Warmer weather tips

As the temperature rises we get more enthusiastic about riding longer distances. A few things to keep in mind as you head out to enjoy the Spring/Summer cycling: Water- It is imperative that you carry or have access to at least one liter/quart of water for every 10 miles you will be riding. It is also very important to ensure you hydrate BEFORE you need replenishment. In other words-start drinking in the first 15 minutes of the ride and keep it coming. You can always stop and relieve water but it's almost impossible to catch up if you become dehydrated on a ride. improper hydration can cause dizziness and cause you to "bonk" as we used to call it in the triathlon circles. If it gets really bad they have to put an IV in to rehydrate serious cases so drink often and early. Sunblock- Even if your helmet (you are wearing a helmet. right?) has a visor you get reflected sun from the road and surroundings so be sure to put on sun protection before you hit the road. I'm not sure how much SPF is needed but high numbers (greater than 30) are better. Don't forget the back of your neck as well. Long sleeves are a good option as you can always take a layer off and tie it around you. Better safe than fried. Skin Cancer is no fun! Telephone- Today's mobile phones are sturdy enough to survive in your pocket and if you get stuck and can't call someone - you will feel stupid. Don't take a chance. Take your phone but don't spend the ride trying to talk to everyone. It's more dangerous than driving while talking on the phone- and it's probably illegal. You have to be able to hear the traffic and/or other cyclists to be safe so keep the phone where you can get to it, after you stop. Finally- carry a road kit: most bike shops and help you assemble a kit of tools and a spare tube so you can fix a flat rather than walk to a shop or have someone come and get you in a car. A small bag under your saddle can usually hold all you need i.e. a spare tube, tire levers. inflation device (CO2 works great) an axle wrench if you don't have quick-release hubs. Even if you don't know how to use these items, most cyclists will stop and assist if they see your predicament. I broke the rules during IRONMAN and gave away one of my spare tubes to a woman in need. She beat me by 20 minutes but did offer to pay for the tube when we got back to the mainland. The point is a lot of cyclists will stop supply the know-how to get you back on the road if needed. When in doubt. stop by your local bike shop and pay them for a lesson in fixing a flat. It's empowering! Enjoy the Summer!