By Critical Mass
•
July 22, 2025
Cycling offers so many benefits for adults—and it’s never too late to start riding. Here’s exactly how to get started. 1. Gear Up: Bike, Fit & Safety Choose the right bike : Make sure your bike fits—stand over it and ensure you can comfortably reach handlebars and brakes. Adjust it : Lower the seat so your feet touch the ground initially . Prioritize safety : Always wear a proper-fitting helmet, gloves, and reflective gear, especially in Nairobi's morning or evening traffic. 2. Find a Learning Community in Nairobi Consider these reputable local instructors and programs: Bike it or Hike It : Offers beginner sessions for adults—3 to 5 session courses, group rides, and family-friendly routes. They’ll even come to your location for training. Contact: 0726 729 737 . Nairobi Bike School : Structured lessons, equipment provided. Contact: 0738 196 843 . Cycling Accessories & Parts (CAP) : Lessons + rentals + gear advice. Budget ~KSh 1,800/session and bike hire ~KSh1 500 if you just want to refresh. Direct contact through 0798154123 or https://www.facebook.com/cyclingaccessoriesandparts/ Bike Park Kenya : Hands-on mountain biking in Tigoni—perfect to learn in a safe off-road environment . Critical Mass Nairobi : Social group rides monthly—great for real-life traffic practice in a supportive crowd . 3. Learn the Fundamentals (Adapted from Bicycling’s 6βstep method): Mount/dismount practice : Lean bike lightly, brake, step on/off confidently. Braking drills : Walk next to the bike and practice even, gradual braking to build control . Balance & glide : Scoot with your feet, hoist feet up and glide—stay balanced for ~3 seconds before pedaling . Vision : Look forward—not down—to maintain line and stability . Pedal launch : Start with one foot at 2 o’clock on the pedal; push and bring the other foot onboard . 4. Practice on Safe, Scenic Routes Once basics are mastered, ride on gentle, low-traffic Nairobi routes: Karura Forest : 5–15 km loops through greenery, waterfalls, wildlife. Bikes available to rent .You can get a guide from Bike it or Hike it at Kes 1800 for 2 hours. Contact them through 0726 729 737 Nairobi Arboretum : Calm 3 km loops perfect for mastering turns in a park environment . Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary : 5–10 km mixed terrain trails, great for balancing on slight inclines . Karen & Langata routes : 20–30 km leisure rides through quiet neighborhoods and coffee country . Nairobi National Park perimeter : ~35 km for confident learners—high chance of wildlife sightings . 5. Join Events & Ride Sociably Group rides foster learning and motivation: Monthly Critical Mass tours —fun, communal city riding . Loop Gravel Series & family-friendly rides in Tigoni, Jubilee Race, and others—all beginner-inclusive . Cycling & beer tours around Karura for social riders who want to balance fun and fitness. 6. Stay Consistent & Build Skills Ride often : Aim for at least 2–3 rides weekly to improve balance, endurance, and confidence. Use training plans : Consider beginner-friendly plans like Bicycling’s 4–8 week base-building regimen for structure . Your trainer will give you a plan book if keen to master the skills. Maintain your bike : Regularly check brakes, gears, and tires. Shops like CAP, Probike Kenya, Spin Kings, Cycle World, Velokart offer maintenance and tuning . Have a mechanic from 0798154123 or https://www.facebook.com/cyclingaccessoriesandparts/ check your bike on site or off site. 7. Progress at Your Pace Start slow—fresh air, gentle paths, safe instruction. Advance gradually—longer rides, light hills, group rides. Celebrate milestones—first glide, first solo loop, first organized ride. Stay patient—remember, adult learners sometimes fall, but practice and encouragement go a long way . Final Thoughts Learning to cycle in Nairobi is not just about acquiring a skill—it’s an entry into a vibrant, supportive community and eco-friendly lifestyle. Gear up, start small, find local mentors, and choose safe, enjoyable routes. Soon, you'll be gliding confidently through Karura Forest, navigating city streets with ease, and joining group rides like a pro. Happy pedaling! π΄βοΈπΏ