What is Steven Slater?

Interviewer (W) Steven Slater (M)
W: Welcome everybody. And today I’d like to introduce you to my guest, Steven Slater, who is going to talk to us something about cycling tours. Steven, welcome.
M: Thank you. And welcome everybody.
W: So (1) Steven, as a coach at the Sunshine Cycling Club, can you tell us something about preparing for a cycling tour?
M: Well, for anyone who is considering going on a tour, the first thing to consider is safety. Because with the correct equipment, and good riding habits, cycling tours can be so much fun, and indeed, very rewarding.
W: So what should people consider first?
M: It’s very important indeed to consider what you wear. Naturally, this is largely determined by the time of year and where you actually plan to travel to. So what I propose to give is a general guide. (2) But whatever the weather, time of year or destination, a good quality helmet is essential. They are not expensive but have, in the past, saved many lives. But don’t try to cut corners by buying a secondhand helmet. They may look to be in perfect condition but you can never tell. Always invest in a new one. Any good bicycle shop can advise you on one that will suit your needs. So get advice from the shop. Tell them where you are going and why.
W: I see. So firstly, a good helmet. Then, what about clothes? I often see cyclists wear special sportswear. Is that so?
M: You can buy special sportswear for cycling tours. But what is more important is that it can be seen.
W: It can be seen? I don’t understand well.
M: Well, (3) you should always be aware that cyclists are notoriously difficult to spot, and many accidents happen because motorists simply fail to see the cyclist. Therefore wear something that can easily be seen, something that stands out. Again, most good bicycle stores keep a supply of inexpensive, brightly colored vests. And if you are riding at night, do make sure you have lamps securely fitted to your bicycle both front and back, and check your bicycle lamps each day to make sure they work properly. In fact, it is always a good idea to carry a spare set of batteries for the purpose. But to be safer, still it is often best to avoid riding at night.
W: And Steven, how far would you advise someone to travel in one day?
M: That depends on your level of personal fitness. What is important is not to try to ride too far, too quickly. Take your time, and if you feel tired, stop and rest. Remember that the joy of cycling tours is the ride itself, getting close to nature and seeing things you wouldn’t normally see if you were traveling by car or bus. Therefore, plan your journey in short stages. No more than ten or twenty miles per day. (4- 1) And if you are planning your journey in the summer, when it is likely to be hot, take plenty of water.
W: How much water should cyclists take in case of hot weather?
M: In fact, if it is a really hot day, like the sort of weather we had last summer, you are advised to drink at least one liter of water every hour.
W: That is quite a lot of water. Are there any other things you have to prepare in summer?
M: Well, you have to protect yourself against sunshine. (4-2) Sun cream is essential in hot weather because you can very easily get sun burned without even realizing it. When you buy sun cream, make sure that it contains a high index of SPF and PA. SPF can resist UVB, which results in melanin. You know, the thing that will cause the blackening of your complexion. And PA can resist UVA, which results in wrinkles and slack skin. So the ideal sun cream used for cycling tours in summer should contain SPF30 and PA three plus.
W: Oh, I see. Then (4-3) how about insect repellent?
M: (4-4) It is also advisable. Spray some insect repellent on your arms and legs before setting off. And you needn’t worry too much about insects when you cycle. Actually some insects are harmful. So you’d better not be bitten or stung by them.
W: Do you have any more general advice for your listeners?
M: (5) What I would say is, prepare for the worst. Always keep a puncture repair kit handy and, of course, don’t forget to take a basin tool kit. You can get all kinds of repair kits and tool kits at my club at a favorable price. After all, I’d like to say, ride safely. Use common sense. Respect other road users and adhere to the laws of the road. This is the best way to ensure your own safety. But also care for the environment. Don’t leave your rubbish lying around. Keep it with you and dispose of it in a rubbish bin whenever you get the chance.
W: Well, we all should protect the environment, shouldn’t we? Steven, thank you very much for all the advice you gave us about cycling. I’m sure with these precautions, our listeners can have a wonderful time when they take up this sport.
M: My pleasure.