Last weekend, I rode my bike to the pet store and the Google maps directions had me ride 3 miles on a nearby state trail that I did not know existed. I looked up the state trail and it turns out it is 18 miles long.
So, now I want to ride the full length and back. It’s a beautiful, quiet trail and in a month, it should be green and full of nature.
I just bought a bike a week or so ago, and have been going on 5-ish mile bike rides often. Also, I take indoor cycling classes twice a week.
I have an 8 speed bike cruiser. I’m thinking perhaps I’ll do 10 miles next weekend, then maybe 15 to 20 miles the weekend after. If that goes well, I’ll try the full 36 miles.
My question is, is this realistic? I’ve never ridden 36 miles on my bike before. I don’t know if this is something I need to train for, or if I can just get up and go. So far, I’ve been a bike commuter but have not yet done any long rides like this.
by NerdyAdventurousLife
4 Comments
Take snacks, fluids, and breaks. You’ve got this.
It’s totally doable. I think you have a good strategy to build up to it. and know there is no shame in taking breaks and resting. If you ride enough some of these long rides you do now wont even feel like anything. Good luck!
Yes, it’s pretty surprising how quickly a body can adjust to this sort of steady exercise. Just some suggestions as you do this:
– Check with your doctor to see if you are healthy enough for this type of activity if you have any doubt about that, and check your physical fit on the bike, making sure you are comfortable in your seating position, and leg extension.
– Do an all-round bike check before you head out. check for anything loose, make sure your chain is lubricated, check your tire pressure, etc.
– Make sure you are dressed appropriately, and can add/remove layers as needed. If it’s going to warm up (or you will warm up as you go) have a place to stow a layer, or if it’s going to cool down, the same but start out not wearing.
– Take water, and snacks, or know where you can stop for them. Hydration, and fueling are both needed, and it can make for a really miserable time if you find yourself way out and bonking due to dehydration or lack of energy.
– Tell someone where you’ll be. Consider it like a flight plan. Just in case, somebody should know when you plan to leave, and when you’ll be getting back, and to raise an alarm in case you don’t make it back reasonably close to your return. If you’ll be in cell service the whole time, great, but cellphone break or run out of charge. Have a plan.
– Beside that, when starting out, don’t overdo it. Listen to your body, push for goals but try not to make yourself miserable reaching for them. Make a little progress over time, and you’ll make it. Get there when you can, and enjoy the ride.
I wish I had something like that near me. Go for it. Looks great.