At 49 years of age, what is the best way to learn how to ride bike?

Question

At 49 years of age, what is the best way to learn how to ride bike?

Answer 1

The previous answers are fine.  However, make sure you wear an approved  helmet.

Answer 2

At first, riding a bike appears to take great balance.  It really doesn't.  The rotation of the wheels provides a force that keeps the bicycle vertical.  The faster the wheels rotate, the greater this force becomes.  Once you get the bicycle moving, staying vertical is easy, until you slow down to stop.

I would first practice on a good stationary bike.  Get the feel for moving the pedals.  Practice mounting and dismounting a stationary bicycle (check out the video on the site below for the proper technique).

The key to not falling over when you start riding is to give one pedal a good push.  This will allow you to use it as a step stool to get on your seat as well as getting the bike off to a quick start.  When you slow down, stand up on the pedals and get ready to put a foot on the ground.

For your first couple times, it might help to keep the seat lower than you need it for going long distances.

Answer 3

just get on and ride, have someone hold you up from the side and walk beside you.

push firmly on the pedals to get a bit of speed up otherwise you will be wobbling all over.

or if you have a gentle slope near you, sit on the bike at the top of the hill and freewheel down, then when halfway begin pedalling.

most important is that you have fun and learn to laugh if you fall over.

Answer 4

I'd add that you might want to start off with a "beach cruiser" style bike, since they are extremely simple to operate - no gears to shift, pedal forward to go and backward to stop - they're relatively low to the ground, and you can sit upright will riding.

Also, start off in a large empty parking lot, playground or outdoor basketball court so don't have to worry about obstacles and can concentrate on riding, steering and your confidence in the saddle.

You'll like it!  Have fun! :)

Answer 5

just like any other way. only you'll need a bigger bike.

training wheels are good. and having someone push you off while you ride on your own helps too

Answer 6

have a friend around so they can help you with somethings...and just take off.. start at the curb. and just go from there....if you really want the stuff to get you going fast..go to an all bike store and tell them...and they will help you with what you need...good luck and keep practicing

~V~