We think cycle helmets are a good idea, but only if they fit and are adjusted properly. We help you adjust yours, or choose a new one below.
The best help adjusting a bike helmet we’ve seen is here.
How to keep your bike running well.
We think cycle helmets are a good idea, but only if they fit and are adjusted properly. We help you adjust yours, or choose a new one below.
The best help adjusting a bike helmet we’ve seen is here.
Sore bottoms come in all shapes and sizes – and so do saddles – don’t be saddled with an uncomfortable one! Soft is not always best, the right shape for you and saddle adjustment are far more important. We have loads of help below.
A suitable saddle shouldn’t cause any discomfort at all: no numbness, pain, chafing or pinching. Like a new pair of walking boots, we say a new saddle might need a bit of breaking in – but in practice, it’s our bottoms that need a little bit of breaking in, so don’t give up after the first ride or two.
Touring cyclists in the saddle for several days know all about saddle comfort! So some of the best advice comes via Cycling UK, previously CTC, the Cyclists Touring Club, and parent of Havant-based Portsmouth CTC. Some of this advice is aimed to help women – but men, don’t be put off – many saddle problems are the same.
Different types of cyclists have different needs. Sporting cyclists will look more towards light weight and low air resistance, whereas day to day, commuting or leisure cyclists might prioritise comfort and practicality. You don’t need to spend a huge amount, but if a badly fitting saddle spoils your riding, it’s not good value. We’ve tried £10 saddles which seem good on Amazon reviews, but never yet found anything as good or long lasting as more reputable makes like Selle Italia, or even at the lower end, Madison.
More great saddle advice and reviews:
So, saddle up and ride in comfort!
This video explains how to inflate tyres fitted with the two common types of valve:
Continue reading “How to inflate your tyres”
Punctures are easy to fix, once you know how, so you can save money, and won’t be left stranded if you get one on a journey.
And clicking here might avoid getting one in the first place.
Continue reading “How to repair a puncture”
There’s no good time to get a puncture. At best it’s an inconvenience, at worst a puncture can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere. Unfortunately we are subject to a variety of puncture hazards on the Island and immediate surrounds; notably thorns and flint chippings.
Continue reading “Avoiding a puncture”
Cleaning your bike will help to keep it running smoothly. It will be easier to pedal and change gear, and your brakes will be more effective.
If you use your bike for short trips in the dry, you won’t need to clean it often at all. The more you ride, the more frequently you’ll need to clean it.
Continue reading “How to clean your bike”
It’s worth looking after your chain because:
Continue reading “How to look after your chain”
You’ll need to remove your bike’s wheels to fix a puncture or to clean your bike throughly.
Continue reading “How to remove your bike’s wheels”