Maybe when you were six years old, your parents tried to teach you once, but you bumped into a tree and refused to go on a bike again. Or maybe someone has never tried to teach you or you never want to learn.
But now, several weeks into the epidemic, things have become boring. Your partner, your friends, your neighbors or your kids are pulling their bikes and going around the neighborhood on grand adventures, moving alone with their feet and taking you, and you’ve decided to learn: Is how to ride a bike.
I had never rode a bike since I was a teenager. But it is – as they say! – There is nothing in this world Like … riding a bicycle.
Not that it is easy to learn, per se, but once you learn to ride a bike, you will never forget.
And after so much time we spent sitting in the house we make sure when we need to go out we go on the bicycle to roam some time around the block and for short drive to the grocery store, it feels like complete freedom.
So if you are ready to learn, now is the time. you can do this!
First of all, you need a bike
You can borrow one to start, but it should be a good size for you. You should be able to swing your leg on the bike, sit on the seat and comfortably keep your feet straight and both feet flat (or nearly flat) on the ground
If you are on your toes, it will be harder to practice your balance; If the bike is too small, then you have a hard time. Adjust the seat up or down to get a comfortable height.
Try the shit creek method
“It’s one foot on the pedal and one foot on the ground, and then get the hell out of here!”
I’m kidding, I don’t really recommend it. I am watching this show right now and am liking this scene and have to share it. (“Paddles take it further!”)
Ok anyway …
Start from the shore
Find wide open, flat, paved surfaces such as low traffic side streets, paths or parking lots. With your feet on the ground, ignore the paddle completely and start walking / walking the bike by pushing with your feet. As you gain a bit of speed, lift your legs up a little to feel to balance with your upper body.
Try to insist on stopping with the skidding-your-feet-on-the-ground method; Instead, practice stopping using the handle brake. You are building an instinct to apply brakes with your hands, which will be important once you move a little faster.
Put one foot on the pedal
Once you feel comfortable coasting and balancing with both feet, rest one foot on the paddle and push / coast with the other as you are riding a scooter. This will help you make the transition from gaining speed along the ground to gaining speed through the paddle. Coast in this way until you feel that your speed and balance are comfortable enough to pull the other leg up and start pedaling.
Visuals always help in this way, so watch this video of a very lovely person teaching his friend how to bike:
I remember when my father-in-law was teaching my son how to ride his bike, he gave the best advice: “Paddle, paddle!” When you’re first starting out (you’re panicking!), It can feel counterproductive to paddle quickly, but pedaling is what gives you momentum and speed is what you need to be balanced. Is – so keep those legs moving.
And finally, make sure you wear a helmet, but are not too afraid of falling – there is a good chance you won’t fall at all, but still if you do, the worst possibility is that you might get a little hurt. Or to show for your efforts.