I Love Bicycling

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

How To Plan A Bike Route For Your Commute

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There are a lot of great reasons to commute to work on your bike. Not only will it save you gas money and wear and tear on your car, it also makes you feel energized and ready to attack the day. Having that buffer time at the beginning and end of your work day is important for you body and mind. However, getting started can seem daunting. Knowing how to plan a great bike route for your commute is the first step in ensuring you stay on your bike rather than defaulting to hopping in your car. It might be a bit of work to find the route, but once you do, you will be hooked. There are a few elements to keep in mind when planning a bike route, along with a few tools to help you choose that route.

Finding Safe Streets For Your Bike Commute

plan a bike route

The most important element of a good bike commute route is that it is safe. Separation from cars is ideal – the less time you are near them, the safer you will be. This holds true for any ride, but even more so on a commute, when everyone else is trying to get to work also. You will probably have to ride on a street with cars at some point. Be sure that they are quieter and that drivers expect to see cyclists and other road users. Good pavement and scenery are bonuses, although a quieter commute should be the main goal.

A bike commute generally goes from a less dense, more residential area to a more dense, more urban area. Both pose challenges. The residential area may have quiet neighborhood streets, but the roads that connect to the urban area may be higher speed roads. The urban area may have more non-driver users, but may also be more crowded. Weigh these aspects when choosing your route.

The Time of Day For Your Bike Commute

It is likely that during some point in the year, you will ride in low-light conditions. Planning a bike route that will allow other road users to see you with your fantastic light array on your bike and body along with your reflective clothing is imperative to staying safe. Street lights help light the way, but also consider the turns on a route and how you may sneak up on drivers and vice versa. Also note the position of the sun; if you are riding into the sun, it may be hard to for drivers behind you to see you. It may also be hard for you to see oncoming and merging cars and bikes. Try your best to avoid directly traveling into the sun’s path.

The Combo Commute with a Bike

If you cannot start your commute directly from your house because of distance or road conditions, consider a combo commute. Use your car, the bus or train to get to a better starting point with better conditions for you. It can allow you to get to a safer starting point for your bike commute and it can avoid some of the worst on-road traffic. This is a common strategy if the initial part of the commute gets you and your bike to a quiet bike path, while the on-road traffic gets worse as you get closer to your destination.

Tools for How to Plan A Bike Route For Your Commute

It is unlikely that you will see a good bike commute route from your standard car commute. There are a few valuable tools and strategies to find a route.

Experiment

If you know the area well enough and are confident enough, experiment with possible routes to work. It might be a good idea to try your first experiment on a day you are off from work. You will have the time to explore the best possible streets and not be late for work.

Scout the Route

For the section of the route that is on roads and not bike paths, you can scout the route in a car to see if you would feel comfortable on a bike. You can also experiment in your car to search for alternative streets that may be good for riding.

Talk With Other Commuters

Find out who else in your community (neighbors, coworkers, others in your work neighborhood) bike commutes and seek their input on a good bike commute route. Their experience is invaluable to shaping your own commute.

Google Bike Maps

Google bike maps can give you a route that should be safe for cyclists. That said, if the algorithm only sees one way to get somewhere, it may send you through a dodgy intersection or on a busy road. Use Google bike maps in conjunction with talking to other people and using street view to get a better perspective on the actual route. A great way to learn new roads to get places is to have a rough idea of where you want to go from first looking at the map, and then when you get to an intersection, stop and see which way you want to go next. It is a bit of a pain constantly stopping but once you know where to go, you won’t have to stop on your future rides.

Strava Heat Maps

Strava heat maps compile user data to show where people frequently ride. The brighter the street, the more cyclists that use it. It is a self-selecting map because a few people might ride busy or unsafe roads, but most users will ride on safe streets. This is among the best tools to find safe, common routes.

Map it Out

Knowing how to plan a bike route for your commute can help keep you out of your car and riding happily and safely. It can also change the shape of your day, avoiding the frustration of traffic and giving you more time to ride your bike.

How To Tackle Tough Road Conditions and Start Spring Cycling

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If you live somewhere snow has plagued the roads for the past eternity (months), then you may be getting excited to get out for some spring rides. There’s nothing better then hopping on your bike and making the most of the longer, brighter, warmer days. However, road conditions are a huge problem with spring cycling.

During the winter, a ton of grit and salt gets dumped on roads to keep them grippy and snow-free. Come spring time, all of that stuff ends up in one place – the shoulder where you want to ride. Spring is also pothole season, as water seeps into cracks in the road and freezes overnight, threatening to open up holes the size of the Grand Canyon on your favourite roads. There are a few easy things you can do to beat these obstacles, and stay safe during the spring cycling season.

Spring Cycling

Making the Most of Spring Cycling

Avoid Flats with Tough Tires

Nobody likes to change a flat tire, and the side of a road in a spring downpour is about the worst time to have to do it. It doesn’t help that this time of year seems to produce an abnormal number of frustrating flats. The culprit? Road grit. As it builds up on the side of the road, it collects all the little bits of stuff that would normally get blown off into the ditch – pieces of glass, metal shards, nails, etc. Normal, lightweight road tires get torn up in these conditions.

To keep you riding, a durable, puncture-resistant tire is essential. These tires have Kevlar fabric, or something like it integrated into the casing of the tire to strengthen it. Most major tire manufacturers offer at least one model like this. They won’t be the lightest, or the smoothest rolling tires, but they will take a beating. Check out Continental Gatorskins for a nice balance of performance and protection. The same company also makes even more durable (and heavier) tires – the GatorHardShell and the Grand Prix 4-Season. Other options include the Specialized Armadillo and Schwalbe Marathon Plus.

Look Out for Potholes

Weaving your way through the obstacle course that some spring roads tend to turn into can be a daunting task, but there are a couple of tricks that will help you out. The simplest is to look where you want to go, rather than looking at all the things you want to avoid. If you have ever managed to hit the only rock or hole on a nice smooth stretch of road, it’s probably because you were staring straight at it. Look ahead, pick your path through the debris, and then follow that path with your eyes. Your body will guide your bike there without you having to think about it.

As skillful a bike slalomer as you might be, occasionally there will be times that you can’t go around something. Maybe you are on a shoulder with cars to your right, or you might be in a group with other riders. Whatever the situation, you need to take alternative action. Enter the bunny hop. If you haven’t heard the term before, the general idea is to ‘jump’ your bike with both wheels leave the ground for an instant. This isn’t something that you want to try out for the first time at 25 mph on pavement, so find a grass field to practice on. Make sure you have mastered the movement before trying it on out on the road, especially when adding speed to the equation. Thankfully, with clipless pedals, the task is considerably easier. There are countless YouTube tutorials out there, but in short, you are going to ‘hop off’ your pedals (not literally, since your feet are clipped in) and then bring the bike up along with you.

Wear Layers

Spring can be a time of quick weather changes, so while you may head out on a ride in the sunshine, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for rain and wind. As far as clothing goes, that means layers, layers, and more layers. You want a warm base layer as well as a waterproof shell, gloves, and even waterproof pants if necessary.

Embrace the Fender

Grit and water aren’t much fun to ride through, and they are even less fun when it’s spraying up into your face as you’re riding. For this reason, fenders are your best friend for spring riding. They keep you (relatively) dry, grit-free as well as keeping all that same junk from getting into your drivetrain. This can reduce maintenance and keep your bike running smoothly. The type of bike you have will determine what your fender options are. For full-fledged race bikes, choices are limited since attachment points and tire clearance are minimal. In this case, the SKS Race Blade fender is one of the best options.

With lower-end road bikes, touring and commuter bikes you have many more options. Some people like clip-on fenders, since you can take them off at the end of the season to keep your bike looking slick. The downside to these are they won’t offer the same coverage and performance as a dedicated bolt-on fender set. Whatever you choose, it will be much better than going without fenders!

Clean Your Bike

Although fenders can help a ton to keep some of the dirt and grime off you and your bike, you should still give your bike a quick clean after every spring ride. It’s inevitable that it will cause wear and tear to your bike, which is why many cyclists have spring specific “beater” bikes, but this isn’t always an option. Check out this quick guide to a bike cleaning to keep your bike running smoothly.

Ensuring you are prepared both technically and mentally 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!

Waterproof Cycling Gear: The Best Gear for Rainy Rides

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As we slowly inch closer to spring, you may be itching to get back out on the road. This time of year weather is unpredictable, and when it rains it pours. One of the best things you can do to make your spring rides a success is to be prepared with the proper waterproof cycling gear. Having the right gear for rainy rides can actually make pedaling through the downpours a lot of fun.

One of the tough things about finding the right waterproof cycling gear is that it needs to keep you dry, but also breath enough to allow sweat vapor to escape so you’re not getting soaked from the inside out. Here are some of the necessities, from your head to your toes.

Things to Look for in Waterproof Cycling Gear

Look at the seams

Seams are the weak point in most garments, as the stitching holes in the fabric can let water in. Check to see if there is waterproof rubber backing to seal these holes, or if the seams are glued rather than stitched, eliminating the holes altogether. This will be the lightweight option, and more expensive, but may be worth it if you find yourself out in the rain a lot.

Water Proof vs Water Resistant

Water resistant clothing is a great option for light showers and to keep the chill at bay, but will not hold up in a full downpour. These are made from less advanced fabric with no waterproof membrane, making them the cheaper option (and more versatile).

Waterproof garments will  be cut from a fabric with multiple layers, including a waterproof membrane, and will have sealed seams and a waterproof zipper. These will keep your dry from the outside, but need to have proper ventilation to allow sweat to escape. Look for vents under the arms, in pockets or on the back. These will also be treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, which will cause the water to bead and roll off rather than soak into the fabric. This coating will degrade over time naturally, but you can always retreat it to renew it’s waterproof life.

The Best Waterproof Cycling Gear

GORE WEAR Men’s  C5 GORE-TEX Jacket

$194

Perhaps the top of the line, GORE-Tex Active fabric is waterproof, windproof, and extremely breathable. This jacket will both keep you warm during breaks, and cool enough when you’re pushing up a climb. This jacket offers a tighter fit than most to keep the fabric close to the skin, and avoid any flapping when you’re on your bike.

Showers Pass Storm Pant

$65

Great for slipping on over shorts or bib tights, the Showers Pass Storm Pant is waterproof and rugged, made with a 3-layer waterproof breathable Artex material. A generous helping of reflective trim keeps you visible during low light hours. Ankle zippers help these rain pants slide on and off over shoes easily. Includes a mesh stuff sack for commuters looking for something easy to carry with them.

For more waterproof pant options, click here.

Fi’zi:k Shoe Cover

Fi’zi:k Shoe Covers  are designed in collaboration with professional cyclists and offer the highest performance in whatever conditions you find yourself in. Tackle the wet and cold without getting frozen toes and soggy feet! Whatever the weather, Fi’zi:k shoe covers provide you with professional grade coverage so you can focus on what really matters; performance.

Showers Pass Crosspoint Knit Gloves

$45

Great for more than just cycling, these gloves are lightweight, breathable and waterproof. They’re made of 3 bonded layers: a wear resistant knit exterior that feels like a regular knit glove, a waterproof-breathable Artex membrane, and a Coolmax moisture-wicking antibacterial knit lining. Silicone print on the palm offers a better grip in wet conditions.

 

A Beginner’s Guide to Biking to Work

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You already know that your bike is a tool for good times and fitness, but what about your means of transportation? If you’ve ever been stuck in a traffic jam only to see cyclists whizzing by with a smirk on their face, then you’ve thought about it. Riding to work can seem overwhelming in the beginning. ‘Won’t I get all sweaty? What about my hemet-hair? Where will I keep my bike all day?’ These are all valid concerns, but they don’t stack up as enough to have you hopping in you car everyday. Biking to work (or school, or the coffee shop, or wherever you spend your days) will not only save you money, but it’s way more fun than sitting in your car.

A recent study found that bike commuters are overall happier than their driving counterparts. Whether it be the fresh air, the pumping blood, or the euphoric feeling like you’re a superhero saving the environment, it all adds up to a good time.

Biking to Work

Biking to work means you’ll stay fit without much effort, save money on gas or parking fees, decrease your carbon footprint and feel stronger both on and off the bike. Plus, if you get to the office and find a bowl of donuts in the break room, you can go ahead and splurge guilt-free. It also gives you time to prepare for and unwind from the day. You have some buffer time to clear your head before you get to work or arrive back home.

Not convinced? Check out 10 Reasons to Commute to Work on a Bike and we promise to convince you. Once you’re done there, come on back and we’ll go through the things you need to know about getting started biking to work.

1. Map Out Your Route

The route you drive to work may be the best and fastest in a car, but it may not be the best on a bike. The most important element of a good bike commute route is that it is safe. Separation from cars is ideal – the less time you are near them, the safer you will be. You will probably have to ride on a street with cars at some point, but adding a couple miles onto the overall is distance it worth it to stay on roads that are quieter or have a bike path. Good pavement and scenery are bonuses, although a quieter commute should be the main goal.

A bike commute generally goes from a less dense, more residential area to a more dense, more urban area. Both pose challenges. The residential area may have quiet neighborhood streets, but the roads that connect to the urban area may be higher speed roads. The urban area may have more non-driver users, but may also be more crowded. Weigh these aspects when choosing your route.

2. Get the Gear

There’s no need to go out and buy all the gear and a commuter specific bike right off the bat. Depending on the distance of your commute, even a mountain bike can work fine while you get into the habit and see if it’s something you will want to stick with. In plenty of places people will ride in suits, dresses or high heels, so it can be done! However, there are a few pieces of gear that are necessary to get you started.

Lights and Reflectors

Your number one concern is to be as visible as you can to cars, especially if you will be commuting at dawn or dusk. So, that means investing in some lights and reflectors for both you and your bike. 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.

Helmet

Yes, even if it squishes your carefully done hair, you should always wear a helmet every time you get on your bike. Stash a hair comb, and whatever else you may need for touch ups in your desk at work so you can reverse any helmet damage once you get to the office.

Gear Rack

Let your bike do the heavy lifting for you. A gear rack or panniers are a great way to take the load off your back and keep you comfortable on your commute. Riding with a backpack can be done, but be warned that your back will get sweaty!

Bike Lock

Unless there is a place in your office for your bike to hide away all day, you’re going to need a good bike lock. Always make sure your bike is left in a well-lit, busy area with plenty of pedestrian traffic. You want it to be as difficult to steal as possible.

Fenders

If you’re planning on riding on rainy or muddy days, then fenders are a must. Not only do they keep dirt and grime off you and your cloths, but they also protect your bike and any riders behind you.

3. Stay Safe

Maximize visibility

Assume that you are invisible to motorists. Do whatever you can can to enhance your chances of being seen to avoid accidents. Ride where people and cars see you, wear bright clothing, use lights and reflectors. Whenever possible, make eye contact with drivers and pedestrians to ensure they see you before proceeding through an intersection. The article “Bikes Versus Cars, How to Ride in Traffic” can give more insight into safely riding with traffic.

Stay off the sidewalks

Not only is riding on sidewalks illegal in some places, but it can be dangerous. You run the risk of clipping a pedestrian, or being hit by a vehicle turning or backing out of a driveway that does not see you. Stick to the road and bike lanes where you can.

Pay Attention

It’s up to you to ride defensively. As easy as it can be to space out as you ride through the morning sunshine, you always want to be paying attention to you surroundings. Don’t listen to headphones while you ride, and look out for people that may be opening car doors. Use hand signals whenever you are changing your position on the road to ensure everyone around you knows.

4. Master the Commute

Again, depending on the length of your ride, you will have to figure out a system that works for you. Many people choose to ride in cycling specific clothes and bring a full change of clothes in their bag. If your office doesn’t have a shower, baby wipes can do wonders! Give yourself plenty of time to get to work and lower your heart rate before sitting down at your desk. There’s nothing worse than running into work late, bike in tow and sweat stains all down your shirt. Plus, the more time you have, the more leisurely your ride can be.

Start small and work your way up from there. Ride to work once a week to start, then up it from there. If you miss a day or too if it’s pouring rain or you’re running behind, don’t beat yourself up. Biking to work somedays is better than none!

Best Waterproof Cycling Pants

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Sometimes when it rains, it pours. There’s nothing worse than getting caught in the rain on your ride or your morning commute to work, and arriving with sopping wet clothes. Regular wind breaking pants may hold up in a light shower, but when it really starts coming down you need a little something more. First of all, keeping your torso warm and dry with a waterproof cycling jacket or rain cape is your first line of defence, but your legs are also important. Waterproof cycling pants will keep all the water running off your jacket from soaking into the tops of your legs.

Features to look for

Material / Waterproofing – The word “waterproof” is thrown around a lot, but the truly waterproof gear will most likely come with a higher price tag. The top of the line will be products made from Gore-Tex, but other materials such as polyester or nylon can also be used with a waterproofing top layer.

Comfort – It should be said right now that waterproof pants are never going to look cool, so you might as well focus on comfort and functionality right off the bat. They are not fitted like regular cycling pants, as you need to be able to pull them overtop of whatever you’r wearing at the time. They will most likely have an elastic waist, with wide enough legs that you can pull them over your shoes, but with some sort of system to clip in the right pant leg so it doesn’t get caught in your gears.

The Best Waterproof Cycling Pants

Showers Pass Storm Pant 

Price: $52 

The Showers Pass Storm Pant is waterproof and rugged, made with a 3-layer waterproof breathable Artex material. Ankle zippers help these rain pants slide on and off over shoes easily. They also include a mesh stuff sack for pants storage during bike commute hours. This style runs small, so size up if you are layering over other clothes.

Helly Hansen Voss Rain Pant

Price: $26 – $64

With the lowest price point, these pants are super light and flexible, but the cost of their waterproofing is a lack of breathability. So, these are a great option for the commuter who needs something to throw on overtop of their work pants, but for the more avid cyclist they leave something to be desired.

 

Pearl iZUMi Select Barrier Wxb Pant

Price: $86 – $130

This waterproof and breathable full-length pant is engineered to provide optimal freedom of movement on the bike, while keeping you warm and dry. What makes them unique is their matte finish and unique feel. None of that shiny look that comes with most waterproof clothing, and they are noiseless when you walk around.

Craft Men’s X-Over Waterproof Bike Pants

Price: $127

With the higher price point comes a very bike-specific design. These pants are probably overkill for the commuter, but for cyclists who train outside no matter the weather, they are worth it. They are highly functional, combining elastic fabrics with advanced body mapping and ergonomic design ensuring body-temperature management, body control, aerodynamics, and a comfortable riding position fit.

GORE BIKE WEAR Element -Tex Active Pants

Price: $106- $255

Gore-Tex technology is proven to be top of the line when it comes to being waterproof, windproof, and breathable. The Element Series was specially developed for the recreational cyclist to account for unaccountable weather on and off the road. The pants combines high versatility, contemporary design geared to road cycling or mountain biking, and a close and comfortable fit.

 

The Best Cycling Backpacks for Commuters

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If you don’t want to go for a full pannier set up, a backpack can be a great way to carry your things while out riding. Most commuters opt for a cycling backpack, as you can also use it as a daypack, rather than just on your bike. However, some backpacks can be uncomfortable while you’re in the riding position on your bike, so you want to get one that doesn’t get in your way while you ride.

Backpack or Panniers

The main appeal for panniers is that there is no pressure put on the riders bike. Especially during the summer, if you’re riding with something heavy in your bag, having it weighing on your back can make for a sweaty ride. However, pannier racks and bags can be a nuisance to transfer between bikes, whereas a backpack can be worn no matter what bike you’re on. The best cycling backpacks will use lightweight materials and include a venting system to help avoid the awkward ‘t-shaped’ sweat mark that can come from riding with a backpack. You will also want to ensure the bag is water resistant or comes with a waterproof cover.

The Best Cycling Backpacks

Osprey Packs Radial 26 Daypack

Best Cycling Backpacks

Price: $162

This cycling specific backpack from Osprey is one of the best out there. The harness and suspension system moves with you to provide incredible ventilation and comfort with heavy loads. There is also a helmet attachment to keep you hands free while you’re walking around. There is an integrated kickstand so the bag stay upright while you dig through your stiff, and the multitude of compartments make for easy organization. It’s hard to find a part of this bag that isn’t well designed, and it comes in both 26 and 34 liter versions.

Ortlieb Velocity Backpack

Best Cycling Backpacks

Price: $156

The Velocity Backpack from Ortlieb is the perfect bag for commuters who ride rain or shine. The design is simple, and with 20L you don’t have a ton of room, but it also fits snugly so you don’t have to worry about it flopping around as you ride. The foam backing and adjustable straps make for both ventilation and enhanced stability. The main compartment features a roll top with Velcro closure for easy access, and you can rest assured that your things will remain dry no matter what. There is a removable inner pocket for your smaller items like phone and wallet.

Deuter Race EXP Air Backpack

Best Cycling Backpacks

Price: $120

For those who struggle to find a pack that is long enough and fits just right, the Deuter Race Backpack is the answer. It’s long, sleek design features a flexible frame and three-sided ventilation to keep your back nice and cool. The mesh hip fins add stability, but are breathable and lightweight. There’s also a fold-away helmet flap, a wet laundry compartment, a rain cover, and reflectors on the front sides and back.

 

Proviz Reflect360

Price: $79 – $130

The Proviz Reflect360 rucksack is designed to keep you as visible as possible on the roads, no matter how dark it gets. Even the smallest amount of light will create a light bright enough to see a quarter of a mile away, giving drivers more time to react accordingly. The bag is completely waterproof, with aquaguard zippers, and has comfortable mesh backing.

 

Chrome Citizen Messenger Bag

 
Price: $140
Okay, so this one isn’t a backpack, but it’s a go-to for a lot of commuters. The classic looking messenger bag can fit a 17 inch laptop, is fully waterproof, and will last through years of use. Although it goes over only one shoulder, it fits snugly into your bag and won’t swing around as your ride. The Chrome Citizen bags are known for being almost indestructible.

Best of Both Worlds: The Best Hybrid Bikes

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A hybrid bike is just what it sounds like – a cross between a road and a mountain bike. Versatile in nature, the best hybrid bikes can be used over a variety of terrain and are popular with commuters and casual cyclists. The flat handlebars on a hybrid bike offer a more upright position that can minimize the strain that can come from the more aerodynamic position on a road bike.

Not all hybrid bikes are created equal, and there is a lot of variety within the hybrid category. Some are designed more as a road / cruiser hybrid, whereas other are mountain / touring hybrids. So, you need to define what kind of riding you’re looking to do, and decide the best hybrid for your needs from there.

The Best Hybrid Bikes

The Benefits of a Hybrid Bike

  • More terrain – Most hybrids are suited to go off or on road, so this gives you more options for your weekend adventure or daily commute.
  • Wide tires – A hybrid can have a selection of fairly wide tires, which aids comfort and allows for various levels of off-road riding.
  • Comfortable fit – A hybrid’s horizontal bars provide a more relaxed, upright, and comfortable riding posture.
  • More gears – Hybrids typically have gears similar to a mountain bike, so riding hills shouldn’t be a struggle.
  • Easy to customize for commuters – Most standard hybrids are fitted for racks and mudguards, making it a popular choice for commuters.
  • Overall flexibility – Hybrids package quality and a variety of features at an affordable price. For a cyclist who rides slightly rough trails, flat city roads, bike paths, and the occasional sidewalk, the hybrid meets most purposes halfway.

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Mountain / Touring Hybrid

Specialized – CrossTrail Elite Alloy

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $1000

The CrossTrail features an aluminum frame, plenty of tire clearance, a 60mm travel suspension fork, hydraulic disk brakes, and wheels and tires that are on the heavy-duty end of the road spectrum. It’s a perfect fit for commuting, light touring, urban and rural riding, and even light trail riding. Although the fork may not be on par with the average mountain bike, it certainly takes the edge off on rough terrain.

Cannondale Quick CX 3

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $870

Built for pavement one day and dirt the next, the Cannondale Quick series features tough frames and quality components. The CX 3 is the middle of the road option, with a 50mm fork with lockout. Overall it handles well and is durable, but is quite heavy for the commuter or urban adventurer.

Diamondback Haanjo

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $899

Part mountain bike, part road bike, the Haanjo is designed to leave to choice up to you. Although it may not be ready to hit any technical trails, the Gravel Disc alloy fork will have you easily tackling gravel roads and dirt paths. The Haanjo features butted and formed aluminum tubing to bring together a combination of light weight, strength, and durability. The mechanical disc brakes offer some serious stopping power, and the big tires will have you rolling through the rough patches.

Road / Commuter Hybrid

Bianchi Strada

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $800

Based off the popular steel frame cyclocross bike, The Volpe, the Bianchi Strada is one of the smoothest hybrids out there. With a classic design and all steel frame, there is tire clearance for a up to a 38c tire (a great option for bad weather riding). The Strada has cantilever brakes which are less powerful than disc brakes, but are much easier to maintain. Like most hybrids, there are mounts for racks and fenders, but there are also mounts for front panniers.

Trek FX 3

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $819

The Trek FX brings together the speed of a road bike with the comfort of a city commuter. Also known as a fitness bike, the FX is lightweight, fast, fun, and agile. The aluminum frame comes rack and fender ready, with the added DuoTrap S, which integrates a Bluetooth sensor into the frame. You can easily log routes and track your progress with a computer or smartphone, with no external sensor.

Diamondback Insight 1

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $449

Uncomplicated comfort and easy on the budget, the Insight series is a perfect entry in the hybrid world. The aluminum frame is lightweight and durable, and will hold up on winding urban streets and rougher roads alike.

Carbon Hybrids

Felt Verza

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $1599

With a lightweight carbon frame inspired by Felt’s line of road racing bikes, the Verza Speed 3 comes complete with Shimano’s Metrea group for smooth shifting and modern aesthetics. It is capable as a commuter, a weekend cruiser, or a workhorse for group rides, giving you the freedom to define what kind of rider you want to be.

Fuji Absolute Carbon

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $1699

This C5 carbon frame provides incredible light weight and efficiency with VRTech built in to reduce road vibration. Its full-carbon fork keeps you on locked on track and includes hidden fender mounts, while the aluminum wheels keep the rolling weight low and easily handle rough roads. You pay the price for the carbon frame, but it could be worth it if you are a serious cyclist looking for something a bit more flexible than your road racing bike.

The Best Step Through Bikes for City Riders

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If you’ve ever struggled to get your leg up and over your bike, then you understand the reason for step through bikes. More and more manufacturers are coming to realize that there is huge market potential for easy to board bikes. Typically, even the best step through bikes suffered from weight bearing limitations, but with recent design breakthrough, they can make cycling more accessible to a lot of people.

What Are Step Through Bikes?

Step through bikes are pretty self explanatory. They are bikes with no top tube, making them easy to “step through” to mount. They often use a pedal forward design, with the pedals slightly forward of the seat tube. This makes it easier to maintain the proper seat to pedal distance, while also being able to put their feet flat on the ground while remain seated. The wheelbase will be a bit longer, which can effect handling, but it enhances the overall comfort.

Pro and Cons of Step Through Bikes

Historically, step through bikes have been regarded as women’s bikes as they allow the rider to wear a dress or skirt. However, more and more seniors, commuters, and heavier riders are opting for the easy to mount option. If you’re not quite as flexible and limber as you once were, then it’s a great option to keep you riding.

The biggest disadvantage of a step through frame is the weight, strength and stiffness. The regular diamond shaped design of most bikes is so widely used because it is the better design. The top tube gives the frame strength and stability, while allowing for the use of lightweight materials. To achieve the same strength, step through bikes have had to use heavier materials.

For city cruisers and commuters, the step through design can actually make the most sense. Stopping at stop lights and being able to remain seated while placing you feet on the ground can be plus for a lot of riders. Much more common in Europe, finding a step through bike can be a little tough depending on where you live. However, a lot of manufacturers will ship, so here are some of the best step through bikes.

The Best Step Through Bikes

Public C1

$395

If you live in a relatively flat area, the single speed Public C1 can be a great affordable option. Under $400, it has the iconic European style perfect for comfortable cruising.

Bike ID Step Through

$800

The Bike ID Step Through is made of Hi-Ten steel tubing, weighing in at 15.5kg or 34 lbs. It’s equipped with both a hand brake and a foot brake. Both brake and lever is made of aluminum, and due to a smart quick-release you can remove and replace the wheel without having to change the break settings. It is strong and durable, and will last through years of city cruising!

Shinola Bixby

$1950

The Bixby is offered in both a classic men’s and women’s frame design, with thoughtful touches like gender-specific saddle design and proportional geometry. The Bixby riffs off the fun look of the curved top tube, but improves on the fit and function with nimble frame geometry, a Shimano 3-speed internal hub and disc brakes. The Bixby is more of a hybrid between the step through and diamond design, giving the rider the best of both worlds.

Electra Amsterdam Royal 8i

$1400

The Royal 8i is a lightweight aluminum premium-edition Dutch bike: well-bred for stylish luxury and yet practical everyday cycling. Top-of-the-line Shimano Nexus 8-speed internal hub, smooth and powerful front and rear roller brakes and durable tires with Kevlar puncture-resistant casing are a few of the special upgraded features that make the Royal 8i worth every penny.

 

Cycling Hand Signals

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Whether you’re riding solo or in a group, you need to alert those around you of your intended movements. Like when you’re driving a car and use lights to communicate, cycling hand signals serve as your turn indicators and brake lights. It’s important to know the proper hand signals to ensure both cars and other riders can understand what it is you’re going to do.

Many accidents occur from misunderstandings between cyclists and drivers, and either side can be quick to point a finger of blame. However, it is up to both to know and understand cycling hand signals and the overarching rules of cycling.

Cycling Hand Signals

Stop

The most common hand signal to indicate you are slowing to a stop is to extend your left arm out to the left and angle the forearm vertically down from the elbow. There is some controversy around this, as if you are coming to a sudden stop, it means taking one hand off your brake and handlebar, which could actually prove more dangerous. If you are riding in a group and don’t feel comfortable taking your hand off your bike, yell a courteous “stopping” over your shoulder to warn those riding behind you.

Left Turn

Almost intuitive, to signal a left turn simply extend your left arm out horizontally. Be sure to do to the signal in advance to the turn (like you would in a car), not just when you are actively making the turn.

Right Turn

Cycling Hand Signals

Historically, to signal a right turn you would extend the left arm out, and then up at the elbow. This practice is no longer in use to cyclists, and has been replaced with the simpler right arm straight out horizontally. The Uniform Vehicle Code in the U.S. recognizes both, although it recommends the right arm out approach. State traffic laws generally conform to the UVC, but exceptions may exist.

Passing on the Right

Quite often cyclists will be moving fast than traffic in dense areas, so be sure to stay about a meter from the curb or well within the bike lane where applicable. Although you do not signal passing on the right, always be alert. This is an issue that can still come to debate in court. Look out for cars backing out of parking spots and driveways, turning left across the road toward you, or turning right into you. The truth is, they probably don’t see you. Never ride on the left side of the road or on sidewalks, as this is both illegal and increases the risk of a collision.

Take a lane

If you are moving a similar speed to traffic, or need to make a left turn in the near future, then be sure to signal and get into a lane. This will put you in the position to properly navigate the intersection with the rest of traffic. Always remember, the same rules apply to cyclists as cars.

Commuting can be the best part of your work day, but make sure you get there and back safely by using these hand signals and staying alert. Never listen to headphones in traffic, and give plenty of warning for each action. For more information on riding safely in a group, check out “Group Ride Etiquette.”

How To Use A Bike Pump

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New gadgets and toys often come with manuals but who actually opens them up let alone reads them? A bike pump seems simple enough to operate but not knowing how to use a bike pump is something that may have you flustered.

how to use a bike pump

Knowing How To Use A Bike Pump

Typically you find out that you don’t know how to do something when you precisely need to do that something. Knowing how to use a bike pump before you actually need to use it can be a headache saver but some of you likely found your way here to this article because you need to do that something right now; pump up your tires.

The Types of Bike Pumps

First, you need to know what kind of bike pump you have. Trying to pump up your tires with your feet holding the bottom of one pump won’t work too well with another. You will also need to know what type of pump head you have and how it works.

Floor Pump

A floor pump, as pictured above, is a pump you will likely leave at home or maybe in the back of your car. This is a tall pump that is held in place by placing you feet on the bottom of the stand.

Frame Pump

A frame pump is a long, slender pump that fits along the top tube on your bike to pump up your flat tire while out on a ride. It’s advantages over the below pumps are that it requires a lot less strokes and can reach a higher pressure; important if you’re on a road bike.

Hand Pump

A regular hand pump is small enough to fit in a jersey pocket or perhaps yours came with a mount that attaches next to your bottle cage. These ones are handy while out on the road but less than ideal if you’re using it to pump your tires up at home every few days.

Ultra Mini-Pump

Bike Mini Pump. Capability Pocket-Sized with Optimized Air Flow 100 PSI, Mounting Bracket, Presta-Schrader Valves, CNC Aluminum, Lightweight 72 Grams.

Having a pump that is small enough to easily fit in a jersey pocket amongst other stuff along with in a saddle bag or side pouch of a Camel-bak can be super convenient. It will get you out of a bind but be ready to do a lot of pumping.

CO2 Cartridge

A CO2 cartridge is super fast and efficient, unless you need to pump up more tires than you have CO2 cartridges; then you’re quick flat change is a long walk or wait for a ride.

The Differences in Pump Heads

Now that you know what kind of pump you have, you have to know how to attach it to the valve stem. But before you do that you need to know what kind of valve stem you have to make sure it is open as well as to make sure you are using the right style pump head. The two types of valves are Presta and Schraeder. Below, Presta is to the left. With this type you need to unscrew the top-most piece counter-clockwise to open the valve before pumping. To close, simply turn clock-wise. Schraeder valves, to the right, are ready to pump and don’t need opening nor closing. Just make sure you take off the plastic cap first.

Presta-vs-Schrader

Now that you know what valve type you’re working with, you need to know which head you have and how to use it. The first type, which you will find on all of the pump types, is the standard single nozzle head. These typically work with both Presta and Schrader valves by unscrewing the outer plate (in the image below, the silver piece) all the way off. This will expose a rubber nozzle. For Schrader, you will want the wider side pointed outwards. For Presta, you will want the narrower side pointed outwards. Behind this nozzle you will then probably find a plastic piece. For Schrader, place the pointy-tip side towards the outside. This is what de-presses the valve pin on the inside of the Schrader valve. For Presta, place the point-tip away from the nozzle. Once you have these pieces orientated for your valve type, simply screw the cover plate back on.

pump head
Single Nozzle

For a dual nozzle, pictured below, simply place the valve into the correlating hole. Large size for Schraeder, small size for Presta.

pump head 1
Dual Nozzle

Now that you have the valve in the correct size nozzle, you need to lift the lever on the rear of the valve head. This tightens down the rubber nozzle to ensure no air loss. (Note: On some fancier models this is reversed. Before placing the head on the valve you can lift the lever and see if the nozzle tightens down or not.)

How To Pump You Bike Pump

Now that you have the pump head securely attached, you are ready to pump. With all of the pump types, they will likely seal well when new but when they age you may need to hold the valve head tight to the valve with one hand while pumping with the other. With a floor pump, simply place a foot or two on the base and pump away. With the other pumps you will want to hold the other end of the pump with your other hand so all of the force isn’t placed on the valve stem. If you don’t do this you will likely brake the valve stem off leaving you with a less than ideal situation. A good way is to hold the valve head while also holding the rim to support your hand.

CO2 Option

With a CO2 cartridge, the attachment mechanism might be the same or perhaps a little different so you will need to do the same things mentioned above to make sure you’re using the right valve nozzle and then to make sure it’s securely attached. Then instead of pumping, you tighten down the cartridge to pierce it and either the tube will start filling up automatically or there will be a button to press to begin inflation. Either way, make sure you don’t over inflate the tire and when you take the valve head off a Presta valve, make sure it doesn’t freeze open. Simply give the valve a tap down and turn to close quickly.

What Pressure Should I Pump To?

Now that you know how to use a bike pump, what pressure should you pump to? With a floor pump you will be able to get your tires easily to whichever pressure you like. With the other pumps, it will likely be hard to get the pressure up to what you were riding originally. On road tires, get as much air in as you can to avoid pinch flatting. You won’t have a gauge so you will have to go by feeling the hardness of the tire with your thumb. For road tires, you should only be able to press in a tiny bit. For cyclocross and hybrid bikes, you should be able to press in a bit more, perhaps two to three millimeters. For mountain bike tires, you should be able to press in even more, five millimeters to one centimeter.

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