Stories

The Best Cycling Computers

January 8, 2018 by Sarah Lauzé

Cycling computers can do a lot to enhance your training and track important aspects of your ride. Some riders are just curious, while others use the data as a means of motivation. So, whether you’re looking for an in-depth analysis of every second, or to simply track your routes to see where you’ve been – there’s a cycling computer for that.

There are an overwhelming amount of cycling computers on the market, with both brands and models coming and going each year. So what makes one better than the other? Well, that depends on what you want it to do.

What kind of cycling computer is best for you?

If you’re not interested in chasing any Strava segments or going into detail about every aspect of your cycling, then you don’t need one of the top of the line cycling computers. In fact, a basic unit will most likely provide you with all the information your want and need. Most of them will include your distance, speed, and time. Most of these do not include GPS and do not allow you to transfer data to a computer or tracking service.

They are simple, easy to use, and effective if you’re just looking for those three areas of information. They will also be smaller, lighter, and often have better battery life than the pricier performance models.

Sigma BC 9.16 (Wireless)

Price: $40

The Sigma BC series has been a go-to for years when looking for simple reliability. The new BC 9.26 also includes some bells and whistles that previous models did not. The basic features include current speed, average speed, trip distance, total distance, ride time, total ride time, maximum speed, and calories. The unique thing about this model is there is an optional USB docking station, so you can transfer ride information to from the computer to your Mac/PC to keep track of your rides.

Cateye Velo 9 (Wireless)

Price: $26

The Cateye Strada includes all the basic stats, plus a few bonus features, all in a slim and lightweight design. On the display you can scroll through current, max, and average speed, your total distance, trip distance, elapsed time, calories burned, and a clock. The Strada is also a great computer to switch between your road and mountain bike, as there is an option to pre-program more than one bike with different wheel sizes.

This model is known for its long lasting battery life (upwards of three years) and it’s waterproof seal.

GPS Cycling Computers

The more complex GPS and ANT+ interface cycling computers can provide a lot more features. They will include things like mapping and navigation, while collecting information from heart rate monitors, cadence sensors, and power meters. They also track your ride using an internal GPS, so you can see your exact route.

With these cycling computers you can look at your time on any route or segments, and them compare to other users through Strava.

Edge 520

Price: $249-$299

The Edge 520 is great for training with it’s small size and ease of use, but it is not a touchscreen and therefore not as good for navigation. The Edge 520 led the way with new performance and power analysis, including Time in Zone, FTP tracking, cycling specific VO2 and recovery dynamics, but both the 820 and 1000 have since added these features. That being said, if you aren’t in need of much help with navigation, the 520 is a great budget-friendly option. It’s also great for people who prefer buttons over touch screen, if you ride a lot in the rain or with gloves on, but it comes down to personal preference.

Wahoo ELEMNT GPS

Price: $330

The Wahoo ELEMNT connects to all your peripheral sensors, as well as connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth. The in-unit menus are tedious to get through for set up, but are a breeze when connected to and operated through your smart phone. So unless you have a smartphone, either an iPhone 4s or newer or android 4.3 or newer, this isn’t the unit for you. That being said, it is a stand alone GPS unit. Once connected to your phone it’s simple to customize settings, configure workout pages, and link to popular cycling apps and wireless sensors. Post-ride, the app stores workout history can automatically sync to your linked third party Apps. The ELEMNT can also deliver on-screen alerts for phone calls, texts, and emails if you choose. The high contrast black and white screen is a selling point, making it easy to see even in sunlight.

Edge 820 GPS

Price: $395

The Garmin 820 is the hybrid, combining the touch screen of the Edge 1000 with the smaller size of the 520. So, is it the best of both worlds? Almost. The computer is easy to use, uploads your rides directly to Strava via your phone or wifi, and you can see incoming calls and texts while you ride. It’s downfall is the navigation. If you’re used to the larger screen of the Edge 1000 or even your smartphone, the 820 will take some getting used to. It’s not as if the navigation is terrible, but the touchscreen is much smaller, and can there seem a little cramped.

Giant NeosTrack

Price: $180

With over 30 hours of battery life, 2.6 inch screen, five button operation, and 80 functions, the Giant NeosTrack is a great budget friendly option. It’s no-nonsense, with a focus on functionality rather than flashy selling features. It can record all the standard metrics, as well as many of the more technical fields like TSS, normalized power, and L/R power. It is fully compatible with your smartphone via Bluetooth, but it a little slow when transferring ride data. Overall, it’s a great unit if you’re more concerned with data, and aren’t too worried about getting text notifications while out on a ride.

Edge 1000

Price: $299-$599

There has actually never been a better time to buy the Edge 1000, as the price has decreased with the recent release of the 1030. So far, the response to the upgrade as had mixed reviews, with most claiming it’s not worth the extra couple hundred dollars. For years the Edge 1000 was Garmin’s premium model, with the large screen making it great for training and navigation. When paired with your smartphone, the Edge includes including live tracking, incoming call and text alerts, social media sharing, weather, wireless uploads and sending/receiving courses and segments. As soon as your ride is complete, the data can be automatically sent to Garmin Connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Really, there’s not much this computer can’t do, but the battery can become an issue on long rides (one aspect that was improved with the 1030).

Your Smartphone

Why not just use your 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.

The main issue will be your battery life. Most phones will not last a long ride while running GPS the entire time. Also, unless you have a handlebar mount, you won’t be able to see the screen as your riding, which is one of the main perks of a cycling computer.

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

December 13, 2017 by Sarah Lauzé

You may have seen them around your city, cruising along like they haven’t a care in the world. Coming out in fleets around beaches in the summertime, cruiser bikes offer a different take on cycling as a means to urban adventure. No, it won’t replace your carbon road bike anytime soon, but they are a ton of fun.

The beauty of cruiser bikes is simplicity– they’re relaxed and casual in both design and essence. Cruiser bikes are designed for those who want a comfortable ride, functionality, and, of course, to look good while riding. You may not get anywhere fast, but you can hop on, take in the scenery, and see where you end up.

Things To Look For In A Cruiser Bike

Gears – Many cruiser bikes are single speed, meaning that you’ve got one gear to get you around. This might be fine if you’re routes will be largely on flat terrain, but can be an issue if you hit a hill. So, if you want more flexibility from your cruiser you’ll want to get a multi-speed.
Coaster Brakes vs Hand Brakes – The coaster brake is featured on classic single speed cruisers. While they may have freewheeling abilities, when back-pedalled they will engage the brake after a fraction of a revolution. Hand brakes are what you may be more accustomed to from road or mountain biking.
Steel vs Aluminum Frame – Steel frames can be a great budget-friendly option, but they are slightly heavier and are more susceptible to rust than their aluminum counterparts. So, if you don’t mind spending a little more, aluminum will probably be the better option, as they are more durable and are often equipped with higher quality components.
Style – It’s okay to admit it, how attractive the bike looks will weigh into your decision. So, think about what you want from a cruiser. Do you want it to be subtle and functional, or colorful with a basket and tassels? From chopper styles to the traditional curvy design, there are a ton out there to choose from.

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser

Price: $165

This classic curvy design is available in a single or three speed cruiser, boasting a smooth and simple ride. Sized for women from 5-6 feet tall, it makes for a smooth ride with aluminum wheels and a slight curve in the fork that helps with steering and shock absorption. The single speed option makes for a simple ride, with no cables hanging off the bike, and you can maintain a consistent cruising speed from 3 to 15 miles per hour.

Huffy Nel Lusso Women’s Cruiser Bike

Price: $118

This classic steal frame includes matching fenders, a rear luggage rack, a kickstand, a front basket, and even a cupholder. For someone looking to invest in their first cruiser, the Huffy Nel Lusso is function, plus it looks great. There is only a single speed available.

Schwinn Men’s Sanctuary

Price: $152

The Schwinn Sanctuary 7 cruiser equipped with a Schwinn steel cruiser frame and fork for comfortable riding, the full fenders help keep the water off you in the rain and the rear rack can be used for carrying cargo. The Shimano 7 speed rear derailleur with twist shift makes for simple quick gear shifting–the best of both worlds.

Sixthreezero Beach Cruiser Bicycle

Price: $299

Where sophistication meets functionality. Build around a sturdy steel frame, the cruisers handlebars are extended outwards a little more than most models. This creates an even more relaxed riding position, and easy handling. There are single, three, and seven speed version available of this model.

Critical Cycles Chatham Men’s Beach Cruiser

Price: $219

Inspired by the dawn of feel-good surfer culture, Critical Cycles new beach cruiser line is streamlined for little to no maintenance and impressively straightforward riding. Available in single, three, and seven speeds, the Chatham is practically unstoppable. With a hand-built steel frame, cushy grips on high handlebars, and a classic surf paint job, you’ll be riding around on an impressively comfortable and shock-absorbent cruiser.

If you’re looking for a simple commuter, or a way to get to the beach next summer, a cruiser bike is a great option. Not only do that look really cool, but they a ton of fun to ride. For more on commuter bikes, check out “The Best Commuter Bike – Matching Your Needs to a Bike.”

Top 5 Cycling Blogs To Follow

December 9, 2017 by Sarah Lauzé

It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind of life, which may be why many of us choose to get out on our bikes every chance we get. Cycling is a way of breaking free, simplifying life, and clearing our minds. Although many of us may not have the chance to drop everything and set out on a ride around the world, there’s adventure in every ride if you know where to look for it.

If you’re looking for a source of inspiration as a cyclist, or for life in general, look no further. These are some of the most inspiring cycling blogs out there, documenting incredible bike journeys, including the good, bad, and painful. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the next great adventure cyclist!

Cycling the 6

“Like most decisions of great consequence my plan to cycle the length of six of the earth’s continents was made in a pub, beer in one hand, mini-atlas in the other.” – Stephen Fabes, Cycling the 6

Stephen Fabes is candid and honest about his six year, 860,203 km ride around the world. Working as a doctor in London for years, he decided to leave his family, friends, and job almost on a whim, which is relatable to most of us. We have these crazy ideas or dreams, but few of us follow through with them because we don’t think it’s possible. As Stephen cycled away from his home, he immediately wondered what the heck he was doing and headed straight to a pub just kilometers out of town. You’ll have to check out his blog to find out what happened next.

Push Bike Girl

Heike Pirngruber first set out from her front door in Southern Germany in 2013. Almost five years later she has made her way across countries and entire continents solo – just her and her bike.

She made her way across Europe and Asia to Japan. From there she hopped on a flight to Los Angeles, and is currently pedaling her way down through Central America. Her blog is full of beautiful photos of the people she meets and the cultures she experiences. Heike isn’t one to sugarcoat things, so as amazing as her experiences have been so far, she is also raw and honest about the tough times and loneliness that you experience as a solo cyclist out on the road.

Tasting Travels

Tasting Travels is a three-languaged blog about people, places, culture and nature. Annika and Roberto started out on a journey to cultivate empathy through bike travel in 2011, and have an impressive map that shows their route around the world. Their goal is to inspire people around the world to consider cycling as a means of travel, whether around the globe or around your home.

“So for those who dream of traveling the world by bicycle and cannot do it at the moment. I invite you to take your bicycle and discover your surroundings. We assure you, you will be impressed by what you can discover. Excitement is just around the corner.”

Family On Bikes

Just because you have kids doesn’t mean you can’t head out on an adventure of a lifetime (it may actually be a reason that you SHOULD).

The Vogel family of four cycled 17,300 km from Alaska to Argentina over the course of three years. They now run their blog and have a series of books to inspire families around the world to “grab life by the horns and enjoy the ride.”

While Out Riding

Cass Gilbert is a freelance cycling journalist, based out of the UK, who has bikepacked through some amazing adventures. First chronicling his journey through the Alaskan backcountry, he has since rode through Mongolia and the Republic of Georgia.

More than an adventure blog, Cass writes about his car-free existence, and about cycling as a way to declutter your life and clear your mind.

5 Of The Best Cycling Power Meters

December 6, 2017 by Corey Davis

What is a Cycling Power Meter?

Cycling power meters have been a common tool used to gauge training amongst professional cyclists for years, but really only within the last decade have they become affordable for the everyday cycling enthusiast. So what exactly is a power meter? Cycling power meters are strain gauges that measure the amount of displacement of an object, say your crank, which is imputed into an equation that gives you the amount of work done which when combined with time gives you power measured in joules/second or watts. This work energy expressed in watts determines how much power a rider produces at any given second within a ride.

Why are Power Meters Good to Ride With?

The benefit of training with a power meter is that it can show how much power the rider is putting down to help track progress. It is a better measurement than heart rate to track training. Heart rate fluctuates a lot, whereas power is always consistent, but they are really best used together. Cycling power meters can help you also ride a much smoother pace throughout an entire ride, climb, or interval. You can pick a number and stick to it, whereas heart rate will creep up throughout the ride, hill, or interval. Cycling power meters are such a great training tool; soon you can expect to see them coming standard on bikes straight from the manufacture. Below is a list of 5 of the best cycling power meters and what makes them different.

5 of the Best Cycling Power Meters

PowerTap

PowerTap is one of the only companies that offer three positions for power to be read. Originally, PowerTap sold the rear hub power meter and now they offer chainrings and pedals to read power. All three are useful in their own way. The rear wheel is great because you can transfer it from bike to bike easily, but when race day comes, the race wheels replace the power meter.

SRM

SRM cycling power meters are certainly the most common amongst top professionals. The SRM is crank based and has its own head unit compared to most other brands that rely on Garmin head units. SRM claims to have a margin of error of less than 1%. SRM is the original power meter and focuses on quality; the price is certainly reflective of that.

Stages

Stages cycling power meters are in the left crank arm, and dependent on what drivetrain a rider is using. For instance, if a rider uses Shimano Ultegra and purchases a Stages, they would receive an Ultegra left crank arm to replace their original one. The only difference is that there would be a small black piece attached to the inside of the crank arm. Stages is certainly one of the more affordable power meters out there, and installation and setup is a breeze.

Pioneer

Pioneer power meters are crank based and have dual strain gauges to measure both left and ride side power. Pioneer offers complete cranksets and installation kits for user supplied cranks, i.e. you already have a DURA-ACE crankset and don’t want to buy another.

Garmin Vector

Garmin Vector pedal pods fit on your crank, taking only 15 minutes to install and calibrate. The pods do left/right pedal analysis, along with a feature called Pedal smoothness, to see where there are soft spots in your pedal stroke. These pedals are run on a simple CR 2032 battery, and the new Vector 2 design makes replacing the batteries much easier.

The Best Cycling Gifts for Him

December 2, 2017 by Sarah Lauzé

Do you have a cyclist on your gift list? Or are you one yourself? Either way, it can be tough to think of a cycling gift for someone who most likely has everything they need. Luckily, cycling includes a long list of useful gadgets that can make for great gifts or stocking stuffers. Plus, the right amount of anything to do with cycling is n+1, with ‘n’ being the current number.

If you’re looking for gifts for the female cyclists in your life, check out “10 Best Cycling Gifts for Her” or “50 Of The Best Cycling Gifts” for a larger range of products.

Water Bottle

You can never have enough water bottles, between losing them and your kids stealing them. Camelbak water bottles are particularly great as they won’t leak and make it east to squirt water into your mouth while your on the bike.

Bicycle Calendar

Everyone needs a calendar, so it may as well include inspiring photos to get them out riding. There are a ton of options, from road cycling to mountain biking, and it’s just in time for the New Year!

Socks

Socks don’t have to be boring! Pick up some fun socks that are also a great fit for in a cycling shoe and you can’t go wrong.

Beginner tool kit

If you own a bike, then you need to own at least the basic tools. This beginner tool kit by Park Tool has everything you need to get you through basic maintenance and repairs. For a step-by-step guide to get you going, check out “101 Best Bike Repair and Maintenance Tips.”

Go Pro

Do you know someone who’s always fumbling with their phone out on a ride trying to get the perfect footage? The GoPro Hero series has made getting sports video on the go simple and fun. With specific handlebar or chest mounts, you can take both photos and video with a click of a button. Well worth the price tag, this one will be sure to please.

Patch Kit

Patch kits are something you can use up in a hurry if you’re riding a lot, so a spare or two is always a good idea. Find a kit that includes both the patches and a tube of self-vulcanizing fluid to ensure they can make it home with no issues after a flat.

Multi Tool

A good multi-tool can be the difference between a minor roadblock in your ride or a long walk home. If your chain breaks mid-ride and you don’t have a multi-tool with you, then you could be in trouble. For some things to think about before purchasing a multi tool for yourself or someone else, check out “Best Biking Multi-Tools 2017.”

Gloves

Cycling gloves are great for those early morning commutes or winter rides. As the hands are essentially breaking the wind, they can easily become cold and numb. Be sure to get a pair with a breathable and padded palm for ultimate comfort.

Cliff Bars

The original “better tasting energy bar,” cliff bars are a staple in many cycling kits. Perfect for stuffing into stockings, or as a present all their own, you can be sure these bars will sustain many rides.

Cleaning Kit

Although splashing some water on your bike will take off some of the more noticeable dirt, doing a deep clean on a bike every so often can go a long way in ensuring its longevity. Brushes can make this a whole lot easier, especially when it comes to cleaning the chain. Check out some of the best degreasers as well to include with a cleaning kit.

Bike Light

Cycling at night may seem daunting at first, but with a proper light there’s no need to hide inside. This can be a perfect gift to get someone outfitted for cycling safely at night or on their daily commute.

Event Entry

It may not be the best idea to buy someone an entry into a race you’re not sure they want to do. However, if they’ve been talking about doing a century ride forever, you could buy them and yourself entries and train together!

Garmin Cycling Computer

Garmin has come a long way in the past few years, with Bluetooth integration, in-ride challenges through Strava live segments, and more fields of information than you can imagine. It is an invaluable tool for the cyclist that diligently keeps track of ride data.

Strava Premium

The free version of Strava is great on its own, but the premium membership includes features like: personalized coaching, live feedback, and advanced analysis. You can buy a month’s trial for someone, or go ahead and get them a year’s membership.

Best Bike Split: App Review

November 10, 2017 by Sarah Lauzé

There are so many apps available that can help you record your progress and improve your riding. Best Bike Split (BBS) is a new tool from Training Peaks that can help predict your cycling future. Sound crazy? Give it a try before you knock it.

Most cycling apps out there focus on analysis, comparing your time, power, heart rate and so on. It crunches these numbers to give you a snapshot of where you’re at right now, and how far you’ve come. Best Bike Split, however, uses mathematical equations to predict what power a cyclist needs to reach a certain time goal for a specific route or course, and will formulate a pacing strategy accordingly.

The Inspiration

BBS founder Ryan Cooper first had the idea during the 2013 Tour de France, when he designed a model to predict the times of some of the top racers. During the Stage 11 time trial his model with within just a few seconds of Alberto Contador, Chris Froome, and Tony Martin’s final times. From there he developed the app to help riders of any ability to predict, train, and plan for race days more accurately and to more success.

How Best Bike Split Works

Input your data – Set up your profile on your desktop computer with as much data as you can, including weight, height, functional threshold power (FTP), max heart rate, bike model, and wheel type.
Course mapping – Select the course you want to analyze, or upload your own. As more and more people are using the app, the more courses are available. You can also upload a recorded ride in GPX format from your Garmin or smartphone.
Create a race profile – From your course selection, Best Bike Split will calculate all the variables specific to that course like rolling resistance, mechanical loss, altitude changes, wind direction, and many more.
Get your best bike split – Using their math and physics engine, Best Bike Split will output the best possible power based plan given the course conditions. You can then download the app on the Garmin Connect IQ store. There is a free version, but for more advanced calculations including weather predictions, gradient chart, and TSS score you will need to purchase the premium membership.

The Best Bike Split: App Review — A prediction chart showing powering, speed, and elevation on a sample course.

Who’s Using It?

Best Bike split is great for anyone wanting to take their racing to the next level, and is a valuable tool for coaches. Or, if you’re a techie and love trying this kind of new technology, it’s a lot of fun. You can download other people’s power plans and see how long you can ride at their level. (Check out this plan for TJ Tollakson if you want to be humbled).

BBS is designed for athletes who race and train with power meters, and can help determine a number offactors such as:

Predict future race times.
Plan optimal power targets.
Pre-train a race indoors with Zwift, TrainerRoad, Computrainer, etc.
Determine what equipment to use for a race.
Compare race plans and finish times for various scenarios.
See how weather impacts your race day strategy.
Determine ideal places to attack or sit in during events.

The wealth of information that comes with the app can be overwhelming and completely unnecessary for the majority of riders. However, it can be a great tool for motivation and can help you reach those time goals sooner than later.

Where can I get it?

BBS is available in the Garmin Connect iQ store, and can also sync with Wahoo Elemnt and use the full web version with premium for $19/month. For more information check out the Best Bike Split website.

The Best Cycling Shoes By Type

November 6, 2017 by Sarah Lauzé

Going clipless is great way to quickly and easily improve your riding and become more efficient. Finding the right shoes can be tough as there’s no “one size fits all” solution, and there are a variety of features to look for.

Are you doing a lot of racing, or are you a commuter? Do you ride over the winter? Are you headed out bike touring? Each of these situations require a different type of cycling shoe, and you’ll want to think about what you’re looking for in a cycling shoe before investing in a pair.

Why go clipless?

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. Softer shoes lose some of that power as the flexible sole deforms around the pedal (and also makes your feet sore)

As well as having stiff soles, being clipped in encourages proper pedalling technique, using power through every part of the pedal stroke. Not only are you pushing down, but you are also pulling up to complete the 360 degree motion.

The clipless system is not just for racers, but can make cycling more enjoyable as you spend the same amount of energy, but get more return! So, if you’re a recreational rider who has always made fun of cyclists hobbling around in their cycling shoes, it may be time to give them a try. It can be intimidating to be locked in to your bike at first, but you will get used to the twist out motion in no time.

Types of road cycling shoes

There are two general types of road cycling shoes:

Performance – Performance cycling shoes are as light and as stiff as possible, with the cleat attaching entirely on the outside of the shoe via a two or three bolt system. These shoes are not meant for walking, and will get you out to your bike, but that’s about it. They are not shoes that you would want to get stuck walking home in
Leisure / Touring – For commuters, casual riders, and touring you may want something a little more versatile and easy to walk around in. These shoes will often have a much smaller cleat that is embedded into the sole, making it flat with the bottom of the shoe.

Key variables

Fit – You always want to try cycling shoes before you buy, as not all brands size the same. They’re awkward to walk around in, so trying them out on your bike would be ideal. You want your feet to feel comfortable, but snug in the shoe. They shouldn’t be moving around within the shoe at all, as that will become very uncomfortable over a long ride.
Fastening system – The number one thing you want from the fastening system is to keep your foot firmly in place. This can be done with dials, ratchets, velcro, or laces.
Soles – Generally speaking, the stiffer the sole, the more efficient the shoe will be. More expensive shoe soles will be made from carbon to remain as lightweight as possible, whereas cheaper options will be plastic, and some are combination of the two.
Cleat style – The majority of road cycling cleats are three bolt (SPD-L), with two bolt (SPD) being more appealing for commuting, touring, and mountain biking. Some cleats are a compatible with both.
Breathability / Water resistance – If you’re doing the majority of your cycling on hot summer days, then you’ll want to ensure the shoes you get are synthetic or leather and allow your feet to breath. There are specific winter cycling shoes for cold and wet riding, and it may be worth having two pairs if you are riding outside during all seasons.

Some of the Best Cycling Shoes

Performance Cycling Shoe

Shimano RP9

The RP9 road performance shoes are the quality and fit of a pro-level shoes, but at a much more affordable price point. They are designed for performance and speed, but with the heat moldable Custom-Fit, they are also comfortable enough for those long rides while giving you the ultimate power transfer. With a weaved carbon composite sole and a one piece synthetic leather upper, they are lightweight, breathable, and secure.

These shoes come in both men’s and women’s models.

Mid-Range Cycling Shoe

Men’s – Giro Treble II

The Treble II is exactly what you think of when you picture a cycling shoe. It’s simple, functional, and is compatible with both SPD and SPD-L cleats. The classic 3-strap closure makes for easy adjustments, but isn’t quite as durable or secure as it’s lace, ratchet, or dial counterparts. However, these are great entry level shoes that will having you set for a PR on your favourite climb with amazing efficiency and comfort.

Women’s – Shimano RP2

The entry level show in Shimano’s lineup, the RP2 is compatible with both SPD and SPD-L. The lightweight fibreglass soles increase power output, with the classic three strap upper keeping your foot firmly in place. The women’s model features a narrower fit, reduced volume, and added support in the instep to maximize comfort.

Leisure / Commuter cycling shoe

Women’s – Giro Whynd Womens Road Cycling Shoes

The best of both worlds. The sole of the Whynd is rigid enough to prevent the loss of power while remaining comfortable enough to walk in, featuring rubber “walking zones” to provide grip. The recessed cleat area accommodates two-bolt cleats, and the large strap across the top provides security and keeps the laces out of the way. These are perfect for weekend touring or running errands on your bike.

Men’s – Giro Rumble VR Cycling Shoes

The Giro Rumble features vibram soles for the ultimate support and casual look while out at the pub, with an injected inner shank to transfer power and have you feeling strong when you hop back on your bike. The mesh/microfiber upper upper will keep your feet from sweating and the non-slip laces will keep you nice and secure- no matter what the day brings.

Pedal Mafia Jersey and Bibs Review

June 4, 2017 by Andrew Funamoto

Top Highlight:

Nice fabrics, great zipper, good fit at an awesome price

Lowlight:

Ink on fabric can be a little light when stretched

Recommended:

Highly recommended. In terms of niche brands, Pedal Mafia offers high quality fabrics at very competitive prices, race cut and funky patterns.

The Pedal Mafia Jersey

First Impressions

The different fabrics fit well on the body. The collar is not too high, but also not awkwardly low and aerodynamic. The jersey offers plenty of stretch. The zippered pocket in the back is a nice touch that keeps cards and keys safe and sound. At $299 this high end cycling apparel company offers you high end fit and finish at a very competitive price.

PEDAL-MAFIA-GIANT-RACING JERSEY BIBS PROPEL

Weather Profile

This jersey is an all-round weather jersey. The front and rear panels are thicker than most climbing jerseys, but they have added little dimples in the fabric that allows it to breath. The side panels are light and airy, allowing water vapour to escape easily when you are putting in hard efforts. This jersey is predominantly black, so I find that it gets a touch hot on sunny Australian days (I am a Canadian, I’m not used to the heat!)

PEDAL MAFIA TEAM JERSEY — The side panels are light and very breathable

Fit & Feels

The jersey is soft and fits pretty close to the body. The Pedal Mafia jerseys fit quite large, so size down at least one size. I normally wear a medium in a Rapha, and I am definitely a size small in PM. The same recommendation goes for the bibs. The sleeves are a great length and I can wear this jersey all day long. The sleeves accommodate all sizes and don’t create sausages of my arms like some of their closest competitors. A quick glance at their website and you will notice that their models have more regular proportions than the typical roadie.

Look

The diversity of fabrics and funky patterns is really appealing to me. This is obviously a team sponsored jersey, but Pedal Mafia isn’t afraid to be loud and original with their patterns. If you are in Perth, you should make an effort to get out to a couple of their weekly rides. If you want to look fast, get on it now!

Details

The zipper pull is big, but makes zipping up and down a breeze. The reflective bits on the back of the jersey are something I expect from higher end products. Again, the materials are great and soft to the touch.

Who doesn’t like a little bit of gradient on their jersey?

The Pedal Mafia Bib Shorts

First Impressions

The first impressions of the bib shorts are that the fabric is a little thicker than what is typical of the higher end products. I am no expert in chammys, but the chammy is quite substantial which had me a little apprehensive at first. After getting these bibs on the road, the material is less breathable but I have no complaint regarding the chammy.

PEDAL MAFIA REAR JERSEY AND BIBS

Fit & Feels

Much like the jerseys, the bibs fit a titch on the large side. I am typically a medium in all manufacturers, but with the Pedal Mafia kit, I sized down to a size small to get rid of some loose material and bunching at the hips. I’m 6’2″ tall, so the length in the size small ends up being a bit short for my liking. The medium would be my preferred size, but for a race cut, I opted for the small, sacrificing a more modern, aussie-style length for aerodynamics. After a few rides the kit did give a little and I’m loving the race cut of this kit.

The chammy feels great when in the saddle, but the material is a bit on the thick side, especially for hot summer days. On the upside, we are heading into winter Down Under, so the added thickness is fine by me!

Value

The value for PM kit is unbeatable. Other Australian brands such as Pedla and MAAP offer high end apparel, but at a seriously aggressive price point. PM’s fabrics and dyes are perhaps a step down from MAAP’s offerings, but the value can’t be beaten. If you’re looking for sharp, unique kit, give these Perth boys a shot! I know I’ll be stocking up before heading back to North America!

Note on Shipping:

Pedal Mafia ships to North America, but remember that you will most likely be charged duty. Typically, I have seen duty charged up to 15%.

Specs:

Jersey: xs (I would probably choose a size small on my Pedal Mafia Jersey)

Bibs: small

Sizes available:

Men’s: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL

Colour range: 2017 TEAM EDITION

Brand based out of: Perth, Western Australia

If you want to read about how I started racing with Pedal Mafia, visit my travel blog!

NOW Helmet Furi Review

January 8, 2017 by Josh Friedman

NOW, short for Nonstop on Wheels, is a newcomer to the helmet marketplace. Their sole focus is on helmets for now with a line of three helmets; two for sport riding and one for urban riding. As with all helmets for sale in the United States, their helmets meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission protections standards. Thankfully that means I did not have to test the crash-worthiness of the Furi helmet I tested. But I did put the Now helmet through the paces with a lot of hours with me on my bike and the helmet on top of my head.

The NOW Helmet Out of the Box

The first thing I noticed when I took the Now helmet out of the box is how light it is (the claims are about 250 grams). It is especially light considering how much material it looks like there is – it is billed as an aero helmet, so you expect fewer vents equals more weight. After a long day in the saddle, it may make a difference in neck fatigue, but I do not have a way to measure it. The theory is sound at least.

I put the Furi on my head without adjusting anything to see if the shape would mate well with my shape. It was not ideal. From what I can tell, the helmet will fit a rounder head best. My head is longer and narrower than whatever head shape they used to design the helmet. This meant that there is a bit of extra room on the sides and a slightly tight fit front to back. Like saddles, shoes and handlebars, helmet fit depends on the person trying it. (Read “How to Fit a Bike Helmet“)

The straps on the helmet are relatively lightweight, although not as light as some other top range helmets out there. Something I would like to see NOW change is the redirection point for the straps below the ear. They do not lock in place and therefore can move after taking the helmet on and off a few times. This may be my biggest gripe about the helmet, which all in all is pretty minor.

Fitting

After a bunch of fiddling with the retention system, which has a dial to adjust the tightness and a vertical adjustment to adjust the contact point of the cradle, I found a position that was as close to ideal as I would find. The straps have moved a bit over time and needed readjustment, but it is not such a huge process. I have not been thinking about the helmet out on the road and that is something you should always have in a helmet. If you forget about it, it is comfortable.

Aesthetics

Overall the Furi has a finished quality to it with an in-molded shell and all of the standard fitments of a modern helmet, save the redirecting buckles. The orange color I tried out is stylistically in the movement towards brighter colors out on the road. The shape of the helmet reminded my riding pals of the hats Devo wore in the Whip it video. This is the moment you should step back and think of helmet aesthetics – if you were not a cyclist, you would think they all look silly. At the end of the day it is there to minimize head injuries, not to make you look cool – distinct maybe, but not cool. The final verdict on aesthetics is that the helmet fits into the acceptable range of helmet shapes and styles. Would the design stop me from wearing it? No way.

But it is Actually Cool

Along with weight, this was the second biggest highlight of the Furi. The ventilation is top notch for an aero helmet. This was not ideal for my November and December testing period. I did have great airflow through the helmet – it was quite impressive, even with a wool cap underneath I got a breeze. I was lucky enough to have one day where I did not need a cap of any sort under my helmet and it confirmed that the channeling is great.

The Three Big Things

There are three things that a helmet should do for you: provide safety, fit well and be comfortable. The Furi had me covered on two and half of these measures (again, fit is personal. There are people that will find a perfect fit in this helmet). It is a very nice helmet. Something that would be additionally attractive about the helmet is if NOW would release their wind tunnel data so we could see side by side comparisons to other helmets. This would certainly help their standing in the helmet marketplace. Beyond that, look for their nicely designed and made helmets more and more out on the road and trail.

10 Best Cycling Gifts for Her

December 24, 2016 by Emma Lujan

It can be tough to decide on the perfect gift to give to your female cycling friends. With so many accessories, gadgets, and articles of clothing it can be overwhelming to decide what to get for that special person. It is always good to keep in mind the ‘n+1’ rule, as most often cyclists enjoy having two of everything! However, here is a list of the top 10 best cycling gifts for her to make your holiday shopping a little bit easier.

Campagnolo Corkscrew. This wine corkscrew made by Campagnolo serves important purposes such as opening wine bottles, looking pretty, and being able to fit neatly into a stocking!

Clug Bike Hooks. These sleek discrete bike hooks fit neatly into the wall and floor making storing your bikes easy and functional. They are simple to install and keep your bikes out of the way especially in tight spaces like apartments and garages.

3. Chamois Butt’r Her. Chamois cream is always appreciated, and it is a practical gift that you will be happy to have once you begin increasing the riding mileage.

Endura Windchill Head Band. This headband is great for keeping the ears warm during winter rides or runs. It fits neatly under a helmet and is an awesome stocking stuffer.

5. Lezyne Micro Saddle Bag. A great gift for any cyclist to have is a saddle bag to store a spare tube, tools, and a patch kit or CO2 cartridge. You can also get such items to make it a gift within a gift!

6. White Chocolate Macadamia Cliff Bars. Keep your lady friend from getting ‘hangry’ with some cliff bars! With tons of festive seasonal flavors it will be easy to please her and keep her fueled for the winter training rides.

7. Personalized Coffee Mug with Coffee. A simple and easy way to personalize a cycling gift, while playing into her caffeine addiction. Most cyclists have a passion for coffee, and will love to have a special mug to enjoy it from.

8. Giro Tessa Gloves. A simple practical gift that comes in lots of different colors and will fit perfectly in a stocking. The Tessa glove also comes in a long finger option.

9. GORE Windstopper Arm and Leg Warmers. A great gift to keep your cycling friends inspired and well-equipped to brave all the elements. Arm, leg, and knee warmers available, as well as varying thicknesses and warmth.

10. Camelbak Magic. This women’s specific hydration pack from Camelbak has shorter shoulder straps, has a more narrow fit, and comes in different color schemes than the men’s packs. It is designed for a more ergonomic fit making more comfortable for women to use.

Don’t let shopping for your lady cycling friends be intimidating, there are plenty of women-specific cycling gifts to keep her happy, and make shopping easier for you! Happy shopping and Happy Holidays.