Cycling is more enjoyable when you feel confident on your bike, understand the basics of handling and maintenance, and know where to ride safely. This guide is designed to help new and intermediate cyclists build a strong foundation and explore Stephenville’s most popular routes. 

Bike Selection: Choosing the Right Ride for Stephenville 

The terrain in Stephenville is mostly flat to gently rolling, with access to paved city streets, dedicated park trails, and gravel backroads. Choosing the right bike depends on your goals and the types of rides you want to do.

• Road Bikes - Lightweight with narrow tires and drop handlebars, road bikes are ideal for paved roads and longer rides. They’re great for commuting, fitness riding, group rides, and endurance training on open roads. Best for: Campus commuting, City Park loop, Bosque River Trail, rural highway routes. 

• Hybrid Bikes - A comfortable blend of road and mountain bike features. These are perfect for casual riders, daily commuting, and recreational rides. Best for: Campus loops, paved trails, and short to medium-distance rides. 

• Gravel Bikes – Designed for mixed surfaces (pavement, gravel, light trails). They offer stability, wider tires, and endurance geometry. Best for: Rural gravel roads, 20–100-mile loops around the County, and training rides.

Tip: If you're unsure which bike to choose, start with a hybrid. It’s the most versatile option for new riders in Stephenville. 

Proper Fit: Seat Height & Posture Adjustments 

A correctly fitted bike improves efficiency, prevents injury, and makes riding more comfortable. 

• Seat Height: 

• When seated with your heel on the pedal at its lowest point, your leg should be almost fully extended without locking the knee. 

• Adjust the seat post accordingly and ensure it is securely tightened. 

• Handlebar Position: 

• Your arms should be slightly bent and your shoulders relaxed. 

• Avoid leaning too far forward or sitting too upright - aim for a balanced posture. 

• Posture: 

• Keep your core engaged and wrists straight. 

• Adjust as needed to reduce pressure on your back, wrists, or neck.

Tip: Most local bike shops or campus bike stations can help you adjust fit for free or at a low cost. 

Gears & Braking: Shifting and Stopping Safely 

Understanding your gears and brakes builds confidence and control. 

• Gears: 

• Shift to lower gears when climbing hills or starting from a stop. 

• Use higher gears on flat or downhill sections for speed and efficiency. 

• Anticipate changes - shift before steep inclines to maintain momentum. 

• Avoid cross-chaining (big chainring with big cog, or small with small) to reduce wear. 

• Braking: 

• Use both brakes together for smooth stopping. 

• Front brake for power, rear brake for control. 

• Keep your weight centered and gradually squeeze - avoid sudden stops that can cause skidding or flipping forward.

Tip: Practice braking and shifting in a low-traffic area or campus loop before longer rides. 

Road Etiquette: Sharing Roads & Trails 

• Ride with the flow of traffic on the right-hand side of the road. 

• Obey all traffic laws - stop at stop signs and red lights. 

• Signal turns and stops with clear hand signals. 

• Be predictable - ride in a straight line and avoid sudden movements. 

• Make yourself visible - use front and rear lights, wear bright clothing, and reflectors at night. 

• Yield to pedestrians on shared paths and trails. 

• Be courteous - say “on your left” or ring your bell when passing. 

Stephenville city ordinance requires cyclists to follow vehicle traffic laws. Be aware of intersections, turning vehicles, and driveways.