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Tour prep tips from Neil Bezdek

Neil B5

The TD Five Boro Bike Tour is only two weeks away, so we asked Neil Bezdek—a former pro road racer who’s won several Red Hook Crits, works for the Bike Share Program of the New York City Department of Transportation, and is a contributor to Bicycling magazine (not to mention our Bike New Yorker for the month of December)—for a few suggestions on how to get the most out of what will undoubtedly be a glorious day of cycling (if you follow his advice, of course).

Tip #1: Check that your bike is in good shape.

Try not to procrastinate too long on this one. Most area bike shops will be busy in the days leading up to the big ride, and the local rental market will likely be tapped out if you need a last-minute replacement. There are plenty of shops offering discounts to registered riders. Check out the list here.

But don’t march straight to the shop right away. If your bike has been in storage for a while, then first air up the tires, make sure the wheels are attached properly, and go for a quick spin. Moving parts like ball bearings and cables tend to seize without use, but a quick ride can loosen it all up and might give you a better sense if the bike works ok.

For extra credit, lubricate the chain. That might require a visit to the store for some lube, but this simple step goes a long way toward quieting and smoothing your ride.

 

Tip #2: Consider a pair of bike shorts.

If you’re going to splurge on any new piece of equipment, nothing will make you more comfortable than a pair of cycling-specific shorts. The chamois (the pad under the butt) is designed primarily to protect against friction, not just to to provide cushion. Your backside will thank you. If time is tight, you can pick up a pair when you come to get your packet at Bike Expo New York.

 

Tip #3: Make sure your bike fits.

Saddle height is the most important thing to consider, since it determines how efficiently you can pedal, and riding at the wrong height can cause injury. At the proper height, your leg should have just a little bit of bend at the bottom of the stroke (approximately 10 degrees), about the same amount you naturally have in your legs when you stand up and pedal.

 

Tip #4: Ride it!

A structured training plan isn’t necessary to enjoy the Tour, but going for a few rides before the event, even short ones, will help you to be comfortable and efficient on your bike. Sure, race-oriented fitness helps, but any happy, relaxed rider can get to the finish line ok. It just takes a few rides to get accustomed to spending time in the saddle.