You've got the bike and all the gear - but do you actually know what you're doing with it?

Bib shorts are made to be worn without underwear

Make sure you dress appropriately for the conditions (Pic: Sirotti)

Never leave home without a tyre lever, pump and spare inner tube

It's no good having the tools and spares to fix your bike at the roadside, if you don't know how to use them...

Rafal Majka turns himself inside out (pic: Sirotti)

The fourth cat tat is best avoided if you want to keep up appearances (Pic: teakwood, via Flickr Creative Commons)

Clipless pedals are difficult for a complete novice to master

If you're going to attack, make sure you're not caught again moments later (Pic: www.sportivephoto.com)

Practice your descending technique in the build-up to the Etape du Tour

Mark Cavendish's bike may have an aggressive setup, but it doesn't mean you have to follow suit