Cycling: essential equipment and tips for beginners

Cycling: a passion accessible to all

Cycling is much more than just a means of transport: it's a complete activity that combines sport, exploration, and freedom. Whether you want to cycle for leisure, sport, or daily commuting, this guide will help you choose the right equipment and get started on the right foot.

Choosing your bike: the starting point

The different types of bicycles

Mountain biking (all-terrain biking)

Ideal for paths, trails and rough terrain. Robust and versatile.

• For whom: Nature lovers, trail runners, forest path enthusiasts
• Advantages: Suspension, wide tires, disc brakes, very stable
• Disadvantages: Heavier, slower on the road
• Recommended size: 26 inches (versatile) or 24 inches (smaller size)

Our 26 Inch Aluminium Disc Brake Mountain Bike is perfect for starting out in mountain biking with excellent value for money.

Road bike

• For whom: Cyclists seeking speed and performance on asphalt
• Advantages: Lightweight, fast, aerodynamic
• Disadvantages: Fragile, only for paved roads

City/urban bike

• For whom: Daily commutes, shopping, short trips
• Advantages: Comfortable, practical, well-equipped (mudguards, luggage rack)
• Disadvantages: Less sporty, limited to urban travel

Gravel bike / cyclocross

• For whom: Versatility on roads and trails
• Advantages: Very versatile, comfortable, adventurous
• Disadvantages: Compromise between road and mountain biking

Bicycle selection criteria

The size of the frame

Essential for comfort and efficiency. Measure your inseam and consult the manufacturers' size guides.

The material

• Aluminium: Lightweight, affordable, durable (ideal for beginners)
• Steel: Robust, comfortable, heavier
• Carbon: Very light, high-performance, expensive (confirmed)

The brakes

• Disc brakes: Powerful, effective in all weather conditions (recommended)
• Rim brakes: Simple, economical, less effective in the rain

Essential safety equipment

The helmet: non-negotiable

The helmet is the number one piece of safety equipment. It can save your life in case of a fall.

Selection criteria:

• CE standard: Check the European certification
• Adjustment: Must be snug but not constricting.
• Ventilation: Important for comfort in summer
• Visibility: Bright colors or reflective elements

Our USB Rechargeable Bicycle Helmet Rear Light combines protection and visibility with its integrated LED light, perfect for safe riding day and night.

Helmet maintenance:

• Replace it after any major impact
• Lifespan: 3-5 years maximum
• Clean regularly with soapy water

Lighting: seeing and being seen

Mandatory at night and in low visibility:

• White front light: To illuminate your path
• Red rear light: To be seen by vehicles
• Reflectors: Reflectors on wheels, pedals and rear

Advice :

• Opt for USB rechargeable lights.
• Flashing mode for better visibility
• Always carry spare batteries.

Reflective vest

Mandatory outside built-up areas at night or in reduced visibility. Recommended in all circumstances for your safety.

Comfort and performance equipment

Cycling gloves

Gloves protect your hands and improve your comfort.

Benefits :

• Fall protection
• Vibration absorption
• Better grip on the handlebars
• Protection against the cold and the sun

Types of gloves:

• Half-finger gloves (mittens): Summer, better dexterity
• Long fingers: Winter, complete protection
• Heated gloves: Extreme cold, maximum comfort

Our Winter Cycling Heated Gloves guarantee warm hands even in negative temperatures.

Technical clothing

Cycling shorts

• Chamois leather for comfort on the saddle
• Avoids chafing and irritation
• Essential for long outings

Cycling jersey

• Breathable, sweat-wicking fabric
• Convenient back pockets
• Aerodynamic fitted cut

Windproof/Waterproof Jacket

• Weatherproofing
• Compact and lightweight
• Reflective elements

Cycling shoes

Flat shoes: Beginners, recreational mountain biking, city

Clipless shoes: Performance, better efficiency (requires clipless pedals)

Practical and essential accessories

Phone holder and connected accessories

The smartphone has become an essential tool for the modern cyclist: GPS, activity tracking, music, safety.

Our 5-in-1 Bike Phone Mount combines mount, charger, light and bell for an ultra-practical all-in-one device.

Repair kit

Essential items to take with you:

• Spare inner tube (or repair kit)
• Tire levers (2 or 3)
• Portable pump or CO2 cartridges
• Bicycle multi-tool (Allen keys, screwdrivers)
• Quick chain link

Anti-theft

Types of anti-theft devices:

• U-lock: The safest, bulkiest
• Chain: Flexible, heavy
• Cable: Lightweight, less secure (additional use only)

Tip: Invest 10-15% of your bike's value in a good lock.

Water bottle holder and hydration

• Essential for outings longer than 30 minutes
• 500-750ml capacity recommended
• Insulated water bottle for summer

Bike computer/GPS

• Speed, distance, and elevation tracking
• GPS navigation to discover new routes
• Performance analysis

Basic maintenance of your bicycle

Regular maintenance

After each outing:

• Clean the bike if it's dirty (water + sponge)
• Check your tire pressure
• Visually inspect the general condition

Every week (regular use):

• Lubricate the chain
• Check the brakes
• Check the wheel tightness
• Test the lighting

Every month:

• Complete bike cleaning
• Degreasing and lubricating the transmission
• Cable and conduit inspection
• Brake pad/shoe wear check

Tire pressure

MTB: 2-3 bars (terrain) / 3-4 bars (road)

Road bike: 6-8 bars

City bike: 3-5 bars

Check the pressure indicated on the sidewall of the tire.

Tips for a smooth start

Bike settings

Seat height:

• Leg almost straight at the bottom of the pedal
• Slight knee flexion (5-10°)
• Formula: inseam × 0.885 = saddle height (from center of bottom bracket to saddle drop)

Handlebar position:

• Mountain biking/city: handlebars slightly lower than the saddle
• Road: significantly lower handlebars (aero position)
• Comfort: handlebars at or above the saddle

Safety rules

• Respect the rules of the road: You are a vehicle
• Signal your intentions: Extend your arm to turn
• Stay visible: Light-colored clothing, lighting, reflectors
• Anticipate: Look far ahead, not just in front of the wheel
• Keep your distance: a minimum of 1m from parked cars (doors)
• Drive on the right: But not too close to the edge (potholes, grates)

Progress in cycling

Start gradually:

• Weeks 1-2: 30-45 min, 2-3 times/week
• Weeks 3-4: 45-60 min, 3 times/week
• Month 2: 1-1.5 hours, 3-4 times/week

Vary your workouts:

• Long runs at a moderate pace (endurance)
• Short, intense workouts (interval training)
• Hilly outings (strength)
• Active recovery

Join a club:

• Group motivation
• Advice from experienced cyclists
• Discovering new routes
• Secure, supervised outings

Budget for starting out in cycling

Minimum budget (€400-600)

• Entry-level mountain bike or city bike: €250-400
• Helmet: €30-50
• Lighting: €20-30
• Anti-theft device: €30-50
• Repair kit: €20
• Pump: €15
• Gloves: €15-25

Mid-range budget (€800-1200)

• Higher quality bicycle: €500-700
• Helmet with LEDs: €50-80
• Technical clothing: €100-150
• Complete accessories: €80-100
• GPS computer: €100-150

Conclusion

Cycling is an accessible activity that doesn't require a huge investment to get started. The key is to choose a bike suited to your needs and never neglect safety with a good helmet and effective lights.

Start gradually, listen to your body and above all: have fun! Cycling is a great way to stay fit, discover new landscapes and enjoy the great outdoors.

At Camp de Base Farzen, we offer a complete selection of cycling equipment: mountain bikes, helmets, gloves, accessories, and everything you need to ride safely and comfortably. Don't hesitate to contact us for personalized advice.

Have a good trip and cycle safely!