How To Ride a Bicycle

Don’t ride until you can fix a flat or put the chain back on the cog. Learn that the front brake stops you best and flips you on your elbows. Never let your chain squeak, and carry a tube you can donate. Never blame your bike if you're the last one up a hill. Dress to be visible, and ride to be predictable. Scrap your clip-on shoes and pedals, and don’t underestimate fig bars. Ride with shoes you can walk through an antique mall in. Buy a bike you feel comfortable on, riding in a downpour. Buy the cheapest helmet that fits well, and always bring a pump. Compliment other people’s bikes, especially if they are new. If you pass another rider going up a hill, say “Hi.” But if it’s a woman and you aren’t, don’t assume she wants to chit-chat. If you’re a woman and it’s a guy, you can chit-chat all you want. Put a funky wooden rack on the back of your bike, especially if you want his, “Hi, nice rack.”