TIPS FOR NEW AND RETURNING CYCLIST

Cycling is on a Recruitment Drive! Hundreds and thousands of novice riders are getting employed into this smart and eco-friendly job role, either for fitness, recreation or transport duty.

For a safe experience, the situation calls for writing down the ‘KRA’s: Key Result Areas’.

This could be in the form of tips for new and returning cyclist which will help them perform better.

A new cyclist is as good as an apprentice. On his first day of the job, the chances of making errors are high. Therefore, in a corporate setting a new employee undergoes an induction program. The training process helps him to become aware of the organization goals as well as prepares him for uncertainty and future challenges.

The up-skilled employee becomes capable to take decisions in macro and micro environment conditions. An employee with strong fundamentals adds value to his department. And gradually, moves up the ladder – from a manager into a leadership position. Purely based on his performance. Knowledgeable and well-informed leaders help the organization to become competitive and grow in the market. Successful companies boost the sector and the Nations economy.

Likewise, someone whose making a new beginning into cycling requires hand holding and guidance. Hence, training in the initial phase will groom the new kid on the block to tackle real time challenges. Not every city is like Antwerp, Copenhagen or Utretch. A cyclist sharing road space with motor-traffic is very common in developing cities. The risk is equally high. Even adults are prone to misjudge or miscalculate a turn that can prove to be fatal.

A well instructed cyclist is more alert and aware of his immediate surroundings. Following the basics, the cyclist can maneuver his way around and meet his purpose of ride. A focused cyclist practices discipline and communicates well with other fellow riders and road users. The Cyclist who demonstrates good behavior lifts the spirit of the street and increases the probability of attracting the potential non-users and get them absorbed into the community. With every new entrant, the tribe grows and thus the community. The greater the number of cyclists on the road, the better it is for the cities air and overall environment. This impacts the quality of life and happiness index of the country.

The New and or Returning Cyclists should follow these tips as they cycle during Covid-19: (In no particular order)

1. Do not wear a mask while cycling, it can affect your breathing. Keep it handy and use when you stop for a chat with someone.
2. Carry a hand sanitizer and water bottle.
3. If you plan to start your ride before sunrise or go for a night ride, wear bright neon clothing.
4. Helmets and Lights are most essential for your safety.
5. Check Tyre pressure and Brakes before starting the ride.
6. Ensure the chain is lubed adequately. Use wet lube in rains and dry lube in other seasons.
7. Sanitize your Bicycle before and after the ride, especially if it’s parked inside your house.
8. Observe physical distancing when you are stopping to take photos.
9. Obey traffic lights and use proper hand signals before Stopping or Turning.
10. Avoid venturing into unknown routes. Keep the contact of your local Bicycle shop handy, it will help in times of technical emergency.
11. Practice in your silent neighborhood before beginning to ride on high streets and main avenues.
12. Do not listen to music while cycling. It reduces your ability to communicate with other road users.
13. Stay Alert! You are responsible for your own-self.
14. Ensure to carry Emergency Tag. E-Tag includes your name, blood group, emergency contact.
15. Always lock your Bicycle in a secured place.

Reader Contributions: (via social media)

1. Store the water bottle inside a bag instead of mounting it on a bottle cage. There are speculations of the virus being aerosol, which can get settled on the bottle cap.
2. If you are cycling in India, ride on the left side of the road.
3. Do not over speed or attempt to compete with other vehicles.
4. Allow pedestrians to move first.
5. Stay away from speed lanes while riding on main roads,. Speeding trucks, buses etc. can put you off-balance.

Tips for New and Returning Cyclist – images:

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Author: Vijay Malhotra, Mumbai