How to start cycling: find the best beginner bike and gear for you

A human on a bicycle is the planet's most energy-efficient mover – more so than fish in the sea or birds in the sky and don’t get us started on cars.  

But there’s far more to cycling than efficiency. Modern bikes are built to tackle any terrain, soar over jumps and reach incredible speeds over immense distance and thanks to the power of e-bikes, cycling can replace many of our journeys by car too. And the best part? It’s seriously fun.  

But with all kinds of bikes and gear designed for different things, where do you start? Whether you’re curious about the benefits of cycling, exploring its many disciplines, or looking for your perfect first bike, this guide will help you roll into the world of cycling with confidence. 

As a lifestyle choice or a sport, cycling offers an accessible, low-impact way to boost your fitness, save money, and enjoy the outdoors with friends. It’s a simple activity with huge rewards: 

• Physical health: Improves cardiovascular fitness, builds muscle strength, and burns calories effectively 
• Mental wellbeing: Reduces stress, boosts mood through endorphin release, and provides valuable outdoor time 
• Environmental impact: Zero emissions transportation that reduces your carbon footprint 
• Cost savings: Eliminates fuel costs, parking fees, and reduces vehicle expenses 
• Social opportunities: Connects you with local cycling communities and group rides 

But before any of that, the world of cycling can feel intimidating or even a bit risky. The good news is that riding a bike means something different to everyone and exactly where, how far and how fast you ride, that’s up to you. The key is knowing how to start cycling safely, building confidence and having fun along the way. 

To get your pedals turning, getting set up with the right gear is crucial. It’s got to be comfortable to use and designed to match where and how you intend to ride. If you’re just starting out, price is also likely to be a key factor. Simple enough, but there are a few things to consider. First of all, what’s the best type of bike for you?

Light, nimble and designed to roll fast on smooth surfaces, road bikes are the perfect choice if you’re interested in cycling as sport and want to stick to the tarmac. Engineered for speed, with narrow tyres, an aerodynamic position and their characteristic drop handlebars however, they can take some getting used to. Entry-level road bikes are designed to be more forgiving, inspiring confidence on those first rides.

With its focus on simple, practical, lasting performance, the Endurace AllRoad, opens up all kinds of cycling to all levels of rider. The perfect fit whether it’s your first drop bar bike or your next step into regular riding.

With wide bars, thick tyres and suspension forks, mountain biking is all about fun, especially when you’re starting out off-road. While there are many styles designed for different terrain, the perfect beginner mountain bike should be reliable, comfortable, and give you plenty of control as you tackle your first off-road trails. 

For fun and freedom everywhere, the Grand Canyon is built for control and comfort on the wildest terrain, from Alpine lines to the rough city streets. With rider centred geometry from Young Hero models and 3XS-XL, it’s your perfect gateway to mountain biking. 

The ultimate all-rounder, gravel bikes are fast enough for the tarmac, and sturdy enough for the trails. Frame materials, geometry and tyre clearance will all come into the equation but the perfect gravel bike for beginners should inspire you to explore. 

From rocky trails to overnight bike packing trips, with up to 50mm tyre clearance and mounting points for almost anything, the Grizl 5 is a rugged, capable, durable gravel adventure bike at an unbeatable price.

Designed to handle the rhythms of urban life, city bikes often come with practical features such as racks, mudguards, and extra-durable tyres. Whether it’s your daily commute, a trip to the shops, or a weekend spin through the park, a well-equipped city bike makes everyday riding simple and enjoyable. 

Designed for minimal maintenance with an internal geared hub and belt, equipped with fenders, frame lock, lights, kickstand and is compatible with both a front rack and trailer, the Citylite is the perfect bike for comfortable everyday urban riding. 

Whatever your chosen discipline, the best bike for you is one that fits properly, you feel good on and excited to ride. 

Now you’ve got the bike sorted, what other cycling gear do you need to get out there? 

A good quality helmet is the only real essential piece of cycling safety equipment, and at Canyon we believe something no ride should be without. But even the best bike helmet is worthless if it doesn’t fit properly – here’s a few things to check: 

• It sits level on your head, about two finger-widths above eyebrows 
• Side straps form a ‘Y’ shape around your ears 
• Chin strap is snug but comfortable, allowing one finger underneath 
• Retention dial is fine-tuned so the helmet doesn't rock forward or backward 

Other key safety items to consider include front and rear lights and reflective clothing for increased visibility and a bell, required in many areas for alerting pedestrians. 

You don’t need to be head-to-toe in specialist gear to start cycling, but these simple items will make your experience more comfortable. 

• Moisture-wicking fabrics: Keep you dry 
• Padded shorts: Reduce saddle discomfort 
• Proper footwear: Athletic cycling shoes with good grip 

As you get more into the sport, you might look to dedicated cycling clothing, designed for your chosen cycling discipline such as clip-in shoes, aerodynamic lycra, or jerseys with handy rear pockets for carrying the essentials, but to start off you just need to comfortable and prepared for the weather. 

Minor mechanical issues are an inevitability in cycling, so having a few basic tools and knowing how to use them is essential. A simple toolkit can be a real lifesaver if something goes wrong on the road or trail. Basic essentials to carry on every ride include: 

• Multi-tool: For quick adjustments and minor repairs 
• Spare tube / patch kit and tyre levers: For fixing punctures on the go. 
• Pump: To keep your tires properly inflated. 
• Water bottle and cage: To stay hydrated during your rides. 
• Phone with maps: For navigation and emergency communication.

Learning a few basic repair skills not only keeps you rolling but also builds confidence and self-reliance, making sure a small hiccup doesn’t turn into a long walk home. For more guidance, check out our bike maintenance checklist to keep your ride in top condition.

ycling safety starts with building confidence and control. Focus on mastering these fundamental skills to learn to handle your bike instinctively.

Lower gears make pedalling easier when starting off or climbing hills, while higher gears are best for maintaining and building speed on the flat. Anticipate terrain changes and shift gears early, continuing to pedal as you do, looking ahead to stay balanced, straight, and confident.

Practice setting off and stopping in open space, braking gently and pedalling steadily. Use both brakes evenly, with slightly more pressure on the rear. Slow down before the corner and avoid sudden braking through the turn. Look through the corner to where you want to go, keeping your outside pedal down with weight for grip and stability.

On the road, cyclists must follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles. Move in the same direction as traffic, obey lights and stop signs and use clear hand signals to show your intentions. Position yourself consistently in the lane a safe distance from the curb to avoid hazards, but don’t hesitate to take space in the lane to ensure you’re visible and protected.

With a little practice, these skills will soon feel natural and make your rides smoother and safer.

Keeping fit is a fantastic way to improve your overall quality of life and it’s a great side effect of spending time on the bike too, with each pedal stroke building strength and endurance.

Building cycling fitness is all about enjoying the journey, rather chasing instant results. Start with short easy rides and stay consistent, gradually increasing ride time and intensity. By focusing on enjoyment, you’ll build lasting habits and a positive, sustainable relationship with the bike.

If improving your fitness is one of your main motivations for picking up cycling, a structured weekly plan can make a big difference. Understanding when you’re most motivated to train and planning rides around that will help you stay consistent, while including different types of rides with varying lengths and intensity will help you build fitness effectively.

Riding is only one piece of the puzzle. Fuel your body with balanced nutrition, proper rest, and gentle movement like walking, stretching, or yoga to stay active and support recovery. Muscles grow during rest, so prioritise quality sleep and take at least one full rest day each week, more if your body needs it. 

By focusing on consistency and balance, resisting the urge to do too much too soon, you’ll build sustainable fitness that lasts. Listen to your body, be patient and enjoy the process and results will follow.  

For an extra boost of motivation, check out our guide on building strength for cyclists, where Canyon athletes share how they train, stay strong, and push their limits.  

One of the best things about recreational cycling is that it’s entirely yours to enjoy - you can ride at your own pace, explore your own routes, and set your own goals. But getting started, there are a few easy-to-make mistakes you can easily avoid.

Getting your bike set up correctly is one of the simplest ways to make cycling more comfortable, efficient, and safe and even the smallest adjustments can make a big difference. 

• Incorrect tyre pressure: Too low and you risk punctures or sluggish handling; too high and the ride feels harsh and less stable. Check they are inflated to the recommended pressure on the tyre’s sidewall. 
• Poorly adjusted brakes: Your brakes should engage smoothly and evenly without rubbing against the rims or discs. If they feel spongy or uneven, they may need adjustment or new pads. 
• Loose components: Before each ride, check your wheels, saddle, and handlebars are all secure - a minute here can prevent an accident later. 

If you’re unsure about setup, it’s worth finding a trusted local bike shop to give your bike a once-over. Learning some basic maintenance skills will help you keep the bike in good working order at home and help solve any issues on the road.

A bike that fits is essential for comfort, efficiency, and injury prevention. But everybody is different, a setup that suits one rider may not work for another, even at the same height. Pay attention to key contact points like saddle height, handlebars, and pedals and make small adjustments at a time. The tiniest tweaks can greatly affect how your bike feels and your comfort, and changes in one area often impact others.

For those who ride frequently or seriously, a professional bike fit can be a worthwhile investment, tailoring your position to your body’s proportions, flexibility, and goals to iron out discomfort, prevent strain, and boost performance. 

Hydration and nutrition can make or break a ride. You’ll never forget your first bonk – when your blood sugar levels plummet and every pedal feels impossible – it’s a rite of passage. 

Nutrition needs are personal; they’ll evolve with your fitness and as your habits as well as the seasons and conditions change. That said, there are a few key habits always worth following: 

• Always bring water: Staying hydrated is essential, even on shorter rides. Sip regularly rather than waiting until you feel thirsty. 
• Pre-ride fuel: Eat before longer rides - think a banana, a slice of toast with nut butter, or a small bowl of oatmeal. 
• Mid-ride fuel: Bring additional energy sources such as bars, gels, or dried fruit to maintain energy. 
• Post-ride nutrition: A combination of carbohydrates to replenish energy stores and protein to aid recovery. 

Experiment with different foods, drinks, and timing to find what works for you. Some riders thrive on gels or energy chews, others prefer real food like bananas or sandwiches. Similarly, water alone may be enough for shorter rides, while longer rides might need electrolyte drinks. By paying attention to your body, and finding a strategy that keeps you energised, you’ll realise you can probably go further than you think.

Alongside your bike, kit, and body, the route is just as important, shaping the type, distance and overall experience of each ride. And the possibilities are endless. Though it takes a little practice, learning how to create a good route will make every ride more rewarding and fun.

Biting off more than you can handle often leads to frustration or even injury, so start with easy, low-stress routes. Bike paths are ideal since they’re separated from traffic and usually flat, while quiet residential streets offer low traffic and slower speeds. Parks and waterfronts provide scenic, well-maintained paths with great access to nature. Beginning with these manageable routes allows you to focus on technique, comfort, and enjoyment, building a solid foundation for more challenging rides later on.

Adding variety and challenge to your routes will help keep you motivated and improve your cycling ability, but knowing where to start can be tricky. Fortunately, several resources make finding and creating new routes much easier: online apps like Strava, Komoot, and Ride with GPS are excellent for planning rides; bike shops often provide local route maps and group ride details; and city cycling websites often offer official bike route maps. As you gain confidence, try combining different route elements to create longer, more engaging rides that challenge various aspects of your cycling.

Joining group rides or cycling clubs is a great way to make friends, socialise, and learn from more experienced riders. You’ll discover new routes, stay motivated and accountable with your training, and develop your bike-handling skills in a supportive setting.

To find a local cycling club, check social media, ask at your local bike shop, or use online platforms like Link My Ride, which connect cyclists with nearby group rides and communities.

With a solid foundation, the cycling world is yours to explore, and there’s a few ways to keep progressing.

Monitoring key data points helps you measure improvement and stay motivated. Start by tracking distance to gradually increase your weekly mileage, and note your ride duration and average speed to see tangible progress over time. Learning to use heart-rate zones can fine-tune your training intensity, while power output can be a valuable metric for riders getting into more advanced cycling.

Strategic bike upgrades can enhance performance and in some cases help track these metrics. Tyres are the most effective upgrade for improved grip and ride quality and, when you’re ready, clipless pedals boost efficiency. Upgrades like more advanced wheels can deliver a major performance leap and a bike computer, heart-rate monitor or power meter will help track your progress. Always upgrade based on your specific goals – not the allure of new gear.

Each cycling discipline offers unique challenges and opportunities to hone your skills and the best bike riders have often mastered several, from power and endurance on the road to control and finesse on technical trails. Exploring all of cycling will keep you excited to ride, refine your bike-handling, and lead you to new terrain and challenges

Getting started, it can feel like a lot to take in, but at its core, cycling is refreshingly simple, built on movement, exploration, and freedom. Take your time, focus on what feels good, and allow confidence, fitness, and a genuine love for the sport develop naturally. 

Setting off on the right bike makes all the difference. Canyon’s German-engineered bikes are designed for performance, comfort, and reliability and our Bike Finder and Comparison tools make it easy to choose the perfect bike for you. 

One of the best things about cycling is its passionate community of riders, all of whom started exactly where you are now, and are always ready to share the road or trail. So here’s to the start of your riding adventure – we hope to see you out there.