The current coronavirus crisis means that people must stay in their homes unless

making essential journeys. One form of outside exercise is permitted a day, and
this includes cycling. If you’re coming to cycling for the first time as a result,
or returning after a long break, we’re here to help provide you with all the
information you need.

Every person you see on a bike was a beginner cyclist once. Regardless if that was
when they were three years old and astride a balance bike or well over 40 and
venturing out on a borrowed hybrid.

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>>> The benefits of cycling

It’s understandable that during the first year of cycling, you may find yourself
coming across a number of questions and stumbling blocks. Even those who have been
riding ten years will occasionally find themselves stumped.

>>> The best cheap road bikes: a buyer’s guide

We couldn’t give you a full answer to every question in one guide – without it
becoming an impenetrable, biblical in length, somewhat useless source. So instead,
we’ve kicked things off with our top tips, linking off to more detailed articles
that will help you out.

Top tips for a beginner cyclist

1) Buy your bike from a local shop
beginner cyclist tips
Start off at your local bike shop

Bike shops are allowed to stay open at this time, as they provide a service to
those using cycling as exercise, or key workers such as doctors and nurses getting
to work. Many will be operating differently – it may not be possible to browse
bikes in store, but you can pick up the phone, take advice and still make a
purchase.

>>> Road bike size guide: how to choose a bike that fits

Your local bike shop will be able to make sure the bike fits you, help you get set
up on it, probably offer you a free six month service, and be there to help you out
when you’ve got questions.

Expertise and advice now will save you cash in the long run, and right now local
bike shops really need your support.

Not sure what style of bike you want? In short, an endurance focused road bike will
suit most beginners. A cyclocross, adventure road or gravel bike may be up your
street if you want to travel off road, and a hybrid bike could be an option should
drop handlebars feel intimidating (though we’d encourage you to test ride a road
bike first). If you’re getting into bike riding with the goal of racing, look for
an aluminium race bike like the Cannondale CAAD or Specialized Allez.

We’ve got a host of buying guides to help you out:

Best bikes under £500, under £1000, under £1500 and under £2000
Best endurance road bikes
Best women’s road bikes
Best cheap road bikes
Best commuting bikes
Best adventure and gravel bikes
Best cyclocross bikes
Best electric bikes
Best hybrid bikes