Spring is Here: Tips for Getting Back on the Bike After Winter

Ah, spring: new life, new beginnings, and (if late for Boston) better weather! If you’re like us, you’re probably itching to get back outside on two wheels.

That said, we know that it’s hard sometimes to get back on the bike after the long winter, so we’ve compiles a few tips to help you get back in the swing of riding.

Tip #1: Check Your Equipment

It’s always a good idea to make sure your bike, helmet, lights, and other equipment are in good working order for spring. A spring tune up is never a bad idea, but even a basic check-up at home (when I pull on the brakes, does the wheel stop? Is the saddle loose? Is there rust on the chain/cassette?) is always a safe bet.

Tip #2: Start Slow, Don’t Be Afraid to Be Multi-Modal

Especially when it comes to getting back on a bicycle after a significant break, your bike may not feel quite like what it used to at the end of last summer. We recommend starting slow with shorter rides and then building back up to longer days in the saddle once your body’s used to riding again.

And don’t be afraid to be multi-modal! Adding in a train ride to a bike trip is never a bad idea — plus it may very well be just the out-of-city experience you’ve been needing after a long, bomb-cyclone filled winter.

Tip #3: Be Prepared!

Although we’re happy to report that we did, in fact, see the sun this week, you can’t forget the old saying, “April Showers Bring May Flowers,” and with the cold April we’ve had, you can expect we’ll still get a fair amount of rain in May! So in addition to always riding with a spare tube, tire levers, patch kit, multi-tool, and pump/CO2 cartridges (or one of our super-handy Survival Kegs), it’s a good idea to keep a rain coat handy, and maybe even fit some fenders on your bike!

If you have any questions about getting your bike and your self ready for spring, feel free to swing by the shop, M-Sa 9-8, and 9-5 on Sunday. We’d be more than happy to get you ready to roll.

Happy riding!