Mythbusting cycling

Tom’s top 10 cycling myths that you need to bust

I love the MythBusters television series where Adam and Jamie use science to bust rumors, myths, and anything in an unconventional manner. Many cycling myths need to be challenged. I assembled my top ten cycling myths that must be overcome to enjoy a better life on the bike.

Myth #1: I don’t look like a cyclist.

This is far too common. Few cyclists look like the elite Tour de France pros. There is no litmus test to be a cyclist. I say the following to doubting and new cyclists, “If you ride a bike, you are a cyclist.” It’s that simple. Never forget this.

Myth #2: Cycling is expensive.

I rediscovered cycling on a 20-year-old Sears Roebuck mountain bike. It is OK to dust off the bike hanging in the garage or buy a used one on Facebook Marketplace. All you need to start cycling is a bike and a helmet. Time, budget, and experience may lead to a better ride and more gear.

Myth #3: This isn’t Amsterdam.

You have seen thousands cycling carefree in European cities and wish it to be the reality in your city. Fearing sharing the road with traffic and the trail with dogs, runners, and other cyclists is real as a newbie. Educate yourself on the rules of the road and trail. Be alert and curious. Seek the wisdom of experienced cyclists. Comfort comes over time.

Myth #4: I can’t climb hills.

Hills: either you love them or hate them. Multipurpose trails mostly follow former flat railroad and canal corridors making them ideal places to cycle casually. There is no shame in walking up a hill. Overcoming the fear of hills comes with understanding your bike gears.

Myth #5: I can’t fix a flat.

I feared being stranded and hearing the hiss of a deflating tire. Fixing a flat is not rocket science. Bike shops hold fix-a-flat classes. YouTube is flush with flat repair videos. Practice at home in an ideal and stress-free setting. Carry a pump, inner tube, and tire levers. Fellow cyclists will help you get back on your ride.

Myth #6: I am too old.

The miles you cycle, the speed you pedal, and the time you spend on your bike are yours to determine. Riding a bike is about doing what makes you happy. Bicycles have transformed in recent years to accommodate people in many ways on 2 or three wheels. Age has no limit.   

Myth #7: My E-bike is not a real bike

I sadly hear people demeaning e-cyclists as cheaters and weaklings. E-bikes are transformative in our society. They open the door to more people on bikes. Today’s bicycles challenge what bicycles traditionally look like. Cycle that e-bike with pride.

Myth #8: Bike trails are boring.

Multipurpose trails are excellent alternatives to busy streets and heavy traffic. The trail experience is about immersing oneself in nature in a relaxed setting. Trails are not just tunnels of green. Towns along the trail have embraced trails adding amenities, trail art, and trail-oriented business. Trail culture is growing more popular as trails interconnect.

Myth #9: No one will cycle with me.

Overcome the preconception that people judge you as a new cyclist. Lose the belief that no community welcomes you. Bike clubs, meetups, and Facebook groups exist for every style of cycling. Find a tribe that matches what motivated you to get on the bike.

Myth #10: I have nowhere to ride.

Busy streets, hills, and unfriendly people are hard to ignore when you are a cyclist. Find the bike-friendly side of your community. Start with the advice of your local bike shop. Cities and towns have developed low-traffic cycling routes with bicycle infrastructure. Park districts and trail organizations provide trail maps and trailhead information. The opportunities to cycle are far more than you imagined.