Tag: EXPLAINED

Bicycles come in many shapes and sizes, and for good reasons. A featherweight, carbon-framed wonder is no good for riding to the shops for a pint of milk and some bread. Similarly, a commuter-orientated bike won’t be the best choice for riding some local off-road trails. ‘Comfort’ is a relatively new term in the cycling sphere and one some use to classify this type of bike. Searching the internet for a comfort bike might make you think other bikes are uncomfortable. Whilst that’s not strictly true, comfort bikes prioritise how riders feel when riding. Comfort is key. So much so in fact, that other bicycle attributes like speed, utility or versatility may fall by the wayside.  This Discerning Cyclist guide…

Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation in the UK, but navigating the roads can be a challenge. Many riders are unsure about their rights and responsibilities when it comes to riding on the road, leading to confusion and potential conflicts with other road users. In this article, we will explore the UK laws that govern cycling on the road, including where bicycles are allowed to ride, the rules of the road for cyclists, and the responsibilities of motorists when sharing the road. By understanding these laws, cyclists can stay safe and confident on the road and motorists can better respect and accommodate their two-wheeled counterparts. Can Bikes Ride on the Road? In the UK, bicycles are considered vehicles under…

Bike pedals help to convert the power of our legs into the effort needed to turn the wheels forward. They need to be comfortable for commuting and ideally, non-slip, so we can reliably step on and off as we go to and from work or study. Pedal variations owe much to the sportier side of cycling, but most of us will be happy with a standard flat pedal. What Are the Different Types of Bike Pedals? Commuters will be familiar with the flat, rectangular pedal from their first bike ridden as a kid. Sportier riders may have seen a stubbier version designed to house a special shoe with added cleats. Then there are smaller, almost round models designed to take…

Bike tires (or tyres) lose air more rapidly than vehicle versions due to size, shape, material, and a constant pressure forcing air out of them. The day-to-day hazards of punctures are easier to identify, so it can be frustrating to have to re-inflate a tire that felt firm the last time you rode. What Causes a Flat Bike Tyre? Punctures from surface debris, poorly inflated tyres, worn or cracked tyres, plus constant pressure forcing air out of any gaps in the rubber compound and valves are the main cause of a bike tyre going flat. Day-to-day, a tyre will lose pressure despite efforts to keep it all in. The tyre is our only contact point with the surface so we…

Electric bikes are versatile machines offering pedal assistance to support your abilities and leg power. They usually recharge the same way as other small portable electrical devices. The battery pops off the frame and into the wall socket via a cable. In a matter of a few hours, you’re topped up. Electrically-supported transport through traditionally motorised vehicles offers forms of energy regeneration when in use. Car manufacturers are falling over themselves to advertise this feature as ‘free recharge’. Can the makers of e-bikes promise the same? Do Electric Bikes Charge While Pedalling? Most electric bikes do not charge when pedalling. The reasons for this come from the physics lab, the accountancy textbooks and the heritage and dynamics of why so…

Over the past two decades, London has transformed into a far more cycling-friendly city than it used to be. In excess of 160,000 people cycle in the capital on a daily basis. Hundreds of millions has been spent on cycling infrastructure in London since 2008. Although it’s not perfect, the improved and evolving cycle lanes have led to an increase of cycling in London as more and more people are opting for two wheels. And if you’re thinking about joining them, it’s a good idea to know what is, and what’s not allowed. Most of the cycling rules in London apply to cyclists nationwide. But when travelling in a city alongside so many other bikes, cars, and pedestrians, the rules…

Bikes, though wonderful, can sometimes be a little confusing to use. This is especially true when considering how to use bicycle gears. There are a number of variations with gear components, and things can seem complicated – especially for beginners! Sometimes, we just need a little helping hand. This includes learning how to get the most out of the gears on our own bike, as well as knowing when to change gear, or even which gear we should be in.  Understanding Bike Gears Understanding how to use bicycle gears can be tricky, especially when you’re new to cycling, or haven’t ridden in a while.  However, getting the most out of your gears, and understanding when it’s best to change gear,…