It's New to Riding Week at Cycling Weekly: Here's what to expect
This week, we're celebrating new riders with a host of tips, tricks and inspirational stories to help power those early pedal strokes

Are you a new cyclist? Or, the friend of someone who is? If so, then the articles we're publishing on Cycling Weekly this week are tailored to you!
We'll be sharing tips and inspiration to help new riders get off to a positive start all week. Having made a career of writing about cycling, most of our journalists have been turning the pedals for a long time - but - we were all beginners once, and we remember exactly how bewildering the world of bicycles can be for a new entrant.
So - what can you expect to read about this week?
New to Riding features
On Monday, Sam Jones will be extolling the virtues of... punctures! We know, it sounds odd, but bear with him, he's got some strong arguments about the deflating moments that can provide the perfect opportunity to build community and grow in confidence.
Tuesday's serving comes from Isobel Duxfield, who wants you to know that good cycling clubs are not as intimidating as they may appear from the outside. You never know, she may even convince you to give a group ride a go.
On Wednesday, Sam is back with lessons from his decade long commuting experience - gems include having a spare pair of pants as well as socks in that desk draw stash.
Former Cycling Weekly Fitness Editor Hannah Reynolds is on it with the health benefits of cycling - she'll look at both the weight loss potential of commuting via e-bike vs walking (Thursday), and, the longevity bonus our sport offers those who partake (Friday).
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New to Riding hints, tips and advice
Our 1891 heritage means that Cycling Weekly is bursting with over 100-years of cycling know-how. But, things change, cycling progresses, technology evolves - so - our advice pages need constant updating to keep them relevant and useful.
This week, we'll be updating our guides to:
- The Cycle Scheme, and how it works
- Fixing a puncture
- Cleaning your bike
- Setting your handlebar height
- Cycling safely on the road (cycling as transport is statistically safer than walking!)
- Learning to ride as an adult
- Getting fit as a beginner cyclist
You'll also find tons of buying advice on our site, that's perfect for helping beginners get geared up and ready to ride, check out the best cycling short for men, best cycling shorts for women and best cycling jerseys to get you started. If a bike is still on your list, try the best road bikes, best e-bikes, best hybrid bikes and best gravel bikes.
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Michelle Arthurs-Brennan the Editor of Cycling Weekly website. An NCTJ qualified traditional journalist by trade, Michelle began her career working for local newspapers. She's worked within the cycling industry since 2012, and joined the Cycling Weekly team in 2017, having previously been Editor at Total Women's Cycling. Prior to welcoming her daughter in 2022, Michelle raced on the road, track, and in time trials, and still rides as much as she can - albeit a fair proportion indoors, for now.
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Why I learned to stop worrying and love the puncture
Sam Jones has fostered a faint appreciation for punctures since his first flat, back in the year 2000
By Sam Jones Published
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Cycling safety: It is safe to cycle on the road, but here’s how to stay even safer and feel confident when cycling
Cycling is a very safe activity, but feeling confident with the best practise for cycling safely can be empowering for getting out and turning the pedals.
By Cat Glowinski Published