How to introduce a friend to cycling
We all know that riding a bike is one of life’s greatest things. And when you find something that makes you feel that happy and energised, you want to share it with everyone!
Yet, when you share your two-wheeled adventure stories with friends, you can tell that the passion you feel is not being felt the same way by them. Some feel biking is something they did when they were a kid, others think they are far too unfit to even give it a try.
But don’t give in. Cycling is a wonderful thing simply because absolutely anyone can – and should – enjoy it!
Getting a friend to throw a leg over a bike is easier said than done however, and can take a lot of gentle but positive encouragement on your part.
Don’t force them to come on a ride with you
If you want your friend to come out on a bike ride but they’re unsure, don’t pressure them. It can be hard to remember sometimes, but there are people out there who just don’t feel that keen to ride a bike!
Instead, just extend them an invite whenever you’re going on a ride suitable for a beginner.
Reassure them
The biggest factor to put a newbie off joining you on a bike ride is their fear that they will make it less fun for you.
Worries of “I’m too unfit” “I haven’t been on a bike in years” “I won’t know what to do” creep in and deter many from giving cycling a go.
So reassure your friend that you’re quite happy to go at a leisurely pace, and it doesn’t matter how long or short the ride ends up being. Any time on the bike is a good time!
Make sure they’ve got the right gear on
If your friend is a complete newbie to cycling, chances are they won’t have a range of baselayers, gloves and helmets, and they won’t have the faintest idea what you would do with chamois.
So if you’re planning to get your friend in the saddle, advise them what to wear, what to bring, and lend them useful and beneficial items.
Basically, tell them everything you wish you had known on your first ride!
After riding
Every great ride ends with a great reward, whether it’s a nice coffee and cake or a bit of pub grub!
Introducing your friend to post-ride treats is a sure way to end the ride on a high and make them feel positive about coming again!
