In these days of people being concerned about the environment, green renewable energy and with the present economic climate costs of fuel and travel it is no surprise that cycling is becoming so popular. We are always looking for ways of reducing our expenses and at the same time increase our ‘fun factor’.

The cyclist today has a variety of uses for their cycle. It can be the form of transport that you use to go on your daily cycle ride commuting to work, The cycle can be used for exercise and training purposes going on a cycle ride along a chosen cycle route to increase your fitness levels, and of course you can ride your cycle along one of the many designated cycle routes being developed across the Uk for ‘fun’ getting out there cycling along for no other reason than to enjoy a leisurely family cycle ride and relax.

The cycle routes which people use for what ever purpose all come under certain types. You may cycle on the roads (including designated cycle lanes), tracks, paths, designated cycle paths and off road cycle tracks.

One of the first things which you have to decide on is what type of cycling you are going to do. Will you be cycling for fun, fitness or commuting, what ever type of cycle ride you are intending to do then that reflects what type of cycle you will be riding. Cycling for fitness you may think that you will require a road bike but what if you are intending to cycle along a route that is off road or has an off road section on it, surely you will then need to look at the type of cycles that are suitable for such cycle routes a mountain bike or if the terrain is not too severe then perhaps a hybrid cycle may be suitable. If you are commuting you feel that you should use a hybrid or road bike for this type f cycle ride, but will you need the capacity to carry small luggage such as your briefcase or laptop for instance. In such cases for this type of daily cycle ride you may need a cycle which has the facility for racks/panniers and also mudguards as you won’t want to arrive at your destination wet and dirty at the end of your cycle ride. If you are looking for fitness then are you likely to go on a cycle route which is purely on road, in which case you may choose an all out racing road bike designed for lightness and speed with no facility for mudguards etc. On the other hand your cycle route may have a section of rough terrain in which case you may want to go for a mountain bike with or without suspension choosing what you think will be suitable for your likely type of cycle route. What about cycling for fun! Some may say that you can cycle on any type of cycle but really to get the best enjoyment and satisfaction from your cycle ride you would benefit from cycling on the most appropriate cycle for the type of cycle route you may be using.

All across the UK designated cycle routes are being developed with the cyclist in mind. This type of cycle route is of course much more beneficial for the cyclist as usually they are completely traffic free and constructed of tarmac or a suitable crushed gravel surface suitable for the cyclist. The only thing you may have to look out for are local pedestrians taking advantage of the cycle paths and walking their dogs. Through busy towns and cities across the UK cycle routes are being provided by designated marked cycle lanes along the roads so in theory cyclists can choose their preferred cycle route to commute on with as little interference from traffic as possible. The other type of cycle routes may be along tow paths with a little emphasis on off road cycling, as most tow paths across the UK are now of a suitable surface for cycling on and a hybrid type of cycle is more than adequate for the type of terrain incurred along such cycle routes. Pure off road cycle routes can cover a variety of terrain from gravel paths to maneuvering around such obstacles as rocks along your cycle route or even racing down a fast down hill cycle route specifically designed for race events.

As you gain experience cycling you will also develop certain other skills. You may become more confident and knowledgeable dealing with traffic on the roads, you will gain some experience of cycle maintenance. We’ve all had a puncture at some time while we’ve been cycling along enjoying the chosen cycle route. You may also gain some knowledge of your local area as you pick up information on places of interest when you’re out on your cycle ride.

What ever type of cycling you do you can make it fun and enjoyable? Choose the correct cycle for the type of cycle route you think you are going to be using on your cycle ride. Be prepared for the cycle route you are using, always let people know where about you are likely to be cycling and don’t forget to take a drink along the way. You can choose a variety of cycle routes to get t the same destination so get out there and enjoy your cycling.

Author Bio: Cycle Routes UK – authors of cycling routes around the UK.

Category: Sports
Keywords: cycle,cycle routes,cycling,cycling routes,sports,fitness,bikes,biking