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.

Reviews

Best Bike Split: App Review

by

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 Best Bike Split: App Review

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.The Best Bike Split: App Review
  • 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

by

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.

The Best Cycling Shoes

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

The Best Cycling Shoes

There are two general types of road cycling shoes:

  1. 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
  2. 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 The Best Cycling Shoestrying 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

by

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.

PEDAL MAFIA JERSEY
I’m actually wearing an extra small jersey, and you can see white lines where I’m stretching the fabric out #aero

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

by

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

by

womens-cycling

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.

  1. 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!

61ndjkzg9al-_sl1200_

  1. 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.

8176sbjzv8l-_sl1500_81j6itauqql-_sl1500_

        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.

61xhsmimktl-_sl1350_

  1. 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.

61xrkvspszl-_sl1200_

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!

81yqstaemjl-_sl1500_

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.

71kwztnyx9l-_sl1500_

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.

61pupmrofl-_sl1000_

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.

51qqxat4myl

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.

71-7avwoll-_sl1500_

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.

71doy7dihml-_sl1500_

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.

Tigra Sport Trio Fitness Sensor and App – Review

by

tigra-sport-fitness-sensor

Data and knowledge are ingrained into our day-to-day lives in nearly everything that we do. From driving home for the holiday and following our GPS on our phone to having our phone measure how many steps we have taken in a day to measuring how good we sleep at night. Getting that data and making it useful for us in the moment is a challenge all consumer-focused tech companies face. For exercising, and specifically cycling, some companies are very good at giving you one or the other: the really good heart rate monitor or the really good interface for exercising (map my ride or run anyone?). Tigra Sport has the multi-functionality through its Trio 3-in-1 Fitness Sensor of which we tested to see how good it actually is and if it’s worth buying.

What is the Tigra Sport Trio 3-in-1 Wearable Fitness Sensor?

The Tigra Sport Trio Fitness Sensor is a 1-piece device that attaches to your arm for running or leg for cycling and measures your heart rate through an optical heart rate sensor. Additionally, it measures motion so when cycling it can measure what your cadence is or when running or walking, your step cadence. The device works via Bluetooth and connects to your smartphone (iphone or Android) to display and record your activity through your app of choice. Tigra Sport makes it easy with their app which the device connects with seamlessly as well as gives you additional data through the phone’s GPS.

What is the Tigra Sport App?

The Tigra Sport app is their solution to transfer the data collected through the wearable to useful knowledge. The app is free and has the added benefit of incorporating GPS data which gives you speed with cycling, distance, elevation climbed and descended, as well as maps your route. There are multiple displays of which you can customize to see what you want while riding. When your ride is finished, all the data is compiled into a broken down, easy to read screen to give you the insights into every data point measured with the ride. With this, you can view graphs of your speed, heart rate, cadence and other metrics. Also, you can see the route you took which also can be viewed mid-ride which makes for easy navigation. You can also export the data from the app should you choose to do so.

How it Works Cycling

With cycling, the Trio Fitness Sensor works by strapping onto your lower leg. It comes with 2 straps; one for your arm for running and 1 for your leg for cycling. These straps are surprisingly comfortable and with both riding and running with it, I could barely feel it and actually forgot it was there. After being turned on and the Tigra Sport app fired up, it connects quickly and the app then asks if you’re ready to start your activity of which you choose what it is. It has the option of being used indoors of which it doesn’t use the GPS signal. The heart rate while riding was accurate as well as the cadence. You won’t have any issues with getting an accurate measurement. While riding, you can see all of your data which is useful if you don’t have to reach into your pocket to get your phone. They also have a solution for this with their handlebar phone mount of which we reviewed here. The two, or three things if you count your phone, are excellent pairings and make riding and having your workout information incredibly easy.

How Good is the Tigra Sport Trio Fitness Sensor?

So in review, the Tigra Sport Trio Fitness Sensor is a good product. It does what it says it does, excellently at that, and is a quality product that seams like it will last, even through abuse. An added benefit is that it is rechargeable with a usb cable. The battery also seems to last quite awhile, 8+ hours per their estimate. How good is the app? It’s good and does everything you need it to but is it as sleek as it could be? No; it seams a bit dated but being free you can’t complain. The good thing with this wearable too though is that you can pair it with your app of choice such as map my ride or run.

Is the Tigra Sport Trio Fitness Sensor Worth Buying?

So the bottom line; is the Tigra Sport Trio Fitness Sensor worth buying? If you just want to go out and ride and don’t care what your heart rate is, what your cadence might be, or where you went then you’re best bet is to just go ride and enjoy it without any devices. If you want that data however and like to track your progress, the fitness sensor is a great buy. It is an even better buy if you not only ride but walk or run and wish to measure that. You can have all your activities with one device and on one app.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Barely noticeable on your leg for cycling or arm for running
  • Easily integrates with their app
  • Can be paired with any app

Cons:

  • Its price: for a simple device, it’s a bit expensive
  • If you don’t like wearing things on your arms or legs this device isn’t for you unlike a heart rate monitor
  • Their app is a bit dated
  • No social sharing capabilities with the app (email export only)

Take Away

Tigra Sport makes some great stuff that is functional and somewhat affordable. You can have all of your gadget needs met by them particularly with their handlebar phone mount for your phone so you can see the data while riding. This wearable is also good in that you can use it for more than just cycling. Have you used this wearable? Let us know in the comments below what you thought of it!

Where to Buy

If you’re interested in buying the Tigra Sport Trio Fitness Sensor you can purchase it here.

Best Bike Trails in the World

by

best-mountain-bike-trails

Click the Interactive Map below to zoom in and click on each area. Additionally, clicking on each title in the article will take you to a respective website for that area.

Mountain bike trails offer qualities that paved trails often cannot: seclusion, contact with nature and a variety of terrain that requires different skills and equipment. Each of the best bike trails below will meet all three qualities to some degree. See how many you have already ridden and perhaps you will find a new one to pique your interest and plan your next trip around. Let us know what you would like to see added to this best bike trails in the world list as we will continuously be updating it. Without further ado; a few of the best bike trails in the world:

Kingdom Trails – Vermont, USA

kingdom-trails1

Kingdom Trails in Vermont is a unique bike trail system built on private land. A non-profit maintains the bike trails and the cooperation of the land owners to provide over one hundred miles of singletrack that is uniquely east coast – rocky, twisty and rooty. There are different routes for different ability levels so there is something for everyone here.

Maah Daah Hey – North Dakota, USA

mah-dey-hay

The Badlands of North Dakota provide good riding on the Maah Daah Hey trail. Campsites along the way allow you to see the entire 97 mile trail without doing it in one shot. The ride can be a rugged back country experience coupled with incredible vistas and excellent trail riding.

Mt. Tam (Tamalpais) – Marin County, California, USA

mt-tam

Go back to the roots of mountain biking and ride Mt. Tamalpais, across the bay from San Francisco in Marin county. This is where Tom Ritchey, Gary Fisher, Joe Breeze and many others started the first mountain bike races on what now look like extremely rudimentary bicycles. Rip along the trails on your modern bike and wonder how these pioneers handled the trails back then.

Whistler – British Columbia, Canada

whistler

Whistler mountain bike trails are legendary. Some say it is the original location of lift service downhill riding. There are also miles of cross country trails if you do not do downhill. The mountain bike culture pervades this area in the Canadian Rockies, while offering up dramatic views and extreme elevation changes throughout your day, whether you pedal or take the lift.

Slickrock – Moab, Utah, USA

slickrock

Slickrock in Moab, Utah is named for the surface that is difficult for shod horses to walk on. In reality, riding the sandstone is some of the grippiest riding you will ever do. Loads of traction does not mean the riding is not difficult. And try not to fall; it is like falling on sandpaper. The barren landscape of petrified sand dunes will keep your attention. There are few other places like it in the world.

The North Shore – British Columbia, Canada

north-shore-1

North Shore riding originated in British Columbia and Severed Dick is one of the original trails. North Shore riding is known for built features that bypass unrideable sections, making them into spectacular challenges. Severed Dick does not have many of these features, but it does have plenty of other natural features that make North Shore riding renowned for challenging terrain.

Graham Hills and Blue Mountain – (outside of) New York City, USA

graham-hills-blue-trail

Why include two separate parks with trails that are probably not world class? Because of their proximity to New York City (they are still very nice trails). They are both easily accessible by train from the city, one of the busiest and most influential in the world. There is no shortage in outdoor adventure close by. You just have to know where to look. Be sure to keep your eyes open where you live too.

The French Alps – France

french-alps

You already know about the Alps from the iconic climbs of the Tour de France, but did you know that mountain bike trails line those same mountainsides? Check out the views that you have seen watching the Tour, but from a different perspective. Alpine trails have lots of exposure and the opportunity to get to quite lofty elevations. Come prepared with a fit pair of lungs.

Table Mountain – Cape Town, South Africa

cape-town-south-africa

Table Mountain overlooks Cape Town. It is a famous vista, best enjoyed after a strenuous ride to the top. Do not let the vista take your concentration from the trails, because they are still a challenging ride. Visit in the South African summer for a nice break from the cold and wet winter back home.

Finale-Ligure – Italy


Finale-Ligure has a wide range of trails to suit all abilities. It is probably the number one mountain bike destination in all of Europe. Like most the the above bike trails, the trails here have spectacular views. Spend your days taking the lifts up or riding cross country. There is something here for everyone.

The Best Bike Trails

The best bike trails are scattered throughout the world. Find what is close to you and ride it regularly, sprinkling in one of these amazing once in a while. We of course missed a few. Let us know what you think we should add as we will be continuously adding to this list of the best bike trails in the world.

Looking for more awesome rides around the world? The book Epic Bike Rides of the World  is an excellent choice and also makes a great gift!

epic-bike-rides-of-the-world

Best Urban Bikes Review

by

urban bikes

Urban bikes are a special breed; built to stand up to neglect and knocks and still keep taking you from point A to point B. They are a lot like commuter bikes in this way, but need a bit more durability built in to handle the rough urban bikes environment.

Urban Bikes vs. Commuter Bikes

The two main differences between urban bikes and commuter bikes (you will want all the traits of a commuter bike) are:

  • the tire/tube combination
  • the security of the bike and components
  • the frame finish durability

Tire/Tube Combination

City streets can be a mess with debris everywhere including puncture inducing glass and metal. You will want especially tough tires and perhaps puncture resistant tubes too. On a standard commuter bike, especially one that you log long miles on, you may not want to compromise ride quality. For an urban bike, you will probably prefer a harsher riding bike to changing flats all the time.

Security of The Bike and Components

Pz Racing Cr5.3q Theft Proof Qr Skewers, Mtb, 60g, Red
Theft Proof Skewers

All of the components need to be secure on the frame. That is generally not a problem for bolted on parts like derailleurs and brakes, but you will want to replace quick release skewers with theft proof skewers if you are locking your bike up. In especially theft prone areas, you will want to take extra precautions, even with components. One trick is to glue ball bearings into bolt heads. A thief with a wrench will generally skip such a countermeasure.

You will also need a lock that is appropriate for where your bike is locked up. Do some research and see what you need for your area. It is likely you will need to remove lights and bags from your bike when it sits outside, otherwise they will disappear quickly.

Bike Frame Finish

Finally, the finish of your frame on your urban bike should resist scraping and banging around in city bike racks. This could mean a brushed or powder coated finish. It could also mean a non-steel frame, so if the paint is compromised the frame will not rust.

The Best Urban Bikes

It is likely that you will need to make some of the above additions to the bikes below. But they are a good starting place to build your ideal urban bike or city bike.

Trek Lync 5

Lync 5

The Trek Lync 5 is an integrated package designed to be as maintenance free as possible. Lights are integrated into the frame with a USB rechargeable battery. The drivetrain has an internally geared eight speed Shimano Alfine hub and belt drive in place of a chain. This will keep wear and tear from road grime down to a minimum. Disc brakes keep stopping power regardless of conditions. Fenders (do not forget to add mud flaps) and a rack are included, keeping you from shopping for any additional necessities. The rack does not have a top shelf, so a trunk bag will not work. You will have to hang a pannier off the side, but it is quite a minor point on this all inclusive package. It is a great choice for someone that will be commuting in all conditions, short distances as well as a little bit further with some hills.

Brompton

If you are short on space either at home or in your office and your commute is relatively short, a Brompton folding bike could be the bike for you. You can fold it if part of your commute involves a train or car too. They fold up quite small but also pride themselves on their ride quality. You can spec them with all of the features you need. They are great for urban mobility, with a tight wheelbase to maneuver nimbly and small wheels to accelerate quickly. There are other folding bikes out there, but Brompton is the benchmark. With this bike you will want your commute to be on the flatter side and not excessively long.

Jamis Renegade Exploit

The Jamis Renegade Exploit may not be the best commuter bike for the short trip across town but for longer rides with conditions that might not be ideal, and you should always be prepared for surprises from weather or terrain. This bike is top notch. While the bike does not come with racks or fenders, it does come with mounts for both should you need them (you do). Drop bars give you more hand positions for that longer commute, along with fatter than standard road tires – 36 millimeters. Hydraulic disc brakes in an integrated brake shift lever (a relatively recent innovation) gives you premium stopping power. Jamis is known for a nicer spec than most relative to price; you will get a very nice all around bike that can tackle almost anything.

Specialized Langster

best-commuter-bikes

Efficiency is what the Specialized Langster is all about. When bike couriers were common, a fixed gear bike is often what they rode for simplicity of maintenance and efficiency. There is little to wear out and little to cause drag in the drivetrain. If you are jetting to work in a city or relatively flat place, this is a fun way to go. Fenders will take some work to add, but that extra effort will be worth it. A rack will be a stretch too, but a messenger bag will complete the look anyway. For a quality complete bike, it is a bargain. Just make sure you put the brakes on; you will definitely not look cool after you need serious dental work.

Dahon Speed Uno

The Dahon Speed Uno is as basic as it gets for a folding bike. If you do not want to drop much money on a bike that is compact to get you to where you need to go, this is a great way to go. There is not much to complicate the package. Because it folds you will not have to leave it outside locked up in the elements, keeping it in better condition.

SE Draft

The SE Draft shares many of the benefits of the Langster in a less polished package. This is a great choice if you know the bike will take some abuse. It is an easier pill to swallow if your bike is not a top shelf item. It is still a solid city bike that will get you around town with efficiency and less weight on your conscience.

Make your own beater

Do you have an old bike laying around? This could be your chance to resurrect it and not worry about it, much like the SE Draft. It also gives you a chance to figure out your usage pattern and what works best. When it is time to spring for a new bike, you will have a better idea of what to look for.

Bike Share

If there is a bike share in your area, that is phenomenal transportation asset. You will not have to worry about maintenance. The bikes are overbuilt to handle city bike riding. They might not be the highest performing city bikes, but they are reliable and there are lots of them (if you live in the right place). A yearly membership gets you a lot of riding for cheap with no upkeep at all.

Urban Bikes and City Bikes

Navigating urban environments is best done with urban bikes. It is the most efficient way to travel because you do not sit in city congestion. You can also stop wherever you want but also move far faster than walking. Ride your city’s streets!

The Best Bike Trainers

by

best-bike-trainers

With the winter months upon us, investing in a stationary bike trainer can provide you with the opportunity to improve your fitness and technique while avoiding the cold darker days.  The best bike trainers are a great investment since they allow you to have a very specific and dedicated ride since there are no downhills, no coasting and every pedal stroke will require effort.  It is a good idea to have a fan, some music or movie, water and electrolytes as well as a towel or two to prepare for the indoor season.  There are four main types of bike trainers:

  • Wind Bike Trainer
  • Bike Rollers
  • Magnetic Bike Trainer
  • Fluid Bike Trainer

The Best Bike Trainers

Best Wind Bike Trainers

Wind bike trainers are among the most affordable best bike trainers around.  Pedaling powers a fan that provides the resistance for the trainer.  The resistance increases as the rear wheel spins more quickly either from increasing the cadence or using a bigger gear.  Wind trainers are inexpensive and durable, however they are quite loud and the resistance is often limited and does not always mimic a road-like feel.

Cycleops Wind Trainer

The Cycleops Wind trainer is durable, easily adjustable and has a great warranty.  The wind resistance provides a frictionless ride.  With an affordable price point, the Cycleops is one of the best wind trainers around.

Price: $130

CycleOps Wind Trainer, Black

Bike Rollers

Rollers are a type of trainer that require the rider to have great balance, an engaged core and efficient pedal strokes.  They take some getting used to, as well as learning how to mount and dismount, but they provide a very realistic and quiet road-like feel. They also have the added benefit of being much more fun to ride than a fixed trainer.

Elite Arion Rollers.

The Elite Arion Rollers is one of the best trainers on the market today because it is built with light-weight but tough thermoplastic frame, a step-up for ease of mounting and dismounting, and is easy to fold for storage or transportation.

Price: $250

Best Magnetic Trainers

Mag trainers use a magnet flywheel to provide resistance.  These trainers are easily adjustable for resistance and are not as loud as wind trainers.  The resistance can be manually adjusted from a knob on the flywheel or a handlebar attachment.  However, it is possible to overpower magnetic trainers on the toughest setting as your fitness improves.  For an average cyclist looking to log some miles through the winter a mag trainer can get definitely get the job done.

Blackburn Tech Mag 6

The Tech Mag 6 trainer from Blackburn comes with 6 different resistance settings, a bar-mounted resistance control and a tubular steel from with adjustable height.  This trainer offers durability and is easy to adjust the workload.  The Blackburn Tech Mag 6 is one of the best magnetic trainers on the market.

Price: $180

Tacx Blue Motion

The Blue Motion magnetic trainer from Tacx is one of the best trainers around since it offers 10 positions of resistance, taps out at a whopping 950W, and the flywheel mimics a realistic pedal stroke and road-like feel.

Price: $270

Best Fluid Trainers

Fluid bike trainers have a flywheel mechanism that’s driven by the bike’s rear wheel, but it creates resistance through fluid spinning around in the flywheel.  As the temperature increases, the fluid becomes thicker, so when you pedal faster the trainer resistance becomes more of a challenge. Also, in conjunction with that, as the flywheel within the fluid spins faster and faster, the resistance increases on a logarithmic scale which means the harder you ride, the more resistance there is. With this. fluid trainers have the most realistic road feel, they are very quiet, and they have a wide variety of features like pairing to power and the internet.

Kinetic Rock and Roll Smart Trainer

The Rock and Roll trainer is the the top of the line trainer around.  With its wide base it offers stability for standing on the bike for a very realistic road feel.  It has an electronic control that allows you to do targeted workouts, ride simulations and it pairs with Zwift and Trainerroad.  This trainer is super quiet, accurate and reliable.  The Rock and Roll trainer also is compatible with thru-axle bikes.

Price: $850

Cascade Fluid Pro Trainer

The Cascade Fluid Pro is one of the best fluid trainers on the market because it has a thermally sealed fluid drive which is very unlikely to ever have leaks.  The trainer is easy to set up; it folds for ease of transportation and it is very quiet so you won’t need to have the volume on max while working out to tunes!

Price: $350

Riding a trainer through the winter months can be an efficient way to workout without spending heaps of time dressing in layers and charging lights.  Because of the ‘no rest’ periods trainers provide, a 1 hour trainer ride is equivalent to at least 90min out on the road.  Trainer riding can be super fun too especially if you have one of the best bike trainers since you won’t have to worry about it failing you in any way.  Get a good playlist of music, invite some cycling friends over and be prepared to sweat!

The Best Commuter Bike – Matching Your Needs to a Bike

by

best-commuter-bikes-1

Getting to work under your own power and pace is liberating. There is no sitting in traffic jams, filling the tank or sedentary moment when you commute by bike. You will be energized when you get to work and relaxed on your way home. To add to the joy of commuting, you want the best commuter bike for you. A bike that suits your needs and makes your ride even better. There are a few things every commuter bike should have to keep you riding through all conditions. Beyond that you can choose what works best for you based on your style and route.

Requirements that Every Commuter Bike Should Have:

  • Lights: A highly visible light setup will keep you safe. If you plan on riding at night or close to dark, a light that allows you to see your route as well as alerts cars and other around you of your presence is essential. Lights can be hardwired into the bike and powered by a dynamo hub or they can be battery powered and added to the bike.
  • Fenders: You will be happy to have fenders to keep you dry. When it is actively precipitating you will get wet regardless of fenders, but they keep the dirty road spray off of you. On wet roads after the precipitation you will stay completely dry and it is a beautiful thing. Your fenders should be as close to the ground as possible at the trailing side of both wheels to ensure maximum protection. You can add flaps if your fenders do not already reach that low.
  • Rack Mounts: If you are going any significant distance, you will want a rack or basket to put your bag. A backpack on a longer commute will get you sweaty. You will also be more comfortable with a free back. Your bike will not complain about a few extra pounds on its frame, but you might.

The Best Commuter Bike for Your Needs

Trek Lync 5

Lync 5

The Trek Lync 5 is an integrated package designed to be as maintenance free as possible. Lights are integrated into the frame with a USB rechargeable battery. The drivetrain has an internally geared eight speed Shimano Alfine hub and belt drive in place of a chain. This will keep wear and tear from road grim down to a minimum. Disc brakes keep stopping power regardless of conditions. Fenders (do not forget to add mud flaps) and a rack are included, keeping you from shopping for any necessities. The rack does not have a top shelf, so a trunk bag will not work. You will have to hang a pannier off the side, but it is quite a minor point on this all inclusive package. It is a great choice for someone that will be commuting in all conditions, short distances as well as a little bit further with some hills.

Brompton

If you are short on space either at home or in your office and your commute is relatively short, a Brompton folding bike could be the bike for you. You can fold it if part of your commute involves a train or car too. They fold up quite small but also pride themselves on their ride quality. You can spec them with all of the features you need. They are great for urban mobility, with a tight wheelbase to maneuver nimbly and small wheels to accelerate quickly. There are other folding bikes out there, but Brompton is the benchmark. With this bike you will want your commute to be on the flatter side and not excessively long.

Jamis Renegade Exploit

The Jamis Renegade Exploit may not be the best commuter bike for the short trip across town but for longer rides with conditions that might not be ideal, and you should always be prepared for surprises from weather or terrain. this bike is top notch. While the bike does not come with racks or fenders, it does come with mounts for both should you need them (you do). Drop bars give you more hand positions for that longer commute, along with fatter than standard road tires – 36 millimeters. Hydraulic disc brakes in an integrated brake shift lever (a relatively recent innovation) give you premium stopping power. Jamis is known for a nicer spec than most relative to price; you will get a very nice all around bike that can tackle almost anything.

Specialized Langster

best-commuter-bikes

Efficiency is what the Specialized Langster is all about. When bike couriers were common, a fixed gear bike is often what they rode for simplicity of maintenance and efficiency. There is little to wear out and little to cause drag in the drivetrain. If you are jetting to work in a city or relatively flat place, this is a fun way to go. Fenders will take some work to add, but that extra effort will be worth it. A rack will be a stretch too, but a messenger bag will complete the look anyway. For a quality complete bike, it is a bargain. Just make sure you put the brakes on; you will definitely not look cool after you need serious dental work.

Going Custom for Your Best Commuter Bike

Maybe your needs are really specific and what you carry needs special attention. Perhaps you are very exacting and have plenty of money to spend. A custom commuter bike can be your solution to having the best commuter bike for you. You will be able to spec your bike down to the last detail – tire clearance, gearing, geometry, rack and fender mounts – really, every detail. The bike can be weather proofed too, ensuring it with durable and resistant parts, from the frame all the way to the tires.

Retrofitting Your Current Bike

You probably already have a bike. It is likely that you can get most of the performance of a dedicated commuter bike out of your current bike by making it the best commuter bike. Maybe the bike does not need anything, just for you to start riding to work. It is likely you will be able to add some commuter features to your bike to add some comfort and performance such as fenders, more upright bars, or some fatter, more comfortable tires.

The Bottom Line to Commuter Bikes

The best commuter bike is the one that works best for your needs. Bike commuting is becoming a regular way to get to work, broadening the market. Whatever bike you choose, get out there and ride to work. You will be happy that you did.

Useful Info

Recent Posts

Connect with Us