Why 2025 is the year to pick up cycling as a hobby

Maybe it’s been a while since you’ve ridden a bike. As kids, it was a great way to spend your summers, riding around during the hot days of July and August, exploring your town or the countryside. And maybe you still ride–spin classes or at the gym. But why not make 2025 the year you get in on the joys of cycling as a hobby?

There’s more than one way to rediscover the love of cycling. Nowadays, you have all kinds of choices as to what pair of wheels you roll with.

Road riding

Road bikes have come a long way. The top-end bikes have electronic shifting, disc brakes and are much lighter and faster than ones you may remember. They also come at a price–high-end race-specific bikes can be over $10,000.

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But you don’t necessarily need one of those. There are plenty of used bikes out there that may be a little older, but are perfect for hour-long or two-hour rides. As far as pedals, you can use platform or clipless pedals. The latter involve special cleats that attach from your shoes into the pedals. But if you’re nervous about that, start with platform pedals and running shoes. If you get into riding road, you could upgrade–the power transfer and comfort on long rides can be bolstered by clipless.

Gravel

Gravel biking has become very popular in the last decade. The bicycles resemble a cross between a road bike and MTB, with knobbier tires and more clearance in case you get into mud. The great part about gravel bikes is you can mix up your rides–start on the road, head onto some gravel roads, or even some trails. It’s a versatile way to explore the countryside, bike paths in cities, or even go camping.

How to choose the right gravel bike for you

Bike packing is a very fun way to head on overnight adventures. You can affix bike bags to your bike and pack a tent, sleeping bag and essential gear and head off on some fun rides with friends.

Mountain biking

Mountain bikes have also come a long way. Modern mountain bikes will have not just a front, but a rear set of shocks, or suspension. That means you can head out onto some pretty gnarly trails and feel confident going over roots or ruts. It’s a great way to ride with friends as well. If you’re looking to get into it, there are plenty of clubs and meetups online that can help you pick a bike or work on your skills.

You don’t need MTB lessons…or do you?

Most trails have a variety of skill levels, so you can start with an easier section before…