Category: Bike Gear

Much like there are more than one type of bicycle, there is more than one type of chain. Given the importance of its function of transferring power from the pedals to the drive-wheel at the rear of the bicycle, you need to ensure you have the correct one working for you. Do All Bike Chains Fit All Bikes? No. Not all makes and models of bike chains fit on all bikes. Most modern bike chains are made to the one-half inch pitch, but this dosn’t mean all chains fit all bikes. In order to be as effective as possible, a chain must be suited to the type of bicycle being ridden. There are different types across the cycling disciplines. A…

At first glance, gravel bikes and road bikes look pretty similar. But on closer inspection, these bikes have important differences that will affect the kind of ride you have. If you’re thinking about a new bike for your commute, you’ll need to know what these are. When choosing a bike for your trip to work, you need to think about the kind of journey you’ll be doing (or already have). Road surface, distance, how much weight you’re carrying, are all important factors to consider. Also, what kind of rider are you? Do you want to get to work as fast as possible? Or perhaps your riding style is more leisurely. Your body type and weight may also affect which bike…

Putting it simply, cycling is one of the best exercises you can do. Ok, it’s true to say I might be biased, but what other form of exercise allows you to travel whilst improving your fitness, health and stamina? It’s a win-win. But sadly, within the epic breadth of modern cycling advertising, there isn’t a lot to include or entice people of a larger size. If you feel this is you, and you’ve been considering cycling to become fitter or lose weight, you could be forgiven for thinking that finding a suitable bike might be challenging. But read on. Contrary to the slim, sporty and streamlined slant of many marketing campaigns, there are a number of options for you, and…

A few years ago I visited Amsterdam to see a close friend of mine, who is Dutch. She’s not sport-obsessed, but she cycles everywhere, as do most Amsterdam residents. She also arranged for me and my friends to have bikes while we were there – the trusty and wholly wonderful ‘omafiets’ that are so comfortable. Of course, I’d known for a long time that Amsterdam was a cycling city, regarded globally as the pinnacle of “bike-friendly”. But nothing really prepared me for experiencing it first hand. I’d been cycling in London for years without any issues, but it was an absolute joy to be cycling in a metropolis, almost entirely separate from traffic. And I’ll be honest, none of us…