Tips for a newbie cyclist?

[Beej]

I use prolink. I relube about once a week or every 100 miles. I am anal about my chain though. I clean the chain real good with brake cleaner on a rag, let it dry then apply lube, spin it in and wipe off the excess. You are going to get some black gunky stuff, but shouldn't be too bad. Don't expect it to stay clean for long.

[black2002ls]

What are you guys using for chain lube? They recommended some finish line and some stuff in a blue bottle. Though I can't remember which they recommended for what. I have been using the finish line. Two weeks ago I cleaned the chain and gears, applied the finish line, spun the chain about 10 times and wiped the chain down. It was gunked up in no time. My dad used to use chain wax, but we can't find it anymore (paste)

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[black2002ls]

Another 8.5 miles tonight, averaging 13.8. I need to work on maintaining a specific speed speed. I fried my legs in the first half, maintaining 17 mph. Then They started burning. I have got to learn to set a target average and maintain that average

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[black2002ls]

I am sure more stuff will pop up. However, I want to thank everyone who has stepped in and offered insight and tips for us new guys!

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[no4njnk]

If you think bike shorts are bad, try being seen in public wearing tri shorts. Like they said you get used to wearing them and not even think about it. And get shorts with more of a matte material, shiny reflects more so things can be a lot more visible.

Play with nutrition, everyone is different. I never have solids on the bike and have gone 6 hours then run afterwards. First Endurance EFS and Salt Sticks are the best for me. My wife easy Stinger Waffles and Clif bars.

85+ cadence is ideal for burning calories, try to keep your heart rate above 130bpm.

And the biggest thing is consistency, go up a little each week and before you know it you will be doing century rides.

[black2002ls]

Got a chance to ride with my dad today. He is getting back in shape so we rode 8 miles. It was a good learning experience for me. I am bad about tearing down the road looking for speed only to burn out, go at it again, etc and my legs are fried 7-8 miles in.
We pushed along averaging 13.6 maintaining a fairly steady pace 12-16 mph. I could have gone another 8 or more riding like that. It definitely helped boost my confidence to make the 31 mile ride next month!

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[Beej]

True. Though it makes me feel awkward knowing any time I am off the bike walking around it looks like I have a huge moose knuckle!

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You will forget about that after awhile. I go to the store after a ride or go wherever, I don't really care what anyone thinks.

[black2002ls]

Who cares what it looks like, what matters is how it works.

True. Though it makes me feel awkward knowing any time I am off the bike walking around it looks like I have a huge moose knuckle!

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[samuel642000]

I weigh 125. According to Strava I only burn 141 calories in a half an hour ride averaging 14 mph and a cadence of 85-90.

I would think only riding 30 min you wont need to carry any snacks, just fluids!

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I'm about 100 lbs heavier fat boy gotta eat.

[Beej]

I have been entertaining this. I just haven't been able to talk myself into the $$$ they cost!

I have heard nothing but great things about aerotech, and the pair I have are great. My only complaint is the chamois shape. It has several different zones or sections. Two of which go from the but pad to the front. Where they end at the front of the shorts, it looks like a friggin camel toe.

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Who cares what it looks like, what matters is how it works.

[black2002ls]

I use Sugoi and Castelli. When it comes to shorts and bibs more expensive is better. I would skip over buying shorts and go strait to bibs. You will thank me. Much more comfortable.

I have been entertaining this. I just haven't been able to talk myself into the $$$ they cost!

I have heard nothing but great things about aerotech, and the pair I have are great. My only complaint is the chamois shape. It has several different zones or sections. Two of which go from the but pad to the front. Where they end at the front of the shorts, it looks like a friggin camel toe.

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[Beej]

I use Sugoi and Castelli. When it comes to shorts and bibs more expensive is better. I would skip over buying shorts and go strait to bibs. You will thank me. Much more comfortable.

[Vertnut]

What brand shorts do you guys wear? I have a pair of aerotech's with the 10mm chamois. The shape of the chamois causes some unsightly "printing" in the front..I need to pick up a few more pair, otherwise these aren't going to last very long with daily washing

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Pearl Izumi is one of my favs. A little more expensive, but worth it.

[black2002ls]

What brand shorts do you guys wear? I have a pair of aerotech's with the 10mm chamois. The shape of the chamois causes some unsightly "printing" in the front..I need to pick up a few more pair, otherwise these aren't going to last very long with daily washing

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[Vertnut]

Anything less than an hour, I wouldn't worry solid food. What you eat a couple of hours beforehand is a lot more important.