By Abha Dhital

The roads of Kathmandu have increasingly begun to witness a new passion emerging among young health enthusiasts. These people set out for a minimum of three to six hours excursion every weekend. In their jerseys, shorts and helmets, riding their super chic mountain bikes they always manage to become head turners for the locals. Yes, cycling is the new, prominent and perhaps expensive leisure pursuit that young people are increasingly opting for today. One particular group – C’mon Cyclists –takes cycling very seriously despite all the fun they have. C’mon Cyclists is a growing group of 15 young men who make it a point to ride to a foothill every Saturday. If only time allowed perhaps they would ride more often. But six hours a week is generally all they can afford because these cyclists are mostly young executives.

Before cycling turned into a regular activity for C’mon Cyclists back in 2009, it began as a natural excuse for a get-together between four-five friends. Given the busy, hectic life they lived, it used to be a recreation for them. As the group started growing and their muscles stopped cramping, they realized it was not just about meeting friends. They started acknowledging cycling as an intense workout and a daring passion. Almost Cycling is a sport that contributes to an overall sense of happiness and well being, factors that are very important for the young leaders. While offering a sense of challenge and adventure, cycling can also teach you a lot of skills that could be used in the business profession. Cycling has team work at its core; cyclists know that to succeed they have to ride as a team and in one pace. At certain intervals, each rider becomes responsible for pulling the group, and others follow close behind. Like any business, cycling demands shared responsibility and collaboration that contributes to a faster, stronger and more motivated team. Hence, cycling skills can always be applied to business and management and thus, these cyclists have been implementing them .Cycling is also about getting out of your comfort zone and building self reliance. In addition to being fun and bringing cyclists closer to the nature, it offers a surplus of physical, emotional and social benefit to those who partake. No wonder, cycling is growing only more popular.

When you look at the riders in their jerseys and shorts, helmets and shoes you might wonder if they are merely making a style statement. Partly yes, cycling is in fact stylishly sporty but mostly; all the apparels and equipments are used for a reason. So much so that as cycling becomes increasingly popular, it could as well be a major economic influence in a country like Nepal. When it comes to cycling, there are a number of equipments that are totally worth investing on. The complete gear with apparels and tools ranges from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 in cost. The cycle itself usually costs in the range of Rs 100,000–200,000 on an average.

The complete cyclist “must haves”:

2. Shorts/ Tights: These help absorb sweat and allow you a comfortable ride.

4. Base Layer: Base layer is useful when you’re riding in the cool weather.

6. Socks: It is important to wear socks as they prevent your feet from getting blisters and cold.

8. Helmet: Although cycling is fun, it cannot be taken for granted as mountain biking can prove to be dangerous. Needless to say, helmet is an essential.

10. Glasses: These protect your eyes from dust, sun and everything else that might obstruct your ride. Many come with interchangeable lenses for different occasions.

12. Headlights: Lights spare you the mysteries and accidents of the dark.

14. Tool Kit: Punctures are inevitable and hence you should always be prepared. Always carry a pump and puncture repair kit. You can also buy a multi tool.

(Note: Commencal, Trek and Giant are some recommended brands for cycling apparels and equipments)