Cycling Basics

Gear Checklist

Before you hit the road or trail, make sure you have the right gear to keep you safe and comfortable:

Bicycle – A well-fitted bike (road, hybrid, or mountain, depending on terrain and purpose).
Helmet – Certified and properly fitted. Helmets should sit level on your head and cover your forehead.
Lights & Reflectors – White front light, red rear light, and reflectors on wheels and pedals.
Bell or Horn – Useful for alerting pedestrians and other cyclists.
Water Bottle & Cage – Stay hydrated, before, during, and after a ride, especially in warm weather.
Light Snacks -Energy bars, gels, or fruit can help maintain energy on longer rides.
Lock – A sturdy U-lock or chain lock to secure your bike on campus or in town.
Comfort Items – Gloves, sunglasses, padded shorts, weather-appropriate layers, and chamois cream to reduce friction, and chapstick with SPF to protect your lips from sun and wind.
Repair Kit – Spare tube, tire levers, pump or CO₂ inflator, and a small multi-tool.
Navigation Tools – A phone mount, cycling computer, or map if you’re exploring new routes.

Pro Tip: Pack your gear the night before. A quick pre-ride check saves time and ensures you don’t forget anything.

Safety Protocols

Cycling is fun — but safety always comes first. Following these simple guidelines can help keep your ride smooth and incident-free.

Wear your helmet every time you ride.

Be visible with bright clothing and bike lights, especially in low-light conditions.

Follow traffic laws just like a motorist. Stop at red lights and stop signs.

Consider using a rear-view mirror to view oncoming traffic while maintaining safe riding form.

Ride with the flow of traffic, not against it.

Use hand signals to communicate your intentions to drivers and other cyclists.

Maintain a predictable riding line and avoid sudden swerves.

Stay alert — keep both ears open (avoid headphones) and watch for vehicles, pedestrians, and wildlife.

Check your bike before each ride: tires, brakes, chain, and quick releases.

Local Note: In Stephenville, cyclists are expected to obey all traffic laws. Use designated bike lanes and trails when possible.

Maintenance Tips

Keeping your bike in good working condition will make your rides safer and more enjoyable — and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are three key maintenance habits for beginners:

The ABC Quick Check

A — Air: Check tire pressure before every ride.

B — Brakes: Ensure pads are not worn down and the levers engage smoothly. If your bike has disc brakes, check that the rotors are clean and free of rubbing or squeaking.

C — Chain: Keep the chain clean and lubricated for smooth shifting.

Quick — Quick Releases

Make sure wheels are securely fastened.

Regular Cleaning

Wipe down your bike frame and drivetrain weekly to prevent rust and wear.

Tune-Ups

Even if you maintain your bike regularly, it’s a good idea to bring it to a local shop at least once a semester for a full safety check and adjustment.

Pro Tip: Learn basic tire changes and chain repairs. A quick roadside fix can save your ride.

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