Is it safe to ride during this troubling time?

That's the question you probably always ask. Honestly, we're not qualified to answer that for you. The best course of action would be to follow the guideline of your local authorities as the risk varies in different locations.

Should I ride?

While those with the privilege to stay at home should do so, there are those who still needs to commute. Riding a bike is a good alternative to avoid large number of crowd gathering in an enclosed space, eg: mass public transportations, thus lowering the risk for transmission, not to mention throwing in a bit of exercise for maintaining a good immune system.

If you do decide to ride though, we've compiled a set of basic practices to help mitigate the risk of transmission when we do our activity. Let's jump into it!

1. Greeting

When you meet up with your riding buddies, don’t shake hands, don’t do the ol high five + fist bump greeting or the bro grab. A simple wave or a Wakanda salute should be sufficient.

2. Riding Distance

If you’re riding on a peloton, try to keep a distance of at least 2m apart from each other, I’m sure everyone agrees that the reduced draft effect is worth sacrificing. Oh, and also, keep group rides to be around 10 people or less.

3. Sharing stuff

While this should be a no-brainer, it doesn’t hurt to reiterate that it is imperative to not be sharing bidon, energy bars, or any consumables for that matter, with anyone. 

4. Riding Intensity

A 2018 Journal titled “The compelling link between physical activity and the body’s defense” highlights that while a moderate level of exercise can increase your immune system against pathogens by about 40-50% compared to being sedentary, the inverse is true for high intensity exercise, where it temporarily increases your risk of contracting pathogens by up to 6-fold. So just to be on the safe side, exert about 70% of your usual riding intensity during this troubling time.

5. Spitting

We get it, old habits die hard, but please, for the love of god, restrain yourself for spitting or expelling mucus mid-ride. Be mindful of whoever is behind you. Not to mention that you probably spreading the virus from your spit. 

6. Maintain Cleanliness

As soon as you got home from the ride, immediately take a shower and wash your hands before interacting with family members.

If you have any additional tips, feel free to share them in the comment section below!