Ready for the night shift?

With a gentle nip in the air, night cycling trails in the city are back. Two experts share key guidelines to follow before you start the ride

Enjoy but be aware

Harshvardhan Tanwar, co-founder of No Footprints, a platform that organises cycling trails in and around the city, believes that midnight cycling events are a great way to see the bustling city, “especially under the canvas of the moonlight.” He adds, However, we must always be aware of our surroundings while on the ride.”

Practical checklist:

>>Use good-quality reflector jackets at all times.
>>Locate routes with less traffic. Avoid  main roads wherever possible.
>>Use sturdy protective gear such as helmets, jackets and pads throughout the ride. >>Ensure your bicycles are well-oiled; check brakes and tyres prior to the trip.        

No Footprints co-founders Harshvardhan Tanwar and Eesha Singh

Quiet calm and community

“The idea is to explore the city in its quietest moments,” believes Rishi Shah, founder of Mumbai Riders. Shah’s platform usually conducts events as a way of having fun-filled community interaction. Their trails are plotted around well-lit locales, making it a competitive marathon.  “The age group for our events ranges typically between 25 and 35 years, and involve largely amateur riders with healthy fitness levels. However, of late, we’ve been noticing a wider age group — as young as 15 to as old as 50 years who sign up,” adds Shah.

Fitness checklist:

>>Participants must have a general level of physical fitness with adequate cycling experience.
>>Those with bone and joint ailments should refrain from long cycling trips.
>>Those with high-risk heart conditions should refrain from signing up.
>>Hydration is key. Participants must carry sufficient water. There are ample stops, so cyclists can avail of refreshments and rest their legs before restarting the course.

Take your pick

>>Colaba-Marine Drive-Haji Ali-Worli sea face 
On: December 4 (multiple dates)
Log on to: insider.in 

>>Coastline midnight cycling 
On: Flexible dates
Log on to: treksandtrails.org

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