Top 10 Tips for Women New to Biking
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Feel-good advice for your first rides (and beyond)
Starting something new?
It can be exciting… and a little overwhelming.
Especially when it comes to biking—where the gear, the lingo, and even the seats can feel intimidating.
But guess what?
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy cycling.
You just need the right mindset—and a few beginner-friendly tips to keep things comfy, safe, and fun.
Here are 10 things I wish someone told me when I started riding.
Let’s make your first few rides feel less “uhhh…” and more “heck yes, I’ve got this.”
1. Start Small—Really Small
You don’t need to conquer hills or ride for miles.
Try a 10-minute spin around the neighborhood.
It’s about building trust—in your bike, and in yourself.
Short rides still count.
They’re how you grow.
2. Your Seat Isn’t Supposed to Hurt
Seriously. If it’s uncomfortable, it’s not you—it’s the seat.
Look into:
– A wider, padded saddle
– A gel seat cover
– Padded bike shorts (life-changing, I promise)
Comfort is key if you want to keep riding.
3. Wear Whatever Makes You Feel Good
Nope, you don’t need tight bike jerseys.
Wear leggings, a loose tee, a windbreaker—whatever makes you feel confident and free to move.
Bonus tip: avoid seams in awkward places, and go for breathable fabrics.
4. Learn to Check Tire Pressure
Flat-ish tires make riding harder than it needs to be.
Use a floor pump with a pressure gauge (your tire sidewall will tell you the ideal PSI).
It takes two minutes—and saves your legs a ton of effort.
5. Bring Water, Always
Even short rides can leave you parched.
A simple water bottle and holder = total game-changer.
Hydrated rider = happy rider.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Walk the Bike
Need to cross a busy street? Feeling unsure on a hill?
Hop off and walk.
That’s smart, not shameful.
There’s no medal for pushing through fear. Ride when it feels right.
7. Use Your Gears—They’re There to Help
Switch to easier gears on hills or when starting from a stop.
Harder gears are for cruising on flats.
It’s not cheating—it’s smart cycling.
(Pro tip: practice shifting while riding on flat ground so it becomes second nature.)
8. Get a Helmet That Fits Right
It should sit level on your head—not tilted back or wobbling.
The straps should form a “V” around your ears and fit snugly under your chin.
If it’s too loose, it won’t protect you properly.
If it’s too tight, you’ll hate wearing it.
Find your Goldilocks fit.
9. Map Your Route Before You Go
Even if it’s just a loop around the block—know where you’re headed.
Apps like Komoot or Google Maps (bike mode!) are great for planning low-traffic, bike-friendly routes.
And yes, it’s 100% okay to ride the same easy loop until you feel ready to branch out.
10. Celebrate Every Ride
Seriously. Every single one.
You showed up. You moved your body. You did something for you.
There’s no “right” way to ride—only your way.
Keep showing up for that.
Final Thoughts
The best part about biking?
You don’t have to be fast, or fancy, or fearless.
You just have to begin.
Let these tips guide you through those first wobbly weeks—and trust that confidence will come with the miles.
You’ve got this. One ride at a time.
