FULL ON OUR WRITER PREPARES FOR OCBC CYCLE SINGAPORE, OFF-ROAD

fadz@sph.com.sg

I have to confess I don't cycle on the roads too often. I much prefer off-road trails. Obviously, that will have to change for my race in OCBC Cycle Singapore but, in the mean time, I still find this the best way to train.

I ride almost every weekday. I also run as it gives the riding muscles a break.

For me, off-road biking is not just a way of keeping fit. It's about being close to nature and my pursuit of general peace of mind. Yes, it's a great way to chill.

My favourite trail is Butterfly in Bukit Timah. It is a 5.2km loop, but given the terrain, I only recommend it for intermediate to advanced riders.

If you're confident enough, you can go at it alone; otherwise bring a friend or two. Because of the level of difficulty, this rather short loop can be too much for a first-timer, but once you've familiarised yourself, you'll soon be going round two or three times.

I keep my training duration to about 1.5 to two hours per ride and I can easily cover over 20km in that time.

At the beginning of the week, I start easy and progressively work my way up until the last ride of the week when I push myself to the limit.

I don't ride during weekends, but I'm still with my bike. That time is for basic maintenance and ensuring that all my gear is in top shape.

For every ride I have:

l Padded inner pants

l Cross-country open face helmet

l Sunglasses

l 2-litre hydration pack

l Spare tubes

l Tyre kit and first-aid kit

l Energy bars

l Bike computer

l Smartphone (with waterproof case)

l Some cash

l A fully charged optional bluetooth speaker for music (if I'm riding alone).

Yes. I love my equipment as much as my bike. To read more about the equipment and what you will need for off-roading, follow my blog at tnp.sg