Westworld Alberta
Issue link: http://westworldmagazine.ama.ab.ca/i/309330
(photograph) robert kenney, (model and equipment) boris martin/velofix s u m m e r 2 0 1 4 | w e s t w o r l d A l b e r t A 49 toys of summer • elements Model of a Cyclist Choose the right gear for a safer summer on wheels Alberta law requires helmets for cyclists under age 18, but everyone needs one. Look for the Canadian Standards Association seal of approval. Choose light-coloured, fitted clothing and add reflectors, or a reflective vest, at night. Your helmet should be snug and level front to back. The front edge should be two finger widths above your brow. The helmet's side straps should surround your ear in a V-shape. The chinstrap should be snug, with one finger of wiggle room. No flip-flops or sandals – stick to runners or cycling shoes. Adjust the handlebar height so that your arms are slightly bent. For most casual riders, the back should be at a 45-degree angle to the hips. Equip your bike with a bell or horn to tell pedestrians you're passing. The law requires bikes to be equipped with headlights and tail lights at night. Choose a red blinker for the back and a bright white for the front, with steady and flashing modes. For straight-barred bikes, there should be 3–6 cm of clearance between your body and the top bar when you're straddling the frame flat-footed. Adjust your seat's height so that, with the balls of your feet on the pedals, there is always a slight bend in your knees (80-90 per cent of full leg extension). Your ideal frame size corresponds to your height and leg length. A 5'8" adult generally needs a 54-cm frame; a 5'2" adult a 52-cm frame. Ask for help with sizing when you buy. Shop for all your summer gear online at SportChek and earn up to 6% in reward dollars. AMARewards.ca/ SportChek iPad and online readers: check out our tips on how to fit a helmet. p48-49ElementsCycling.indd 49 14-04-29 9:20 AM