I still had a chronic pain bad enough that I could not run or jog to save my life. I would have never imagine I would be doing 200km day-long rides but I did, and I loved it. Unfortunatedly I did had several minor (embarrasing mostly) crashes and then a really, really bad one. Long story short, wear your helmet, whatever helmet is fine, I had a really shitty, crappy, cheapy chinese made helmet that exploded into 12 pieces during my crash saving my life and completely protecting my head despite receiving the brunt of it there. Word of advice, if you are going to fall off, aim for the grass on the side of the road, a thorny bush is WAY BETTER than concrete XD

[@TimRrstrm]

*Manon throwing tube away* Hey that's how I fix punctured tubes as well.

[@jaydavee]

yes. The patches just don't stay sealed on anything 28 mm and under getting inflated to over 95 psi. I've had good results patching tires & tubes over 30 mm wide, under 90 psi.

[@grimp53]

I just remove and save the inner cores of the valves if they have those.

[@Mylity66]

@@jaydavee Really? shit that's rough, i keep riding my patched tubes on my MTB until they are at least 12 patches in and then they retire as backups/spares that I end up giving away to some stranded dude on the trail. I had one with 22 patches on, it looked like it was machined gunned, it held air just fine but then again those tubes don't really need much pressure.

[@gevzart]

i am 34 and just learned how to ride a bike two months ago. best decision I made this year.

[@tedaltoft1410]

Thank you so much this has really helped me and my family

[@gcn]

Glad we could help!

[@gregknowsbest]

Cheesy

[@Alex-yk6he]

Best tip is to buy cycling shorts. Your butt will thank you haha

[@italianstallion701]

I Learnt this too late...

[@umarjanbhat3819]

My butt hurts badly 😂 while my friends are ok with same bike ...but I'm just a newbie

[@sepg5084]

@@umarjanbhat3819 either it's due to bad saddle position (height or setback) or bad posture, or maybe the bike is just to big/small for you

[@sepg5084]

If you have a proper saddle you won't need padded shorts. But if you are using a racing saddle then padded shorts are pretty much mandatory. I ride a 155 gram padded carbon saddle without padded shorts just fine, and ride my 90 gram non-padded carbon race saddle with one. Then i weighed how much heavier my padded shorts were compared to ordinary athletic shorts: it weights 60 grams more. Now i don't ride my race saddle anymore and don't wear padded shorts, 5 gram weight savings ain't worth the fuss of having cycling-specific shorts for someone who lives in a warm climate (32 to 34 celsius on a regular day).

[@rollandjoeseph]

First time I wore a kit I was shocked how aerodynamic I was, incredibly helpful

[@mitchellkienhuis9870]

Oops, did my first 100km in my second-month of Cycling. I had a blast though. One thing one must never do, compare yourself to all the Cyclists that are passing you. On my first few rides, it would be very discouring to see everyone pass me but now I went a little further I noticed that I passed a lot of them in the long term. So ride a steady pace and just enjoy it.

[@gcn]

Good advice, thanks Mitchell! And well done on your 100km ride!

[@johannvandermerwe4826]

Mountain bike bought 10 days ago, after my fifth ride my ass is crying!! Did 14, 26, 49, 44 and 31 km - since my legs are running fit (half marathon without too much effort) it was no problem at all - BUT the bottom!! So I watched your video on the 10 tips to avoid a sore bottom (too late for me now) but this is what I wanted to share as a Novice, a beginner. So tomorrow I will use a pillow since I do not want to wait 4 days for the very sore bottom to heal.... Thanks for an awesome channel...

[@wheeledllama7907]

One tip i'd give is to go for a cheaper road bike when you start out, while heavier they're also cheaper to maintain and fix. And the most important parts of your bike is pedals, seat and brake pads, at least that's what i think. Seats are especially important, if you feel the seat restricting bloodflow you need to change it instantly, you generally seem to feel it the most in your "bits", and ignoring the issue can easily lead to damage to those bits.

[@ndikumateh983]

I have been cycling for about a year and half now. Yesterday i was able to do my longest ride. I Rode my specialized allez for 90miles with an Elevation gain of almost 4000ft. My feeding and pacing strategy for this ride was all GCN. Also the temp was about 40 degrees F and I dressed just like Si adviced. This was a big mile stone for me and I want to thank the GCN team for what they do. I remember when i first got my bike and i could not even change my gears or clip in properly( still struggle with clipping lol). I will even go on rides without food or water🙊. My bike was all set up wrong too..... Etc. Thanks for being there every step of the way as i grow into a better cyclist.

[@jasperdesmedt4931]

I wish I would have known some of these tips when I started cycling... Nice going!

[@AngeloCarceroni]

I learned how to clip-in and out with my sister help to hold the bike close to a wall in my bedroom. To shifting gears, I made a few runs around my block, to make sure I was close if something goes wrong.

[@jimjimtiger]

Love the funny little outtakes at the end of your video's. :)

[@ThulaniMkhwanazi-yg6me6px7r]

High, I'm Thulani from South Africa, thank you so much for road cycling tips. I have started 8y years ago, started with a mountain bike and now I have road bicycle 9speed and its very light.

[@CommaCam]

"Trust me, some of my worst crashes have been when I've been riding really slowly." Ok I think we're going to need to hear a story about those. ;) Come to think of it, have the presenters regaled us with their best crash stories yet?

[@renegadetenor]

Its the slow crashes that tend to body-slam you into the ground. At speed you somethimes have an extra half a second to plan your landing..

[@DPS-Runner_Cyclist]

I was doing a simple slow turn-around at the halfway point of an out and back...slipped on some oil in the road, slammed to the ground and broke my hip. I was barely moving at the time!

[@manupasquette4116]

Dustin Smith unlucky lol. I was looking at my phone going full pelt at about 11 pm and went straight into a sign. Trackies were ruined but I was somehow fine after 😂😂

[@grumpy_ken]

over the handlebar face plants always seem to happen in slow motion

[@bw2025]

thanks for the video! I bought my first ever road bike off of Ebay two days ago and found myself actually having to ride it back home through city traffic with clipless pedals in sneakers whilst being absolutely overwhelmed by it. At first I was a bit reluctant to get on the road and felt insecure and thought I'll probably look silly and everyone will call me out. I did struggle a bit with the brakes and pedal grip at first but I then realized there's nothing to be embarrassed about and I flew home. Going to change the pedals for now and practice on less traveled roads, but am super excited to get started.

[@ninjodify]

I am not entirely sure that I'd be encouraging very new riders to remove a hand from the bars and wave at other cyclists, especially if they are in a group or with others. A nod of the head and grin/smile will suffice and it ensures balance remains across all the contact points. I do get that as riders gain more experience this side of social riding can evolve and I really am not trying to troll here. Regards..

[@simonbergman5970]

I just bought a road bike for my girlfriend, and this is the perfect video to get her started! Thanks GCN

[@aSmelly1]

GCN: Everything You Need To Know If You're New To Road Cycling me, who's been cycling for years: wow, I need to watch this!

[@Matthew-di2mx]

YES FINALLY!! A COMPLETE beginners guide!!!

[@Devilsblacksmith]

For the newbies - don't watch ALL the maintenance videos. You'll be watching more youtube than riding. My list for the start: - Change a wheel - Adjust saddle heigt after that - learn the rest one by one. And care about your chain - but don't care too much. Great video at the right time - cheers GCN!

[@mikewade777]

My ride yesterday in S Wales ended up 27 miles and took 3 hours.

[@biedawo]

Bring patch kit, in addition to the spare tube + pump. I don't get punctures often, but I have had multiple punctures in a ride.

[@TheUsername1302]

Perfect timing, I'm picking up my first new roadbike tomorrow

[@Wildschwein_Jaeger]

Kawasaki or Honda?

[@TheUsername1302]

@@Wildschwein_Jaeger BMC 😉

[@diezrosales]

After watching GCN videos with my husband for a few months, I decided to get a proper road bike during the lockdown. Great tips here. Thank you so much. I love you all (even before I started cycling seriously). I am even on Zwift and Strava now!!! ❤👍😃

[@jimjimtiger]

Don't forget to put on some sunscreen.

[@les1251]

Poison

[@BeInspiredCharity]

I got mine out of a box folding bike. Took it out today and was thinking it was so difficult to ride even on the flat surface no matter what gear I was on. Then I noticed two headsets where my pedals were loose and dangling Also the handle with the gears was loose. My tyres a little soft. Luckily I was passing where I got the bike and wow what a difference after 10 min maintenance. Cycling became way easier and my seat was higher. So can't wait to go back out again. Want to buy the large spanner just in case it becomes loose again and I bought a pump and multi tool

[@lihtan]

Keeping your bike tuned up is important. It's a lot more enjoyable to ride when you know your bike is behaving properly

[@schmuhf]

I was under the impression that all I'd need to know if I wanted to pick up road cycling is "Know how to ride a bicycle". Boy, was I wrong!

[@kainazgul4308]

I'm taking my big brother out for his first bike ride tonight. Thanks for this video, I'll plan a fun stop and bring him back before he gets tired. I definitely needed these reminders!

[@gcn]

That is awesome, we hope you had a great ride!

[@bentantasook117]

Also, don’t wear your helmet backwards.

[@GreenscreenKid-e2s]

Im from indonesia and i watched all the begginer tutorial videos in this channel and now i can ride my bike😁 thanks

[@dancampbell5068]

Where's "Don't forget to unclip at traffic lights". I've just had my first ride today and had to make a very conscious effort every time!

[@vale.antoni]

Clipless shoes are not exactly "just got into cycling" pieces of equipment to be honest

[@basv8456]

I remember my first 3 rides with clipless pedals. And not in a very good way.

[@robtk3]

Don't worry. The falls will come. They always have and they always will. I've been riding clipless for years but still occasionally hit the deck.

[@dancampbell5068]

@@vale.antoni but the video is 'new to road cycling' not 'first time ever riding a bike'

[@vale.antoni]

@@dancampbell5068 Again. Cliplesses are by no means beginner equipment :)

[@SaddleUpEcho]

I initially only bought a bike and a two-seater trailer to take my kids out for a casual stroll around the neighborhood. Then I started riding to do a bit of exercise. Now, I am a couple of days away from doing my first 40+ mile solo ride - Atlantic City to Cape May. This stuff is addicting!

[@ormsk954]

After 60 years cycling 100 miles plus most weeks, here's what you don't have to do: wear lycra everytime, use clipless pedals everytime, record your best time everytime. Firstly, ordinary loose clothes are fine. Secondly flat pedals are about 15% less efficient than clipless but a lot safer for beginners. Thirdly, there is always someone faster. Cycle for enjoyment without any reference to others. Have a great time!

[@chinaiwei]

Kudos to GCN!!! I’ve shared this to my GF and hopefully this video would help her realize how amazing and adventurous just out riding and enjoy the WIND.

[@barnettkr]

No tips or tricks, just wanting to know if we viewers are ever going to get the Welsh Cake recipe? 😆

[@PeteMidg]

Haha yeah but will we have to find the wrapper in the bin ;-)

[@helmuthvonmoltke858]

This Channel inspired me to race at a regional level using only my Sagmit Veneno with Shimano 105 groupsets, A mid range aluminium bike. (I only keep a low price bike because I’m more dedicated to my studies)

[@gcn]

Awesome!

[@ccarz1]

Thank you for the video I am a mountain biker learning.

[@gcn]

Awesome! You may like to check out our sister channel GMBN too: kzbin.info/door/_A--fhX5gea0i4UtpD99Gg

[@ccarz1]

Thank you. I discovered your channel first but I watch that channel to👍

[@frazergoodwin4945]

Another tip for newbie bikers would be to make sure you clean your bike - I remember turning up to my first event where I rode with others and a friendly cyclist being so aghast at the state of my drive train they insisted in removed the accumulated gunk from my jockey wheels with a stick. There was so much of this stuff I could actually feel it made a difference to ride without it! A valuable lesson

[@Wildschwein_Jaeger]

6:21 Brakes need some TLC.

[@dishadharmraj6986]

I'm new to cycling (I've been doing it less than a month) I did a 9km in an hour I know it's not much but I'm super proud

[@endcensorship874]

"wave to other cyclists" ... thank you! ALWAYS wave to others, especially now since we can't ride in groups.

[@spinspinbaby1531]

I used to waving to other cyclist until some of them didnt wave back and pretend they cant see me

[@vomErsten]

Would a beginner cyclist be comfortable lifting hands off the bars to wave? A nod or a verbal salutation will do.

[@gcn]

Always!

[@gcn]

A nod will definitely do if you don't want to ride one handed!

[@pakcross]

I love waving and being waved back at, and nods are just as good when I'm feeling unsteady.

[@SirBrass]

Absolutely wear cycling shorts! My first real ride was in boxers and cargo shorts. Only a few miles, but I had BAD saddle rash. I immediately got mountain biking shorts with integrated chamois. Absolute game changer. Now unless its for short rides, I don't go for a ride without chamois or at least an anti-friction base layer.

[@aim-at-me]

5:37 Manon lives in a Welsh castle?

[@fabiosemino2214]

Simple, concise and to the point, love your style. About my first exit, I have 2, my first when I was a kid resulted in a broken wrist, the second 5 years resulted in the rear derailleur crashing into the rear wheel spokes, I learned from that experiences and I'm having a ton of fun.

[@omarhaddou4043]

Hi I like your videos you're great

[@iwearflansuit]

"heading out for your first few rides" *montage of a dude riding a $12000 pinarello dogma*

[@xipozz]

He got a "small loan of a million dollars" to buy a bike...what's wrong with that!? xD

[@samthemanwholikesham]

I thought this. But if you have access to it... why the hell not 😂

[@ricardotijerina886]

That's a nice beginner's bike. Maybe Walmart sells them. Let me break my piggy bank...

[@sepg5084]

Ride what you can afford. And if you can easily afford a $12k bike, then why not?

[@bobbyellis5006]

Funny thing is, I recently took my bike into a shop to get it looked over after just buying it off a guy on ebay, and the mechanic there was saying that a large percentage of their newest customers were doctors/lawyers who got into the sport during the pandemic and bought $5-$6k bikes without knowing anything about them. As a photographer, it's sort of the same thing. I photograph sports professionally, and I've been to college games with a guy on the field with $25k worth of camera gear just "shooting for fun" and it's always a doctor or whatever with more money than they know what to do with.

[@deadendfriends1975]

Assume all cars don't see you.....

[@darokun]

this is the video I wished I had watched a few years ago when I started cycling! it is very complete and concise and mentions everything I’ve been slowly learning and doing on my own since I started. Thanks!

[@SamPlaysPiano3]

Love your cycling tips.

[@gcn]

Glad to hear it!

[@danielmagana5125]

My first season as a beginner was a lot of excitement, willing to do a lot but without the proper equipment or technique. Then little by little grow in strength technique and the best affordable equipment possibly for my budget. Cheers from NYC

[@matijalakner4497]

I'm going to buy my first road bike and I need some help. I don't want to spend mor than 600€. Please help

[@geoffbuck6865]

Matija Lakner : look for last year's models and you'll get the best bargains...

[@spinspinbaby1531]

Try to browse chinese alloy carbon bike.. They are great starter pack and have a great value too!

[@geoffbuck6865]

If it's your first road bike and have a tight budget, I wouldn't bother with carbon, 'cheap chinese' or not. Aluminium frames are cheaper, more robust, and you are probably unlikely to be penalised by the minor weight increase - save your money and maybe you'll find better gears are included.

[@lihtan]

Don't ignore the used bike market either. Often what was a top of the line bike a decade ago can bought for only a few hundred dollars today.

[@Bugumir]

Yes, cycling shorts are a blessing. I used to have a soar bum when getting home. Now, it's just extremely numb.

[@connorarmstrong1308]

if your new to road biking buy a mountain bike

[@lihtan]

This is a good point. A mountain bike is more durable, so you're less likely to damage something from hitting a pothole at speed. The lower pressure tires don't need to be inflated as frequently, and because you can go anywhere with it, you can find out what sort of riding you like best with it. There's no point buying a road bike and finding yourself longing to go offroad with it.

[@TyreeKartrell]

About to pick up my 1st road bike tomorrow. I'm so excited to get started.

[@Wildschwein_Jaeger]

Might want to get yourself some gloves. Kinda saves the meat on the palms of your hands if you hit the deck.

[@oblivion.4974]

My first ride started with 20 kilometers. Then the second one was about 50. Well both of the roads I cycled were busy but ever since my last ride I was starting to enjoy it