ONE.

OFF TO A GOOD START

Let's look first at how you get onto your bicycle. If you climb onto it the right way, you get quicker, safer starts and a more efficient riding position. We'll also take a look at how to get off smoothly so you're positioned to start again quickly.

STARTING AND STOPPING

When you get onto your bicycle, first stand over the frame in front of the saddle. Hold the brake levers so the bike won’t roll. A steady bike lets you get into position to mount.

Now, using either foot, gently turn the crank backwards until the pedal is at 2 o’clock position – forward and high. If the crank won’t turn easily, carefully adjust the gear levers until the chain runs straight.

Once your foot is on the pedal in the 2 o’clock position, you’re ready to get moving. Let go of the brakes and push down on the pedal. The first pedal stroke starts the bicycle moving and lifts you up to the saddle. When the opposite pedal comes up to top position, put your foot on it for the second pedal stroke.

When you’re coming to a stop, stand on one pedal, and slide forward off the saddle. Lean the bicycle a little to the side and place your free foot on the ground. When stopped, raise one foot and its pedal into the 2 o’clock starting position.

No matter what type of pedals you use (see below), put only one foot on the ground when you stop. The other foot waits on its pedal in the 2 o’clock position, ready for a quick start.

Thread a toe strap as shown, from outside to inside of the pedal. Leave the end hanging loose so you can pull it to tighten the strap.

As you slow to a stop, shift down to a low, starting gear. On a derailleur-equipped bicycle, the gears shift only while you’re still turning the pedals – planning ahead pays off. USING CLIPLESS PEDALS OR TOECLIPS Clipless pedals, or toeclips and straps, are your "feet belts." Though not necessary, they increase pedaling efficiency and safety. But learning to use them requires practice. Be sure to master the release motion before using them on the road. Thread toeclips and straps as shown in the illustration - from the outside to the inside of the pedal. Leave the end of the strap sticking out like a floppy dog ear - don't tuck it back into the buckle. Tighten the strap by pulling on the end, and loosen it by pushing the buckle outward with your thumb.

AVOIDING COMMON MISTAKES

Do not try to sit down on the saddle with both feet on the ground before you start. If you can do this, your saddle is too low. Make sure your saddle height is adjusted properly (a good bike shop can help you). A saddle that's too low (or too high) can cause knee injuries and makes it harder to pedal.

Pushing the bike along with a foot, like a scooter, or leaping onto a bike from the side, like a horse, are not as steady or safe as the pedal-step method described earlier in this chapter.

SUMMARY

Practice the pedal-step method until you’re comfortable with it. Raise the saddle if it is too low. Also, practice shifting your gears as you stop, so you’ll have good acceleration when you start again. You’ll be rewarded with smoother, safer and quicker starts.