Independent field notes
Keep It Rolling is a practical and energetic guide to recreational road cycling. It covers riding technique, fitness, safety, bike setup, maintenance, essential gear, and the habits that make every ride smoother, stronger, and more enjoyable.
Maya ReynoldsI’m Maya Reynolds, a dedicated recreational road cyclist who believes a good ride is equal parts preparation, persistence, and the freedom of moving under your own power. I write practical guides about riding technique, fitness, safety, bike setup, maintenance, and the lessons that make every kilometre more enjoyable.
Smoke, ozone, and urban pollution can turn a normal ride into a respiratory problem, especially when conditions change quickly. I’ll show you how to weigh air-quality readings, symptoms, route exposure, and safer indoor options.
Read articleWhen a cool start turns into strong crosswinds, shaded roads, and colder descents, your clothing choices matter more than the forecast alone. I’ll show you how to layer for comfort, control, and flexibility without carrying a bulky wardrobe.
Read articleWhen your wheels are ready before your appetite, the right choice depends on ride length, intensity, and how your stomach handles early food. I’ll compare a small snack, a normal breakfast, and riding without food so you can leave prepared without overcomplicating fueling.
Read articleI’ll clarify what to eat before an early-morning road ride, whether you have a full appetite or can manage only a few bites. You’ll find simple options by ride length, timing strategies, and ways to build a dependable routine without upsetting your stomach.
Read articleI’ll help you choose simple food and timing for a 45- to 90-minute after-work ride, with options for eating before you leave, carrying a small snack, and avoiding the low-energy mistakes that can make a short ride feel unnecessarily difficult.
Read articleA hard ride can suppress appetite just when your body needs fluids and fuel. I explain how to combine gentle hydration, small carbohydrate portions, and practical protein options until a normal meal sounds appealing.
Read articleWater may be enough after a short ride, while heat and heavy sweating can demand more. I’ll help you choose fluids and food based on ride length, sweat loss, appetite, sodium needs, and the risks of overdoing recovery drinks.
Read articleI’ll clarify what to do after you miss a turn on a group ride, from stopping safely and contacting the group to choosing a sensible route home. You’ll learn why chasing the bunch is often the riskiest option—and how to prevent the confusion next time.
Read articleHeavy legs before a planned ride can reflect poor recovery, low fuel, stress, or an emerging illness. I’ll help you sort those signals quickly and choose whether to ride easily, shorten the route, or recover instead.
Read articleA close pass calls for a steadier response than either chasing the driver or ignoring what happened. I’ll walk you through the first safe actions, useful details to record, and sensible ways to reduce repeat risk on your route.
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