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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.

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A Beginner’s Guide to Handlebar Tape

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Handlebar tape is an often overlooked aspect of your bike, but it effects both how your bike looks and feels. It covers the essential contact point between you and and your bike, so it’s the easiest way to make your bike feel like new. The tape will work to absorb some of the bumps in the road, as well as provide grip for your hands. Historically, handlebars were wrapped in simple white cloth tape, but now there are a ton of options when it comes to material and colour. So, if you’re looking for a way to spend some quality time with your bike, changing your handlebar tape can be a great way to do it.

How often should you replace handlebar tape?

Cyclists know that certain items, tires, chains, and gears should be replaced at regular intervals, but how often should you replace your bar tape? This will be dependent on how much you ride, but it should be done at least a once a year. Think of how much your hands sweat out on a hot ride, or the dirt and dust from the road making it’s way to your handlebars. It can get pretty nasty looking, especially if it’s white, so you’ll want to make a habit of changing it out.

What to look for in handlebar tape

Grip

Handlebar tape does more than just make your bike look good, it serves as your main point of contact. So, it’s important to choose tape that provides adequate grip for the handling of your bike. Look for something with a tacky finish to ensure you get grip even in wet conditions. This is especially important if you are riding without gloves.

Padding

Handlebar tape provides a nice bit of cushioning for your hands, reducing the vibrations that travel from the road up into your arms. Choose tape that provides the right amount of padding for you and the type of riding you do. Many cyclists choose to double wrap their bars for a little extra cushion, especially when riding on rougher roads.

Looks

There are all sorts of unspoken rules out there. Some say your bar tape should match your saddle, or your kit, or your head tube…the list goes on. The truth of it is, you should chose whatever tape feels the best in a colour that catches your eye.

Types of Handlebar Tape

Bar tape is prone to wear and tear, but luckily most is relatively inexpensive. There are plenty of options to explore too, and new tape will always rejuvenate a tired-looking bike. It’s worth experiencing the subtle differences in comfort, feel, and performance offered by different brands and materials.

Cotton Bar Tape

Cotton is old-school. Any bike built before about 1985 probably has cotton bar tape. Cotton tape is very cheap but it’s not widely available, and your best bet may be to go shopping online for it. Cotton tape comes in a roll with an adhesive backing that is easy to apply to a clean set of bars. Cycling purists like to give cotton tape several coats of shellac to protect the material and prevent it from unwrapping. That’s why some older bikes seem to have shiny handlebars.

Cork/Synthetic Bar Tape

By 1987, cork tape had for the most part replaced cotton as the tape of choice. Contemporary cork tape is actually a synthetic blend of cork and ethylene vinyl acetate. Cork/synthetic tape is more expensive than cotton, but typically also comes with a with a small strip of adhesive backing. Cork/synthetic tape needs to be stretched carefully when wrapping the bars, otherwise it looks untidy and is prone to unravelling. Take care with cork blends, stretch them too tight and they will break. Cork tape is typically too thick for designs such as the harlequin or other pattern making. The main advantage of cork is that it absorbs shock and sweat like nothing else.

High-Tech Bar Tape

Most contemporary bar tapes are made from a lightweight and durable synthetics, in combination with a foam or gel core for cushioning. Materials such as polyurethane, synthetic nylon or silicone are strong, lightweight and durable and often have a tacky  texture that aids grip and contributes to a positive feel to your hands. Some have a perforated surface, others a ‘microfiber’ smooth feel, while others have a textured surface. Some look like faux leather or faux carbon. These newer formulas add good vibration dampening, without the bulkiness that can come from old-school tapes like cork.

Leather Bar Tape

If you’ve ever heard of the Brooks saddle you won’t be surprised that leather bar tape is at the top of the heap. Leather tape just feels good in your hands. Expect to pay around $100 for leather handlebar tape. You can also expect it to last forever. Some cyclists claim that it improves with age, just like a Brooks saddle. If you’re into changing the tape every year as suggested, leather probably isn’t the best choice. The downside to leather is that it doesn’t provide a vibration dampening effect like cork or gel.

How To Change Your Handlebar Tape

Bar tape can last for years, and it typically comes already installed on a new bike. It might seem easy enough; wrapping tape around bars. But it’s not that simple. Not all cyclists know how to wrap a bar and make it last. In fact, it’s one of the most common things done wrong on bicycles.

What You’ll Need

  • Electrical tape
  • Scissors
  • Clean hands or gloves
  • New handlebar tape

1. Remove Old Handlebar Tape

Do whatever it takes to remove the old bar tape. It might just unravel when you remove the plugs, or you can use tweezers or pliers to grip it an pull it off delicately.

2. Clean the Bars

Use a bike specific cleaner or anything that will remove tacky substances. Make sure it’s dry and without any residue to ensure a good bond with your handlebars.

3. Make Adjustments & Secure Cables

If you’re replace existing tape, the hoods should already be in the right position, but this is your chance to move them if you desire. Make the adjustments, and tighten the hoods to the handlebars. It’s typically done with a 5mm hex wrench. The bolt is usually on the outside of the lever under the hood. Its a good idea to ride the bike before applying the tape, to ensure the hoods are where you want them, because after wrapping the bars, they’re difficult to move without disturbing the tape.

Use black electrical tape to secure the brake cables to the bars if applicable. Some bars have holes in them for this purpose, and you can skip the electrical tape. It typically takes 3 or 4 strips of electrical tape to secure the brake line to drop bars.

4. Wrap It

The jury is still out on the direction, and whether to wind clockwise or counterclockwise is up to you. Some prefer to start in the center, on either side of the handlebars. Some prefer to anchor the tape with the plugs, and work toward the handlebars. Because the procedure varies wildly due to your choice of designs, the procedure can also vary.

In general, the most popular technique is to start at the end of the bars leaving about a half-inch overhanging the end of the bars. This is so you stuff it inside the bars when you insert the bar-end plug to secure it. Then start wrapping the bar tape leaving about 1/4 of an inch to a half overlapping the previous. Make sure you keep it snug as you go. When you get to the hoods there are a few ways to do it, but in general, you want to make sure that no metal on the bars is showing. Then continue toward the stem stopping two to three inches from the stem. Cut the tape so it forms a straight edge and wrap a few layers of electrical tape around the end to secure it. Then the nice tape that generally comes with new bar tape can be wrapped over the electrical tape giving it a sleek look.

Best Bicycle Phone Mounts

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Smart phones are an incredible tool that can be a great way to start tracking your rides and navigating new areas. If you’re not ready to invest in a specific cycling computer, or just prefer to use your phone, then you’re going to need a way to attach it to your handle bars. You could break out the duct tape, but we don’t recommend it. There a ton of great bicycle phone mounts out there that can keep your beloved phone safe.

Bicycle Phone Mounts

Cycling Computer vs Smartphone

With the Strava app, you can track data similar to on a GPS unit, and there are even ANT+ receivers for smartphone to integrate data from heart rate monitors, power meters, and cadence sensors. However, the main issue will be your battery life. Most phones will not last a long ride while running GPS the entire time. Also, if you take a tumble, your phone can be at risk. That being said, a handlebar mount can be a great way to start including technology in your ride without the investment of a cycling computer.

Types of Bicycle Phone Mounts

  • Case & Mount – A case and mount will be your safest option as it specific to your phone make and model. The phone is held in a case, which is then clipped securely in a block on your handlebars or stem. You can get waterproof cases, as well as adjustable mounts so the phone can be portrait or landscape orientation.
  • Universal Bracket – If you have a less common phone, then you may have to go with a universal bracket. These are the same idea as the case and mount, but feature a mount that will grip any phone, even if it’s already in a protective case. The advantage here is that you don’t have to switch your mount every time you get a new phone, and you can keep your phone in its everyday case.
  • Frame Bag – If you don’t like the idea of having something as large as your phone on your handlebars, then you can opt for a frame bag. This will sit on your top tube, just behind the head tube. It is a simple transparent sleeve that your phone will slide into, that allows easy access and control of the touchscreen. The downside of this design is if you are using your phone for navigation, as you will have to look and reach down further than if your phone were on your handlebars.

Best Bicycle Phone Mounts

Lezyne Smart Dry Caddy Handlebar

Price: $34

This simple case and mount gets the job done with no hassle or fuss. It’s tough and weatherproof once the seal is fastened and the flap rolled down, and comes in a variety of version for various models. It is a clear polyurethane cover fastened by a velcro flap. The mount is a strong plastic band that is tightened by a thumb screw. It takes all of 30 seconds to put on, and it stay nice a secure. You can then clip the case in place in either landscape or portrait orientation. It’s one downfall is accessing the iPhones power button up top when it’s in the case, but this isn’t a huge deal.

Topeak Weatherproof Ride Case with mount

Price: $39

There are a couple versions of this case and mount available, the most popular being the weatherproof version for the Iphone 6. It’s snug design is meant for the perfect fit and protection against dirt and rain while riding. The weatherproof shield allows easy touch screen access in both wet or dry conditions. The mount is fully adjustable for viewing in landscape or portrait, and it’s quick and easy to unclip the case from the mount at anytime.

RAM Mount with Universal X-Grip Phone Holder

Price: $29

This universal rubber ball and socket mount system will fit any phone you throw at it. It’s easy to instal, easy to use, and tough. The one con is that the spring loaded holder can end up hitting the volume buttons on the side of some phones, but that can easily be avoided with precise placement.

Quad Lock Bike Kit

Price: $70

The Quad Lock Bike Kit includes a slim case for a variety of phone models, a mount, and a weather resistant cover. The patented lock system makes for a secure connection, while maintaining a quick and easy release built right into the case. The case itself is tough enough, and yet desecrate enough for day-to-day use so you don’t have to switch out your case every time you ride.

A Guide To Spring Cycling Clothing

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It’s an exciting time when the snow starts to melt off the roads and the look of bare pavement has you dusting off your bike. Spring riding can be some of the best of the season, but the unpredictable weather can present a bit of a challenge. When it goes from sun to rain to snow within the span of a couple hours, dressing for the elements takes some planning. Your spring cycling clothing list will look a little different than any other time of year as it needs to be adaptable.

As with most things, there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. It depends on your type of riding, how long you’re going for, and how hot or cold you typically are when on your bike. Layering is the best way to ensure you can stay warm enough, but also won’t overheat if the temperature rises while you’re out. If you do get too warm, you can simply peal off a layer and continue on.

Main Articles of Spring Cycling Clothing

Base Layer

If you’ve been rocking a long sleeved base layer all winter, it may be time to switch it out for a short sleeved. Combined with a jersey and arm warmers, a light base layer can be just enough to keep your core warm. It also serves to wick moisture away from your skin to avoid getting chilled when you hit a descent.  Try choose a base layer made from polypropylene or merino wool, like the Castelli Seamless Base Layer.

Long Sleeved Jersey /Lightweight Shell

Depending on your preference, you’ll likely switch out the thick winter coat for either a lightweight shell or a long sleeved jersey. A long sleeved jersey is a great option for those warmer days as it offers much more breathability. There are also options in material that include a wind breaking fabric. Most will offer a full zipper down the front, making it easy to take on or off, and three pockets in the back to stash your snacks. A light weight shell can be worn over a regular cycling jersey, and rolled up into a pocket when not needed.

Arm and leg warmers

These simple Lycra accessories are great if you’re cold when heading out, but know you will be heating up quickly. They are easy to take on and off, and roll up small for easy storage in a jersey pocket. You’ll want to try them out before hand and make sure the fit properly. They need to loose enough to be comfortable, but tight enough to stay in place (especially important for leg warmers).

Gloves

Time to ditch the winter gloves and opt for a lightweight pair that won’t have your hands sweating 10 minutes into your ride. A lightweight, breathable pair of gloves are just enough to keep your fingers warm on that chilly morning commute.

Cycling Cap

A cycling cap is for both function and style. During spring riding, it can keep your head warm and help keep rain out of your eyes. Click here for some of the best cycling caps out there for every type of rider.

Ensuring you are prepared both technically and physically with the right clothing will have you jumping into the cycling season in no time. Spring riding can be some of the best rides, so don’t let the conditions deter you from getting out there!

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 Cycling Podcasts

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How do you stay motivated and stoked to get out and ride? Podcasts can be a great resource because you can listen to them anytime, anywhere. If you haven’t already jumped on the podcast train, it may be time. There are a ton of cycling specific programs that can help you learn more about the sport, your bike and how to best train. Rather than getting sucked into the popular world of true crime podcasts, join the cycling community instead! It’s the perfect thing to listen to on your commute or while cleaning, cooking, doing maintenance, lazing around and pretty much anything else. Here are some of the best cycling podcasts to get you started.

Best Cycling Podcasts

4 Of the Best Cycling Podcasts

The Cycling Podcast

Okay, The Cycling Podcast seems obvious. The name may be a little on the nose, but the production and quality of their content is one of the highest in the game. Sponsored by Rapha, each 30 minute weekly episode features authors and journalists Richard Moore, Lionel Birnie and Daniel Friebe. UK based, The Cycling Podcast cover the world of professional cycling with race reports, speculation and cycling news.

The Slow Ride Podcast

Another show about racing, but with a comic slant. The Slow Ride Podcast gets funny sarcastic, and a little weird sometimes, but it’s a ton of fun to listen to. So, if you want to take a breather from the seriousness that can be the cycling world, this show is a great breath of fresh air.

Velocast

As one of the longest running cycling podcasts, Velocast is just two guys who took their passion for watching and talking about cycling and made it into a show. A pro-level commentary on all things cycling, it’s the perfect blend between facts, knowledge and banter. You have the option of limited free shows, or you can subscribe to gain access to a ton of material.

The Paceline Cycling Podcast

The Paceline is a cycling podcast aimed at roadies, mountain bikers, commuters, cyclocross enthusiasts , those who grind gravel—indeed anyone who claims cycling for their own. The bicycle is more than a thing, discusses the bike’s place in society. The hosts love bike gear so expect some banter about what works and what does not on the road and trail. The show is backed by the Fatcyclist and Red Kite Prayer.

 

The Best Gifts for Mountain Bikers

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In case you missed the memo, it’s almost Christmas. 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.

 

Interesting Facts About Cycling

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If you’re reading this, then you probably already know how great cycling is, so we don’t need to convince you. However, if you think you already know all there is to know about your favourite 2-wheeled friend, then you’re in for a surprise. Be prepared to impress your friends or win the next cycling trivia night (because that should be a real thing) with these interesting facts about cycling.

Interesting Facts About Cycling

The History

  • Before the word ‘bicycle’ become popular (coming from the French word ‘bicyclette’) in the 1860s, bikes were typically called ‘velocipedes’. For more on who invented the bicycling, click here.
  • Social reformer and feminist Susan B. Anthony once said that the invention of the modern bicycle “has done more to emancipate women than anything else in the world” and called it the “freedom machine.”
  • Paved roads became mainstream not because of automobiles, but because of bicycles. While cars could go across cobblestones fairly well, bicycles could not.
  • UPS was founded by two teenagers with one bicycle and $100 borrowed from a friend.

For the Stat Lovers

  • About 100 million bicycles are manufactured worldwide each year.
  • Americans use their bicycles for less than one percent of all urban trips. Europeans bike in cities a lot more often—in Italy 5 percent of all trips are on bicycle, 30 percent in the Netherlands, and seven out of eight Dutch people over age 15 have a bike.
  • The bicycle is the most efficient vehicle ever devised; a human on a bicycle is more efficient (in calories expended per kilo and per kilometer) than a train, truck, airplane, boat, car, or motorcycle. It is 3 times as efficient as walking.
  • Cycling is the worlds biggest sports goods business worth approximately 51 billion dollars annually.
  • There are roughly one billion bicycles in the world (about twice as many as motor vehicles) and roughly half a billion of them are in China.
  • If Americans doubled their bike use to 2% of all urban trips, they would save 3.5 billion litres of gasoline annually.
  • In 2017, Mark Beaumont broke the world record for cycling around the world, completing the 18,000 mile route in just 79 days. That’s an average of 240 miles per day, and over 16 hours in the saddle per day.
  • In 1985, John Howard, Olympic cyclist and Ironman triathlon winner from the US, set the world speed record for a bicycle when he reached 152.2 mph (245,08 km/h) cycling in the slipstream of a specially designed car. The record would stand until October 3, 1995 when Dutch cyclist Fred Rompelberg pedaled in the slipstream of a dragster at 167.044 mph (268,831 km/h), a record that still stands.

Why Cycling is Awesome

  • Commuting to work on a bike increases productivity. A study of 200 people carried out by the University of Bristol found that employees who exercised before work or at lunchtime improved their time and workload management, and it boosted their motivation and their ability to deal with stress.
  • Cycling three hours or 30 kilometres per week halves your risk of heart disease and strokes
  • Figures show the average person will lose 13 lbs (5.8 kilograms) in their first year of cycling to work.
  • As more and more research is being done, there is a clear link between exercise (specifically outdoor exercise) and combatting depression, anxiety, and stress.

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 function 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 Waterproof Bike Covers

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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 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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