Spirit of Survival 2021’s virtual bike race is perfect for first-time cyclists! Much like the virtual run, you get to decide your limits and even choose if you’d like to ride with friends or go solo. Even with all that freedom, it’s still normal to feel nervous about your first SOS bike ride. However, there are many steps you can take to ensure the success of your experience. With proper training, familiarizing yourself with your route, and proper planning, we hope you love it and join us for years to come! Here are a few of our best tips for new cyclists:
Know the course
Spirit of Survival 2021 is virtual of course, and a virtual bike race is very similar to a virtual run. You pick the course, pace, time, etc., but it’s still important to familiarize yourself with the course you choose before race day. It’s hard to cycle freely in neighborhoods, so you may decide a stretch of road or part of a hiking trail are your best places to race. Practice riding sections if not all of the route you plan to travel beforehand. Checking out the course will help you determine how prepared you need to be for hills and any areas that require you to be more cautious.
Inspect your bike
Thoroughly check your bike before each ride. Nothing is a bigger buzzkill during a ride than not being able to continue due to a bike malfunction. Clean and lubricate the drivetrain and chain often. Ensure that nothing seems loose and test your breaks. Check the air pressure in your tires and look for any signs of wear that could lead to a flat during your ride.
Be used to group riding
Riding alone versus riding in a group are two different experiences, and it’s entirely up to you which method you prefer. Since SOS is not a timed biking event, this is a great first ride to participate in. However, it is still a good idea to get used to riding with other riders. You’re often at a close distance and at high speeds if you plan to race with friends or family. Make sure you and others in your group are safe!
Your goal
Relax and enjoy prepping for the big day! We hope by choosing SOS (a non-timed ride) you are able to watch and learn about the cycling event experience. We hope this spurs on a desire to participate in other cycling events, especially ones for a cause like Spirit of Survival!
Disclaimer
The Spirit of Survival website does not provide specific fitness advice for individual cases. Spirit of Survival does not endorse any services or products obtained through information provided on this site, articles on the site or any links on this site.
Use of the information obtained by the Spirit of Survival website does not replace medical advice given by a qualified medical provider to meet the medical needs of our readers or others.
While our content is current when published, information changes quickly. Information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies or typographical errors. For questions or concerns, please contact us at racedirector@spiritofsurvival.com.
