Lim Swee Heong's Habits for Cooler Early-Morning Bike Rides

I'm Lim Swee Heong, and online I also go by bullbearnme Swee. In Singapore the heat builds quickly, so the rides I enjoy most usually start while the sky is still soft and the roads are quiet. Early mornings turn cycling into something calm rather than a battle with the weather. Here are the simple habits that help me stay cool, comfortable and happy on those first rides of the day.

Leave while it is still cool

I aim to be on the bike before the sun sits high. Even half an hour earlier can change how the whole ride feels. The air is softer, traffic is lighter, and I can focus on the path instead of looking for shade. When I start later, I simply shorten the route rather than pushing through the hottest stretch of the morning.

Dress for the heat, not for a photo

Light, breathable clothing makes a bigger difference than fancy gear. I favour a simple jersey or moisture-wicking top, padded shorts, and sunglasses that cut the glare. A light cap under the helmet helps with sweat. Dark colours look neat, but lighter fabrics feel cooler once I am moving.

Drink before you feel thirsty

I take a few sips of water before I clip in, then keep drinking small amounts as I go. Waiting until I feel thirsty usually means I am already behind. On longer routes I pack two bottles and plan a short stop where I can refill. Cool water in the first hour sets a better tone than trying to catch up later.

Keep the pace conversational

Early rides are not the time to chase a personal best. I ride at a pace where I could still chat if someone were next to me. That keeps my heart rate steady, reduces how much I overheat, and leaves me with energy for the rest of the day. If a stretch feels hard, I ease off and enjoy the scenery instead.

Choose routes with shade and breeze

Tree-lined park connectors, coastal paths and riverside stretches are kinder in the morning light. I avoid long open stretches of asphalt when the sun is already strong. A route with a bit of breeze near the water often feels several degrees cooler than a sheltered inland path, even when the distance is similar.

Pack only what you need

A small saddle bag or light backpack is enough: phone, a little cash or a card, a multi-tool, a spare tube or puncture kit, and tissues. Extra weight only makes the ride feel heavier once the temperature rises. I leave the heavy lock at home if I am not stopping for long, and I keep snacks simple, such as a small banana or a bar.

Cool down properly at the end

When I get home I do not rush straight into a cold shower while I am still flushed. A few minutes of easy spinning or a short walk, a towel, and a normal drink of water help my body settle. Then a shower feels refreshing rather than a shock. Hanging the kit to dry quickly also keeps the next ride more pleasant.

Make it a gentle habit

I do not force an early ride every single day. Two or three mornings a week is enough to keep the habit alive without turning it into pressure. When I wake up tired, I take a shorter loop or skip the ride and try again the next cool morning. Consistency beats intensity when the goal is simply to enjoy cycling.

Early rides have become one of my favourite ways to start the day in Singapore. The quiet paths, the cooler air and the sense of having the island to myself for a little while make the effort of getting up worthwhile.

If you enjoy reading about cycling, gaming, travel and books, you can find more of my writing on Medium at https://medium.com/@bullbearnmeswee

A statement from Lim Swee Heong

I'm Lim Swee Heong, a cloud database architect in Singapore who enjoys cycling, sightseeing, travel, reading and gaming on Nintendo Switch and PS5. I also go by bullbearnme Swee online.