Ten Things Every Cyclist Should Know

1. Know your A,B,C's: "A" check air in the tire, "B" check brakes, and "C" check the chain to be clear of debris and working properly. Takes less than one minute to all three!
2. Wear your helmet. 75% of all bike fatalities resulted from head injuries. Prices range from mid $20's to $80 for a safety certified helmet. Seriously, wear a helmet. I have read so many stories about cyclists who have died just because they refuse to wear helmets.
3. Do not wear baggy pants.  If you are going to wear long pants when riding, make sure they are tight like leggings.  Don't embarrass yourself: getting your pants leg caught in the chain may take you down to the pavement. It's happened to me!
4. Shade your eyes.  Protective eye gear is a good habit for all types of bike riding. Although I don't recommend biking at night (as I find it is dangerous for riders) eye gear can not only protect you from the sun, but it can also shield you from flying critters. I'm serious!
5. Better mechanics with stable feet.  Toe clips and toe cages help prevent knee injury and pain.  They help you to utilize the weaker hamstring muscles during your ride which makes for more efficiency and better joint mechanics.
6. Glove up.  Wearing cycling gloves feels good on your hands but more importantly may take some of the stress off of your neck by alleviating a full flexed wrist while you ride.  For longer rides, you may want to invest in riding bars to ease the strain on your head and neck.
7. Hydrate.  Although you may not feel the sweat of a ride, you still need to replace moisture in your system even after as little as a 20 minute bike ride. Carry water with you by adding a water bottle rack to your bike.
8. Pull it in.  While riding upright or leaning forward, be conscious of those abs and draw them into the spine.  Try for an extended spine and relaxed neck while you ride.
9. Flat feet. Try wearing a stiffer soled shoe when you ride or technical riding shoes.  Keeping the foot flat helps work the entire lower leg muscles and prevent shin splints.
10. Embrace Technology. Bicycles have become extremely diversified during the past few decades. Each bike style has special accommodations tailored to its rider. Find a bike that fits you.