Advice on cycling in summer…

So, the sun might not be blazing quite yet (I’m an optimist!) but the temperature is certainly rising. At this time of year there can be nothing better than a ride out – the dry roads and warmer weather mean more of us are spending our spare time in the saddle. But, as the weather gets hotter it’s important to make a few basic preparations so you have a comfortable, trouble-free ride. Whether you’re planning off-road or on-road rides, a few clothing and equipment modifications now can make for a summer of happy cycling.

Kit checklist:

• Hydration – it’s important to drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration will make you tire more easily and more prone to injury. Sodium in your drinks will help your body hold on to the fluid you’re taking in, helping your body stay hydrate despite the rising temperatures. Electrolyte drinks are good for this and you may want to consider adding an extra bottle cage to your bike so you can have one bottle of water and one for your energy drink. Rucksack style hydration packs are also really useful, making it easy to keep drinking while on the move as well as offering the convenience of additional pockets for storing snacks and clothing.

 

• Sun and wind burn – just because it isn’t sunny, it doesn’t meant you won’t get burned. Slap on the sun cream to protect yourself, even if it’s overcast. It’ll help make sure you can get back in the saddle quickly rather than being laid up with sun burn (and the resulting dehydration).
• Layers – although you might not be worried about keeping warm with long sleeves, base layers do still serve a purpose. Not only do they help keep you dry by wicking sweat away from your body but also help in the fight against getting burned. You’ll want to switch from your merino winter base layers to lighter weight, man-made fibre ones though. Layering with short sleeved tops is also a good option with many jerseys having the added benefit of windproof and/or waterproofs panels and pockets across the back – always handy on longer rides!
• Summer rain – if there’s one thing we can rely on with British summers, it’s a sudden downpour! Pack a lightweight waterproof on all your rides so you don’t get caught out – one that folds away into your saddle bag, is breathable and doesn’t make you too warm and, therefore, dehydrated.
• Gilet – these are brilliantly versatile, providing an extra layer of warmth and protection from the wind, especially on early morning rides or on long downhills. Many are waterproof and ideal in a brief shower and, being light weight, summer gilets can be easily screwed up into a ball and stowed in a pocket when the sun comes out again.
• Lightweight jacket – you never know when you’ll want to keep the wind and the rain out and, like gilets, these jackets conveniently pack away when they’re not needed. They provide protection from summer showers and keep chills out but they’re often water resistant, rather than waterproof, so not really up to dealing with a torrential downpour.
• Gloves – they’re not only for keeping your hands warm in winter, they provide important protection from nerve damage, and also stop sweaty palms slipping on the handlebars. Short fingered cycling gloves, known as mitts, are available with varying levels of padding, depending on the terrain you’re going to be covering.
• Helmet – a well designed helmet will actually keep your head cooler than it would be if it was exposed to the sun, not to mention that you still need to be protected if you have an accident. Many lightweight helmets are specially designed to draw air in, keeping your head cool.
• Glasses – they not only protect your eyes from the sun, or at least glare (depending how our summer pans out!) but also from insects, pollen and the wind – which will make for a much more comfortable and safe ride.
• Bike – don’t forget, your bike has just been through the wear and tear of winter. Mud, grit and salt on the roads, not to mention standing water, all take their toll so I’d recommend getting a service before you start upping the miles. It’ll pick up any problems with the wheels, gears, brakes and chainset and make sure it is running smoothly. This is something you can do yourself or alternatively, pop into the shop and book in for a full service by a professional.

If there’s one thing you can rely on with a British summer, it’s that it’s unreliable! The changeability of our weather means that we really do have to be prepared for everything, so make sure you plan ahead and pack the right kit. It will make the difference between enjoying your ride, no matter what the weather throws at you, or simply enduring it.  And it will likely mean you’ll be back out in the saddle again more quickly, ready for your next ride.