Start Cycling: The 4 Essential Cycling Essentials to Get You Going

Start Cycling: The 4 Essential Cycling Essentials to Get You Going

The joy when they cross the finish line. The way they make it look easy, fast and exciting. If you're anything like us, you've been totally inspired by the Tour de France cycling race guys to grab your bike and hit the road. While you might not tackle 2,200 miles - that's 2,263 miles of flat and mountainous terrain - you can head to nearby bike trails, hit the road, take a spin class, or even sign up for local bike races and rides. Check out our top cycling tips and ride like a Tour de France pro cyclist.

1. Find the right bike for you

Bike shops don't have to be intimidating; Just take these strategies with you. We consulted the pros to find out what you need to know to get your perfect bike no matter how you plan to use it—commuting, racing, or climbing the hills—even if your last bike had tassels and a basket.

2. Switching 101

Maybe you never learned how to shift gears properly, or maybe you need a refresher from your days of after-school bike races. Check out these simple rules that will make cycling easier and get you tackling hills like a Tour de France pro cyclist.

3. How to repair an apartment

She may not be racing the Tour de France any time soon, but Giants pro mountain bike racer Kelli Emmett knows a thing or two about fixing a flat on the road. Watch as she shows you how to fix a puncture - and never have to call a buddy to pick you up after a flat tire again!

4. Indoor cycling plan

Even if the Tour de France isn't in the cards, you can still reap the rewards of a challenging ride. Get a sexier, leaner body in the gym or at home with this indoor cycling plan created by Gregg Cook, a cycling instructor at Equinox Fitness in New York City. It burns up to 500 calories per session.

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