Road Cycling

Pre-ride Checks for Your Bike and Bag

Both your steed and your supplies need some attention before you hit the road

In your saddle bag

Rachel knew she was forgetting something... Photo: Timothy Armes
The condition of your brakes is one of the most important things about your bike
Don't get distracted by how pretty your handlebar tape is. Although it is nice...
Are your cleats worn?
Amazingly, the BBC weather app recognises the TWC office... ahem.
Clapham to the Le Tour De France wine shop is our most-ridden, obviously.

In your saddle bag

You may feel confident with your tool kit at home, but do you have what you need in your saddle bag (or rucksack, or panniers, or your jersey pocket)?

Here’s a list of what you should be checking you have with you before you leave for a ride:

Tyre levers
Multi tool
Puncture repair kit and a new inner tube (that you’ve checked over for holes)
Pump
Money
Fully charged mobile phone
Lights
First Aid kit
Water

Road Cycling Accessories

Brilliant Bidons: 10 of the Best Water Bottles for your Bike

Here's the problem with cycling: sometimes it's so much fun that you forget to do human stuff like eat and drink. It's ok: you just...

Brilliant Bidons: 10 of the Best Water Bottles for your Bike

Road Cycling Clothing

Review: Le Col Ladies Sport Winter Bib Tights

Beth Hodge gets in full cycling spirit for winter, with the Le Col Ladies Sport Winter Bib Tights.

Review: Le Col Ladies Sport Winter Bib Tights

Road Cycling Clothing

10 of the Best: Three Quarter Length Tights

Three-quarter length tights, or 'knickers' as they're known State-side, are pretty much the ultimate in adaptable cycling bottoms. Perfect for trans-seasonal periods.

10 of the Best: Three Quarter Length Tights