Quote Originally Posted by lenox View Post
Hi... I haven't yet mastered getting the water bottle out of the cage, drinking, and then getting it back into the cage. So instead I often have to stop to drink. Not convenient when I should be drinking every 20mins or so. Any tips/tricks on how to get better?
It's one of those issues of feeling balanced and comfortable rolling along on your bike.

Move your hands toward the center of the bars, then with your left hand, pull the bottle out of the cage. I usually keep the little stopper thingie pressed down & closed (to prevent leaks), so I'll pull it open with my teeth sort of like in the old cowboy movies, take a swig, then ease the bottle back in the cage and push it down to seat it.

It takes a little practice, so a good thing is to get out in a big empty parking lot, and while riding laps at an easy pace, practice moving your hands to the center of the bars, then reaching down to grab your bottle. Do that a time or two (or three) until it feels comfortable, then progress on to actually pulling the bottle out of the cage and taking a drink. Now, practice putting the bottle back in the cage. Keep practicing until the whole sequence feels comfortable, and you can do this rolling down the road at your normal cruising speed.

Another option is to invest in a hydration pack, like a CamelBak. The advantages are that you only have to catch the drinking tube, put it in your mouth, bite, and suck... plus you can carry a lot more water or sports drink that way; up to 70 ounces or so (and you can put ice in there for a cold drink when you want one). And there's usually pockets where you can carry an extra tube, some snacks, etc.

CamelBaks are probably the best solution for new riders, and they really come into play on long training or touring rides out through the countryside where water or refreshment stops can be few and far between. Disadvantages? Some may complain about the weight, and in the summertime wearing the backpack may be a bit sweaty under there.

You may want to check in your community and see if they're offering the LAB Group Riding clinics... these are a good place to learn pack riding skills such as riding in close proximity to other riders, dodging road hazards in tight spaces, and yes, we make you practice getting your bottle out for a drink, just like above.