Figure 35
Fender
A light reflector prism that falls off or
a branch that bounces up from the
road could easily get stuck between
the wheel and the front fender,
which would suddenly block the
wheel. To prevent this, fenders are
attached not with screws, but with a
safety clip that releases the fender in case of danger, which may
help avert an accident. In most cases the safety clip can be
reattached without any damage.
Faulty safety clips or fenders must always be replaced!
Accessories and other equipment
You can increase the enjoyment value and safety of your bicycle
with several accessories.
The proper cycling helmet
A cycling helmet must always be part of the basic equipment of the
bicycle. A good helmet should be sturdy but not too tight. When
choosing a helmet, make sure to observe valid regulations. Another
important aspect of the helmet is that its lock should be simple to
use and it should fit you well. Even the best helmet will not protect
you if it does not hold correctly after a fall and moves on your head.
Never cycle without wearing a helmet, not even for a short
ride!
Cycling gloves and clipless pedals
The sole of a cycling shoe should ideally be sufficiently rigid to offer
adequate support for the foot. The heel of the shoe must not be too
wide, otherwise it may obstruct a comfortable foot position if it touches
the chain stay while pedalling. If the foot is positioned slightly tilted on
the pedal to avoid this, it could lead to knee pain. Pedals to which the
shoe can be attached with a simply detachable bind offer an invaluably
practical solution. The bind ensures that the foot stays on the pedal
when pedalling fast or riding over rough terrain. In addition, the foot
that is situated further back can exert a pulling force while pedalling,
which increases the efficiency of pedalling. One solution is the use of
the so-called toe-clip pedals, whose front contains a buckle. Here, the
foot is secured with a strap. To ensure the free movement of the foot it
is vital that the tightness of the strap is adjusted correctly.
Clipless pedals provide a far more modern and safer solution (Figure
60
, Page 15/1). Here, similarly to ski bindings, the bind is provided by
using a special shoe. The sole of the shoe contains an integrated
metal cleat. Getting on the pedal is very easy. All you have to do is
step on the pedal and start pedalling – you will hear a click when the
cleat engages correctly. To undo the bind, simply turn the shoe
sideways. Practice getting on and off the bicycle several times!
Proper clothing
If you would like to sit comfortably during longer trips, as well, we
definitely recommend you to wear cycling shorts or trousers. The rear
of these tight trousers contains a special, padded lining. Since one
sweats while cycling, it is advisable to wear modern T-shirts/tops made
of synthetic materials. The fibres of these materials do not absorb
moisture, but conduct it to the outer surface of the top, thus preventing
wind chill.
Never cycle wearing wide-legged trousers, because they could
get stuck in the chain or spokes. To ensure proper safety, use
clips or bands to secure your trouser legs!
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ENGLISH
