Category: Bike Gear

When it comes to bike accessories, there’s stuff you use and stuff you don’t. Every now and then a new invention pops up that seems really cool – and it usually is – but the truth is, after a couple of rides, you just stop using it. Life tends to follow the path of least resistance and cycling is no different. If you can ride without it, you will. Bicycle indicators, I’m looking at you. Handlebar cup holders, you too. Welcome to the graveyard of cycling novelty items. Are Bike Cup Holders Pointless? But with regards to my latter example, why is that so? Probably the thing that has prevented bike cup holders from being common place is that most…

Whatever your beverage of choice, be it a delicious steaming hot coffee, a refreshing juice or something fizzy, a drink can be a lovely addition to your journey to work, or any other cycling trip. We seem to do a lot of activities as we cycle to work nowadays that we never used to, many of which involve using a smartphone. And as it’s become perfectly acceptable to multi-task as you cycle, why not have a drink on the go, too? That said, the last thing you want is your cappuccino spilling all over your legs, or having to navigate traffic and junctions with one hand. This is why, if you are taking a drink on your bike, you’ll need…

Cycling is well known to provide physical and mental health benefits. Overall wellbeing is helped by a positive boost to your mind, body and soul. Focusing on the body workout part, cycling is an aerobic, resistance activity which tones your core and lower muscles. Your arms get a workout too. What Muscles Are Worked While Cycling?  The main muscles activated while cycling are below the waist, but we also derive some benefit to the core and arms. Our power comes mainly from the glutes, the quadriceps, the calves, the hamstrings and the hip flexors. Balance and stability to deliver the power works the biceps, triceps and abs. No two people are the same but this guide puts forward a template…

Although cycling is a fantastic pastime, a way to keep fit and mode of transport many people will find at some point, they develop pain in their nether regions due to their saddle and the many issues they can unfortunately cause you. Butt (apologies I just couldn’t help myself) we no longer live in the olden times when saddles were just made from leather and metal without much variation: these days there’s a lot on the market regarding saddles and other products to help ease any issues that may arise.  Saddle Soreness: Bike Seat Hurts Butt Many of you, if not all reading this, will at some point have experienced soreness from being on a bike saddle. This soreness can…

Cycling to work is positive in so many ways. It’s free, healthy, sustainable, and we know that exercise is also great for lowering stress levels and improving mental health. If you’re new to it, be rest assured that cycling to work does get easier over time. Soon you’ll be fitter, healthier, and your route will feel like second nature. But doing the same journey every day at the same time can, for some, become repetitive. According to statistics there are still only around 4% of commuting trips being made by bike in the UK. While some cyclists are completely content with their own thoughts during their commute, others may want something else to entertain, stimulate or relax them. And if…

Bicycle frames are hollow thanks to the genius of design, the intelligence of science and the power of engineering. The iconic ‘double diamond’ frame shape hasn’t really changed in over 125 years. However, the components and materials used to manufacture frames have altered over time. A key principle, however, is that a frame should retain as much of its original shape under load (frame stiffness) when you turn the pedals, corner, or brake. Different materials of frame design achieve this to differing degrees. Other design principles are the frame’s ability to withstand crashes, and the frame’s resistance to repeated strain over time (frame fatigue). Designers, of course, also consider how the frame materials affect the comfort of your ride.  What…

Cycling in the Netherlands is, quite simply, part of the culture. But it hasn’t always been so. There was a time when cars dominated Dutch streets, and by the early 1970s there were thousands of deaths each year from traffic accidents. But the Dutch fought for change, and they won. For decades now, the Netherlands has been a forerunner in the cycling revolution. Amsterdam has long been known around the world as the “Cycling Capital”. This shows in the statistics. Although Copenhagen is the city with the most actual cyclists (closely followed by Amsterdam), the Netherlands as a whole still has the highest numbers of cyclists per capita in the world. What Bikes Do Dutch People Use? The distinctive bikes…

Brooks saddles are universally regarded as some of the best saddles available anywhere in the world. That makes them an attractive proposition for most cyclists, even more so if you use your bicycle for the daily commute. Finding the right saddle for everyday use is hugely important. Read on as we break down the best Brooks saddles for commuting. How Do I Choose a Brooks Saddle? Brooks saddles have earned a reputation for being top of their class. The company has a storied history and has been building saddles since 1886! Choosing the right Brooks saddle comes down to a range of factors including riding style, usage and personal preference. Making the right decision with a Brooks saddle is especially…