How to be a happier cyclist

From Pedalpushers

Sometimes its easy to forget about enjoying cycling for cycling's sake. Robert Appleyard says he does that too often so he has come up with a (far from exhaustive) list of tips/stuff to do that might lead to happier cycling. He thinks we should all try to do at least some of these once in a while.

1. Don't attach a cycle computer to your bike.
2. Just pootle. What's wrong with doing a 15 mile ride that takes 3 hours because you've stopped at a cafe and a pub? Nothing.
3. Say 'hello' to people as you pass them/they pass you.
4. Ignore the temptation to chase down the cyclist 200 yards in front of you. Just chill.
5. Similarly, if you notice someone behind you who is trying to catch you, don't try and speed up.
6. Fit some cheap platform pedals to your bike and go for a ride in an ordinary pair of shoes.
7. Go for a ride on a good bike in 'non-cycling' gear.
8. Don't think that spending £200 on a particular component will make you go significantly faster (or even faster at all).
9. Stop and take photos regularly.
10. Go for a ride in a the pouring rain.
11. Own a bike that you don't mind riding in a downpour.
12. Learn how to build a wheel (it really isn't difficult).
13. Always take a pump, spare inner tube and repair kit on a ride.
14. Feel comfortable about mixing and matching stuff on your bike(s).
15. Always stop and ask if another cyclist is OK if they are stopped at the side of the road. (But bear in mind that the 10 cyclists before you will probably already have done this)
16. Do a time-trial on a touring bike with panniers attached :-) At least you'll beat your time next time out.
17. Vary your commuting route often.
18. Just GO for a ride one morning and don't come back till dusk. No planning. No maps. No GPS. Just follow your nose.
19. Go for a night ride.
20. Go cycle camping for a night.
21. Make sure you spend (much) more time riding your bike than cleaning/fettling it.
22. Never sneer at another person's bike.
23. Ride down a big hill with your feet off the pedals, shouting 'wheeeeeeee'.
24. Buy stuff in your local bike shop(s) rather than from t'interweb.
25. Resist the temptation to become obsessive and a 'cycle-bore'.
26. Let a motorist out occasionally! (sez Richard)