Before you hit the trails of the 405, make sure your bicycle’s brakes and tires are in good shape, and, if it needs work, drop it by your local bike shop for a tune-up. However, if you really want to kick your ride into high gear, you’ll need more than just a bike. Fortunately, two big wheels from OKC’s bike shops – Celestial Cycles owner Sheridan Marquardt and Steve Schlegel from Schlegel Bicycles – shared a few tips on the gear you need to get rolling.
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HYDRATION
For any ride in the Oklahoma heat, hydration is vital to avoid heat exhaustion. While it can be as simple as a water bottle and frame mounted-cage or as large as a backpack-style hydration pack, Marquardt says the simplest way to stay hydrated on your bike ride is to sip between six and eight ounces of fluid every 15 or 20 minutes. Osprey Syncro, $85
HELMET
Whether you’re riding off-road or around Lake Hefner, the best protection you can give yourself on a bike is a helmet. Marquardt says a properly fitting helmet is the key to staying safe, cool and comfortable. And if you’re ever in a crash, make sure to replace the helmet to keep your head protected. Giro Revel MIPS, $65
GLOVES
A good pair of gloves can provide a better grip on the handlebars and protect your hands in the event of a crash. Plus, Marquardt said, “they can go a long way to keeping your hands cool and comfortable when riding during a hot Oklahoma summer.” Louis Garneau 1 Calory, $15
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WICKING JERSEY
A cotton T-shirt is fine for a cruise around the neighborhood but, for a longer ride, Schlegel recommends a cycling-specific jersey that will wick moisture away from your skin to keep you cool and dry. Jerseys also feature pockets to carry essentials such as keys, phones, wallets, energy bars and more, and they’re available at a variety of price points. Bontrager Anara Women’s Jersey, $110
PADDED SHORTS
Riding a bike means a lot of time spent sitting on the saddle. That’s a why a pair of padded cycling shorts is important, Marquardt said – the pad will wick moisture away from your skin while dispersing pressure points and preventing chafing during your ride. Louis Garneau Signature Optimum Shorts, $50
EYE PROTECTION
In addition to keeping the sun’s damaging UV rays out of your eyes, Schlegel says a quality pair of sunglasses also offers protection from bugs and dust, as well as impact resistance. Cycling shades aren’t one-size-fits-all, however, so he advises, “Look for the pair that fits your face and offers wide peripheral vision and adaptability to your riding conditions.” Tifosi Pro With Interchangeable Component System, $100
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LIGHTS
While most bikes have reflectors, Schlegel says visibility lights and headlights are important to make you more visible anytime you’re on your bike. Look for LED visibility lights that offer both evening and daytime visibility and, if you’re going to ride after dark, don’t forget a handlebar-mounted headlight to light your way. Bontrager Flare R Tail Light, $60
SHOES AND CLIPLESS PEDALS
While a pair of tennis shoes is fine if you’re just getting started, Schlegel says a pair of cycling shoes made with a stiffer sole will help deliver more power to the pedals. Clip those shoes into the binding system of a “clipless” pedal and you’ll apply power during the entire pedal stroke, which will help you ride farther and faster with less effort, he said. Bontrager Specter Shoes, $160; Shimano 105 Clipless Pedals, $150