Cycling is great fun, but don't forget that there can be all sorts of risks lurking during summer trips that can spoil the experience of a great ride.
So what should you look out for when riding in the summer months, especially if you have children with you?
What to look out for when cycling in summer?
Summer is the best time of the year, and it literally beckons you to cycle not only around the countryside, but also on longer routes. Cycling is great fun, but don't forget that there can be all sorts of risks lurking during summer trips that can spoil the experience of a great ride.
So what should you look out for when riding in the summer months, especially if you have children with you?
Overheating and dehydration
In the summer, especially if it's really hot, it's essential to drink enough and protect yourself from direct sunlight. Think about this also when cycling. If temperatures are in the 30s, always choose routes that don't take you on hot roads. You can ride in a valley following a river, in the woods or go for a swim on your bike.
Make sure your child drinks enough. During physical activity, fluid intake must be significantly higher than at rest. If you are going on a shorter cycle trip, set off early in the morning when it is still cool. As the day progresses, and especially in the evening, the ground is hottest. After the ride, you can treat your children to a children's ion drink or water sweetened with glucoper to give them a boost of energy. Always carry a spare water bottle with you and refill it at appropriate points along the way.
Replenish your energy
Take more frequent breaks during summer bike rides. Always look for a shady spot to rest, but avoid areas where the wind may blow too much. Even in the summer, you can get winded in a sweaty jersey.
Replenish your energy with suitable foods and drinks. Juicy fruit, a variety of energy bars with muesli, nuts or dried fruit, energy gels and cool water are ideal. Traditional sweets (candy, chocolate, lollipops), which can melt at high temperatures, and sugary drinks, which do not quench thirst, are definitely not suitable.
Bring a snack with you, it is best to store it in a thermo bag. Even so, avoid hams, sandwiches and baguettes with mayonnaise and other foods susceptible to temperature change. They could spoil quickly.
Watch out for the sun
Don't forget to protect yourself from the sun's rays when cycling. Of course, you should wear sunscreen (at least factor 50), sunglasses and a scarf or cap for when you take a break from your helmet. It is ideal to plan your break at the time when the sun is at its hottest, approximately 12pm to 3pm.
Remember also that the road temperature is much higher than the surrounding landscape temperature. The hot asphalt surface can even cause burns on hot summer days.
Air quality
Be aware of air quality too. Certain areas can experience increased air pollution, especially in summer - especially in urban areas. So keep this factor in mind when planning your cycling route and plan trips in areas with better air quality.
Wherever you decide to go in the summer, remember that more cyclists than ever are generally out on their bikes in the summer. So be careful not only on cycle paths, but also on the roads. Always obey traffic laws, ride at a safe speed and keep a safe distance. Remember that some cycle paths are also for pedestrians, so be considerate not only to yourself but also to others.
