Eight New Year’s Resolutions for Cyclists

With the first days of 2024 here and to-do lists awaiting tasks, the promise of epic rides, virgin terrain, and personal bests can be both intoxicating and intimidating (in a good way). To help you tackle the year — and perhaps an as-yet unconquered local climb — here are some cycling resolutions for a 2024 that’s filled with the cycling you want to do:

1. Make it Fun — Even if you earn your living in the sport, cycling should be, at the end of the day, about having fun. For most people, that’s why they first learned to ride a bike, isn’t it?. Don’t ever forget this “fun” aspect or take it too seriously! Experiment with different riding styles, try new routes, and don’t be afraid to get a little silly. Sing along to your favorite tunes, pedal with a friend, or simply enjoy the feeling of the wind in your hair. Remember, the best rides are the ones that leave you with a smile on your face, even if your legs the next day are really sore.
2. Ride More, Stress Less — Consider ditching the mileage obsession (and junk miles) and focus on mindful pedaling. Prioritize quality over quantity, savoring the scenery and the wind in your hair. Explore new routes, join a casual group ride, or simply pedal to your local coffee shop for a pastry and a playlist. Remember, cycling is about joy, not just distance.
3. Befriend Your Bike — A regularly maintained bike ensures a smoother and safer riding experience. You’ll likely flat less, brake more confidently and shift more smoothly. Make a resolution for 2024 to regularly service your bicycle and raise your bike wrenching skills. If you’re a beginner, this could mean learning basic maintenance like fixing a flat tire or adjusting gears. If you’re more experienced, how about learning how to true wheels or even build your next wheelset?
4. Improve Your Ride Fueling — Instead of sugary gels and processed bars, focus on whole, natural foods that deliver sustained energy rather than ephemeral spikes. Pack a banana and peanut butter sandwich for longer rides, or grab a handful of trail mix for a quick refuel. Experiment with different options to find what works best for your body and taste buds. Remember, hydration is key too! Invest in reusable, and easy-to-clean water bottles to hydrate throughout the day, whether you’re riding or not.
5. Embrace the Elements — Rain or shine, hot or cold, there’s no bad weather for cycling — just inappropriate gear. Invest in a good rain jacket and some warm layers for winter rides. Invest in SPF-rated gear and sunscreen for sunny days. Embrace the challenge of riding in different conditions, and you’ll be rewarded with a newfound appreciation for your two-wheeled adventures. The bonus of riding in really strong rain is you’ll end the ride feeling as if your soul was scrubbed.
6. Share the Love — Spread the joy of cycling! Encourage friends and family to join you on rides, or volunteer at a local cycling organization (charity or learn to ride initiative for example). Organize a group bike camping trip, or simply share your cycling stories and photos on social media. Gift old bikes in your garage to your community. Inspiring others is a great way to stay motivated and build a stronger cycling community.
7. Celebrate Small Victories — Celebrate every achievement, big or small; don’t wait for the big race or the epic climb to pat yourself on the back. Conquered that hill you used to dread? High five! Rode to work for the first time? Cheers! Recognizing progress, no matter how incremental, will keep you motivated and make the journey even more enjoyable. (Fitness apps like Garmin and Apple are great examples of how micro rewards help motivate).
8. Integrate Cross-Training — Cycling is an excellent cardiovascular exercise, but consider incorporating cross-training activities to add variety, reduce injury risk and enhance overall fitness. Supplemental and complementary activities like yoga, strength and circuit training, swimming and rucking can improve flexibility, strength, and balance, complementing your cycling regimen.

Voila, eight cycling resolutions to make 2024 a safe, sweaty and successful cycling year. Create the cycling life you want and ride your way. If you want to challenge the Strava leaderboards, go for it. If you want to ride your beach cruiser with flip flops to shop at Trader Joe’s, don’t think twice. If you want to buy a Brompton to try bike commuting because work-from-home has finally ended, don’t hesitate. (Consider buying second-hand on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace).

Get on your bike, get out there explore and have fun! Ideally, you join one of our cycling adventures in the Napa and Sonoma wine regions in 2024!