Staying active and healthy is essential, and biking is a great way to do just that. To help the community get started with biking or enhance their riding experience, we sat down with Brad, the owner of Ray’s Bike Shop in Bay City, Michigan. Brad shared his insights on how to get into biking, tips for avoiding injuries, and the importance of bike fittings. Here’s a breakdown of the valuable information we gathered.
Getting Started: Where to Begin with Biking
- If you're new to biking or interested in starting, Brad’s first piece of advice is to visit your local bike shop. Local shops, like Ray’s, are filled with knowledgeable staff who are passionate about biking and eager to help newcomers. When visiting, it's essential to think about where and how you plan to ride. Knowing the terrain and your intended use will help the staff guide you toward the right bike that suits your needs.
Common Biking Problems and How to Address Them
One of the most common issues new bikers face is saddle soreness. Brad mentions that almost every cyclist experiences some discomfort when they first start riding or after taking a break, such as during the off-season. It’s normal to need a few weeks to adjust, but there are ways to make the process more comfortable:
- Chamois Shorts: These padded shorts, often made from spandex, provide extra cushioning where it's needed most. If you’re not a fan of the tight-fitting look, they can be worn under your normal gear for added comfort.
- Choosing the Right Saddle: Stock saddles that come with bikes may not be the best fit for everyone. Ray’s Bike Shop offers saddles with comfort guarantees, allowing you to test them for up to three months to ensure you find the right fit. Adjusting to the perfect saddle can significantly reduce pain and enhance your biking experience.
The Importance of a Bike Fitting
- A proper bike fitting is crucial for comfort, efficiency, and injury prevention, especially as your rides get longer. Brad recommends considering a fitting once your rides extend beyond an hour. Bike fittings involve a detailed analysis of your body’s angles, joint movements, flexibility, and even leg length discrepancies.
- This personalized approach can dramatically improve your riding experience, making it more comfortable and enjoyable, while also preventing common pains from improper positioning.
Addressing Common Pains While Biking: Neck, Back, Hip, and Knee Pain
Bikers often struggle with pain in various parts of their bodies. Brad shares some key adjustments to address these common issues:
- Neck Pain: Often caused by an improper back angle, adjusting the stem—the piece connecting the handlebars to the front wheel—can make a big difference. A higher stem angle promotes a more upright riding position, relieving neck and shoulder strain.
- Back Pain: Similar to neck pain, an overly aggressive riding posture can contribute to discomfort. Raising the handlebars can help you achieve a more comfortable and relaxed back position.
- Hip and Knee Pain: Saddle height and position play a significant role here. Many riders don’t realize that the saddle can be adjusted both up and down, as well as forward and backward. Small changes in positioning can make a big difference in aligning your hips, knees, and feet, preventing pain and ensuring a smooth ride.
Tips for The Best Biking Experience in the Tri-Cities
Brad emphasizes safety as the top priority for bikers, especially those just starting:
- Learn the Rules of the Road: Cyclists should ride with traffic on the right side of the road, use hand signals, and follow all traffic laws. Understanding and following these rules can prevent accidents.
- Be Visible: Wearing bright colors, using lights, and always wearing a helmet can increase your visibility to motorists and keep you safe on the road.
- Patience with Progress: Biking is not something you’ll master overnight. It takes time to build endurance and comfort on the bike. Start slow and allow your body to adjust to the new activity.
Community Involvement and Events
- Ray’s Bike Shop is deeply involved in the local biking community, especially in the off-season. Brad shared that the shop offers repair clinics, teaching essential skills like fixing flat tires and handling emergency repairs. They also host group rides, including mountain biking and fat biking, and participate in various local races.
If you’re looking to get involved, reach out to Ray’s Bike Shop for information on events, rides, and clinics happening in the area.
Whether you're looking for a new bike, need tips on fitting and comfort, or want to join the local biking community, Ray’s Bike Shop has you covered. And if you’re dealing with any pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to Lake Effect Chiropractic to keep you feeling great and active on your bike. Stay safe, ride smart, and enjoy the many benefits of biking in the Tri-Cities!
Catch the full interview below!
