50 things for 50 years
I just turned 50 years old – so what better than a list of 50 things I’ve learnt about cycling over the years? Feel free to agree or disagree in the comments – and add anything else you think might be useful for other riders.
1. Trying on bib shorts for the first time is weird – who didn’t look in the mirror and see a WWF wrestler staring back?
2. Tram tracks and road bikes don’t mix
3. Everyone falls over with clip in pedals the first time
4. Higher tyre pressure is not better
5. Getting a bike fit is a brilliant investment
6. Always carry more food than you think you need
7. Always carry money or a credit card
8. Fill up your bottles when you get a chance – there might not be another fountain for a long way
9. Sleeveless cycling jerseys are not cool
10. Getting a regular bike service saves you money in the long run
11. Nothing beats consistent training
12. Wearing gloves really saves your skin when you crash
13. Tubeless tyres are amazing until they aren’t
14. Waxing your chain really is a gamechanger (unless you really like the dirty oil stains)
15. If you find a comfortable saddle, then stick with it
16. A good rain jacket is your best friend
17. Disc brakes are fantastic in very heavy rain and on gravel / mountain bikes
18. Rim brakes are amazing in every other condition (and easy to adjust and maintain)
19. On very hot days jumping fully clothed in an alpine stream or water trough or fountain is one of the best things you can ever do
20. There is no solution to getting sweat on your glasses if you are a sweaty person –
take them off on climbs to reduce the amount of sweat on the lenses
21. Climbing with someone else really does make the time pass quicker – so either wait for your mate, or ride a bit harder to catch them up – don’t dangle 100m in front or behind
22. Anticipate the road ahead and change gear ahead of time – getting caught out in the wrong gear isn’t idea
23. Gravel riding gives you a whole new perspective on cycling and on where you live
24. Flexibility is key to feeling good on the bike – try to practice stretching or yoga on a regular basis
25. Don’t stress about what others can do – focus on getting better compared to yourself, there will always be someone better than you
26. Enjoy each and every ride, there will always be something special you see or experience
27. Finding a great group of riding buddies is invaluable – don’t be afraid to get in touch with local groups. In my experience we’re a really friendly bunch.
28. If you see someone in trouble on the side of the road be sure to check whether they need any help
29. Giving your fellow riders a wave and / or a nod is a nice thing to do
30. Riding shirtless is not cool
31. Don’t hit a long climb too hard – if people are going harder than you want to, just let them go and ride at your own pace, you’ll be thankful later
32. Watching pro cycling in the flesh is great. Free, top-level sport where you can be 1m away from the world’s best athletes. Do it if you can.
33. Riding first thing in the morning before the rest of the world wakes up is a real joy
34. Taking a road you’ve never ridden before can lead to some great adventures – so turn left instead of right once in a while
35. Knowing how to fix the little things on your bike is a good skill to have
36. New bar tape can make an old bike feel brand new
37. Riding in between snow walls on a mountain pass is an experience not to be missed
38. The weather changes quickly in the mountains – I’ve been in sunshine one minute and then under hailstones the next
39. Strength training is a great complement to riding – so try to fit some in as part of your weekly plan
40. Always put sun cream on – even on those overcast days
41. Don’t wear anything under your cycling shorts – unless you love chafing
42. Power meters and heart rate monitors are useful – but don’t be enslaved by them. Lift your head and enjoy the ride.
43. Drafting in a fast group is a wonderful feeling – 45kmh at 100w - yes please!
44. Descending is a skill to be learnt – try following someone who is good and confident, watch their line, ask them for tips.
45. Find a cadence that is comfortable for you – not everyone can spin the pedals at 90+ RPM comfortably.
46. But try not to grind at too low a cadence unless you can’t help it (for example when climbing 12% gradients)
47. Your mind will always give up before your body does – so just keep on pedalling
48. Haribo is life
49. Road rash really stings – try to keep rubber side down
50. A day can always be made better by going for a ride
What I’ve been listening to while writing
A 50 songs for 50 years playlist
I’ve made a Spotify playlist with a tune for every single year, and my only rules were 1) no repeat artists and 2) don’t overthink it. Enjoy.