The A-Z of a bike ride

Going out for a ride at the weekend is a pretty simple thing, but there are many underlying factors that determine its enjoyment and success

(Image credit: Vatternrundan)

A - Attack: If you have a competitive bone in your body, and most of us do, you'll likely compete with your riding companion along the route. A well-timed attack takes years to hone and you never know when those pro scouts are out on the British country roads to see your power.

B - Bonk: Uh oh, your pre-ride porridge has worn off and those flapjacks you scoffed in the first 10 miles aren't fuelling you any more. Here comes the bonk, and there are few worse feelings in cycling.

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Stuart Clarke is a News Associates trained journalist who has worked for the likes of the British Olympic Associate, British Rowing and the England and Wales Cricket Board, and of course Cycling Weekly. His work at Cycling Weekly has focused upon professional racing, following the World Tour races and its characters.