Gear

Bike Fit

The Best Types of Cycling Socks

December 2, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

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.

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

November 26, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

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

November 22, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

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

October 27, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

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

October 14, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

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

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.

7 Essential Bike Tools Every Cyclist Should Have

October 10, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

Working on your own bike can be satisfying, plus it can save you a bunch of money and trips to the bike shop. Having the essential bike tools for the job is necessary on both accounts. Seeing as you are the one who rides your bike all the time, only you really know what’s going on with it. If it’s making a certain noise, or feeling weird in a way, it can be tough to describe those smaller issues to a bike mechanic. With the right tools and general know-how, you can diagnose and fix the problems– and even have fun doing it!

That being said, botching a quick repair or making it worse because you’re trying to get through it with some multi-tools you had lying around can make for an embarrassing trip to the bike shop. Make sure the tools you have are up to the task, and ensure your also know how to use them. Seek out someone to teach you, watch videos online, read articles and practice on an old beater in a low-stakes repair before moving on to your top bike.

7 Essential Bike Tools

1. Floor Pump

While a floor pump is not the most exciting bike tool, proper and regular use can avoid the most common bicycle repair: a flat tire. Correct inflation pressure for the rider/tire/rim/surface condition combination can lead to fewer flats, along with better handling for your bike. Pressure that is too low risks pinch flats and pressure that is too high can lead to more puncture flats. Finding the right pressure will keep your bike rolling, keep you more comfortable on the bike, and more confident in your bike handling.

2. Tire Levers

Bad tire levers are really frustrating. If you’re out on a ride and get a flat, struggling to get your tire off with your bare hands can be tough, so you reach for your tire levers. If they proceed to break, then you’ll most likely be ready to pull your hair out. Good tire levers are the difference between a simple fix and the above situation. It is not a huge investment, so get the good ones and they will last you.

3. Hex Keys/Torx Keys

Most bolts on bicycles have metric hex bolts, so a good set of hex keys with ball-end drivers will make repairs a breeze. They will fit in your bolts securely, minimizing the chance of stripping the bolts. The ball end allows you to tighten and loosen hard to reach bolts at angles other then perpendicular. The set should have a full range of sizes to accommodate all of the bolts you will work on. Again, this is not a huge investment.

More and more bike parts have Torx bolts, six pointed star heads that give their wrenches more surface area, reducing the chance of stripping them. The same rules that apply to hex keys apply to Torx keys, except that they cannot accommodate ball-ends.

4. Cable Cutters

Replacing cables is not a complicated job with the right cable cutters. And there is only really one right cable cutter, which is often copied. With the wrong cable cutter, you risk fraying the cable or housing you are working with. A frayed cable is useless as the frayed section can spread and will not go cleaning through the housing, compromising its function.

5. Chain Tool

Cutting your a new chain to the correct length and installing it is one of the most satisfying repairs to do. It increases the longevity of your drivetrain if done at the correct intervals and makes it more efficient with crisper shifting. The only way to push the pins through a chain is with a chain tool.

6. Screwdrivers

There are a few adjustment screws on bikes, usually for derailleur limits (although some have moved to small hex heads) and usually number two Philips heads. But not all screwdrivers are equal, a good fit goes a long way to preserving your screws. Additionally, you should have a flat head screwdriver around, but this is mostly for scraping clean derailleur pulleys and other hard to reach places.

7. Torque Wrench

The last tool, the torque wrench, is a recent necessity. With the explosion of lightweight parts that require a certain torque to both hold fast and not fatigue prematurely, a torque wrench is the only tool for the job. Fortunately, most bike parts that require a certain torque have it printed right on them. Make sure you get the right bits for your bikes. Lots of people say they can do it by feel, but that has been proven wrong time and again.

Your own work is always more satisfying than relying on someone else’s, and it can also give you a sense of ownership of your bike. These bike tools should get you on your way to mastering most basic repairs. Remember to learn how to use a tool properly before attempting any repairs.

The Best Waterproof Bike Covers

October 1, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

A bike cover is one of the most simple and effective ways to protect your bike. A bike can be considered an investment, so it’s worth doing what you can to protect that investment and make it last as long as possible. A quality waterproof bike cover can protect your bike from the elements and ensure it lasts for years to come.

Ideally you want to keep your bike inside, but depending on your living situation this is not always possible. If bringing one more bike into the house is going to be the last straw for your significant other, then you need to take advantage of other options.

Leaving your bike open to the elements will speed up the aging process. The sun, water and dirt will end up causing damage to your bike and cost you in repairs. If you’re in a humid climate, rust on certain metal components can also develop quicker.

When you are choosing a bike cover, first thing to look at is what material it is made from. You want to ensure that it is, in fact, waterproof and that it will not snag when you’re taking it on and off. Next you will want to try it on your bike to make sure it fits and covers the entirety of the bike, including the wheels.

Here are some of the best waterproof bike covers to ensure you do all you can to protect your bike.

5 Of the Best Waterproof Bike Covers

Pro Bike Tool Cover

Price: $30 – $40

The Pro Bike Tool Cover is on the more pricey end of the the spectrum, but it does offer high performance protection. Made from Ripstop Oxford Fabric and with heat sealed seams, it really does keep out the snow, ice, wind, dust, sun, and pretty much anything else you throw at it. With a variety of sizes, you can get one to fit over your road bike, mountain bike (even with 29ers), or multiple bikes.

MayBron Gear Bike Cover

Price: $27

This heavy duty MayBron Gear bike cover is also made from durable Oxford fabric, which is not only heavy-duty but also relatively lightweight. Be sure to measure your bike before purchasing as there isn’t much wiggle room when it comes to the cover fitting snugly over your tires. This cinching bottom works great, and it includes holes for your bike lock.

YardStash Bicycle Cover

Price: $30

The YardStash bike cover is designed to offer ground up coverage, made from durable 210D Polyester. It has an elastic bottom, and also includes a middle buckle making it a good choice if it will be exposed to a lot of wind. There are two vents in the front of the cover that aim to eliminate condensation and corrosion if you live in a humid environment.

COVRIR Ultra-Tech Waterproof Bike Cover

Price: $20

The COVRIR Ultra-Tech bike cover was designed to offer lasting quality at a affordable price in an attempt to eliminate waste created by replacing a bike cover every year. Using a three strap system, this cover is “hurricane proof” while made from breathable fabric to prevent condensation. It also comes with a lock and cable, although you may want to invest in a secondary lock to ensure your bike’s security.

Kotivie Waterproof Sun Protective Bike Cover

Price: $26

The Kotivie bike cover is double sided, so black on one side and reflective on the other for UV protection. It is made from durable Polyester Oxford fabric, with a Silver PU coating to keep it from breaking down in extended sunlight. It is large enough to fit 1-3 bikes, with straps to pull it snug.

The Best Mudguards to Get You Through Winter Riding

September 6, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

Many cyclists think slapping mudguards on a carbon fiber bike is a little daft, but once you try them you will realize just how useful they can be. Unless it’s pouring rain, it’s the spray from the wheels that most often get you wet, so mudguards are your first line of defence. Not only do they keep spray from flying into your face and going up your back, but they are also a common courtesy on group rides.

Winter riding can be a ton of fun, but it also makes for some tough riding conditions. Between the sudden changes in weather and wet roads with muddy shoulders, mudguards can make all the difference. For commuters, fenders are a no brainer, but for cyclists heading out on training rides, they also have the advantage of keeping your feet and legs from getting soaked and chilled. That means you’ll be able to ride longer (also a no brainer).

Types of Mudguards

Full Length

Full length, bolted mudguards are most commonly seen on touring bikes. These obviously provide the best coverage and protect the rider behind you, but they do have limited clearance and won’t fit all bikes. Some have a large rubber flap on the end of the front of the mudguard as well. The longer the front mudguard, the better chance that you feet will stay dry as they are in the firing line for water kicked up from the front wheel. For a bike to accommodate full length mudguards, you’ll want to make sure you have enough clearance under the brakes and behind the seat tube. You also want to make sure it has mudguard mounts.

Plastic Clip-On Guards

Plastic clip-on guards will attach to most road bikes. Clip-on guards are great for bikes without mudguard eyelets, but they typically provide less coverage.

Mountain Bike Style

Mountain bike style mudguards attach to the downtube and seatpost. These will fit on almost any bike, and provide a ton of clearance, but provide the least amount of coverage.

The Best Mudguards

Full Length: Portland Design Works Full Metal Fenders

Price: $118

Made of anodized aluminum and adorned with laser graphics and an embossed alloy head badge, the Full Metal Fenders look great. They provide full-wrap coverage, even shielding your shoes and riders on your rear wheel thanks to sturdy rubber mudflaps. Safety release tabs ensure your wheels keep turning even if debris gets lodged between the fender and tire. The mounting system has a creative workaround for forks that do not have a center mounting hole through the use of zip ties. They have two sizes: “The Road” and “The City” that cater to road or commuter bikes.

Full Length: SKS Chromoplastic

Price: $115

The SKS Chromoplastic are a great full length option that have stood the test of time. Made by sandwiching aluminum strips inside plastic housing, they are durable and provide great coverage. They feature stainless steel stays and hardware, with a front fork crown fitting and secu-clip to lock it in place. The Chromoplastic also include a mudflap on the front and a reflector on the rear. They’re available in a variety of sized to fit tires from 20 – 45mm.

Full Length: Velo Orange Hammered Alloy Fender

Price: $65

These fenders feature a classic hammered pattern and include a hardware kit to work with almost any type of mounting in the same finish as the fenders. Made from aluminum alloy for strength while staying lightweight, they come in a variety of sizes to ensure a good fit. They can be a pain to install, but they are built to last.

Clip On: SKS RaceBlade Pro XL

Price: $60

These easy to install clip on plastic mudguards are designed for 700c tires up to 32mm in width. They can adapt to the radius of the wheel by adjusting the length of the stays. Each mudguard consists of two parts that join together with steel brackets, held by the brake caliper bolt. They do a great job of keeping both your feet and your bottom dry, and protecting the rider behind you from getting sprayed in the face.

Mountain-Bike Style: Zefal Swan Road

Price: $15

If you don’t have mudguard mounts and are looking for some protection from road spray from your rear wheel, then the Zefal Swam Road is a great option. It includes a simple but sturdy bracket that attaches to the seatpost, making it super easy to take on and off.

Mountain-Bike Style: Crud Catcher

Price: $15

The Crud Catcher fits on your downtube to catch any loose mud being flicked up from your front wheel. Mostly used on mountain bikes, you can use it on your road bike as a means of keeping mud and spray out of your face. It’s easy to mount with the supplied fittings, and gets the job done with little fuss.

Stay Visible: The Best Use of Bike Reflectors

August 27, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

Riding at night can be a ton of fun, and it’s unavoidable if you commute on your bike early in the morning or later at night. Ensuring that drivers can see you in tough lighting conditions is the first step in staying safe on your rides. This includes bike lights, reflective gear, and making use of bike reflectors.

Bike Reflectors as a Supplement to Lights

First things first, you’ll want to have a front-facing white light and a rear facing red light (one solid and one blinking is best). These are legally required in many places, and are a very good idea. Reflectors can be used to supplement bike lights, not replace them.

Fortunately, new LED lights are both affordable and long-lasting for those longer rides. Drivers have to be able to see you to have enough time to react, so better to have too many lights than not enough.

If you’re planning on heading down any low light or country roads, you’ll want to ensure your front light is bright enough to light your path. Be sure that all your lights are fully charged before heading out with more than enough battery life for the duration of your ride, and it’s a good idea to have an extra backup light as well.

The Best Use of Bike Reflectors

Bike reflectors work to bounce light back in the direction of it’s source, in this case a car’s headlights. Depending on your bike, it may already have some reflectors. Most new bikes come with a set of reflectors, but are rarely installed by the bike shop before sale. The most common places will be on the back of the pedals, the fork, handlebars, seat post, and rear rack if you have one.

Front and Back Reflectors

Front and back reflectors usually have a bracket that fits around the stem or handlebar. These will either snap shut, or have small screws that hold it in place. Back reflectors will go on the stem below the seat, but make sure it isn’t so high that the seat or your jacket will block it. Front reflectors will go right on the handlebars, or the front stem. If you don’t want to attach reflectors on your bike, strips of reflective tape can be used instead.

Pedal Strips

It’s been proven that drivers will notice the up and down movement of pedaling before the smoother movement of the whole bike, so it’s important to get something reflective on your pedals or feet. For pedals that don’t have built-in reflectors, you can get a reflector attachment that will bolt into your pedals. Or you can use strips of reflective tape on your pedals and wear reflective ankle bands to ensure you are visible.

Tire Spoke Reflectors

You may not want to have tire spoke reflectors on your favourite road bike or mountain bike, but they are a great idea. The rotation of the wheel will make sure you are seen from the sides as well as the front and rear. Basic plastic tire reflectors will snap on and off easily, so you could just put them on for those rides at dust or in the dark.

Cycling at night doesn’t have to be dangerous and can open up a whole new world of riding, not to mention the additional time available to actually do it. Be prepared and stay smart and you’ll reap the benefits of cycling at night be it commuting or getting some extra training in.

A Beginner’s Guide to the Cycling Essentials

August 10, 2019 by Sarah Lauzé

If you walk into a bike shop with zero context or little to no experience in the cycling world, the sheer amount of stuff can be overwhelming. If you’re not careful, you can end up buying a lot of things you don’t necessarily need, and missing out on some of the things you really need. Here are some of the cycling essentials (and near essentials) that will get you started in the world of cycling.

The Cycling Essentials

A Bike

Okay okay, this one is a little obvious, but it can be confusing to know what to look for in a road bike when you’re first starting out. Do you get the bare minimum and upgrade later? Or do you invest a little more now? Check out this great article on “How to Buy a Bike” for some guidelines.

Helmet

Riding without a helmet is NEVER cool. So, if you own a bike, you should also own a helmet. It doesn’t matter if you’re riding on busy roads, technical trails, or bike paths. If you go down and hit your head, a helmet can prevent disastrous consequences. There are a ton of cool looking options out there, so make sure you get one that fits you properly.

Glasses

You may have a pair on sunglasses you’ll wear on those bright, summer days, but wearing glasses while on your bike can do more than shield from the sun. Glasses help break the wind when you’re riding, preventing eye irritation. They also work wonders to keep bugs, rain, and other debris from smacking you in the eyeball (which is not a pleasant experience). Many cycling glasses will come with interchangeable lenses, so you can wear the same pair no matter what the weather.

A Bike Lock

If you’re ever going to leave your bike outside anywhere, then you’re going to want to lock it up. Bike locks may seem pricey, and it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but ensuring it’s difficult (if not impossible) for someone to steal will save you money in the long run.

A Bike Cover

If you don’t have room to keep your bike inside, you will want to get some sort of bike cover to keep it protected from the weather. If you leave it open to the elements, over the course of just a few weeks you will begin to see visible damage. The colour will fade, chain will rust, and your bolts will corrode and seize up. So, invest in a cover that fits well over your bike, keeping it dry while also allowing moisture to escape.

Cycling Jacket

A cycling jacket is an indispensable garment that will keep you comfortable and on your bike even when the weather goes bad. Most are lightweight and waterproof, so they will not only block the wind and cold, but rain as well. Most are small enough to roll up and stuff into a jersey pocket so you are always prepared in case of an emergency.

Pump, spares, a multi-tool

You won’t want to have to end your ride and take your bike into the shop every time you get a flat. You’ll need both the tools and the know-how to take care of some of the most common bike fixes. A good tire pump, multi tool and spare tubes (if you have clincher tires) will go a long way to keep you out on the road. For some basic maintenance and repair, check out “101 Best Bike Repair and Maintenance Tips.”

The Cycling Near-Essentials

Cycling Shorts

Possibly the most critical item of technical-gear you can purchase for cycling is a good pair of cycling shorts. A solid pair with a good chamois will allow you to feel more comfortable, powerful, and in control while on the bike. It will also allow you to ride for longer periods of time without discomfort.

Cycling Cap

A cycling cap is for both function and style. It keeps the sun out of your eyes as well as sweat and rain, and winter caps can keep you warm on a chilly day. Also, if you use your bike for commuting around town and are worried about having hemet-hair, a cycling cap can be a great lightweight fix.

Clipless Pedals and Cycling Shoes

Clipless pedals with cycling shoes is the most efficient and comfortable system out there when it comes to road biking. The stiff sole of the cycling shoe provides a rigid platform to transfer power from your legs to the drivetrain and propel the bike forward. Even if you’re just starting out, cycling in your regular running shoes can begin to hurt your feet, so getting used to the clipless system from the start may be the best idea.

Bike Computer

It can be fun and inspiring to track your progress over time, and the best way to do that is with a bike computer. It can track your ride metrics; from time and distance on the most simple computer, to location, power, and far more on the most powerful ones.

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