5 tips for enjoying spring cycling

Whether you’re emerging from your Zwift cave or you’ve been a hardy soul venturing out in all weathers over the last few months, you’ll be pleased to know spring is on its way. And with it, longer days, leaping lambs in the fields and the minor possibility of some warmer weather. So to make sure you’re ready for whatever spring can throw at you, here are some of our top tips for riding this season. 

Be prepared for all weather

This is still Britain, where the weather is notoriously unpredictable. One minute it could be blazing 15 degree sunshine, the next, a snowstorm. So be prepared. 

Additionally, it might be chilly when you set off but get warmer throughout the day. This is where leg, knee and arm warmers come into their own. Easily stored in your pocket or bag, they’re great bits of kit to keep you riding comfortably while the temperature sorts itself out. 

Other handy accessories include thinner full finger gloves, and toe covers. You might not need full-on shoe covers anymore, but protecting your toes won’t cause your feet to overheat.

Take some lights

The sun might not be setting at 3pm anymore but it’s still easy to get caught out, particularly if you’re riding outside after work or in the early evening. During the day you don’t need anything particularly bright, 100-200 lumens is more than enough. But if you plan on riding in the evening and the dark, it may be worth investing in some ‘to see’ lights rather than ‘be seen’ ones. 

Recover well and ease into upping the mileage

If you’re a racing cyclist or you’ve got some big events this year, you’re probably amping up the intensity in your training to get ready for the season ahead. If you are, make sure you recover well after your rides. Our Soothing Recovery Gel is great for sore muscles and the anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling after a ride. 

Check your bike over

Winter can be harsh on your bike, with the salted roads and debris accumulating after every ride. Even if you’ve been mainly riding indoors, your bike can still suffer the consequences of salty sweat corroding the metals. Spring is a great time to check the condition of your drivetrain and all your bearings, so you can up the miles without annoying your club mates with a creaky bottom bracket. 

Make sure you’re sitting comfortably

Springtime is a great time to go through your wardrobe and take a proper look at your cycling kit. Throw out any bib shorts that are too see-through to be worn outside, or any that are much less comfortable than they were when you bought them. Like everything, cycling kit wears out, and it’s important you prioritise comfortable, well-fitting shorts or tights to prevent discomfort as you ride. 

Another way to ease discomfort on the bike is by using quality Chamois Cream. Slather it on before you ride for mile after mile of comfortable riding. You can find out more about ours here. 

We hope some of these tips will help you to prepare for riding this spring, and if you need to stock up on some cycling comfort, discover our range here.