Preparing for a long bike ride involves several important steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are five things you should do before embarking on a bike long ride:

1. Plan Your Route: Before setting off, plan your route carefully. Consider the distance, terrain, and road conditions. Research the best cycling routes, scenic spots, rest areas, and potential challenges along the way. Knowing your route will help you estimate the time required and ensure you have the necessary resources, such as water and food stops.
2. Check and Maintain Your Bike: Perform a thorough bike check to ensure it’s in optimal condition. Inspect the tires, brakes, gears, and chains for any signs of wear or damage. Make sure everything is properly lubricated and adjusted. If needed, take your bike to a local bike shop for a professional tune-up or repair.
3. Pack Essential Gear: Prepare and pack the necessary gear and equipment for your ride. This includes a helmet, cycling gloves, padded shorts, appropriate clothing for the weather, cycling shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Carry a repair kit with spare inner tubes, a pump, tire levers, and basic tools in case of any mechanical issues. Additionally, bring plenty of water, energy snacks, and a first aid kit.
4. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Long rides can be physically demanding, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated and nourished throughout. Start by hydrating well the day before your ride. On the day of the ride, carry enough water or electrolyte drinks to keep you hydrated. Pack energy-rich snacks like granola bars, fruits, or energy gels to fuel your body during the ride. Make sure to eat balanced meals before and after the ride as well.
5. Warm-Up and Stretch: Before starting your ride, warm up your muscles and perform some stretching exercises. This helps prevent injuries and prepares your body for physical exertion. Focus on stretching your legs, back, and shoulders. You can also do some light cycling or brisk walking as part of your warm-up routine.

Remember, safety should always be a priority. Wear bright and reflective clothing, obey traffic laws, and use proper hand signals when turning or stopping. It’s also recommended to inform someone about your route and the estimated time of return, especially if you’re riding alone. Enjoy your ride and have a great adventure!

This current pandemic has made a great impact on the world, in particular, in the socializing of people to consider the prevention of the spread of COVID19. Mass gatherings have been prohibited as well as the use of public transportation is limited and is where social distancing should be practiced. One variable means of transportation that has been the topic in the meetings and discussions of the concerned agencies is the use of bicycles.

This adaptation to the ‘new normal’ however, may require infrastructure support as most of the cities in the country are leaned more on motorized transportation. The good thing here in Iloilo City is that biking has been in support and being promoted by the local government. There are a few annual events such as Iloilo Bike Festival in the goal to be the most bike-friendly city in the country. This would be highly reinforced now that it is considered as part of the new normal mode of transportation.

The question here is how the LGU will plan out its implementation, in terms of infrastructure, and policy formulation. Currently, only a few streets in the city proper area had been installed with bike lanes to be utilized by the biking public and also the bike lane along Diversion Road. I have yet to see more bicycle racks for parking and probably public shower rooms provided by their offices.

As for me, I have yet to decide if I will finally purchase a bike to use to travel to work as I still think most roads here have no bike lanes and the motorist are not yet adapted to share the road with the bikers. We shall see, however, once this new normal as a result of this pandemic can be implemented on a full scale.

Related article:
https://www.dutchcycling.nl/en/news/392-thinkbike-workhop-in-iloilo-city-philippines