Guides for beginner cyclists
Jargon-free, honest, welcoming. Whether you're just starting out, getting back on the bike, or looking for a community — there's something here for you.
Why I'm Building Etapa
I'm building Etapa because I want someone to do for new cyclists what my mates did for me — give them a coach in their pocket who speaks plainly and meets them where they are. Here's the story, on camera and on the page.
Watch + read the story →Etapa Is Now an MCP — Ask Any AI Assistant for a Cycling Plan
Starting today, our AI cycling coach lives inside Claude, ChatGPT, Cursor and every other MCP-compatible AI app. Free, no account, no jargon. Here's what we built, how to try it in 60 seconds, and why we're giving it away.
Read the launch post →What Does ‘Etapa’ Mean? A Stage, Not the Whole Route
A stage. One leg of a longer journey. Where the word comes from, how to say it (eh-TAH-pah), what it has to do with the Tour de France, and why we named a beginner-friendly cycling app after it.
Read →How Far Should I Ride as a Beginner? Real Distances for Real People
Forget miles. Think in minutes. Your first rides should be 20–40 minutes, and that's more than enough. Here's how to build week by week without burning out.
Read →Your First Month of Cycling: A Week-by-Week Guide
Week one is about comfort. Week two is about routine. By week four you'll have something to celebrate. Here's what to expect and how to make it stick.
Read →Your First Bike: How to Choose Without the Paralysis
Too many options, too much conflicting advice. Here's a simple decision tree that helps you cut through the noise and find a bike you'll actually ride.
Read →What Gear Do You Actually Need to Start Cycling?
A helmet is non-negotiable. Padded shorts help a lot. Lights keep you safe. Everything else? Nice to have, not required. Here's the honest list.
Read →I've Never Cycled as an Adult — Am I Too Late to Start?
No. Thousands of adults start from scratch every year. Balance comes back faster than you think, and age is far less of a barrier than cycling culture suggests.
Read →How to Build a Cycling Habit That Actually Sticks
Motivation comes and goes. Habits stay. Here's how to use habit stacking, tiny sessions, and a forgiving mindset to make cycling a permanent part of your week.
Read →Eating and Drinking for Cycling: The Beginner's Guide
Under 90 minutes? Just water. Longer? A light snack before you head out. You don't need gels, bars, or sports drinks. Here's what actually matters.
Read →How to Find Your Cycling Community (Even When Your Friends Think You're Weird)
Local bike shop rides. Women's groups. Online communities. Here's where to find your people — and why having a community makes everything easier.
Read →Cycling Safety for Beginners: What Actually Keeps You Safe
Helmet fit, lights, route choice, predictable road position. The things that actually protect you — not the things that just look safe. A practical guide.
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