Cycling together is a surprisingly romantic way to bond with your partner. From biking to a park for a picnic, riding to the beach, or just cycling under the stars at night, biking together is a fantastic way to stay in shape and get to know your partner. Even if neither one of you has ever cycled before, you can still learn together.  Just remember to start off slow. You’re not Lance Armstrong, at least not yet anyway. So don’t rush into anything too intense right off the bat. Even if you’re in shape, cycling uses different muscles than you may be used to working. Allow yourself to progress gradually.  Now here’s what you need to get started.

1.    The bike. If you live in a city, you’ll want a road or hybrid bike. These bikes have thinner tires, (for less friction) and lighter frames making it easy to travel faster on roads. Mountain bikes on the other hand, have thicker tires made to withstand riding the rough terrain of the outdoors. No matter which one you choose, make sure to take your bike to a shop and make sure its fitted for you properly.

2.    A helmet. Don’t ever ride without a helmet, unless you think cracking your skull open on the pavement is a good idea. Many people wear their helmets too loosely, so make sure it fits your head properly. It can make all the difference if you get into an accident.

3.    A pump and repair kit. It may superfluous, but you never know when you’re going to need more air. You don’t want to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with a flat tire. A repair kit will also hold a spare inner tube, levers, and a patch kit in a small portable bag.

4.    Lights. Don’t think for a minute that it’s safe to ride at night without lights. Drivers can’t see cyclists at night, nor can people opening their car doors from parked cars. Get a white light for the front and a red one for the back and make sure to turn them on the moment it turns dark.