Reviews

Hirobel Carbon Bike Frame Clamp

August 23, 2016 by Josh Friedman

Modern bikes are made out of wonder materials that make a bike light, stiff and also forgiving. These carbon bikes and more recently, the resurgent super thin walled alloy bikes, provide a durable ride. Try getting a one of these bikes in a repair stand to work on it and the wonder material has you wondering how durable it really is. Along with materials you should not clamp, frame tube and seatpost shapes do not often mate with repair stand clamps. This is because the bikes design is for riding, not clamping in a stand. Do you risk it and clamp it? Do you get a fork mount stand, foregoing any ability to work on the front end? Do you hang the bike by the saddle and fight it swinging around?

Hirobel Bike Frame Clamp to the Rescue

The Hirobel Carbon Frame Clamp’s purpose is to allow you to work on your clamp-phobic bike without the worry. The repair stand clamps the octogonal rail of Hirobel’s Carbon Frame Clamp while your bike rests on elastomer bumpers, secured down with high-density neoprene straps. The octogonal rail will not roll in the repair stand clamp. The bumpers and straps are gentle on your bike and require far less force than a repair stand clamp to keep it stable.

Hirobel thought outside the box to solve the problem of working on a fragile frame in a repair stand. Instead of making a clamp that would be less likely to crush a frame tube or seatpost, they reset the paradigm. They do not like doing things they way they have been done for years just because that is how they have been done. There are plenty of stories of bikes shops and home mechanics crushing frames. Hirobel’s goal is to take away the human error and make supporting the bike as gentle as possible.

Additionally, it is backwards compatible. It will work with almost any repair stand with no issues. You do not need to keep up with technology updates in repair stands or frame shapes and materials. You can also keep your front wheel on the bike, allowing you to adjust front brakes and the headset. A fork mount stand is more gentle on a frame but does not allow any front end work.

Using Hirobel’s Carbon Frame Bike Stand Clamp

First off, read the instructions (you should probably do this with everything, right?). There are two key points that Hirobel wants you to be clear on before you start using it – you need to slide the fixed bumper all the way to the end, loosening it with a four millimeter hex wrench and then retightening it and that you should always clamp the octagonal rail in the repair stand as close to the fixed block as possible. The fixed block ships further inboard to make the clamp easier to ship internationally and clamping in the repair stand next to the fixed block keeps the bike balanced in the repair stand, minimizing leverage.

Once I did my reading, I found that I have one of the few repair stands that is not completely idiot-proof. It is an old Wrench Force stand with a spinning handle to tighten the clamp. That handle bumps into the frame bumpers on the fixed block. My solution was to push the handle between the two bumpers, but after speaking with Brandon at Hirobel, I could have slid the octagonal rail down an inch for clearance and still not exert too much leverage. It is a minor concern most people will not have and once it is in the repair stand, it does not need to go anywhere.

Working on my bike was a relief from my normal procedure, which is hanging it by the saddle from the repair stand. I had to spend a lot of effort stabilizing the bike, chasing it around and holding on to it to make sure it did not drop from its precarious perch (even though I now have zero carbon bikes, I do have very thin-walled alloy bikes). I have been even less excited about it since my teammate gave me a carbon-railed saddle; how is all this sliding damaging the rails? It is not a worry now. The bikes are stable, making my cleaning and repair efforts more efficient, and the bikes are safer because the Carbon Frame Clamp has a secure but gentle hold. The neoprene straps are secure and the bumpers cradle the top tube at the head tube and seat tube junctions. The front block slides into place at the head tube/seat tube junction and locks down with a quick release. They also have nice grooves to allow cables to run along the clamp without interfering with their function. It is a smart touch that is necessary to work on the bike.

Is it for the Average Rider?

Yes, it is. If you are spending a few thousand dollars on a nice bike and plan on working on it yourself at all, spending another $250 to ensure the bike stays nice is no great leap.

Every Bike Shop Should Have One

It is also a great idea for bike shops. If I brought my bike to a shop, I would want to make sure that they had a safe way to clamp it so it comes back to me in better condition than when I brought it to the shop. No shop wants to break a customers bike and this is another way to ensure mechanics can efficiently and safely repair bikes.

Protect Your Bike

The Hirobel Carbon Frame Clamp is the best solution I have seen to work on a bike without harsh clamping or precarious hanging. It is straightforward, stable and easy to use. It might not be as exciting as something that makes you feel faster, like carbon wheels, but you cannot go very fast on a broken bike. Keeping your bike in tip-top shape is always faster anyway. Everyone knows that.

Choosing Cycling Socks – 10 Great Options

August 21, 2016 by Corey Davis

Cyclists and their socks! Who would have ever thought cycling socks would be such a big deal? It makes perfect sense though. Most riders wear the same cycling kit or with little variety every day, so changing up ones sock game is a fun way to add some style and variety to the everyday outfit. But to choose which socks requires a lot of thought and consideration. First, lets get to know several cycling sock companies and then we can break them down and figure out which model is best for you!

So Many Brands of Cycling Socks

With so many brands of cycling socks it may be difficult to choose which ones you like best. Hopefully these brief descriptions of a few of the larger brands will make the decision easier. Swiftwick socks are made in the USA and focus on comfort and quality. Their socks feature managed compression, chemical-free wicking, blister-free, and anti-odor, these are the four pillars they build each pair of socks to. Defeet International socks are also made in the USA and prioritize operating at a higher level to produce one of the best cycling socks on the market. Pearl Izumi yields not only great cycling socks, but also other clothing to keep you matching from head to toe! Sock Guy is the go to sock company when looking for custom socks, they have a 4-5 week turn around and are manufactured right here in the USA. Now that you know a couple of the featured brands, lets get into the actual socks!

Racing Socks!

These cycling socks are designed with performance in mind; they offer breathable material and an attention to performance over style! The Swiftwick Aspire socks have a thin cushion bed, and offer compression to different anchor points in the foot. The Louis Garneau Men’s Coni Cycling Socks are made from Coolmax fiber, and are supposed to wick moisture and increase the speed they dry out. Pearl Izumi’s Elite Socks feature the ELITE Transfer material to also dry out quickly, and have “compression for a performance fit”. All of these racing style cycling socks have two things in common. One, they are super good at drying out quickly to keep your feet cool while competing. Secondly, most of these socks come up one-quarter of your calf to give you that pro look.

Swiftwick Aspire Socks

Louis Garneau Men’s Coni Cycling Socks

Pearl Izumi’s Elite Socks

Wool Cycling Socks!

Wool socks can be a real lifesaver in the winter months, keeping your feet warm and dry. DeFeet makes some of the most popular wool cycling socks on the market. They are called the Woolie Boolie sock. They are durable and provide a great deal of warmth; these socks are made out of almost 50% American Merino Wool. These socks come up six inches to provide you with a great deal of warmth. The Sockguy wool cycling sock is twelve inches high and features a mesh upper panel above your feet to allow your feet vent out and breath. Giro also makes a six-inch sock out of merino material. Giro offers these socks in very stand out patterns and colors.

DeFeet Woolie Boolie

Sockguy Athletic Cycling/Running Wool Sock

Giro New Road Merino Seasonal Wool Sock

Compression Cycling Socks!

Compression socks are nothing new in the world of endurance sports, but finding the right pair may not be so easy. Compression socks are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), the larger the number the more compressed the socks will feel. The Swiftwick Twelve is 15-20mmHg and features their anti-odor technology and will help to reduce swelling during recovery. The Louis Garneau R-Compression cycling socks decrease recovery time between workouts and have “stretch zones at the heel and toe”. The Mojo Coolmax recovery cycling socks offer 20-30mmHg, a bit more compression than competitors, although more is not always better with compression. VeleChampion compression cycling socks are not as well known as competitors, but provide the same great benefits other cycling compression socks provide. They are made from 75% nylon and 25% lycra and aid the recovery process by helping to push blood back to the heart.

Swiftwick Twelve

Louis Garneau R-Compression

Mojo Coolmax

VeleChampion Compression Cycling Socks

Top 10 Mountain Bike Brands

August 17, 2016 by Corey Davis

Mountain biking is one of the most popular disciplines of cycling and the selection of mountain bike brands out there is enormous. Knowing what kind of riding you plan to do will help decide which brand of bike is best for you. Some of the biggest companies such as Trek, Cannondale and Specialized offer a top of line reliable mountain bike with some of the best technology in the industry. Smaller mountain bike brands such as Niner, Felt, and Santa Cruz offer high performance machines that are a bit more niche marketed toward the high-end consumer market. Below are the top 10 mountain bike brands in our opinion, in no specific order.

The Big Mountain Bike Brands

Specialized

Specialized offers a full array of bikes depending on the type of riding you plan to do, from cross country to downhill to fat bikes, they have you covered. “From ultra-lightweight XC hardtails to our World-Championship-proven FSR suspension designs found on our trail and downhill bikes, you’ll find the ideal setup for your riding style”. Specialized is one of the largest bike companies in the world, based in California, and focus on technology and innovation. Specialized is a market leader with a lot of other company’s modeling their bikes and ideas after the innovative designs Specialized comes up with.

Cannondale

One of the most innovative designs on the market, Cannondale created the lefty fork making it one of our top ten mountain bike brands. Cannondale’s signature green color schemes and asymmetrical fork give it a stand out look for a top-performing bike. Cannondale’s mountain bike line is focused mainly on cross-country and is making a strong surge in the enduro category of mountain biking. Cannondale has coined many acronyms for any new innovations they develop such as Ai, Si and hologram. All of these new innovations are only available on Cannondale bike’s and makes them some of the best mountain bikes you can purchase.

Trek

Trek has the most models available to select from. Trek offers one of the largest women’s specific lines and models from beginner mountain bikers to world cup racers. “Our lineup has every rider covered, from those just beginning to push their limits, to those racing or going for serious air. If you’re seeking a ride to expand your horizons in expansive environs, look no further.” Trek is based in Waterloo, Wisconsin and has always had a strong focus on values and creating the most elegant machine possible.

Niner

At Niner their passion for mountain biking is evident in every product they create. Niner is a relatively new company compared to some of the bigger brands previously mentioned, but that has not stopped them from creating one of the best mountain bikes on the planet. Niner is primarily focused on their mountain bike line, and has become one of the most recognizable bikes amongst different mountain bike brands. Their passion and commitment to making exquisite mountain bikes is seen throughout every bike they design.

Felt

“At Felt, our mission remains as it’s been since the beginning: to design, develop and deliver the best bicycles in the world. Period.” Felt is a company that truly stands behind their statement above; they create quality bikes based on constantly innovating their designs. Felt’s full suspension trail bike is probably one of their most popular mountain bike designs. Felt’s main focus is on performance and creating fast durable bikes.

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is one of the top mountain bike brands available. Santa Cruz only offers mountain bikes, so you can rest assured all of their energy is put into creating the best mountain bike possible. Santa Cruz started like many tech companies in Southern California in 1993 in a single car garage. Now they offer 16 different mountain bike line ups with one of their most popular being the women’s Juliana line. Santa Cruz is known for being a little bit weird and out there when it comes to mountain bikes, but that’s one reason people like them so much!

Giant

Being the largest bicycle manufacture on the planet makes their name Giant a very fitting name. Giant mountain bikes can be found anywhere in the world, and their shear size has helped them become one of the biggest mountain bike brands in the world. The size of the company has helped them create some of the best designs because of the amount of resources they are able to own.

Scott

Starting as a ski company Scott has always been focused on creating the lightest most efficient mountain bike possible. Their mountain bikes have won many world cups and races around the world. In the early days of carbon fiber, Scott broke the world record for the lightest mountain bike frame, something uncommon in the early days of mountain biking.

Yeti

No not the overpriced cooler, the mountain bike brand that is based on passion and creativity. Yeti has created a culture that is focused on having fun and making you feel comfortable and enjoying your time on the bike. Yeti has a simply philosophy, they build bikes they want to ride. With this kind of passion and attention to detail many companies could learn a lot from Yeti.

Kona

Kona found inspiration from the Hawaiian Islands and offer an extensive list of mountain bikes to choose from. Their list of bikes is so long it would be close to impossible not to find a bike that suits you. They even have a place on their website to help you pick out the perfect bike, because of the wide array of lines they offer. Kona is certainly one of the best mountain bike brands because of this.

Five Of The Best Bike Locks

August 12, 2016 by Corey Davis

They say the bigger the lock the more expensive the bike. There’s a bit of truth to this, but the size of the lock is less important and more about the functionality of the lock. There are dozens of different bike locks on the market and this article will help you filter through and find the best bike locks and make your purchasing decision a little bit easier.

UShake

The UShake bike lock made our list of best bike locks because of its simplicity and the mounting bracket that is also included. This lock is a four-digit combination lock that is easily customizable and doesn’t require keeping up with a key. The mounting bracket that comes with this lock is easy to install to the bikes tubing or seat. This lock is also not bicycle specific meaning the user can place the lock on other sporting equipment to keep it safe as well. The lock totals four feet in length and has a vinyl, flexible outer coating.

Price: $10.97

Kryptonite

The Kryptonite is one of the best bike locks because of its extreme toughness and providing serious protection from theft. The Bent Foot is engineered to withstand the most vicious attempts to steal a bike. The cylinder for the lock is pick and drill resistant, two keys are included to unlock the cylinder lock. One downside to this lock is the product weight, weighing in at 3.60lbs you may be weary of lugging it around everywhere. The additional cable is also a valuable addition to the lock as you can never lock both wheels with a U-lock. This solves that problem while still giving you the security you need with a U-lock.

Price: $37.72

WordLock

The WordLock is one of the best deals on the best bike locks list. This lock costs only $9.00 and is 5 foot long with a eight millimeter thick cable. This is a key based lock that is matching colors to keep things organized on your key-ring. This bike lock is certainly about simplicity and efficiency. It gets the job done and will leave you feeling good about parking your bike outside.

Price: $9.00

OnGuard

OnGuard is one of the most well known brands for bike locks on the market. This is one of the best bike locks because of its dependability and best in class protection. This lock has a security rating of 63, and has a X2P Double Bolt locking mechanism. This lock comes with five laser cut keys and a mounting bracket. This is a U-Lock design so it’s important to find a bike stand to properly attach the bike to.

Price: $25.58

Kryptonite

The Kyrptonite cable is seven foot long and has looping ends to make locking it to any anchor point a breeze. The seven-foot long bike lock is also ten millimeters thick, which makes it very cut resistant. The steel cable is also braided to make it stronger than typical twisted cables. One downside is that you will have to purchase a lock and keep up with a key, and the lock is kind of large and difficult to transport. The best feature of this lock is that it can provide protection for multiple bikes if you are creative with the locking system.

Price: $12.87

What A Cargo Bike Is And How Functional They Are

August 11, 2016 by Josh Friedman

A cargo bike can open your world. You can haul things you thought you never could by human power and leave your car parked (or even get rid of it!). You will avoid gridlock, get secret training miles, save money, and become a local celebrity.

Cargo bike is a loose category of bike; there are many variations of cargo bikes. There are cargo bikes with carrying capacity in the front, others in the back and some on the sides. There are also additions for your current bike to allow it to carry a larger load. Find what cargo bike suits you and get to hauling your groceries, kids, building materials, furniture, pets, camping gear, whatever you desire.

Cargo Bike Typologies

Long Bike

Long bikes are the most common cargo bikes you will see in North America. They look like a normal bike up front with an extended tail to the rear wheel. The tail accommodates larger panniers and seats for kids. The wheelbase is extra long, making for an extra stable bike, although you will not be able to carve the turns like a standard bike. Depending on the bike and cargo configurations, you can carry up to two or three small humans and four or five bags of groceries.

You can also convert your current bike into a long bike. It may be the economical choice if you already have a bike around that you are not using. Putting a few hundred dollars into a conversion kit will get you a cargo bike and save you a significant amount of money.

Utility Bike

A utility bike looks very similar to a standard bike except that the frame is beefier to handle heavy loads with racks integrated into the design, be they front, rear or both. The benefit of this design is that it maintains most of the agility of a standard bicycle. The downside is that it will not be as adept at carrying heavy loads as some other designs.

Bakfiets

A bakfiets, or box bike, is a Dutch design that puts a box (or platform) between the rider and front wheel. It creates a long wheelbase and a low center of gravity, making the bike incredibly stable once it is up to speed. Below that threshold it can be a bit cumbersome, but fortunately the speed of stability is generally very low. It is the gold standard for hauling anything. An additional benefit is that kids sitting in the box get an unencumbered view of their ride and they can easily pass things to you from their comfortable seats.

Trailers

A trailer is another inexpensive way to convert your standard bike into a cargo hauling machine. It easily attaches and detaches from your current bike. It will dramatically alter your ride, though. You will feel like you are getting pulled back when climbing and pushed forward when descending.

What to Expect

Be aware that due to the extra weight you should temper your speed expectations. Give yourself extra time to travel; pedaling a seventy pound bakfiets is quite a different experience than an eighteen pound road bike. The same goes for stopping too; it takes a bit longer to stop so much weight. Give yourself a bit of a cushion.

Handling is also different. With the longer wheelbase of long bikes and bakfietsn come wider turning radii. Look out for curbs and anything else you need to get around and make sure you can get your rear wheel past whatever it is.

If you are riding with kids, remember that it is not only your skin on the line. Dial back any risk taking and be a good role model for proper cycling behavior.

Expect drivers to give you more room, or at least strange looks. People do not know what to make of a cargo bike because they are currently quite rare (although that is changing, and who would not want to see even more?). If it was in the sky, it might as well be classified as a UFO. Some people think it is cool, others not. Know that you will draw attention.

Electric Assist?

An option that comes on many models of cargo bikes is electric assist. This could be very helpful in hilly areas or if you are carrying large loads. That extra boost should get you over whatever difficulty you encounter without having to get off the bike. It will add more weight to the bike, but should be more of a help than hindrance.

Carry that Weight

Cargo bikes are a great way to haul whatever you need around town. The initial investment may seem like a lot, but when you factor how much less you will depend on a car along with how much time you will save not stuck in traffic and the bonus miles, it is a clear win.

The Best Kids Bike? A Pello Bikes Review of the Revo

August 10, 2016 by Josh Friedman

It is rare when a kid’s bike is exciting, but Pello Bikes managed to make their Revo a very exciting bike. After having kids ride bikes from mainstream bike shop brands, the Revo managed to blow them out of the water. They did it with a combination of well thought out geometry and a brilliant parts spec. Most current bike shop kid’s bikes get the geometry right (or close) but skimp on the parts. Maybe their thought is that kids will not ride their bikes that hard. Have you ever seen an enthusiastic kid ride? That bike is going to get thrashed. And Pello Bikes seems to know that.

Better Bike, Better Riding

Have you ever gotten on a bike that was not so nice, but it was the bike you had to ride at that moment. Now imagine doing that to every kid, ever in the history of riding. They will still be excited about riding, because well, we all are. But if you could make their experience that much better through dialed-in ergonomics and light weight (why should a bike be two-thirds of a kid’s weight?), how much better will they be at riding? How much more excited will they be to ride? How many kids have been turned off of riding by ill-fitting bikes? These might be questions that do not have exact answers, but relatively accurate speculation is easy.

The bottom line here is that Pello Bikes hit the mark, understanding that kids should ride a relatively light bike that fits great. Watching a kid jump straight on with no problems, moving up from his own twelve inch to a sixteen inch Revo, shows how easy it is. Sometimes transitioning to a new size takes time. It did not with Pello Bikes Revo.

Hand Brakes!

Have you ever had to teach a three year old to use a coaster brake? They know all about pedaling forward to propel the bike. Engaging a coaster brake to stop is not a logical step for a small kid. Pello specs all of their bikes with at least one hand brake. It takes far shorter to learn how to use a hand brake than a coaster brake and offers better modulation. Pello goes a step further and uses a size-appropriate lever and V-brake for full stopping power (along with a coaster brake, which I think has gone mostly unused). A quality hand brake will save you from ruining at least one pair of shoes because your kid was using them to stop instead of the coaster brake.

Building the Bike

A concern I have with direct to consumer bikes is that the consumer has to build them. Not everyone is skilled mechanically or if they are, do not know how to build a bike (everything seemingly has its own quarks from fixing the toilet to working on a bike) . Pello Bikes thought of this and sent an owners manual with actual instructions. I have never seen such a thing before. Along with an owners manual, they provided a five and six millimeter hex wrench, which most cyclists have around the house but other people may not as well as a presta valve adapter. The tubes have presta valves, which is a curious choice. I am not sure where I would find a sixteen inch presta valve tube in the event of a flat, but until then, it is fine. The recommended pressure is too high in the owner’s manual. A forty pound kid does not need forty pounds of pressure in 2.1 inch tires. Less pressure will give a more comfortable ride and better traction.

Putting the bike together was straightforward and probably slightly easier than a standard kid’s bike with inferior parts. The only adjustments that may give a mechanical novice trouble were adjusting the V-brakes and the chain tension. Patience and attention to detail should get the job done.

The Parts Are Better

Here are some highlights from the parts spec:

Presta valve tubes (with adapter) – this is helpful if you are already a cycling household. They are easier to use.
Provided five and six millimeter hex keys for the build, but ball ends would be a plus.
Best owners manual I have ever seen with useful information, along with a quality control list checked off by a real person.
A one piece seatpost; this is not common at all on a sixteen inch bike.
It has a nice bell. Every kid wants a bell on their bike.
A threadless fork with a Cane Creek headset. There are adult bikes that do not have threadless forks or name-brand headsets.
Thin grips for smaller hands.
The alloy frame keeps the weight way down.
Kid sized brake lever and V-brakes modulate speed well.
A cartridge bottom brackey and three piece cranks are classy. It makes maintenance easier, along with better sealed bearings.
A low gear. Most kid’s bikes are overgeared. The gearing on the Revo allows kid’s to pedal up hills; this bike is not just for riding around a playground.

The Best Kids Bike? A Resounding Yes.

I never want to be the guy that gives such an effusive review of a product, but here it is. It happened. I have never been so pleasantly surprised by a cycling product, and this is after over two decades in the sport. Pello Bikes put together a great package with great support. The last thing people may balk at is the price – $299 for the Revo. It is a bit higher than a mainstream brand, but you will get a far superior bike. If you have a few kids that will use the bike over the years, it is well worth it as you can easily pass it down. The bike functions better and is more serviceable than its counterparts. This bike is a win for everyone – parents and kids.

Pros:

The best aspect of the Suunto Sports Watch is the amount you are able to customize the product. Once you are ready to purchase the product you choose almost every color on the watch. The dial, case strap, buttons, buckle, bzelel screws, and strap screws are all pieces of the watch that are customizable. Firstbeat is offered on this cycling watch, which checks your recovery status in only a few minutes. This uses the Ambit3 to check your heart rate and measure the variability from day to day to give you a percentage of how recovered you are.

Cons:

Suunto does not have the quality reputation and brand recognition as other cycling watches reviewed. This is not necessarily a negative, but it is uncertain of what kind of customer support you may receive. The price range is quite large for Suunto watches running from $250- $850.

The wearable tech market is certainly booming particularly with cycling watches and new products are being released very quickly. Hopefully new more powerful gadgets will continue to be released!

Boulder Salt Company – Salt For Cycling Too?

July 9, 2016 by Adam Farabaugh

In order to live, be healthy, and perform at your athletic peak, your body needs adequate electrolytes and a proper pH balance. There are a lot of products out there with the goal of getting you all the electrolytes you need for sport. There are less products for balancing your pH but a lot of that has to do with your diet. A product that accomplishes both of these needs that we had the pleasure of trying and testing is Boulder Salt. Unless you complete a controlled research study, it is difficult to discern the differences from one product to the next but Boulder Salt not only has the real potential of giving you athletic improvements as well as everyday benefits but also comes with no down sides. At worst, you don’t notice a difference.

First – There are a Number of Ways to Obtain Electrolytes

An electrolyte is a substance that produces an electrically conducting solution when dissolved in a polar solvent, such as water. (Citation Link) Electrolytes are what allows your cells to pass voltage over cell membranes to transmit impulses. In short, this is what makes your muscles fire. There are 8 major electrolytes in your body:

sodium (Na⁺)
potassium (K⁺)
chloride (Cl^–)
calcium (Ca²⁺)
magnesium (Mg²⁺)
bicarbonate (HCO₃^–)
phosphate (PO₄^2-)
sulfate (SO₄^2-)

You can obtain all of these from normal food items but the issue lies in us not getting the right foods at the right times on a daily basis, particularly when exercising. This is why we have sports drinks for cycling. Depending upon the sports drink, you may be getting the majority of these or you may not be and additionally, you are probably getting some other things as well to color it and make it taste better.

What is Boulder Salt?

Boulder Salt was developed to improve the taste of tap water. The taste of tap water is determined by the minerals within it so if you take pure water and add an exact ratio of minerals, you can get tap water that tastes as it should. This is particularly rare with the majority of the population on city-treated water. With getting this ideal tasting water came the additional benefit of it containing the majority of the electrolytes that the body needs. Additionally, with this comes the benefit of alkalizing the body, or bringing it to its proper pH balance.

An Alkalized Body

A lot of foods in the modern-day diet cause an acidic effect within the body which has a negative overall impact on health. In fish, if the water they live in is either to acidic or alkaline, they die. Our bodies are no different except for the fact that we can control what are body pH is through the foods and additives we consume. A few of the health benefits of an alkalized body are as follows (Citation Link)

Skin more elastic, youthful
Deeper more restful sleep
Abundant physical energy
Suffer from fewer colds, headaches, flu viruses
Good digestion
Less arthritis
Reduction of candida (yeast) overgrowth
Won’t support osteoporosis
Increased mental acuity, mental alertness
Legal natural high

Field Testing Boulder Salt

When testing any product, particularly for athletic performance, it will be difficult to discern a difference if you already have your system dialed. On the other hand, if you frequently suffer from cramps, don’t have enough endurance, or don’t drink enough normally, trying something such as Boulder Salt is going to give you a clear view of if something works or not. I used Boulder Salt on rides for two weeks from seven hour jaunts in the mountains of Colorado to short, but very intense one and a half hour efforts, all in temperatures in the 80’s and 90’s. On the longer rides, I had the portable packets in my pocket and added them to my bottles whenever I stopped for water. Normally on rides I will drink a standard sports drink mix but Boulder Salt is only electrolytes so I should have seen a slight decline in performance from fewer carbohydrates. I did not on shorter nor longer rides so this was seemingly advantageous.

Taste Of Boulder Salt

Although Boulder Salt was made particularly for improved tap water taste, to me, it did taste a little bit different. Almost a smoother taste like normal salt. Not bad, just different. The taste of water and if it is good or not is largely dependent upon what you are used to. Normal, good tasting water will be what you have on a day-to-day basis whereas anything outside that realm will taste a bit different. If you find you are not a fan of the salt itself in just water, you can easily add it to other drinks such as iced tea which is great on a ride particularly with lemon.

Additional Uses for Boulder Salt

Because Boulder Salt is a substitute for traditional table salt, it can be easily used for it with cooking and on salted-foods. It adds a subtle yet noticeably tastier touch to dishes. At first you will be like “was that taste just from the food or was it the Boulder Salt?” You will put it on half your food to see and you will then likely begin to use it instead of regular salt on your foods. It also contains half the sodium or traditional salt so can be used if you are watching your salt intake for health reasons.

5 Best Bike Computers from $17-$500

July 7, 2016 by Josh Friedman

Quantifying your riding is a great way to track progress, fitness, and satisfy your curiosity for statistics. It is always fun to be able to say that you rode ten, twenty-five, fifty, or even 100 miles. A bike computer will track your ride metrics, from time and distance on the most simple computer to location, power, and far more on the most powerful and best bike computers. This review is of some of the best bike computers around will help you choose what is right for you.

Best Bike Computers – Keep it Simple

A simple bike computer should be just that; easy to use without too many functions to complicate its operation. Look for a sturdy cable between the sensor at the wheel and the computer itself. A big display that is easy to read is a necessity.

The Cateye Velo 7 is the most basic bike computer from a venerable manufacturer. Cateye has been making computers since 1981 and their reputation shows in their products. They are easy to use and functional. The Velo 7 has one button operation with current, average and maximum speed, trip and total distance, clock and elapsed time. It covers all of the basic functions a simple computer should without the clutter of additional metrics. And the best part of it is that you can find it for less than $25.

Cateye Velo 7

Price: $17

BPMs – Heart Rate Cycling Computer

Gauging your effort beyond time, distance, and speed requires physiological metrics. The most simple way to do that is with heart rate. Of course you will want all the other functions of a cycling computer too. Time will be the most important feature so you can track your time in a given heart rate zone for your workout. Along with that, you will get a wider range of functions from a computer that receives heart rate.

The Cateye Strada Wireless with Heart Rate has all of the features of a basic computer plus heart rate functions and wireless sensors and set up. Wireless speed sensors mean no wires to attach to the frame or fork of your bike, leaving a cleaner and easier set up. Heart rate is always wireless and the computer comes with an upgraded cloth strap that is more comfortable. Additionally, the sensors and computer are coded to avoid interference in transmission. For $100, this is a good deal for a reliable computer plus heart rate package.

Cateye Strada Wireless with Heart Rate

Price: $100

Easy GPS Cycling Computer

A computer with GPS will both give you directions so you can follow a route on a ride and give you a map upon return so you can see where you have been. If you often get lost or like to explore new places, this is a powerful function on a bike computer. Additionally if you like to Strava your rides, this is the simple way to do it without using your phone.

The Bryton Sports Rider 100 is a simple and affordable GPS cycling computer. Bryton Sports is a newer company in the cycling world but has long been in the automotive world so knows its stuff. The computer also has the handy feature of automatically detecting heart rate and configures the screen for easy viewing. Bryton Sports also has their own platform to upload your rides to as well as to map future rides. At a price of $66 it can’t be beat.

Bryton Sports Rider 100

Price: $66

Cycling Computer with Power

If you have a power meter, you will want to pair it with a bike computer that will display all of the metrics you find useful. Multiple customizable display screens give you flexibility with the data you want to see at a given point in your ride. The ability to recognize both ANT+ and Bluetooth protocols gives you flexibility with the devices you pair with the computer – power meters, heart rate monitors, speed sensors, your phone, etc.

Garmin cycling computers are the gold standard for full functions cycling computers. The Garmin 520 is the latest version of their compact full function cycling computer. The display is upgraded for easy viewing in all light conditions. There are many new advanced functions that go beyond basic metrics that were once only available with analysis software upon return home from a ride. It also pairs with your phone to give notifications on the computer screen, along with potential Strava segment notifications. All of this can be yours for a touch under $300.

Garmin 520

Price: $300

All the Bells and Whistles

The most complex cycling computers are nearly as powerful as a smartphone, with device pairing, diverse metrics, easy to read screens, and detailed mapping. The mapping features are what sets a full function, full size computer apart from a computer focused on displaying ride metrics.

The Garmin 1000 has a large display and fully detailed maps along with all of the features of the 520. The mapping is tuned to bike specific routes to keep your riding safe. It has a three inch screen to make sure the powerful maps are easy to see while you are riding. If you need detailed navigation with every possible metric, this is the computer for you. It costs a bit under $500.

Garmin 1000

Price: $475

Search and State S1-A Cycling Jersey Long Term Review

June 20, 2016 by Ryan Taylor

Search and State are among the new wave of cycling clothing brands who put emphasis on a clean look, quality materials, and a good fit. All of their garments are made by hand in Midtown Manhattan in New York City. For initial impressions of the Search and State S1-A Cycling Jersey check it out here! In this review I get into my long term thoughts on the jersey.

The Fit of the S1-A Cycling Jersey

Over the past few months the S1-A Cycling Jersey has worked its way into the role of ‘first pick’ in my cycling wardrobe. It is the first I go to just after laundry day. It has a lot of positive attributes, but for me the main one is fantastic fit. As someone who is hitting 30 this year and who loves beer, I am still very fit but am very close to ‘dad body’ territory. The S1-A has no quarrel with that and supports me with my lifestyle. It fits great on the bike, but still gives me a little room while keeping the slim look.

The Material

The material of the S1-A Cycling Jersey is very durable and after months of use, it remains strong. I regularly wear it on the road, as well as on the mountain bike and don’t think twice about damaging the jersey in a bad crash. Additionally the moss green color looks great should a ride start or end at the coffee shop and you have to mingle with the general public.

The Pockets

The pockets of the S1-A fit naturally on a more road oriented jersey. They are adequately deep and are not difficult to access.

Too Thick for Hot Days?

The downside to the material of the S1-A jersey is that it is too thick for those hot days. I would grab another jersey when the temperatures go over 25 degrees C (77 F).

Price and Value

Despite the durability, clean look, and great fit of the Search and State S1-A Cycling Jersey, for $150USD, I would like to see a few minor touches and material variations in the jersey. This price in comparable brands typically gets you a 4th pocket, and a mix of materials, such as mesh in the armpits or different elasticity in high stretch areas.

Is Made In America Better?

This is where the question arises whether the higher price tag is worth the ‘handmade in America’ tag next t0 it. Is the S1-A better than the equivalent jersey made in China? Search and State would say absolutely. It supports your neighbor and every $1 that is spent on manufacturing leads to an extra $1.40 being added to the economy. All I know is that they have made a great jersey for getting a coffee, or that has your back while riding the all day epic.

PROS:

-Great Fit

-Great Materials

-Great Look

CONS:

-For the price, comparable jerseys have more features and material mixes.

Price: $150Usd

www.searchandstate.com

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Price and Value

Is Made In America Better?

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