Biking For Dummies

Explore, travel, and get fit on two wheels

Biking For Dummies will teach you the basics of riding your bike as a workout or as a mode of transportation. Great for people of all ages and fitness levels, this book shows you how to select the best bike for your needs, how to ride safely, and how to maintain your bicycle, so you can enjoy the many adventures that lie ahead. This entertaining Dummies guide answers all your questions about e-bikes, cycling etiquette, must-have gear and gadgets, and staying safe out there. Plus, you’ll find bicycle maintenance advice and tips that will help you get faster and ride farther, even if you’re starting from zero. Become a cyclist, the Dummies way.

• Choose the right bike for you and find places to ride it
• Use correct form, learn the rules of the road, and enjoy every ride
• Learn to keep your bike or e-bike in good shape for years to come
• Discover which equipment you need, and which you can live without

Biking For Dummies is for beginners who want to start cycling, and for experienced riders looking for reliable info. Start with a quick ride around the block and branch out to long rides and exciting cycling vacations. There’s no limit to where two wheels can take you.

Introduction 1

Part 1: Starting Off on the Right Wheel 5

Chapter 1: Almost Everything You Need to Know about Bicycles 7

Chapter 2: Sizing Up the Right Bike and Fit 15

Chapter 3: Cockpit, Part 1: Handlebars, Grips, and Headsets 31

Chapter 4: Cockpit, Part 2: Stems, Seatposts, and Saddles 47

Chapter 5: Brakes, Wheels, and Tires 59

Chapter 6: Drivetrains 93

Part 2: Buying a New Bike and Other Gear You Need 113

Chapter 7: Finding the Perfect Bike 115

Chapter 8: Purchasing Your New Set of (Two) Wheels 145

Chapter 9: Getting the Necessary Gear and Equipment 157

Part 3: Using and Maintaining a Bicycle 181

Chapter 10: Preparing for Your First Ride 183

Chapter 11: Riding a Bike 101 193

Chapter 12: Riding Safely: Following the Rules of the Road, Path, and Trail 205

Chapter 13: Fixing and Maintaining Your Bike 225

Chapter 14: Finding Good Places to Ride 263

Part 4: The Part of Tens 277

Chapter 15: Ten Training Tips 279

Chapter 16: Ten Bucket List Events 287

Index 293

Tyler Benedict is the founder of bikerumor.com, the world’s leading cycling tech blog. Their mission since 2008 has been to provide the most up-to-date and accurate coverage of the newest road, gravel, commuter and mountain bikes, as well as their components and gear—plus product reviews. Tyler is an expert on the latest cycling trends, technologies, and equipment.

Explore the world on two wheels

Bicycling is for everyone. Biking For Dummies shows you how you can get into it for fun, sport, exercise, or car-free transportation, regardless of your budget or experience level. You’ll learn how to select the bike that’s right for you, or adjust the bike you already have to meet your needs. Once you’ve gained a bit of knowledge about bicycle parts and accessories, you’ll be ready to hit the trail—or the greenway, or the road. This book helps you stay safe, maintain your ride, and enjoy a long, healthy life as a cyclist.

Inside…

• Bicycle types explained
• Buying, charging, and caring for a battery-assisted e-bike
• Getting in shape for riding
• Safety gear and clothing
• Basic repair & maintenance
• Choosing the right bike size
• Finding quality used bikes