The days are long, the temperature is getting warmer and the desire to travel on your own bike becomes irresistible: the most awaited season has finally arrived. During the hottest months of the year, some people wonder if they should avoid moving around by bike, frightened by possible heat strokes: here are all our tips for cycling in the summer with the utmost safety!

Heat alarm? Our tips for summer cycling

Contrary to what many think, by adopting small measures, any cyclist can survive the high summer temperatures, continuing to travel on their beloved bicycle. Obviously, as in all situations, it is important to approach the pros and cons of this season in a conscious way, avoiding taking risks.

Here are our tips for summer cycling with maximum pleasure:

Plan time and destination

1. For any sports activity carried out during the summer, it is absolutely important to avoid the central hours of the day and take advantage of early morning or late afternoon. The ideal time is in fact between 6.30 and 9.30 in the morning and between 18.30 and 21.30. Even choosing your route should not be random: if you cannot cycle near the sea or a lake, so as to cool off if necessary, it is still better to favor places in the woods and in shaded areas.

Protect yourself from the sun

Even while avoiding the hottest times of the day, you should never forget to apply a high sun protection (50+ SPF) all over the body, even in parts covered by clothes. If the heat becomes unbearable, it is essential to stop and rest in the shade to avoid dangerous heat strokes and above all try to lower your body temperature by wetting yourself at a fountain. If necessary, wetting the clothes can also provide renewed well-being.

Hydrate and eat correctly

Before facing a workout or a bike trip in the heat, it is essential to have a correct hydration by choosing fresh products, such as fruits and vegetables, rich in precious mineral salts since in summer they are lost in large quantities with perspiration. In particular, magnesium and potassium are essential in summer: always carry a banana with you, it is considered the cyclist's fruit par excellence. Finally, it is essential to fight dehydration: for this reason we recommend you to always bring at least two bottles of fresh water and mineral salts to dissolve.

Choose the right clothing

Especially in summer, it is essential to wear technical garments, that are light and breathable. If you have doubts about what to wear or bring with you, maybe our infographic on what to bring for a bike trip could be useful. In addition, you should avoid the color black, while lighter and cooler colors like blue and green are preferred. Finally, never forget under the helmet, a cap or a bandana, and the indispensable sunglasses.

Take it easy

Finally, among the tips for summer cycling, the need to keep a cool head cannot be missing. In case of particularly high temperatures, one should never feel guilty or inadequate if one decides to shorten their journey or make numerous stops in the shade. Riding your own bike should be a pleasure: take it easy in this case is the most suitable motto!

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