How to Pedal on a Bike

Most beginning cyclists have their share of problems - like getting on and starting to pedal. So before hopping on your bike, let's review the basics, shall we?

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cleated Bicycle Shoes
• Padded Bicycle Shorts
• Bicycle Helmets
• Gel-cushioned Bicycle Saddles
• Mountain Bikes
• Children's Bicycles

1. Be sure not to wear loose clothing that could get caught in the chain.

2. Check your bike's condition: wheel alignment should be straight, the handlebars should be even, and the pedals should spin properly.

3. Make sure the bike is in a gear for flat, easy riding before you try to get on, so it won't be too difficult to get started.

4. Position the left pedal so it's roughly at the 2 o'clock position. This will enable you to power the bike forward as you take off.

5. Stand on the right side of the bike, hold both handlebars and lean the cycle slightly toward you.

6. Lift your left leg over the bike and place your left foot lightly on the left pedal.

7. Push the left pedal down from the 2 o'clock position and simultaneously lift up onto the bike's seat. Simultaneously, place your right foot on the right pedal.

8. Start pedaling until you're moving forward and safely balanced.

9. Reposition your feet comfortably on the pedals once you're on board. The balls (or fronts) of your feet should fit squarely on both pedals.

Tips & Warnings

• Mounting and dismounting a bike involves some complex movements. Don't be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right.
• Shift gears as needed. Downshift if it's difficult to pedal smoothly up a hill; shift up if you can't get power going downhill.
• Focus your energy on moving your feet (and the pedals) in circles, rather than up and down vertically.
• If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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[hasbara]

on 10/7/2006 kids start riding bicycles as early as 2 or 3 years of age with the bugabike, fantastic idea.

on 8/8/2006 If you have never ridden a bike before, start on a girls bike that has no gears. Position your right pedal at 10 o'clock. Straddle the bike and place your right foot on the right pedal. As you push down on the right pedal, lift your left to the left pedal. Slip your butt on the seat once you learn to balance the bike.
Make sure that you're not trying to pedal up an incline when starting out. Advance to a different bike as your confidence and balance grow.

on 12/16/2005 1. Stand on the left side of your bicycle.
2. Position the left pedal at 10:00 as on a clock.
3. Place your left foot onto the left pedal.
4. Push off on the ground 3 times with your right foot.
5. Once you have gained enough speed to do so, swing your right foot over the back of your bicycle seat and sit on the seat.

on 12/20/2005 Some riders get onto their bicycle by placing a foot onto a pedal, pushing off then as the bicycle is moving they swing their other foot over the back of the seat and place it onto the other pedal.

Another way one can mount their bicycle is by running along the side of the bicycle,and jumping onto it.