Cycling For Dummies

Learn to:* Choose the right bike for you and your lifestyle* Grab the gear you need* Ride in the city, on the road, down the trail and with the kids* Stay safe and follow the rules of the roadYour guide to getting started with cycling!It's a sport. It's a workout. It's a way to get to work. It's cycling, and whatever your reasons for wanting to take it up, this book provides you with everything you need to know to do it right. Whether you have dreams of someday competing in the Tour de France or you just want to pedal down to your local High Street for a few things, this book covers all the bases - from choosing the right bike and riding safely to training for a long-distance ride.* Find your new two-wheeled best mate - whether a road bike, a mountain bike or something in between, discover how to pick the perfect bike for you* Keep your bike and yourself in tip-top condition - find out how to avoid common cycling ailments and get the lowdown on repairing and servicing your bike* Make cycling a part of your life - from pedalling to work to planning a sensible cycling workout programme, find out how to integrate cycling seamlessly into your life* Ride safely - make sure you're seen, heard and safe in traffic and off-road, and discover how to anticipate and avoid common dangers and road hazards* Know the rules of the road - learn your rights and responsibilities as a cyclist* Prepare for road trips - research and plan your routes and additional transportation options, get your bike ready and know what to pack* Get the lowdown on kids-related cycling concerns - discover how to choose and attach a 'kiddie chariot', pick a bike for your child and teach him or her how to rideOpen the book and find:* How to adjust your bike so it fits you to a tee* The best ways to mount, dismount and pedal* Advice on choosing the right bike for you and your lifestyle* Pointers on avoiding road hazards, including traffic and animals* Tips for riding with other people and in groups* Sure-fire methods for teaching kids to ride, quickly and safely* Guidelines on what to eat and drink before, during and after cycling* Ten great rides in the UK