[orAround the world by bike in 4 seconds!] Starting and stopping a bicycle are such fundamental operations - after learning to balance - that it's surprising that they are not taught routinely. Here, Theresa James, aged 13, demonstrates the preferred technique for starting and stopping.
STARTING
NOTE: Whichever pedal is the one used to start is referred to as the "Power pedal." Keep the brake(s) applied until you're ready to start.
Step 1. Lift the Power pedal to the 2 o'clock start position. (In the absence of toe-clips, this must be done by placing the foot under the Power pedal to lift it to the start position.)
Step 2. Press down firmly on the Power pedal to start, at the same time lifting yourself up onto the saddle.
Step 3. Press down on the non-power pedal and continue pedaling.
Step 4. As you speed up, change to progressively higher gears by using the rear derailleur to move the chain from the large rear sprocket to smaller sprockets.
Note: For a faster start, e.g. if starting off to cross an intersection from a stop light, keep pedaling without immediately sitting on the saddle.
STOPPING
Step 1. Change down to low gear by using the rear derailleur to move the chain to the largest rear sprocket. (If you're going to be starting on an incline, consider also moving the chain to a smaller chainring using the front derailleur.)
Step 2. Stop pedaling, with the Power pedal in the 6 o'clock position.
Step 3. Start braking to slow down, using both front and back brakes together, or just the front brake if braking gently.
Step 4. Just before braking to a stop, swing yourself off the saddle, supporting your weight on your Power pedal, and place the other foot on the ground to stop from falling.
Step 5. Raise the Power pedal to the 2 o'clock position ready to start again.
If you have any questions, or suggestions for improving this page, please e-mail me.
Please feel free to use or distribute this page provided attribution is made to:
Martin Pion, Conservion - Think Bicycling!