Summer is finally here! The days when the sun is out, the breeze is refreshing, and the roads are clear make summer the perfect season to just be outside and ride your bike.
This summer, take advantage of the opportunity to explore the great outdoors and enjoy riding your bike around as efficiently as possible. Amidst the bright sunshine, however, you should be prepared for the challenges brought by the summer heat.
Beat the heat of the summer and gear up to revel in the adventure of summer cycling with these tips:
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Dress properly for the weather
Most modern cycling and outdoor apparel are made from quality materials that allow your body to cool and protect you from harsh weather conditions. If you are planning to ride this summer, then consider wearing additional clothing such as arm and leg sleeves to give you extra protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Sleeves are also great for tucking away ice to help cool you down too!
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Plan your ride
Before you take your bike outside, know the forecasted weather first and plan your bike ride accordingly. This will help you decide how to dress, how much fluid you should bring, and how long and far you want to ride around.
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Always remember to hydrate
Since the temperature is higher in the summer, make sure to replenish the lost fluid in your body by hydrating properly. Drink more often and bring more water than usual, just in case.
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Wear sunscreen
Being exposed to the sun even under an hour can cause sunburn and other skin-damaging effects. Apply it on your face, arms, and legs. Sunscreens with higher SPF content are better.
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Try early morning rides
Early morning rides during summer are also a good idea. Avoid extreme exposure to sunlight during midday and get up early to bike for a few hours before the sun breaks into the horizon.
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Bring a cooling towel
If you get too hot, use a cooling towel to help reduce your core temperature until you feel refreshed and cool enough to ride again.
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Don’t forget to slow down
Instead of cycling at full speed, ease into your ride and slow your pace accordingly. Also, make sure you give yourself ample time to stop and catch a breath, rest, and hydrate.
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Reload your electrolytes
Aside from water, don’t forget to bring your electrolytes, too. As you sweat and lose water, you should reload your electrolytes.
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Consume proper nutrition
Food such as protein bars and nut butter packets can refuel your lost energy during long and hot bike rides. It's important to refuel so you can power yourself further into your ride and, most importantly, to your final destination.
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Enjoy the ride
One of the greatest things about cycling is it can take you almost anywhere. Summer only comes once a year so don’t miss this chance to go out and see where your bike can lead you.
Are you ready to take on a summer cycling adventure?