Our five top tips for long summer rides
Our five top tips for long summer rides
Our five top tips for long summer rides
Summer is the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy cycling. Whether you're commuting, bikepacking/touring, or simply exploring new routes. To help you make the most of the sunny season, we've put together a guide featuring essential cycling gear and accessories.
1. Plan wisely with a mixture of physical and digital mapping
It’s a good idea to use physical maps for inspiration and to be able to see the route in full, and then use the GPX file for the actual ride. If you haven’t already, explore Sustrans’ range of long distance routes which come in physical map and GPX form.
On hot days, make sure your route passes shops where you can pick up extra water or snacks. And have a shorter (plan B) option in case your original plan is taking longer than anticipated.
Our top picks:
Using a simple bike computer is a great way to stay on route and record important metrics such as speed and distance travelled.
When choosing a bike computer, we recommend opting for one that works without phone signal, offers simple turn-by-turn directions, can reroute you and is relatively simple so it doesn’t distract you from the road.
Our top pick:
‘Drink before you’re thirsty’ is the tactic we use in hot weather.
Unless you’re racing and aim to make your bike as light as possible, it’s always a good idea to pack more water than you think you’ll need, and to ensure your route goes past shops and cafes/restaurants.
If you’re riding in the UK or Europe, be aware that it’s significantly harder to access water on Sundays when shops and cafes are often shut.
Our top picks:
Restrap folding bike stem bag (to carry extra bottles)
Even on a hot day, it’s a good idea to pack a lightweight, breathable and windproof jacket.
The mornings and evenings are often cool and you’ll be surprised how quickly you’ll cool down when you stop for lunch or need to fix a puncture. Wearing a bright coloured jacket is also a great way to improve visibility.
Our top picks:
Nobody wants a ride to end early because there’s something wrong with the bike. Knowing how to maintain and repair your bike before you set off will boost your confidence so that you can ride without worries. Lots can be learnt about bike mechanics, however, start by learning the basics below.
Maintaining your bike:
- Cleaning
- Pumping and changing tyres
- Doing a bolt check
- Maintaining and oiling the chain
Completing basic repairs:
- Fixing a puncture
- Putting the chain back on
- Tuning gears
- Changing brake pads
Our top picks:
Handlebar Canister bag (for all of your tools)
