Tandje Hoger

Beginner cyclist? Welcome to Tandje Hoger!

Are you new to road cycling or do you have little experience cycling in a group? Then there can be quite a lot to take in. On this page, you will find the most important information to help you prepare for your first training.

What do you need?

For road cycling, you need more than just a road bike. Especially when training with Tandje Hoger, a helmet and a good basic kit are essential. You don't need to buy the most expensive bike or clothing straight away: having a complete basic kit is more important than spending your entire budget on your bike.

Essential for every training:

1. A road bike that is in good technical condition and properly adjusted for you
2. A cycling helmet; mandatory during all training sessions
3. One or more water bottles with enough water
4. Food; you really don't want to meet the dreaded "man with the hammer"!
5. Cycling shorts with a padded chamois
6. Cycling jersey
7. Spare inner tube, tyre levers and a bike pump
8. Phone

Nice to have:

1. Wind or rain jacket
2. Cycling gloves
3. Cycling glasses
4. Cycling socks
5. Cycling shoes and clipless pedals
6. Bike computer or sports watch

Tandje Hoger tip: Are you new to road cycling? Invest in a good basic kit first. You don't need to buy the most expensive bike, clothing or accessories straight away. With a reliable bike, a good helmet and the most important equipment for the road, you'll already be well prepared.

Your first road bike

You can of course borrow a road bike from Tandje Hoger first and see whether road cycling is for you. Once you've fallen completely in love with cycling, you'll probably want your own bike! A good bike doesn't have to be the most expensive one. But what should you look out for when buying your first road bike? Think about the right size, the bike's setup and what you need for training.

Check out the KNWU's tips for getting started with road cycling.

Tandje Hoger tip: Buying your first road bike and not sure what to choose? Feel free to ask an experienced member to have a look with you. Two pairs of eyes are better than one!

Maintaining your bike

A well-maintained bike is not only more enjoyable to ride, but is also important for your safety. You don't need to be a bike mechanic to keep your bike in good condition. There are a few things you can check and maintain yourself on a regular basis.

Before every training:

1. Check that your tyres are sufficiently inflated.
2. Check that your brakes work properly.
3. Check that your wheels and other components are securely fastened.
4. Check that nothing is loose or damaged.
5. Check that your gears are shifting properly.

Regular maintenance:

1. Clean your bike, especially after a wet or dirty ride.
2. Keep your chain clean and lubricated.
3. Check your brake pads and tyres for wear.
4. Have your bike serviced regularly.

Tandje Hoger tip: Check out this video to see how you can easily clean your bike!

Cycling in a group

At Tandje Hoger, you will cycle together with others during training. Cycling together is fun, but it also requires good communication and awareness of the people around you. By looking ahead, holding your line and warning others in time, we can keep the group safe and organised.

The KNWU explains the most important rules, signals and hand gestures for cycling in a group.

Read more about cycling safely in a group at the KNWU and watch this video.

If you have little or no experience with cycling in a group, we strongly recommend joining the WelkomsTHcursus before becoming a member of Tandje Hoger. Our regular training sessions are not designed to teach the basic skills and signals needed for cycling safely in a group from scratch. Find more information about our WelkomsTHcursus on this page.

Not sure, or still feeling nervous after the WelkomsTHcursus? Get in touch with our Intern Commissaris.

Cycling techniques

Some techniques are easier to learn when you've seen them first. That's why we've collected a number of short videos that can help you get the most out of your training. Watch them before a training session or use them to refresh your memory later.

Getting started with road cycling

A few useful tips if you're new to road cycling. A good introduction before your first kilometres with Tandje Hoger. Watch this video for some general tips.

Cycling position

How should you sit comfortably and correctly on your road bike? In this video, you will learn more about your position and what to pay attention to while cycling.

Taking corners

Even when cycling on your own, it is important to be able to take corners safely and confidently. In this video, you will learn what to pay attention to when taking a corner and how to do so smoothly and in control.

Riding in an echelon

In an echelon, you cycle together as a group to protect each other from the wind as much as possible. It is a technique you will regularly encounter during training. In this video, you will learn how to ride in an echelon and what to pay attention to.

Ready to join us?

Do you already have experience with group cycling and/or organised training? Feel free to sign up!

Do you have little experience with road cycling or cycling in a group? Sign up for the next WelkomsTHcursus. This course is organised every year in May and September and is specifically designed to introduce you to cycling at Tandje Hoger in a relaxed and accessible way. You can find more information here.

Still not sure? Feel free to contact us.