Back to basics

Sharpen up your skill set, from cornering to climbing, with these performance upgrades

• ROAD CYCLISTS NEED good fitness and mental steel, but the technical side of the sport is all too easily neglected. From bike-handling and braking technique to pedalling efficiency and group-riding etiquette, cyclists need to master a range of essential skills to get the most out of their rides. Perfecting these skills will make you a stronger, faster and more efficient cyclist, but it will also keep you safer on the roads and boost your confidence. Apply these seven tips to become a savvier, sharper and more skilful rider.

What the experts say...

How to boost your on-bike performance

01Pedal power 

• Cleats can be terrifying for new riders, but they actually enhance your safety by preventing your feet slipping off your pedals in wet conditions. Cleats also make it easier to 'push' and 'pull' your feet around the pedal rotation for enhanced efficiency. Shimano SPDSL, Speedplay and Look are popular road cleats, but make sure you buy the pedals to match. Just push your foot forward and down to clip in, and twist your heel out to release. "Beginners could practise clipping in and out while on the indoor turbo [or a grass park area if they don't have a turbo] before hitting the road," suggests cycling coach Jason Streather of PDQ Cycle Coaching (pdqcyclecoaching.co.uk). "And set your cleats to the loosest setting while learning," advises Streather.

02 Get in gear