Locking Your Bike

For a U-lock, find a post securely mounted in cement. Be certain the bike and lock can't be lifted over the top of the post. For maximum security, remove the front wheel and secure the post, bike frame and front and rear rims.

With a cable lock, follow the same procedure and pass the cable through your saddle supports. Keep the lock as high off the ground as possible, and the cable as taut as possible.

Secure a helmet by putting the lock or cable through the straps or vents.

Bicycle clothing makes riding comfortable and more fun! You'll feel and look great when you invest in quality clothing designed specifically for cycling. Look for these features:

1. Special fabric transfers moisture from your skin.

2. Stand-up collar to seal in body heat in cool weather.
3. Neck zipper controls ventilation as temperatures rise and fall.
4. Shoulders cut wider for arms-forward comfort.
5. Sleeves specially shaped for a riders forward lean.
6. Conveniently placed back pockets.
7. Form-fitting to reduce flapping and cut longer in back.

1. Stretchy material for full freedom of motion.
2. Multi-panel construction for comfortable fit.
3. Lower cut front to accommodate forward lean.
4. Smooth, soft crotch pad to minimize friction and cushion bumps.
5. Longer-cut legs and leg grippers prevent saddle chafing and keep shorts in place.

• Rigid soles prevent pressure points that cause sore feet, and transfer your power more efficiently to the pedals.
• Uppers are designed for snug fit, and are made of durable easy-to-care-for materials.
  
• Strap closures, laces (or both) allow for precise adjustment to give you the best combination of comfort and efficiency.
  
• Straps are easily adjusted while riding.
  
• Can be fitted with cleats for use with clipless pedals. Positive shoe-to-pedal connection gives you more security and consistent power throughout the pedal stroke. You'll go faster while using less energy.

The Difference Between Road And Off-Road Shoes

Road shoes have the stiffest soles for transmitting maximum power to the pedals. They are generally designed to provide the ultimate in pedaling performance so they're as light and efficient as possible. Some models have features that make them suitable for walking, too.

Off-road shoes are designed for the trail environment so they include a thicker lugged sole for traction when walking. They have a more flexible sole for walking, and often have a midsole for cushioning. Recessed cleats offer more stability and traction.

Inspired by releasable ski bindings, clipless pedals hold your foot securely by engaging a plate (called a cleat) mounted to the sole of the shoe. Since their introduction, they've been adopted widely by professional and recreational road and off-road riders for these reasons:

• A solid connection between foot and pedal means more efficient transmission of leg power.
• Smooth entry with no need to adjust toe straps; easy-to-release design ensures quick, controlled stops.
• Side to side "float" that reduces knee strain is available.
• Cleat designs which enable comfortable walking are available.

Safety Tip--Practice First

• Try your new clipless shoes and pedals before you venture out
  on the road or trail.
• Practice engaging and disengaging while straddling your bike at
  least ten times with each foot.
• Learn which foot you're most comfortable disengaging and release
  that foot first as you stop.
• When you're ready to ride, practice engaging and releasing while
  riding slowly in an area with no traffic.
• Plan ahead and release your foot a few feet before you stop.