Cycling Tips
Saddle Up and Choose Your Bike Well
The SAM’S CLUB MS 150 Bike Tour is a long-distance ride. Most participants prefer road bikes, although cyclists complete the ride on all types. Visit an Official MS 150 Bike Store for recommendations.
Listen to Your Bike
Unusual sounds such as squeaks, popping, grinding, creaking or rattling are warning signs and should be inspected by an Official Bike Store. A complete overhaul is recommended annually or every 2,000 miles. All SAM’S CLUB MS 150 Official Bike Stores offer free, professional inspections, with estimates on routine maintenance or repairs for your bike.
Are You and Your Bike the Right Fit?
No matter what type of bike you choose, it should be adjusted to fit you. Being fitted to your bike is just as important to your comfort as the make and model. If your bicycle isn’t appropriately sized, you risk a chance of injury. Take your bike to an Official Bike Store to ensure a proper fit. After 150 miles and two days in the saddle, you’ll be glad you did.
Shape Up Your Ride with a Bike Inspection
Bikes require periodic maintenance. To ensure your bike is in shape, take it to an Official Bike Store for a professional inspection. Starting in March, Official Bike Stores will inspect your bike for free. You’ll receive an Official Inspection Sticker once your bike meets inspection standards. An inspection will further help your safety and the safety of those around you. Also, if you need mechanical assistance during the ride, labor is free if your bike has the annual Inspection Sticker.
Dress Right for the Ride
All SAM’S CLUB MS 150 cyclists are REQUIRED to wear approved cycling helmets at all times while riding.
Remember that the ride rolls out come rain or shine … and hot or cold. In North Texas, spring weather can – and does – change quickly, so be prepared for any type of weather on ride weekend.
For your comfort, wear cycling clothing without buckles or ties that might catch in tires or chains. Make sure clothing is close-fitted to reduce chafing and wind interference, and are made from materials that keep perspiration away from the body.
In addition, cycling gloves keep hands dry and protect palms from handlebar vibration and any accidental spills. Cycling shorts are padded in the seat and generally close-fitting.
Other items to wear are cycling jerseys, tights, rain jackets and hydration systems. Jerseys are ideal because they have back pockets to keep energy bars handy. Tights are a great way to combat early morning chill. Cycling rain jackets provide great coverage and can easily fold into a jersey pocket. A hydration system makes sipping water easy during the ride.
