I Love Bicycling

I Love Bicycling is geared towards cycling for beginners with road cycling tips, training articles, nutrition tips, weight loss, how to's and bike repair articles.

Gear

A Beginner’s Guide to Bikepacking Bags

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With the rise of mountain biking and the increasing popularity of long distance off-road riding, bikepacking has emerged as an alternative to traditional bike touring. As a compact and light way to carry all the necessities on the trail, there are a variety of bag combinations that can make up your perfect off-road bikepacking system.

Bike touring vs. Bikepacking

Generally speaking, bike touring refers to the traditional rack and pannier set up on a touring specific bike, most suited for smooth roads (see below). Bikepacking is a more universal gear setup that can fit onto almost any bike, whether full suspension, carbon, or fatbike.

With the compact nature of bikepacking comes very limited space. You will have to be more intentional with what you take with you, and every little thing should be absolutely necessary. That being said, with off road abilities comes endless opportunities for adventures, and if you haven’t tried bikepacking yet, you may want to add a trip to your bucket list.

Left: Touring setup, Right: Bikepacking setup

Types of bikepacking bags

As almost any bike can be your vehicle for a bikepacking trip, your selection of gear will vary. You can chose to get custom fit bags specific for your bike, or do some bike measurements and go with a universal kit that will fit your frame. A bikepacking ‘kit’ will include the following:

Frame Pack

A frame pack fits within the ‘triangle’ of the bike (formed by the top tube, seat tube and downtube). As this is within the center of the bike, it’s great for storing heavier items like water, cooking gear and food. You may also want to include spare tubes and any tools in the frame pack.

Handlebar Roll or Harness

Taking the shape of either a roll or a harness, the handlebar pack should be kept relatively light so it doesn’t throw off your steering abilities. The roll works well to hold a small tent or sleeping mat.

Seat pack

The seat pack may look a little strange at first as it goes directly under/beneath the seat of your bike. However, this design is wind resistant, doesn’t flap around, and doesn’t get in the way of your legs when you have to walk your bike (unlike a pannier). Depending on the size, this is where you want to store the majority of your overnight gear.

Accessory bags

The main bags can be awkward to get in and out of while you’re riding, which is what the accessory bag is for. Perfect for holding small snacks and your cell phone, there are both stem and top tube options for an accessory bag.

Backpack

A small backpack may be unavoidable, and is perfect for your spare layers of clothes. It makes for easy access should the weather take a turn for the worse.

Beginner – Getting into it

Budget: $250

If you’re just dipping your toe into the world of bikepacking, there’s no reason to go out and spent hundreds of dollars on bags that you may use once or twice and then stuff into your overflowing storage unit. Chances are, you already have most of what it takes to get out there for a night or two.

Head out for an overnight ride with a backcountry campground or shelter halfway. Try your first trip during the summer months so you don’t have to be as worried about bringing enough gear to stay warm in low temperatures.

What you’ll need:

Dry bags – Dry bags of various sizes can be strapped or clipped onto your bike around the seatpost and saddle rails to make a “seat pack.”

Day pack – Most likely you already have a day pack you can use. This is perfect for carrying your clothes and light snacks.

DIY Handlebar Roll – A large drybag with your tent and sleeping bag can be strapped to your handlebars with Voile Straps. If you don’t mind buying one item to make this easier, check out the Revelate Sweetroll which is basically a glorified dry bag with stackable spacers that provide room for cable and lever interference.

Water bottle Cages – In addition to your regular water bottle cage, you can use electrical tape to attach a cage to the underside of the downtube on your bike or to either side of your forks.

Intermediate – Weekend warrior

Budget: $400

Once you’ve gone on a couple overnights, and no doubt have become addicted to the freedom of it, then it may be time to take your gear up to the next level with you. Depending on the types of trips you’ll want to be heading out on, there’s still no need to break the bank. You can start building up your kit to where you want it to be, but there’s you don’t have to do it all at once.

What you’ll need:

Seat Pack ($130-$200) – This will most likely be the most expensive of the bags, but it’s worth getting a quality seat pack that will last out on your adventures. The Apidura Saddle Pack is a great option, made from highly durable and waterproof dimension polyant. There are three sizes available, from a commuter to a long haul bikepacking size.

Frame Bag ($90-$100) – There are a lot of options out there that are ‘universal’ frame bags, in that they will fit on most bikes. Of course, you are not making the most of the space within your frame, as it likely won’t be an exact fit, but they work well and are a lot cheaper than custom fit bags. You’ll have to choose between a half frame pack (uses the front or top of the triangle and leave room for water bottle carriers) or a full frame pack (utilizes the entire space within the triangle). The Revelate Tangle is a great half frame option.

Handlebar Harness / Roll ($120-$150) – As the perfect spot for your tent, poles, and other bigger items, the handlebar harness is one of the most important aspects of your intermediate kit. As mentioned above, the Rock Bros Handlebar Bag comes in three versatile sizes, and is one of the better options out there.

Pro – Life on the bike

Budget: $700+

If you’re hitting the trails and have no intention of quitting anytime soon, then it is worth investing in top of the line gear that will have your back day-in and day-out. Many manufacturers offer custom made bags to ensure the perfect fit and features for you and your bike, especially for the frame bag.

Some of the best custom bikepacking bag outfitters are Bedrock Bags (USA), Crater Packs (USA), Old Bag Cycling (Aus), and Porcelain Rocket (Can).

A pro kit will include the following:

  • Seat Pack
  • Handlebar Roll
  • Frame Pack
  • Top Tube Pack
  • Stem Bag (right and left)

Top 10 Gifts for Cyclists

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In a lot of ways, having an avid cyclist in your life actually makes gift buying easier. There is always a new gadget or a go-to staple that they’ll appreciate receiving. Plus, the right amount of anything within the cycling world n+1, with ‘n’ being their current number. Here are some of the best gifts for cyclists.

Top 10 Gifts for Cyclists

Bar Tape

Most cyclist’s go far too long between changing out their bar tape, so take this opportunity to subtly remind them that it is eventually meant to be changed out! You can go with the classic white, a color that matches their bike, or a fun pattern to add some life to their bike.

Pint Glasses

Everyone knows cycling and beer go hand in hand, so why not make sure their cupboard is stocked with some cycling specific pint glasses to use for beer (or water) after a long ride.

Lights

For the commuters and night riders on your list, cycling lights can be a great stocking stuffer. Check out the The NiteRider Lumina 1100 Boost. It is an innovative bike light that removes the guesswork related to battery life with a digital display screen delivering precise battery run times as a percentage and actual time. The NiteRider produced a generous long-distance spot and wide flood beam pattern, making night riding both safe and a ton of fun.

Muscle Rub

Have a cyclist who love races and pushing themselves just a little too hard? Grab them some spicy embro from Mad Alchemy and cross them off your list. This stuff is perfect for sore muscles, or even for race day morning as a means of relaxing the muscles and calming the mind. As a medium rub, the warming sensation is just enough to add a little heat without searing your skin off.

Waterbottle 

You can never have enough water bottles. Between losing them and your kids stealing them, they’re just one of those things that is always needed. Camelbak water bottles are particularly great as they won’t leak and make it east to squirt water into your mouth while your on the bike.

Foam Roller

Arm & Leg Warmers

Cold knees suck, so why not grab a pair of leg warmers for some wind blocking warmth. Arm warmers can also come in handy for those rides that are just a little too cold.

Cycling Socks

You can never have too many pairs of cycling socks! Socks shouldn’t be something you really think about, unless you have a bad pair. So, grab some merino wool socks that wick away moisture and regulate body temperature. These will also last forever with their indestructawool technology used to enhance durability ride after ride.

Cycling Cap

A callback to times passed, cycling caps can be great to either wear under your helmet, or to whip out at a coffee shop to hide a bad case of helmet hair. Made from lightweight polyester, this cap is a great form of wind protection and water resistance. Fitting easily under your helmet, it even has a low profile ponytail port for those with long hair.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are another one of those things you can never have enough of. Oakley’s original Radar eyewear combined everything they learned from decades of research with the world’s best athletes, and came out with the Oakley Radar EV. These have taller lenses, extending vision, and PRIZM Road lenses. A step beyond polarized lenses, this technology enhances contract like never before. With a lightweight design and replaceable nosepiece, you won’t even feel like you’re wearing them.

Garmin Edge 530

For the cyclist on your list that is just starting out, the Garmin Edge 530 is the perfect gift. Other bike computers may have more bells and whistles, but this model is longstanding for a reason. The previous Edge 520 led the way with new performance and power analysis, including Time in Zone, FTP tracking, cycling specific VO2 and recovery dynamics.

A Guide to the Best Cycling Sunglasses

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When you’re first getting into cycling, sunglasses may not be on the top of your list of must-haves. Most people will throw on their everyday sunglasses and hop on their bike. However, depending on the fit, they may become a pain in a hurry. There are a few things that make cycling sunglasses (or sports performance sunglasses) more up for the task at hand.

What to Look for in Cycling Sunglasses

Fit

Fit with any type of apparel is important, but sunglasses that don’t fit properly can slide down your nose, give you a pressure headache, or even create blindspots in your vision. Most brands of cycling sunglasses will have hydrophilic rubber on the nose and arms, which actually gains grip as you sweat. You will also want to try sunglasses on with your helmet to make sure the arms are comfortable. Most will have straight-back temples for optimal helmet compatibility.

Shape and Coverage

When you’re on your bike, you want the biggest field of vision possible for your own safety. When you shoulder check, you don’t want the edge of your sunglasses getting in the way and blocking your view of traffic. This is why most cycling sunglasses wrap around and include your peripherals.

Lenses

Lighter lenses are better for cycling because they can help enhance the contrast of the road, allowing you to see obstacles or rough pavement before you hit it. Most of these will have UV protection, so they will protect your eyes, but grey lenses can make the ground, shadows and potholes all look the same. Investing in prescription sunglasses can also be great for those who don’t want to wear contacts, but you will want to get the wrap around lenses so you will have clear vision in your peripherals.

The Best Cycling Sunglasses

Oakley Radar EV

Price: $193

Oakley’s original Radar eyewear combined everything they learned from decades of research with the world’s best athletes, and came out with the Oakley Radar EV. These have taller lenses, extending vision, and PRIZM Road lenses. A step beyond polarized lenses, this technology enhances contract like never before. With a lightweight design and replaceable nosepiece, you won’t even feel like you’re wearing them.

Julbo Aerolite

Price: $189

Designed with the help of world-class ultrarunners, mountain bikers and road cyclists, the Julbo Aerolite is super lightweight and fast. They have a rimless design with a wide lens surface for broad field of vision and an aerated structure that allows complete air circulation to avoid fog. With a smaller design, these are a great option for women or people with small faces, and the nose pads are adjustable to ensure a snug fit.

Bolle B-Rock

Price: $115

The Bolle B-Rock sunglasses have the benefits of the single wrap around lens, but with the added stability of a full frame. The lenses are treated with an oleophobic layer (repelling dirt, grease and water), anti-fog, and anti-reflective technology. The nosepiece adjusts both front to back, and side to side –which is great if you find other models sit too close to your eyes and eyelashes.

Smith Attack Max

Price: $249

Lightweight with extended lenses, the Smith Attack Max are for the more aggressive rider. If you spend a lot of time down on your drops, then these are probably the glasses for you. With a hydroleophobic finish, they keep sweat or rain from fogging up the lenses.

Spy Helm 2

Price: $100

The Spy Helm 2 are a great option for those wanting to buy just one pair of sunglasses that will be good for running, cycling, and hitting the patio for some post-ride beers. This upgraded model has five-barrel hinges making them “nearly indestructible” and include Happy Lens technology. Spy claims that this let’s in the good rays, while blocking out the bad ones.

The Best Cycling Caps

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There’s a certain classic look that comes with cycling caps, harkening back to the old days of cycling.

The Best Cycling CapsCycling caps came from the pre-helmet era, but have survived as a both a fashion statement and a functional piece of gear that goes under your helmet. Retro and relatively cheap, they are a great addition to any cycling kit to add your own sense of style.

Beyond looking chic, cycling caps are also functional. They keep sweat, rain, and sun out of your eyes in the heat of summer, and can keep your head cozy on cold, wet rides. They are lightweight and flexible enough to sit under your helmet, and in most cases are one-size-fits-all.

When you stop in at a coffee shop for a mid-ride snack, a cycling cap is a great way to hide your helmet hair and keep you looking sharp. There are also a variety of ways to wear a cycling cap, you can keep the brim down, or you can flip it up and look extra awesome (see photo above). Available in a ton of colors and designs, here are a few of the best out there.

Pearl iZUMi Barrier CYC Cap

The Best Cycling Caps

Price: $20

Made from lightweight polyester, this cap is a great form of wind protection and water resistance. Fitting easily under your helmet, it even has a low profile ponytail port for those of you with long hair.

Giro Classic Cotton Cap

The Best Cycling Caps

Price: $24.95

This classic design lets everyone know that you are a serious cyclist. It can be worn under your helmet, or on its own off your bike. It provides everything you would expect: shade from the sun, cover from wind and rain, and wicks away sweat when you’re pushing through the miles. One size fits all, this cap also comes in a ton a designs, so you can even find one to match your bike.

Hysenm Tour De France Champion Cap

The Best Cycling Caps

Price: $11.99

If you have a less hair than you used to and need to protect your head from the sun, this champion cycling cap will do just that. With an environmentally thermal transfer point, it keeps your head cool and protects your sensitive skin from the harsh sun (you don’t want weird burn lines on your head). The brim flips up and stays up when not in use, and is short enough to still give you the full view of your cycling scenery. It may not get you to the Tour de France, but it can make you look like a pro.

CatEye – Cycling Cap

The Best Cycling Caps

Price: $12.31

A hybrid combination of polyester, nylon, and spandex, this cap wicks moisture away from you and dries incredibly fast. Lightweight and very stretchable, this cap won’t make your head feel claustrophobic in your helmet. There are also reflective strips for visibility if you choose to wear it running or walking as well.

Brooklyn Team Cycling Cap

The Best Cycling Caps

Price: $18.99

A lightweight blend of cotton, this Italian-made cap is classic in both look and feel. It also can be easily stored in a jersey pocket when not in use.

Why You Need to Try Fat Biking

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Do you remember the first time you saw a fat bike? On first impression, it is easy to think they look like some weird fad that will come and go. However, the past few years have proven that this isn’t the case. Gaining in popularity, fat biking has become a category all in its own.

The obvious advantage of a fat bike is the ability to ride in snow and sand more easily that with a regular mountain bike. No matter how funny you think they may look, it’s worth giving a try. Maybe fat really is the new skinny.

Why You Need to Try Fat Biking

What is fat biking?

A fat bike is an off road bicycle designed to accommodate oversized tires, typically 3.8 inches or larger. The first thing you’ll notice, other than the massive tires, is the wide fork build to fit the large tires as well as the low ground pressure. These tires can be run as low as 5 psi to provide the ultimate traction in snow, sand, or mud.

Although the general idea of fatbiking has been around since the early 1900s, they first became commercially popular with Surly Bike’s release of the Pugsley frame in 2005. The rest, as they say, is history.

Why you should try fat biking

It’s a great workoutWhy You Need to Try Fat Biking

Staying fit over the winter in places where it gets cold and snowy is tough. If you love the freedom that cycling brings, it can be hard to find the motivation to go to the gym or hop on a stationary bike. Fatbiking not only allows you to ride outside all winter, but it’s also a great workout. In soft conditions it can be tough going, but you will be expending a ton of energy in a short about of time. You will also be working on your balance and core strength making a great whole body workout. Come spring and hop back on your regular bike, you’ll feel light and fast, and you’ll have maintained a great fitness level.

It gets you outside

No need to mope around the house as soon as there’s snow on the ground. Fat bikes are like the monster trucks of the cycling world – they will get you through just about anything. Getting out in the sunshine and fresh air, even if it’s cold, is the best way to make the most of every season. Research has also shown that the cold can actually raise your metabolism as your body works to keep warm, which means burning extra calories!

Why You Need to Try Fat BikingIt builds your endurance

Fat biking will make you a stronger rider and build your endurance, both physically and mentally. Riding in the elements on a bike that requires constant spinning (there’s pretty much no coasting) will up your overall toughness level. Plus, if you ever hit a race in your regular season that has bad weather, it’ll be nothing compared to your miles put in with the snow and mud.

You can ride a fat bike all year round

There are those that choose to ride a fat bike all year due to the feeling of the bike, particularly the stability and suspension of the fat tires. Many models can also accept multiple wheel sizes, so you can switch out your tires for skinnier ones before hitting the dry single track.

How to choose a fat bike

With the rise in popularity, the variety of fat bikes available has made choosing one a little more complicated. Although we can give you the basic features to look out for, a visit to your local bike shop will help you make a more informed decision. It’s also great to try one out before buying to ensure you enjoy the feel of it.

  • Frame capability – Think about how much “flotation” you want. Generally speaking there are two sizes: those that accommodate 4 inch Why You Need to Try Fat Biking ires, and those for 5 inch or wider tires. If you’re sticking to groomed or somewhat packed down trails, 4 inch tires will be all you need.
  • Rigid frame or suspension – Most fat bikes are a rigid frame as the tires and low pressure make up for the lack of suspension, but many are now also equipped with a suspension fork. Going with a frame with suspension can be a great option for really rough terrain, or if you plan on riding the bike all year round.
  • Frame size – As with any bike, you want to ensure you get the right size for you, and it’s always worth having a proper bike fit to ensure maximum efficiency. Most frames are set up with similar geometry to a mountain bike to remain stable over rough terrain.
  • Tires – As with road and mountain bike, fat bike tires can come in a variety of designs. Most are either clincher or tubeless. You’ll also want to take a look at size. The general size is 4 inches, but there are both smaller and larger tires available depending on the terrain you’ll be riding.
  • Brakes – If you’re planning on riding in the Arctic, or anywhere else that experiences freezing temperatures, then you’ll want to go with the basic mechanical, cable-actuated disc brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes are a great option, but only if you’re sticking to warmer climates as mineral oil can easily freeze.

Check out this list of the top ten best fat bikes for more information.

Fat biking really has become it’s own sport, and with good reason. It’s as much fun as it looks, and there are a ton of events that now incorporate fat bikes to get you through the long cold winters. Additionally, many bikepackers are choosing fat bike frames to widen their adventure possibilities. Check out the video below for some added inspiration to get you going.

The Best Types of Cycling Socks

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The first step to becoming faster is looking good…right? This may be why cyclists have a bit of a sock obsession. Most riders wear the same cycling kit, or with little variety, every day, so changing up the sock game is a fun way to add a little bit of your own personal style. Not only that, but they are a highly functional piece of cycling gear that can make or break a ride. Here are some of the best types of cycling socks to get you looking and feeling good for your next ride.

cycling socks

The Big Players

With so many brands of cycling socks out there, it can difficult to choose the ones that will work best for you. Hopefully these brief descriptions of a few of the larger brands will make the decision easier.

  • Swiftwick socks are made in the USA and focus on comfort and quality. Their socks feature managed compression, chemical-free wicking, and anti-blister and anti-odor technology. These are the four pillars they build each pair of socks to.
  • Defeet International socks are also made in the USA and prioritize operating at a higher level to produce one of the best cycling socks on the market.
  • Pearl Izumi yields not only great cycling socks, but also other clothing to keep you matching from head to toe!
  • Sock Guy is the go to sock company when looking for custom socks, they have a 4-5 week turn around and are manufactured in the USA.

Racing Socks

Racing cycling socks are designed with performance in mind, so they offer breathable material and an attention to performance over style. The Swiftwick Aspire socks have a thin cushion bed, and offer compression to different anchor points in the foot. The Louis Garneau Men’s Coni Cycling Socks are made from Coolmax fiber, and are supposed to wick moisture and increase the speed they dry out. Pearl Izumi’s Elite Socks feature the ELITE Transfer material to also dry out quickly, and have “compression for a performance fit.” All of these racing style cycling socks have two things in common. One, they are super good at drying out quickly to keep your feet cool while competing. Secondly, most of these socks come up one-quarter of your calf to give you that pro look.

Wool Cycling Socks

Wool socks can be a real lifesaver in the winter months, keeping your feet warm and dry. DeFeet makes some of the most popular wool cycling socks on the market. They are called the Woolie Boolie sock. They are durable and provide a great deal of warmth as they are made out of almost 50% American Merino Wool. These socks come up six inches to provide you with a great deal of warmth. The Sockguy wool cycling sock is twelve inches high and features a mesh upper panel above your foot to allow for ventilation. Giro also makes a six-inch sock out of merino material in a ton of patterns and colors.

Compression Cycling Socks

Compression socks are nothing new in the world of endurance sports, but finding the right pair may not be so easy. They are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), the larger the number the more compressed the socks will feel. The Swiftwick Twelve is 15-20mmHg and features their anti-odor technology and will help to reduce swelling during recovery. The Louis Garneau R-Compression cycling socks decrease recovery time between workouts and have “stretch zones at the heel and toe.” The Mojo Coolmax recovery cycling socks offer 20-30mmHg, a bit more compression than competitors, although more is not always better with compression.

The Best Indoor Bike Trainers

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Depending on where you live, your rides outside may be numbered. As much as we may go in with the the intention to tackle winter riding with vigor, when it’s dark and cold it can be tough to bundle up and get out there. Riding inside is a great way to not only keep up your fitness level, but it’s a great opportunity to focus on specific aspects of your technique and push for some improvements. There are a lot of options out there when it comes to indoor bike trainers, so this guide will take you through the different options and some of the best of each category.

Types of Bike Trainers

Trainer

A trainer is a stand that holds your bike in one place via the rear axle and has a spindle that is pressed against the tire transferring resistance. With your bike locked in place you can easily look away from the bike to an entertainment device as opposed to rollers (discussed below). Trainers come in three main kinds that are differentiated by how they apply resistance to the wheel.

– Fluid Trainer

A fluid trainer uses, you guessed it, fluid inside a drum that is attached to a spindle that the tire rests on to create resistance. Fluid trainers apply the most even resistance to the wheel while also being relatively quiet. The resistance level in a fluid trainer goes up in an exponential fashion the harder you pedal.

– Wind Trainer

Wind trainers use a fan that is designed to catch wind as it turns to create resistance. This is then attached to a spindle which rests on your rear wheel like that of a fluid trainer. Because the fan is cutting through the air to create resistance, they are loud. With stationary riding however, it can be quite hot due to the lack of wind across your body but wind trainers often direct the breeze toward you creating a bit of a cooling effect. The resistance level with wind trainers does go up the harder you pedal but not to the extent of fluid trainers.

– Magnetic Trainer

Magnetic trainers use magnets to place resistance on the spindle. Most magnetic trainers have an adjustment that allows you to vary the resistance level while riding. Magnetic trainers can vary widely in the amount of resistance they can give but a decent one will give you plenty of leg searing resistance.

– Wheel-less

One drawback to all of the trainers above is that the resistance is placed on the tire which causes the tire to wear down rather quickly. Many riders use old tires that are only ridden on a trainer, but if you’re frequently switching between riding inside and out, changing a tire all the time can get old. Fortunately there is a new style of trainer out there that doesn’t use a rear wheel. The trainer has a cassette that is attached to the stand that your bike is locked into which provides the resistance. Many cyclocross riders opt for this one as it eliminates the need for a trainer-only wheel to warm up on.

Rollers

Another device for indoor riding is rollers. These use three drums, one under your front wheel and two under your rear which your wheels rest on and rotate while riding. The centrifugal force of the wheels rotating keeps you balanced much like riding down the road. Riding the rollers does take a bit of practice as it requires balance and focus to stay upright, but once you’ve adapted it’s quite easy and much more enjoyable than riding the trainer which requires pretty much no focus to ride.

– Resistance

Rollers come in a variety of sizes of drums which dictates how much resistance there is on the rear wheel. The smaller the drum, the higher the resistance. However, some rollers come with resistance that can be added, most often in the form of magnets on the side of one of the drums.

– Free Motion Rollers

By far the best indoor riding device are free motion rollers which are rollers that are attached to a stand which allows them to glide forward and back with your riding via bearings. Free motion rollers allow the bike to move not only side to side as you ride but also forward and back allowing you to get out of the saddle as well as making it feel like you are riding down the road. They also have variable resistance with a magnet attached to one of the drums.

Stationary Bikes

A final option for indoor riding is a stationary bike. These bikes are made to only be ridden in place. If you ride inside a lot and don’t move your setup, this can be a good option provided you place a similar saddle and the same pedals on it as well as have the position the same as your normal bike. These can save your bike from the stresses placed on your frame by a trainer as well as running through tires on both a trainer and road bike. The down side is it’s a bike only to be ridden indoors.

The Best Indoor Bike Trainers

Fluid Trainer – Kinetic Rock and Roll Trainer

Price: $569

Kinetic is one of the most popular best sellers in the market, and with good reason. The cost upfront may seem daunting, but the high-quality and ease of use makes their trainers well worth the investment. The Rock and Roll trainer gives a more realistic ride than most others, making it unique, and it’s compatible with almost all bikes. It’s quiet, smooth, and features a fluid resistance unit. It also works with Bluetooth compatible smart phones, tablet, and laptops so you can use Kinetic Fit, Zwift or TrainerRoad.

Magnetic Trainer – Blackburn Tech Mag Race Trainer

Price: $109

The Blackburn Tech Mag Race Trainer is the perfect example of a great tool for the job at an affordable price. It’s small foldable design makes it easy to transport and store, and it has a surprisingly smooth road-like feel. The magnetic resistance system is controlled via a handlebar- mounted lever, making it quick and convenient. The adjustable legs also make it so you don’t really need to raise the front wheel. This trainer will work for both road and mountain bikes.

Rollers – Tacx Antares Rollers

Price: $218

The Tacx Antares Rollers are loved for the conical shape of the drums, ensuring your bike always remains in the middle of the roller (making it both easier to ride and safer). They also sell a support stand that clasps your front wheel, and can be a great toll to get used to the feeling of riding on rollers.

Budget Friendly Trainer – Conquer Portable Bike Trainer

Price: $59

For the casual cyclist looking to keep up a base over the winter, the Conquer Portable Bike Trainer gives you a lot of bang for you buck. It’s simple to set up and operate, and takes up very little space (perfect for apartment dwellers). The heavy duty frame and overall stability of the ride makes it a great option for beginners. It features magnetic resistance, and requires a bike with a rear quick release wheel.

The Best Gifts for Mountain Bikers

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It’s coming up to that time of year, and last minute gifts can be tough (cut to me wandering around a crowded mall like a lost puppy), so why not go with something that is both fun and useful? If you have a road cyclist on your list, check out our Top 10 Gifts for Cyclists, but for the mountain bikers, it may look a little different. Mountain bikers are hard on their gear, between beating it up on the trail, then scrubbing the dirt out of everything afterwards, which makes upgrades and replacements the perfect gift. Here’s some of the best gifts for mountain bikers.

10 Best Gifts for Mountain Bikers

Dynaplug Racer

Punctures are a part of the sport, so fixing them is a necessary evil. The Dynaplug Racer is the newest repair tool for tubeless bike tires. All you have to do is locate the hole, asses the size, and then use either the Megaplug end, or the standard plug for smaller punctures. It leaves behind a sticky rubber substance to give the sealant something to weld to. It’s quick, easy, and a great gift for any tubeless rider.

Park Tool IB-3 I-Beam Multi-Tool

The best thing short of a mobile mechanic, the Park Tool IB-3 has everything you need for most trailside emergencies. Eight hex wrenches, a T25 Torx driver, flat-blade screwdriver, chain tool compatible up to 12 speed, tire lever, box wrench and spoke wrenches.

Granite Rockband Carrier Strap

A lot of mountain bikers are ditching hydration packs in favor of water bottles and on-bike storage. The Granite Rockband Carrier Strap is pretty self explanatory, as it is a great alternative for those who want to have a multi-tool and spare tubes on hand, but don’t want to ride with a backpack.

Rylo 360 Video Camera

Rylo is a powerful little 360° camera that allows anybody to create stunning videos. This camera captures everything around you in 5.8K resolution with breakthrough stabilization- perfect for capturing some beautiful single track. When they’re done shooting, they can connect to the app and edit the video right there on their smartphone.

Race Face Aeffect Bike Pedal

The Race Face AEffect Pedals are strong, light and offer the best of both looks and performance. The chromyl axle and bottom loading hex traction pins can take a beating, making them perfect for trail and downhill riders alike.

Cycling Socks (Yes, socks)

Socks may seem like a lame gift, but the mountain biker on your list will be stoked! Check out some Swiftwick socks to keep their feet comfortable and dry no matter what the conditions.

Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair

Save them some money with this great resource. The Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair addresses the most advanced materials and technologies used in today’s bicycles. Each job is carefully explained in a way that makes sense to a novice mechanic. Each repair or maintenance project has easy to follow steps, complete with photographs, examples and helpful tips.

Custom stem cap

Bring some style to their bike with a custom stem cap. You could get something made just for them, or choose from one of the many fun ones available on Amazon.

100% Brisker Gloves

Perfect for those cooler days, the 100% Brisker Glove has an insulated top layer with a thin synthetic leather palm. This keeps the hands nice and warm, while not compromising grip and hand function while riding.

Osprey Raptor (Men’s) and Raven (Women’s) Hydration Packs

Made for rugged single track, Osprey hydration packs are known for their bio stretch harness and comfortable connection to the body. The design reduces liquid movement so you’re not sloshing your way down the trail. There’s plenty of room for snacks, tools, and a helmet carry system when you’re off your bike.

 

How to Choose the Best Cycling Jersey

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If you are new to the exhilarating cycling world, then welcome! Cycling is an amazing way to stay in shape, meet new people, and explore both your neighbourhood and the world. That being said, getting started with cycling can seem daunting. There are a ton of opinions out there on what bike is best, what gear is best, the best training or nutrition plan, what to wear–we could go on and on. When you’re heading out on your first few rides, the idea of putting on head to toe lycra may seem like overkill. If you’re looking for a general guide on what to wear cycling, click here. In this article we’re going to go into how to choose the best cycling jersey, and go through some of the best options out there.

What is a cycling jersey?

Cycling jerseys are made from materials that should work to get moisture away from your body. The general design will be a zipper down the front, with back pockets specifically designed to carry food, tools, and whatever else you’ll need out on the road. They have a shorter front panel (as you will be bent over on your bike), with a longer back panel. The bottom hem will have silicon grip tape to keep the jersey in place as you ride. A jersey should be fairly form fitting to keep you as aerodynamic as possible.

Why wear a cycling jersey?

In a word: functionality. Cycling jerseys are designed to be the best tool for the job. Most are made from material that will wick moisture away from your body, keeping you comfortable and cool. The back pockets are perfect for storing snacks, tools, and your cell phone. The snug fit keeps the jersey from flapping around in the wind making you more aerodynamic (and comfortable). Go for one ride in a loose fitting t-shirt and you’ll soon realize all the benefits of a cycling jersey.

What Type of Cycling Jersey is Right for Me?

There are two main types of cycling jerseys: race cut and club cut.

Race cuts are tailored for the fittest cyclists, such as the pros. The tightest cut available, they are form fitting so they are aerodynamic. There is generally a significant rear dip in the waistline so that when you are in the riding position the front does not bunch up, and your back is covered.

Club cut jerseys are for the everyday rider. They have a much more relaxed fit, they have more room in the ride position, a small rear dip and are still tailored to fit but are not as tight.

What Material is Best for Cycling Jerseys?

The best type of material for you depends on what kind of rider you are and the weather conditions.

Polyester

Polyester is a man-made recyclable synthetic material and is today’s most popular choice of material for cycling jerseys.

Pros

  • Great at wicking away sweat from the body and keeps your skin dry.
  • Helps keep you cool on hot days and is even UV resistant.
  • Extremely durable and can be washed and the color will not fade or wash out.
  • Mold and mildew cannot survive on it.
  • Can be bought at lower prices than other materials.
  • Great for warm or hot weather.

Cons

  • Plastic feel or artificial feel (can be fixed by washing with fabric softener).

Nylon

Nylon is another synthetic material that is known for its strength and stretchiness.

Pros

  • One of the strongest man-made fabrics.
  • Stretches, which can improve aerodynamics as it will fit snuggly.
  • Good at wicking away sweat.
  • Holds color well without fading.
  • Resistant to mildew and rot.
  • Wind and water resistant.
  • Good in all weather conditions.

Cons

  • Mold can form which can be very difficult to wash out.
  • Absorbs odors.
  • Nylon can shrink if not handled properly.
  • Not biodegradable and has an environmental impact.

Merino Wool

Pros

  • Keeps you warmer than any other material.
  • Most water resistant material.
  • Best wicking material available.
  • UV resistant.
  • Does not absorb odors.
  • Great soft feel.

Cons

  • Very expensive.
  • Can be too hot in warm or hot weather.

The Best Cycling Jerseys

Northwave Blade Air 3

Price: $54

Designed for hot weather riding, the Northwave Blade Air does a great job at keeping you dry and cool. It’s also easy to wash and care for, which is a bonus!

Castelli Entrada 3

Price: $59

The Castelli Entrada jersey takes pro racing technology and applies it to all-round performance and comfort. 100% polyester with Air Mesh fabric around the shoulders and sleeves, there’s a little extra stretch to give you a relaxed fit.

Endura FS260

Price: $34

The Endura FS260 Jersey is designed for hot climates and riders looking to stay cool and have maximum ventilation and temperature control. The Coldblack® treatment reflects UV rays and will keep your body cooler for longer.

Santini Lapis 

Price: $50

Great for slightly cooler weather, the Santini Lapis Short Sleeve Jersey  is made of from lightweight Rewind fabric on the front and back offering excellent breathability. Its slightly relaxed fit more comfort for the casual rider.

Giordana Sosta 

Price: $132

Perfect for when the weather turns cool, the Giordana Sosta Wool long sleeve jersey will keep the cold at bay and keep you visible in the lower light. The jersey is made of a knitted, heathered blend called Koln, which incorporates merino wool and nylon. The extended collar will feel great on those chilly mornings, and it includes a zippered pocket for items like keys and ID.

The Best Flat Mountain Bike Pedals

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If you’re a dedicated road cyclist branching out into some mountain biking, you may choose to go directly to clipless mountain bike pedals. Although there are plenty of advantages to riding with the clipless system, starting out on flat mountain bike pedals will help build your technical foundation. Riding on flat pedals keeps you from cheating, and will teach you to move your body and your bike efficiently. It may be frightening to take a break from obsessive wattage and tracking and instead work on some basic skills, but it’s worth it in the long run!

Flat Mountain Bike Pedals
It happens to the best of us.

The Balancing Act

When you’re first starting out, it’s common to balance by shifting your weight too far back. Although this is great to keep you from going over the handlebars, it can make it difficult to maneuver. Riding flat pedals encourages you to shift the weight by dropping your heels, keeping the bike steady and giving you a great platform to stand on.

While being clipped in can be great for forcing you to stay on your bike on technical trails, it can also be intimating when you’re first starting out. Flat pedals give you the peace of mind and confidence to tackle some tough trails knowing that you can easily drop a foot and aren’t at risk of the slow tip-over.

The Best Flat Mountain Bike Pedals

Spank Oozy Trail Platform Pedals

 

 

 

Price: $119

Extremely lightweight, the Spank Oozy Trail Platform Pedals have more than just great looks and a fun name. At just 12mm thin, they offer incredible ground clearance when pedaling in rough terrain. This exceptional thinness also improves stability and pedaling efficiency by bringing your foot almost flush with the pedal axle, drastically reducing dreaded “pedal flip.” Available in four colours, they all have the chamfered edges to keep the pedals from getting that trached look that most colored pedals get after a couple rides.  

 

Crank Brother’s 50/50

Price: $54

The CrankBrother 5050 their classic platform pedal for adventures of any type. Ten adjustable pins per side deliver a degree of grip and customization sure to keep your feet exactly where you want them. The medium-sized platform and thin profile that make them all-around performers, and the huge openings keep the mud-compacting to a minimum.

Race Face Aeffect Bike Pedal

Price: $100

The Race Face AEffect Pedals are strong, light and offer the best of both looks and performance. The chromyl axle and bottom loading hex traction pins can take a beating, making them perfect for trail and downhill riders alike.

Shimano PD-MX80 Saint Pedals

Price: $65

Developed and dedicated to downhill riding, the Shimano Saint MX80 have a unique shape and concave platform for better control and efficiency. The previous MX30s were popular for their durable, smooth rotating axle, and the MX80 carry this over with some added features. They are now slightly wider and lower, allowing for responsive levels of acceleration and deceleration.

Fyxation Gates Slim Platform Pedal

Price: $29

If you’re looking for an entry level flat pedal, then the Fyxation Gates Pedal is a great option. Designed as a BMX pedal, it is made of durable nylon and will work on the trails with ease. Thin bodied with loose ball bearings they can work great for casual mountain bikers and urban riders.

 

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