Road Biking for Beginners: A Guide to Get Started
What’s the best road bike to start with?
Above all, a first road bike should be comfortable. Although quite subjective, comfort on the saddle starts with the type of road bike you chose. For novices, an endurance road bike is a great choice. Its longer wheelbase and slack head tube angle make it stable. It rides much more comfortably than a performance-oriented bike.
As far as components go, gear ratio influences pedal resistance. A compact chainring with between 50 and 34 teeth makes climbing easier. In addition, a tire width between 28 mm and 32 mm is ideal. The air volume of the 32 mm tires enables dampening vibrations, which enhances your comfort on the bike.
Another category of bikes can be a great option for beginners: gravel bikes. Their geometry gives you comfort and stability, and their wider tires allow you to explore gravel bike paths and paved roads.
Does gravel biking appeal to you? Read our article How to Choose a Gravel Bike?.
How much should you expect to spend on a first road bike?
The price of an entry-level to mid-range beginner’s road bike is between $1,800 and $2,000, not including pedals. Depending on your budget, choose a bike with an aluminum or carbon frame. More expensive, carbon is lighter and more responsive, but it’s not essential when you’re starting out.
Bike Fitting
For optimal comfort, bike fitting is crucial. When purchasing a bike, don’t hesitate to have your bike fitted at our workshop. You’ll feel a difference immediately.
How much should I ride when getting started road biking?
The key word here? Progression! Your first road bike rides should be shorter and have a lower elevation gain and slope angle. Choose flatter terrain and distances between 25 and 30 kilometres. Quebec’s various regions are brimming with bike paths to get your legs in shape.
It’s best to approach the first ten minutes or so on the saddle as a warm-up. Pedal at a gentle cadence to ease your way into the ride. The first road bike outings will allow you to find your pace, understand your tolerance threshold and get the hang of energy management.
Where to Get Started Road Biking?
- The Riveraine and Voie Maritime bike paths — South Shore
- Le Petit Train du Nord bike path — Laurentians
- The Route verte — Laval
- The Estriade — Estrie
How to Dress for Road Biking?
Road bike clothes are designed to provide maximum comfort when pedalling and be aerodynamic on fast descents. They should fit snugly with some compression.
Select a basic bike apparel set, including bike shorts with or without suspenders, two cycling jerseys and some socks. You’ll be able to round out your cycling wardrobe over time based on your needs and how often you ride. In addition, a windbreaker or long-sleeved jersey will be your trusty allies for cool, windy days.
To learn all about road bike clothing, check out our article How to Dress for Road Cycling.
What accessories does a beginner cyclist need?
First, keep in mind that road bikes are sold without pedals; they’ll be your first road bike accessory. Clipless pedals are what you need. Bicycle shoes are designed for this type of pedal and will also be on your shopping list.
Some accessories such as two bottle cages, water bottles, a bike helmet, a hand pump, tire levers and an inner tube for flats are essentials.
To learn all about road biking and the gear you need, read our article Road Bike Buying Guide.
How to transport a road bike?
For road bikes, bike racks are ideal. Whether it’s a roof rack or a hitch rack, this equipment makes it easy to transport road bikes without having to remove the front wheel to slide them into your car. However, you can use the latter technique as you’re getting started.
Road biking is definitely a highly accessible sport. You can go at your own pace and just for the fun of riding. You’ll be hooked in no time.
Need some inspiration for a road bike ride? Learn about 5 bike paths to ride in Quebec.
