What is so special about road cycling?

Why should you start road cycling, and what’s important when you’re just starting out? You might find the answer in this article.

You probably know the feeling—you’ve wanted to try something for years, but there’s always a catch. Some people wonder whether they’d even enjoy it in the long run. For others, finances might be the issue, or perhaps it’s the roads and traffic, the strange looks from others, or the question of why we squeeze ourselves into lycra in the first place.

Is it even worth it?

Of course it is! So, this article will be more of a motivational and philosophical piece, with a few (hopefully) useful tips along the way.

What will motivate you?

I’ll approach this article from a somewhat personal perspective, though I’m no guru. One thing generally holds true: without motivation, any goal becomes much harder to achieve.

Of course, motivation is different for everyone—losing weight, building fitness, having fun, discovering new places, meeting new people, or any number of reasons we can chat about over a beer in the evening. 🙂

What’s important, however, is to stay connected to your motivation and remind yourself of it from time to time. Or find a new one. Over time, you might even reach a stage where you want to ride your bike for no particular reason at all—it will simply draw you to it. So, wait... is a bike actually a drug?

Manage your expectations: An expensive bike won’t make you a star

Once we have our motivation, we can start setting goals. But it’s important that those goals are realistic and achievable at first, and above all, that we remain patient. Nobody loses 20 kg in two months, and nobody starts riding 200 km routes after just a few rides on a road bike.

Unfortunately, today’s performance-driven culture—more kilometres, more Strava kudos—probably works against us here.

However, it’s also possible to have unrealistic expectations of your bike, and this applies not only to beginners but to some experienced cyclists as well. I still fondly remember buying my first used bike and regularly being dropped by riders on road bikes that cost half as much (!).

Sure, a lighter or more aerodynamic frame might save a few seconds, but ultimately, it always comes down to the same thing—riding, riding, and more riding. No amount of carbon can replace consistent training.

A clearer mind and a stronger character

One of the great things about cycling is that I often find myself... well, I can’t even say I’m alone with my thoughts. 🙂 Sometimes I simply “wake up” while pedalling, only to realise I’ve been thinking about something completely different the whole time. When I return home, I may be physically exhausted, but my mind feels completely clear and refreshed.

On the other hand, group riding is deeply ingrained in road cycling. Riding in a group with friends, sharing the draft, creates countless memorable and amusing moments.

Cycling also has a profound effect on mental resilience. Every climb, every headwind, sore legs, and long hours in the saddle help build determination and willpower. Otherwise, any sane person would probably turn around and head home at the first obstacle.

The physical benefits are, of course, widely recognised as well. Here too, everyone will find their own motivation. For me personally, it’s mainly the effect on my metabolism. It’s the kind of thing that could inspire a classic tabloid headline: “Women hate him—he eats a ton and never gains weight!” 🙂

Cars—the enemy of road cyclists?

Let’s try looking at it from a different perspective. Gravel riders and mountain bikers often argue that there’s more peace and quiet in the woods and fields than on the roads. That’s certainly true.

On the other hand, there are plenty of beautiful paved roads that are inaccessible to cars or see very little traffic. Avoid major roads, explore smaller backroads, and you’ll immediately feel safer.

Riding on asphalt has several other advantages as well. Push a little harder on the pedals, and suddenly you’re “flying” along at 40 km/h on flat terrain. Higher speeds naturally mean covering more distance in the same amount of time compared to, for example, MTB or gravel riding.

In stock > 2 pcs

Garmin Varia™ RTL 515 Radar

149 €

In stock > 2 pcs

-16% Bryton Rider S510E cycle computer

209.95 € -16% RRP 249 €

In stock > 2 pairs

UDOG TENSIONE cycling shoes, black

79.99 € RRP 109 €

In stock > 2 pcs

ASSOS Mille GT C2 shorts, black series

149 €

And fortunately, road cycling is less affected by the weather. Even several days after rainfall, I often hesitate about heading into the woods... mostly because I don’t feel like washing my bike afterward. This also means longer intervals between servicing. And in most cases, even a beginner can handle the basic maintenance.

My two cents

I’ve always been more of an adventurer than someone focused on performance numbers or average speeds. What mattered most to me was coming home with great experiences. In the end, everyone can choose their own path.