When bike riding, we recommend riding in what makes you feel comfortable, however we have a few tips below on how to also keep safe.
1. Comfort
Your everyday clothing is completely ok for bike riding.
We do recommend:
- You wear enclosed shoes and if they have laces that they are tied so they won’t come undone or snag on the bike
- You do not wear clothing or accessories that can get caught in the tyres or chain
If you are planning for a longer ride, normal exercise gear is also completely fine. If lycra is what makes you feel comfortable - go for it!
2. Preparing for Weather
If you are riding in hot conditions:
- Wear a long-sleeved, collared shirt to protect your skin from sun
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare
In you are riding in rainy conditions:
- Wear a tight fitted rain jacket and rain pants
- You can also purchase rain proof covers for your shoes
- Wear gloves that won't slip in the wet
If you are riding in the cold:
- Layer up! You may start off cold but when you start riding your body will quickly warm and layers are easy to remove
- Wear gloves that won't slip in the wet
3. Safety Equipment
In Australia it is the law to wear a helmet at all times when you are riding.
We also recommend wearing a pair of riding gloves. These can protect your hands from chafing and blisters on longer rides, scrapes and cuts if you come off and sunburn on a nice day.
If you’re riding on the road, in dusty areas, in the rain or where foliage may strike your face sunglasses or eye protection is a good idea.
4. Visibility
When riding on the roads, we also recommend riding so you can be seen.
Our partners, MonkeySee and Bicycle Safety Equipment have special deals for our Members for items to increase their visibility through clothing.
This includes:
- High visibility jackets
- Reflective clothing
- Lights embedded within clothing
Bright colours or clothing with bright patterns - can also help to increase visibility.
5. Have Fun With It!
You CAN ride a bike in a dress or skirt, pants aren’t compulsory
You CAN ride a bike in heels
You CAN colour coordinate with your bike or your riding friends
There are all sorts of fashion accessories to make riding stylish and fun for all ages, and decorating your helmet doesn’t just have to be a magpie deterrent.
