4 MINUTES
27 MAY 2025
BEGINNER
Have you noticed cyclists zooming past on your commute to work or on your Saturday drive and thought, I’d love to try a bit of that? Whatever gets you going – getting fit, being out in the fresh air, or simply swapping traffic snarls for a healthier commute – cycling is a great option. But as with most newbies, you might be thinking:
“Where do I begin?”
TABLE OF CONTENTS
This guide will take you through the basics—what you’ll need, how to get started, and a few key pointers to make sure you have a comfortable and smooth cycling experience. We’ll also cover a couple of safety fundamentals, especially when cycling on South African roads.
Step 1: Select The Right Bike
WHY START CYCLING?
Cycling is joint-friendly, low-impact, and wonderful for both body and mind. You can make it as easy or as difficult as you like—whether riding around the neighbourhood, commuting to work, or training for a longer journey.
Not all bikes are created equal. The best for you will depend on your goals:
- Mountain Bikes: Designed for off-road trails and gravel roads.
- Road Bikes: Designed for speed on paved roads and long distances.
- Hybrid Bikes: A mixture of road and mountain bikes—perfect for beginners and everyday commuting.
- Electric Bikes: Provide pedal assist—ideal for longer routes or hilly terrain.
Wherever possible, test ride a few bikes before buying. Comfort is critical.
You don’t have to buy top-quality equipment to begin, but a couple of basics will go a long way:
Wherever possible, test ride a few bikes before buying. Comfort is critical.
Helmet: Most critical piece. Wear it always.
Reflective Vest or Clothes: Adds visibility, particularly at night.
Front and Rear Lights: Required when cycling in the dark or bad weather.
Padded Shorts: Comforts your backside on longer rides considerably.
Water Bottle and Cage: Necessity for staying hydrated on hot days or long rides.
Eyewear: Protects your eyes from insects, wind, rocks, rain, and glare.
Mudguards: Excellent if you’re commuting—keeps splashes off your clothes.
Cycling Shoes: If your bike uses clip pedals, you’ll need cycling shoes for comfort and control.
Cycling has its own little set of annoyances—like punctures. With preparedness, you’ll save yourself a headache:
Take one or two spare inner tubes.
Keep a portable pump, tyre levers, and Allen key handy.
Learn to replace an inner tube—it’s easier than you might think and could bail you out of a bad position.
And keep your tyres properly inflated. It not only makes pedalling smoother, but it also reduces the likelihood of being punctured.
You don’t have to be a specialist on day one. Begin gradually and keep it manageable:
Begin with short excursions—between 15 and 30 minutes.
Work with time, not distance.
Ride several times weekly to develop routine.
Pay attention to your body and rest accordingly.
And don’t forget to fuel yourself! Bring some water, energy bars, bananas, treats, or even a slice of cake for longer rides. Being charged makes the ride that much more enjoyable.
STEP 5: BEGINNER CYCLING TIPS
There are a few things that aren’t necessarily obvious to beginners. Here are a few helpful tips:
Use clip pedals? Practice unclipping early on, and unclip the same foot first every time—it’s a habit you’ll get into eventually.
Cornering? Put your outside pedal down and push—improved grip and steering.
Commuting to work? Mudguards will be your new best friend.
Doing long distances? Stay hydrated and bring snacks with you so you stay energized.
There are some basic rules to follow in South Africa:
Ride in a straight line, especially in traffic.
Be on the left-hand side of the road and travel in the same direction as traffic.
Obey all traffic signs and signals—cyclists are road users.
Signal with your hands for turning and slowing down or stopping.
Do not cycle on pavements unless there is a cycle path.
Use lights at dawn, dusk, or in poor visibility.
Wearing a helmet is strongly advised and legally required in some areas.
Safety should always come first—know the rules, be visible, and stay alert.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Starting anything new can feel overwhelming, but cycling doesn’t have to be. With a little preparation and the right mind-set, you’ll soon discover the joy and freedom of life on two wheels.
Whether you’re riding for fun, fitness, or transport, remember: every cyclist was once a beginner
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