SALT LAKE CITY — Getting on your first road bike can be one of the scarier experiences of your life.

Maybe that is a little dramatic, but it sure is an experience that can be terrifying without any previous experience. Especially with the thought of maneuvering through city traffic, it can be a intimidating to invest in road cycling as a means of commuting. However, road cycling doesn’t necessarily have to be something to avoid. With the proper tools and by exercising bike safety, Utah can be more bike commuter friendly than you’d think.

The bike

The most important thing to remember when buying your bike is to make sure the bike fits you properly. Having the best bike in the world isn’t going to do any good without having the proper fit. If you’re looking for a bike to simply get to work, school or around the city, investing in a bike doesn’t mean you’re expected to pay the price. Yes, you can find a great bike at your local shop for a brand new “vehicle,” but remember that it is normal to take a couple of falls when getting on your first bike. There are many resources available to find a used bike by looking at sites like Craigslist, KSL classifieds and many other used bike stores.

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The helmet

When purchasing the right helmet, having one in the first place is key. Always wear a helmet when cycling. One that fits tight around your head and is lightweight is ideal. Most biking helmets are durable for protection and do not require too much research to find the right one for you.

The lights

A crucial part of road cycling is to make yourself as visible as possible to drivers. Having lights that can be seen miles away can prevent some major accidents. There are also options for lights around your tires as well, but always having front and backlights is a must for biking.

The lock

Now that you’ve gotten your bike ready to go, protecting your bike is an important aspect of ownership. Make sure that a bike lock extends through the frame and at least through the front tire. A U-lock can usually withstand bolt cutters and is one of the more popular options. Avoid locks that are made with cables because they break easily.

Reflective gear

Before sunrise or after sunset, it’s important to wear reflective gear as a way to make drivers aware of your location. Along with following regular traffic rules at all times, it is important to wear bright colors and a reflective vest/pants during the night.

With the recommendations above, starting a path to road cycling can be a little easier and more fun. The proper tools, in combination with following the safety tips above, will help bikers commute safely and efficiently through the roads in Utah.

Jessica Kaing is a student at the University of Utah and a social media intern for ksl.com. Email her at socialintern@deseretdigital.com.

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