Only Use Tried and Tested Kit
Whenever you have a big cycling challenge coming up, it’s always tempting to purchase some new kit just before the event. Whilst a new helmet or new pair of shoes can offer you a nice psychological boost, there’s always a risk that the new items won’t quite be right. As a rule of thumb, you should look to have 3 or 4 weeks of riding in any kit before it gets your approval for an endurance event like Dulux London Revolution.
Bring Plenty of Chamois Creme
When you’re spending so much time in the saddle, taking care of the “contact points” that your body has with the bike, is key. Cycling specific chamois creme helps reduce the friction between your skin and the fabric of your cycling shorts. Applying liberal amounts of the creme to any area of the body that is likely to experience rubbing and abrasion from the fabric, can dramatically reduce the chance of sores and wounds developing throughout the ride.
Taking Good Care of Your Bike
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your bike should be a part of your cycling routine, if your bike is well looked after, then components will last for longer and you’ll face fewer mechanical issues out on the road. The key areas that should be cleaned regularly, or after each ride in wet conditions, are the drive train, brakes, wheels & tyres. Use a product like Chain Cleaner Gel from MoTip Cycling to clear grease and grime from your chain and always follow up with Cycling Chain Spray Sport to keep the chain moving well and reduce friction between components.
Get a Professional Bike Fit
The single best way to improve your performance and comfort on the bike, isn’t by buying a great pair of bib shorts, or upgrading your wheels. The best money you can spend to get the most out of your bike on a multi-day ride is to invest in a professional bike fit. Not only can this improve your comfort and reduce the chance of soreness and injury, but it can also improve your speed too. Seek out a professional fitter at a reputable local bike shop, and check that their fitters are fully trained with dedicated fitting studios and equipment to assess your position on the bike. Always book in a bike fit 2-3 months before an endurance ride so you have time to adapt to any changes that they make to your set up and have any follow–up consultations after trying out your new position.
