Cycling lessons?

Question

Hi I was just wondering if there are actually cycling lessons for adults. See I can stay on a bike but control is another thing. I last took it for a spin semi-confidently last year and had a nasty accident where I managed to loose control whilst looking back and hit the kerb and basically i was hospitalised. I haven't lost the will to ride yet though I want to become confident but I find it embarrassing practicing on the streets in front of everyone as im even less confident now after what happened.

So it occurred to me to see if their are adult classes where I can be in a place where I'm not making a fool of myself and ride with a bit of confidence and of course get to know how to ride on the roads.

I can't find any at the mo on the net, in my area anyway. If you guys know of any places in the warwickshire or midlands area it would be a great help or else direct me to how I can get confident riding and controlling a bike on the road.

Thanx.

Answer 1

I would just take it out to a field and start riding. Go quite fast, as it is easier to balance, but do have a go at riding slow too. Until you have learnt to control it safely, don't go on the road at all. That's too dangerous.

Answer 2

Many councils run cycling courses of one sort or another, most employ a cycling officer, for instance Sandwell have a cycling and walking officer and provide backing to a club called "Cycling in Sandwell".

There was also a scheme called "Biking Buddies" who helped to get people started, but I don,t know if this is still running.

Ring your local council and ask if they have anything similar.

Answer 3

Yes.  Firstly, a lot of trail centres run mountain bike courses.  These concentrate on control and skill sessions.  As well as this, holiday firms such as Saddleskeddadle run one day skill courses.

In addition to this, many bike clubs will run improvement coaching, although this is tailored to racing.  

To find out what is happening locally, go to your local bike shop.

However, I would recommend joining a club.  In this manner you can learn by riding with riders who are more skilled than you and who will have plenty of tips and advice.

Ulitmately, you can not beat just getting your leg over (The bike) and going for a peddle.

Luck

Answer 4

Confidence comes with practice.

If you not confident on the roads then go to a park or to a forest with cycle tracks and practice.

You will soon improve you balancing and bike control

I dont think you need to pay somebody to teach you, unless you are trying off road mountain biking

PS Always wear a bike helmet.