Buying Guides and Advice
Buying Guides and Advice
Our Top 5 Hardtail Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
There are a few features that take a hardtail from good to great. We always look for a solid frame that can take a beating, a fork that smooths out the bumps without feeling like a pogo stick, reliable brakes, and a gear setup that actually works when you’re halfway up a climb. Now for under a grand you know you’re not getting all the bells and whistles you’d see on a pro-level bike, but you can still find some seriously capable rigs that’ll happily smash out trails, handle your weekend rides, and even double as your commuter if you want. So, here are five of our favourites under $1,000. Pedal Ranger 4 Check it out here If you’re after something that’ll do a bit of everything without emptying your wallet, the Ranger 4 is a solid shout. It’s got comfort sorted with a padded saddle, chunky grips, and wide bars so you’re not hunched over or rattled to bits. The alloy suspension fork takes the edge off bumps, and the Shimano 3x7 drivetrain gives you plenty of gears to work with. The V-brakes aren’t as fancy as disc brakes, but they’re simple, reliable, and easy to maintain. Throw in quick-release wheels and sealed bearings (translation: fewer workshop visits), and you’ve got yourself a dependable all-rounder. Merida Big Seven 10 D Check it out here The Big Seven 10 D is a proper entry-level trail bike. Featuring a lightweight alloy frame, 100mm fork to soak up the rough stuff, and hydraulic disc brakes for confident stopping in any weather. It’s running a 3x7 drivetrain, so you’ve got gears for days whether you’re grinding up climbs or spinning down fire roads. The upright geometry makes it feel comfortable and controlled rather than twitchy. If you’re looking for a first “real” mountain bike, this one ticks a lot of boxes. Silverback SE Series 7 29" Check it out here The SE Series 7 rolls on 29” wheels, which means more grip, more speed, and more stability when compared to 27.5” wheels on the models mentioned above. It’s got a strong but lightweight hydroformed frame, 100mm Suntour fork, and a simple Shimano drivetrain that’ll get the job done. Braking comes from mechanical discs, not as sharp as hydraulics but still plenty of stopping power for casual trail riding. Bonus: the wheels are tubeless-ready, so if you want to upgrade down the line, you can. Merida Big.Nine 20 Check it out here Another Merida, but this time on 29-inch wheels. The Big.Nine 20 is built for versatility. It goes well for trails, commutes, and weekend spins. You get a Shimano 1x8 drivetrain, which keeps things nice and simple: one shifter, no front derailleur, less faff. Hydraulic disc brakes mean confidence on steep or wet descents, and the 100mm Suntour fork (with lockout) gives you control over whether you want it plush or firm. It’s a bike that feels equally at home on dirt or tarmac. Silverback SE Series 9 29" Check it out here This one edges closer to the performance end of the under-$1000 bracket. You’re looking at a hydroformed T6 alloy frame, an air-sprung Suntour fork (lighter and more tunable than coil), and a 9-speed Shimano drivetrain. Hydraulic discs give you consistent braking power, and there’s generous clearance for chunky 2.35” tires. If you want something that feels ready to push a bit harder on the trails, this is probably the pick of the bunch. When you’re looking for a mountain bike under $1,000 you’re not going to be chasing carbon frames or top-end drivetrains. You’re looking for smart design, reliable parts, and a bike that makes you want to keep riding. Each of these bikes nails that in its own way: some focus on comfort, some on simplicity, and some lean toward performance. The best one? Depends on what you want to ride. But honestly, any of these five will give you a solid start without blowing your budget.
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Bmx Bikes Buying Guide
BMX bikes are used for a wide range of BMX disciplines, including BMX race, dirt, freestyle, street, park, and more. Given their size, durability, and simplicity, BMX bikes are a great option for older children and adolescents. As you progress through the kids range, models become stronger, more rugged and more suitable for racing and tricks. BMX Bikes BMX frames are generally made from steel or aluminium, with higher end bikes made from chromoly. Chromoly has a high strength to weight ratio, making it ideal for the rigours of BMX. They come in a variety of wheel sizes, with the race variety generally 20", but ranging anywhere from 16" to 26". Dirt jump and freestyle BMX bikes are generally 16" to 20", depending on the age and size of the rider. See All BMX Bikes The best BMX bikes at the best price. BMX bikes for freestyle and street riding, plus race BMX. Bikes from big brands like WeThePeople, Mongoose, Pilgrim, Colony, Academy, Stolen, Mirraco, GT and DK BMX. These bikes are made tough, prepared for the onslaught which youth will bring. Put your BMX bike on lay-by today, or see our finance options to get your favourite BMX in your garage today. Cheap BMX bikes suitable for any budget. Boys BMX bikes and girls BMX bikes perfect for riding to school, skate parks, or just general fun!
Gear Up For Ultimate Indoor Cycling Jetblack Cycling Solutions
Indoor cycling has become a popular way to stay fit, especially when weather or other circumstances hinder outdoor rides. To make the most of your indoor cycling sessions, having the right gear and accessories is crucial. The question is often asked, "What gear and accessories do I need for Indoor Cycling?" JetBlack Cycling, a renowned name in the cycling industry, offers a range of innovative solutions that dramatically enhances your indoor cycling experience. In this blog, we'll explore the essential gear and accessories you need for indoor cycling, with a special focus on the cutting-edge products from JetBlack Cycling. 1. Indoor Trainer The Foundation of Your Workout: A high-quality indoor trainer is at the heart of your indoor cycling setup. Look for a model that is certified to use with Zwift and other training apps, and has a heart rate bridge built in so you can pair your heart rate monitor with your trainer. Make sure you choose a trainer that includes a pre-installed cassette, as this is often over looked and adds to the purchase price and is not easily installed at home. The JetBlack VOLT trainer ticks all the boxes and also replicates the feel of a real road while providing a smooth and challenging workout. 2. Riser Blocks and Front Wheel Supports Optimal Positioning: When training indoors the front wheel needs to be level or slightly higher than the back wheel. If it is even a small amount lower, it will be really uncomfortable and puts stress on the arms and shoulders. A wheel block lifts the front wheel to be level. Those models that lift the front wheel AND allow the handlebars to move are best for ergonomic comfort and also protects the bike frame from stress. Steering at the moment it's all the rage on indoor cycling apps, and if your budget allows, purchasing a steering block that allows you to steer within an app will future proof your setup. 3. Display and Device Holders What type of device will you use to display your indoor training app such as Zwift? If you are using a tablet or laptop device, then a good quality indoor training table will enhance your experience. A training table provides a sturdy platform that is easy to reach for your laptop and includes device slots to hold a tablet or phone. Other items that are used whilst indoor cycling such as gels, remotes, towels or bottles can also be placed on the table. For those who want to multitask, an indoor trainer table is a fantastic addition. JetBlack Cycling's tables are designed to hold your laptop, tablet, or book securely, allowing you to catch up on work, entertainment, or reading while you pedal away. They also feature handy device slots for holding a tablet or phone in a secure, upright position. For those using a TV, it is really important not to mount the TV too high. An indoor training TV stand is the perfect solution for keeping the TV nice and low and angling the screen at a 15 degree angle towards the rider. This takes strain off your neck as gives a lovely immersive experience. A trainer tray is also a handy utility device for keeping remotes, phones and snacks handy whilst on the bike. The best trainer tray on the market includes a mount to fit directly into your Garmin or Wahoo computer mount. 4. Keeping your cool An absolute essential for indoor training is a good quality fan . Even when training in colder months your body will heat up within a few minutes of riding and will require airflow to keep it cool for optimum performance. It's important to choose a fan that has strong direct airflow that covers most of the body for evaporative cooling. Many of the indoor training apps have group rides and a common mistake is to join a group ride without changing the fan on and then have to climb off the bike to turn the fan on and get dropped. Try to choose a model that has a remote control so that the fan can be turned on and off without having to get off the bike. 5. Other Essentials Finally, invest in a good quality indoor training mat . This will keep your trainer from slipping on smooth floor and add a layer of protection to the floor from sweat. A heart rate monitor paired to your indoor training app will also help to provide useful data for your sessions and is an important device for those taking their indoor training seriously. Having the right gear and accessories can greatly enhance your experience. JetBlack Cycling's innovative solutions provide a comprehensive range of options to elevate your indoor cycling setup. Whether you're looking for a realistic ride experience, technology integration, or accessories to optimize your comfort and performance, JetBlack Cycling has you covered. Invest in the right gear, and get ready to pedal your way to fitness success without leaving the comfort of your home.
Indoor Trainers Buying Guide
Indoor bike trainers are an excellent way of ensuring you can get in your daily kilometres no matter what the weather's doing outside. For those who are unfamiliar with indoor trainers, selecting the right type can be a confusing process, so here's an overview of the different varieties available and how to select the right one for your training needs. Indoor Trainers An indoor trainer removes any excuses you can think of for not riding. You can set it up anywhere you like (even in front of the TV) allowing you to continue riding regardless of time of day, nasty weather etc. The less expensive magnetic trainers offer a cost effective option, and are great for riders that just want the occasional 'bail out' option without having to spend too much. Fluid trainers offer a more realistic riding feel due to the way resistance is applied, and are generally preferred by riders intending to use the trainers as a more integral part of their riding. Both Magnetic & Fluid trainers are quieter than wind trainers. Indoor trainers are known by many different names such as turbo trainers, wind trainers or simply bike trainers. See All Indoor Trainers Fluid Trainers As their name suggests, fluid bike trainers employ the use of heat sensitive fluid contained within the flywheel to provide a riding experience which closely mimics that of riding outdoors. As your cadence increases, the fluid thickens due to the increase in temperature which creates resistance which becomes progressively stronger. Fluid trainers are preferred by riders who take their training a little more seriously and generally create less noise than their magnetic counterparts which is great for those who like to exercise before the rest of the household is awake. See All Trainers Rollers Unlike trainers, rollers do not provide any resistance so you won't be able to do sprint or interval training on them. However, rollers do provide a great full body workout as you'll be using your core muscles to maintain your balance. Using rollers requires higher concentration and skill levels as your bike isn't secured to the unit as it would be on a trainers. This will actually improve your balance and spinning technique out on the road as you'll need to maintain a smooth, efficient cadence to keep yourself upright on rollers. See All Rollers
Introducing The Worlds Lightest Production Bike At 4 56 Kg
"Better is the enemy of good" Better is the enemy of good. This was the motto that Merida's head of research Jorgen Falke and his team were following when developing the fourth generation of the Scultura road bike platform. Being the lightest frame in Merida's line-up, this frame has always been built to conquer long, steep climbs, however, testing showed there was room for improvement in aerodynamics. Thus there was a clear objective for the new frame. It had to be lighter, but more importantly it had to become more aerodynamic. Another goal was to increase the vertical compliance of the rear triangle. The result of the work that has gone into the development of the new frame is pretty impressive, and it starts with the frame's weight. The CF4 team edition weighs in at 750 grams for a 52cm frame size (Merida offers a total of seven sizes ranging from 44 to 59cm). But it gets even better as Merida also offers a yet lighter, not as stiff CF5 version that weighs a spectacular 680 grams . The world's lightest production bike When combined with the redesigned fork, the team edition weighs 1000 grams - a state-of-the-art weight for an industrially produced carbon frame set. In order to achieve this, Merida's head of R&D Jorgen Falke and his team spared no effort. The wall thicknesses of the carbon frame have been reduced to 0.7 millimetres. As for the yet lighter CF5 version, the wall thickness of the top tube even goes down to 0.4 millimetres. As the Scultura is positioned in the premium segment, only the most exquisite carbon fibres and resins with nano particles are being used. In total the frame consists of more than 400 single prepreg pieces. Complete bikes built up with the top-tier group sets of Sram and Shimano weigh between 5.5 and 6.5 kilograms. By combining the lightweight CF5 frame with a Sram Red drivetrain, TuneAos Skyline wheels and a crank and assorted parts from AX Lightness, the new Scultura 9000 LTD weighs in at a scant 4.56 kilograms (without pedals) - a (possibly) record breaking featherweight! Improved aerodynamics When optimising aerodynamics the R&D team could take a lot of cues from the Warp TT time trial bike and the Reacto Evo aero road bike. In order to save material and thus weight, even more of the wing-shaped profiles has been omitted for the down tube, the seat tube, the fork legs, the head tube and the seat stays. The frontal area of these tubes come with a round profile while the opposite side is flat, reducing turbulences significantly. In order to reduce the frontal area the size of the lower headset bearing has been reduced to a diameter of 1.25 inches. The cables for the rear brake and the drivetrain or the cables of a Di2 system are routed internally, using dedicated caps to keep things tidy. And the direct mount rear brake mounts to the chain stays just behind the Scultura's bottom bracket shell to further optimise aerodynamics. Improved comfort Mounting the rear brake to the chain stays also allows for the omitting of a seat stay bridge, giving the stays more room to flex and offer vertical compliance. A layer of flax integrated into the lay-up helps the rear triangle and the fork to absorb vibrations. All of this and a 27.2 millimetre-diameter seat post contribute to the vertical compliance of the Scultura. And it all translates into less fatigue and more control on bad road surfaces - and of course more comfort. As another new feature the frame now also offers plenty of space for 25 millimetre-wide tires. Still the chain stays are distinctively short at 400 millimetres, resulting in the Scultura's agile handling. Journalists from 23 countries got plenty of opportunity in Liguria to properly test the Scultura on winding descents over bumpy road surfaces strewn with potholes. Longer and lower riding position As the riders of Team Lampre-Merida asked for it, the geometry of the Scultura's fourth generation is distinctively performance-oriented. Compared to its predecessor the stack has been reduced and the reach has been increased slightly, so the new frame is both longer and lower. In order to direct all the power to the chain without loss, Merida opts for a BB386 bottom bracket shell. This is also compatible with almost all existing bottom brackets and cranks and offers a wide support for the downtube and the chainstays. At 60N/mm the stiffness of the bottom bracket area is up to par with competing products, and the Scultura also offers plenty of stiffness in the head tube area with 92N/mm. All of this results in a very good stiffness to weight ratio. See All Merida Road Bikes
How To Be Safe While Riding Your Bike
An undeniable positive side effect of the coronavirus crisis is that many people are taking the opportunity to try out new activities. There's been an increase in the number of cyclists on the road. Bike riding complies with social distancing measures and is a fantastic sport that helps people improve their physical and mental wellbeing. With more people cycling than ever before, and with many of them being beginner riders, it's important to follow some basic safe bike riding tips. Wear The Right Clothes Wearing the right cycling clothes is key because they help you ride more securely by allowing your body to move more freely. They also protect your body from all weather conditions. A cycling jersey and a cycling jacket are lightweight yet offer great protection against the wind and rain. They can also have reflective trims to increase your visibility on the road. Cycling gloves and cycling shoes are also very important. A good pair of cycling gloves protects your hands, giving you extra padding and shock absorption. Cycling shoes not only make you look the part, but also give your feet support and protection, whilst keeping them in the optimal position on the pedals . Shop Clothes Wear The Right Helmet Wearing a bike helmet is fundamental for your safety, and it's required by law. There's a wide variety of helmets and you should wear one that feels comfortable and suits your style of riding. If you're going to be doing long rides, a road bike helmet is a good option. It has more air vents to allow airflow and help keep you cool around the head and neck. A mountain bike requires a special mountain bike helmet , or MTB helmet. It has a front visor to protect you from the sun and extra protection for impacts. A kids helmet shouldn't be just colourful and fun. Make sure it's a proper cycling helmet, made from the right materials to protect your child when those unexpected accidents happen. Shop Helmets See And Be Seen Your bike lights need to fulfil two equally important purposes: to allow you to see the road and to help you be seen by other road users. Your bike should have a front bike light , a rear bike light and reflectors. You can also increase your visibility by wearing reflective clothing. A bike radar is another good addition to your bike riding gear. It alerts you when a car is approaching you from behind, and it can also incorporate lighting. Shop Lights Keep Your Bike In Good Order Safety starts with your own bike. You need tyres in good condition and your bike components should be clean and lubricated. Don't forget to take your bike for regular services and tune-ups at your local 99 Bikes store. View Workshop Services Follow The Rules Follow local traffic rules and be aware of your rights and obligations as a bike rider. These are some simple safety tips that can make a big difference on the road: Never assume a car driver has seen you Avoid riding in blind spots of other road users Signal clearly when you need to turn or change direction Always be aware of the sounds around you (avoid headphones that impair your hearing) Watch carefully for turning vehicles Plan Your Route Know and plan your route in advance. If the weather hasn't been great, find out if the roads you're planning to take have been affected. Be aware of how long the route will probably take you to complete, just to know if you'll be coming back home in the dark. Remember to take enough liquids to stay hydrated during the whole journey, even if it's not a particularly hot day.
Hybrid Bikes Buying Guide
Often called the "do-it-all" bike, a hybrid blends the speed and efficiency of a road bike with the comfort and durability of a mountain bike. It's the ultimate in versatility, but with so many options, how do you choose the right one? This guide will break down the key features to help you find your perfect urban companion.
How Bright Is Your Future? Velo Academy Can Help
This article was written by Rob Dean, Mechanical Trainer at Velo Academy. Bikes are booming and it's an awesome time to be part of something great. Everyone at 99 Bikes is talking about AuBrightness of FutureAu, but what is it? For us, it means that we believe our people have the right to belong to a team that will provide them with an exciting future, and a clear pathway to achieve their career goals. What does it mean to you? How bright is your future, and what are you doing to achieve your goals? I have heard it said that as long as you know your 'why' (purpose) and your 'what' (goals and aspirations), then you'll figure out the 'how'. That said, most people need a little help to make the 'how' happen. When we first planned and Velo Academy we analysed the training that was available and our goal was clear: Au "Be the best in Australia at training professional bicycle mechanics." Or, to look at it another way Be the best at facilitating the 'how' so that you can achieve your 'what'. Over the last three months sixteen Velo Academy students have taken a step towards their Brightness of Future, and witnessing and being part of their learning process is a fantastic experience. Borrowing from the aviation industry, Velo Academy training uses a series of checklists and simple heuristics to guide you and you to find the answers in a hands-on, supportive environment. Are you good with your hands and do you love fixing things? Do you want to get a head-start in an industry and with a company with real opportunities? Do you want to learn bicycle mechanic skills and have fun whilst doing it? Or, to look at it another way Do you want to be part of something great? Velo Academy could be your first step.
Cycling Jersey Buying Guide
Whether you're new to cycling or are a pro, there is a style of jersey that will suit your riding needs. Jerseys come in all different colours, zipper lengths and sleeve lengths with many other features to keep in mind. Full zip jerseys are awesome for climbing and cycling in heat because you can unzip all the way and feel the breeze. Half zip jerseys let you cool off without getting smacked repeatedly by your flapping jersey and zipper. Short zip jerseys are great for cool weather just to let off a little steam. Short Sleeves Thin, short-sleeved jerseys are ideal for summer riding. They will often include mesh to keep you cool and SPF (sun protection factor) to keep you from burning. Summer jerseys will wick moisture and keep you cool and will dry quickly. Shop Short Sleeve Jerseys Long Sleeves Long-sleeved jerseys can keep you warmer in cooler riding conditions, but a thin long-sleeved jersey can also serve as great sun protection. Some long-sleeved jerseys feature waterproofing material and extra layering on the front to keep out wind chills. Shop Long Sleeve Jerseys Mountain Bike Mountain bike jerseys also come in a variety of styles. They can be worn on their own, under a jersey, or with a base layer in cooler temperatures. While not as fitted as a road jersey you want to avoid getting a mountain bike jersey that is too big and will catch branches as you ride, but some riders will opt for a slightly baggier jersey to fit body armour underneath. Mountain bike jerseys, like road jerseys, will come with pockets on the back for nutrition and tools. Shop MTB Jerseys Most jerseys will have multiple rear pockets on the back of the jersey. This is great for stashing your minipump and some gels, and a lot of jerseys also feature a small zipper pocket in the back as well for money or keys. No matter what style of jersey you have it's a good idea to get a close fit that will keep from snagging on anything the trail throws at you or puffing up in the wind. Most modern jerseys are cut longer in the back and have angled sleeves that keep the jersey from shrinking up in places while you're in riding position.
Armwarmers Buying Guide
Hey, you know those things hanging out of your sleeves? They're called your arms, and chances are if you're riding in Australia you'll need to protect them from a wide variety of elements. A pair of arm warmers is a good place to start. Despite being compact and lightweight, arm warmers will help keep your arms warm and dry on freezing rides. Arm warmers Arm warmers are commonly made of Lycra, but sometimes have a fleece backing. They are best worn with a short sleeve jersey for provide coverage from the wrist to just below the shoulder. The sleeve of the jersey should be worn over the arm warmer to help keep it in place. Some warmers will include silicone grippers at the upper arm opening for stability and to prevent slippage. See All Arm Warmers What happens some days (particularly on longer riders) is that you start out very cold, but as both you and the day around you warm up, you no longer require all the layers you did when you set out. Enter warmers, which are most commonly worn on the arms and knees, and simply slide on and off the exposed skin when required. This allows you to stay warm early on, then as the sun comes out you simply pull off said warmers on the go, without needing to stop the bike. They're then small enough to easily tuck away into your jersey pockets for the rest of the ride.
Cycling Gloves Buying Guide
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Cycling Gloves Gloves are far more than a fashion accessory; they are a critical piece of any cyclist's kit. Whether you're navigating technical singletrack, logging long miles on the road, or simply commuting to work, the right pair of gloves enhances comfort, improves control, and provides crucial protection. They are your primary interface with the bike, and choosing the right pair can transform your riding experience. When purchasing gloves, think about your primary riding style, the conditions you ride in, and your personal comfort preferences. Let's break down the key factors to consider. 1. Riding Style: The First Big Decision Your discipline of cycling is the best starting point for narrowing down your options. Road Cycling & Commuting Most road riders and many commuters opt for short-fingered (fingerless) gloves. The primary reasons are: Ventilation: Cut-off fingers provide maximum airflow, keeping your hands cool and dry, especially during intense efforts or on hot days. Dexterity: You have a direct, tactile feel on your brake levers and shifters, which many riders prefer for precise control. Comfort: These gloves almost always feature padding on the palm to absorb road vibrations and reduce pressure on the nerves in your hand, preventing numbness on longer rides. Mountain Biking (MTB) & Gravel Gloves Mountain bikers and many gravel riders almost exclusively use full-fingered gloves, even in warm weather. The focus here shifts from ventilation to protection and grip. Crash Protection: In the event of a crash—which is more common on unpredictable trails—full-fingered gloves protect your entire hand from scrapes, cuts, and impacts. Debris Shielding: They shield your hands from whipping branches, thorns, and rocks kicked up on the trail. Enhanced Grip: A full-fingered glove provides a more secure and consistent grip on the handlebars and brake levers, especially in wet, muddy, or dusty conditions. 2. Padding: Gel vs. Foam vs. None The padding in a glove's palm is designed to dampen vibration and reduce pressure on the ulnar nerve, which, when compressed, can lead to the all-too-common hand numbness and tingling. Gel Padding Gel padding is excellent at absorbing shock and high-frequency road buzz. It has a softer, more pliable feel that conforms to your hand shape. Best For: Long-distance road cyclists, tourers, and riders who are particularly susceptible to hand numbness. Downside: Some riders find thick gel padding can feel "squishy" or create a disconnect from the handlebars, reducing bar feel. Foam Padding Foam is a more traditional padding material. It tends to be firmer than gel and can be strategically placed in different densities to target key pressure points on the palm. Best For: Racers, commuters, and riders who want a good balance of comfort and a more direct connection to the bike. Downside: Over time and with many washes, foam can compress and lose some of its cushioning properties. No Padding (Minimalist Gloves) Many performance-oriented mountain bikers and some road racers prefer gloves with no padding at all. Best For: Riders who prioritize maximum bar feel and control above all else. A thin, single-layer synthetic leather palm offers incredible grip and a direct connection to the bike, allowing for minute adjustments on technical terrain. Downside: Offers no vibration damping, which can lead to fatigue on long or particularly rough rides. 3. Sizing and Fit This cannot be overstated: a well-fitting glove is essential. Too Loose: Excess material will bunch up in your palm. This not only feels uncomfortable but can lead to friction, causing painful hotspots and blisters. Too Tight: A glove that's too snug can restrict blood flow, ironically causing the very numbness you're trying to prevent. A glove should fit like a second skin—snug across the palm and fingers with no baggy areas, but not so tight that it restricts your hand's movement when you make a fist. Always check the manufacturer's sizing chart. 4. Gearing Up for the Weather: Seasonal Gloves Your summer gloves won't cut it when the temperature drops. Having a selection of gloves for different seasons is key to comfortable year-round riding. Summer Gloves These are your standard road or MTB gloves designed for warm weather. They prioritize breathability, using lightweight mesh or Lycra on the back of the hand and often featuring a perforated palm. Shoulder Season (Autumn/Spring) Gloves For cool, but not freezing, days, these gloves are perfect. They are typically full-fingered and feature: A wind-resistant panel on the back of the hand. Light insulation (often a thin fleece lining). Good dexterity for shifting and braking. Winter Gloves When it gets properly cold, you need dedicated winter gloves. Look for these features: Insulation: Materials like Thinsulate or PrimaLoft provide warmth without excessive bulk. Windproof & Water-Resistant/Waterproof Shell: A membrane like GORE-TEX® or a similar proprietary fabric is crucial for blocking wind chill and keeping your hands dry from rain or snow. Long Cuff (Gauntlet): A longer, adjustable cuff creates a seal with your jacket sleeve, preventing cold air and moisture from getting in. "Lobster" Style: For the coldest conditions, some gloves group fingers together (two sets of two, or one and three) to share warmth, like a mitten, while freeing the index finger and thumb for operating controls. 5. Other Features to Look For Nose Wipe: A patch of soft, absorbent terry cloth or microfleece on the thumb is a surprisingly useful feature for wiping away sweat or a runny nose. Closure System: Most gloves use a simple hook-and-loop (Velcro) strap for an adjustable fit. Some minimalist or racing gloves have a slip-on elasticated cuff for less bulk. Removal Aids: Many fingerless gloves have small loops on the fingers to make them easier to pull off, especially when your hands are sweaty. Touchscreen Compatibility: A must-have for modern full-finger gloves. Special material on the fingertips allows you to use your phone or GPS device without taking your gloves off. Silicone Grippers: Often found on the fingertips of MTB gloves, these small silicone patterns add extra grip on brake levers, especially in wet conditions. Reflective Details: A great safety feature for commuters and anyone riding in low-light conditions.
Fixie Bikes Buying Guide
Fixie and single speed bikes are beautifully simple bikes with only one gear. They're modelled on old school track bikes, and just have a single speed, with no shifters and derailleurs, which makes them little to no maintenance. A fixie has a fixed-hub, so your pedals always move with the wheels, while a single speed bike has a free-hub like a conventional bike. Fixed Gear Bikes Fixie bikes are great bikes for around town riding as they are cheap, durable, hassle free and look cool. Typically steel frame with no gears damage means they're perfect to chuck around at your leisure - drop them on their side, bang them getting into a lift - who cares? Perfect for rides to work, school, park or pub. See All Fixie Bikes Fixie bikes are great bikes for around town riding as they are cheap, durable, hassle free and look cool. Typically steel frame with no gears damage means they're perfect to chuck around at your leisure - drop them on their side, bang them getting into a lift perfect for rides to work, school, park or pub. A truly urban inspired bike taking some cues from BMX specs. An A-head stem on 1-1/8" fork steerer improves front end strength and stiffness for more confident handling. Solid resin BMX style pedals won't crack the first time you drop the bike, and dual pivot brakes give smooth, reliable stopping power. Tough, stylish, around town option with low maintenance drivetrain makes Messenger a perfect option for someone who can't maintain a bike and isn't interested in learning. An in-built chain tensioner also makes the task of removing/fitting the rear wheel significantly simpler, meaning the bike is less likely to be retired the first time you get a flat.
Energy Drinks Buying Guide
A large percentage of our body is made up of water, so dehydration can affect how well you perform both mentally and physically. As a cyclist you are often limited to the amount of fluid you can drink and carry and as a consequence don't drink enough. It's important to keep well hydrated by drinking water throughout the day and extra fluid after training. Performance minded cyclists will seek to replace not only the volume of fluids lost, but also the electrolytes lost in the process. Electrolytes lost in high concentrations through sweat include sodium and chloride, while electrolytes lost in low concentrations include potassium, magnesium and calcium. Essentially, when you taste sweat, it's salty, and that's the electrolytes you need to replace. Electrolytes are essential to normal function of cells and organs, so obviously in order to perform at a high level, you at least retain this balance your body requires by replacing what has been sweat out. When choosing a sports drink for rehydration, it is important to ensure the ingredients will be replacing the electrolytes you are losing. Additionally, some drinks include supplementary carbohydrates, sugar or caffeine to help you with some extra energy along the way. Popular rehydration formulas are produced by brands such as Endura and Skratch Labs. Fluids Develop a fluid plan that suits your needs, amount of training and the weather! Practice your plan in your training sessions. The longer the training sessions, or the warmer the weather, the greater your needs will be. During training, aim to drink the contents of your bottle every hour. If road training, plan to refill your bottle regularly (e.g. at parks), and use these stops as markers of fluid intake. Resist the temptation of not stopping for fear of interrupting your rhythm. Thirst is usually an indicator of dehydration. You may have already lost a lot of fluid before you even feel thirsty. Start checking the colour of your urine (pale=hydrated, dark=dehydrated). Cyclists can estimate their own fluid losses by weighing themselves before and after riding - Each kilogram of weight loss is equal to one litre of fluid. Plain water is effective, especially if you only exercise for a short time and at a "low intensity". Sports drinks provide carbohydrate, electrolytes and are lightly flavoured. They can be helpful to meet your fluid needs and help performance when exercising at a greater intensity and for a longer length of time or distance. For personalised advice on your fluid needs in training, see an Accredited Sports Dietician. See All Fluids During strenuous exercise such as cycling, your body is consuming its stored energy at a faster than normal rate. Your body only has a limited amount of storage space for this energy, therefore it can be beneficial to performance to top up these reserves on the go. Gels are a conveniently packaged, portable and easy to consume source of carbohydrates that you can use for a quick source of energy whilst exercising. Gels are formulated to be quickly delivered into the blood to deliver the energy and nutrients required to sustain performance. It can often be a little bit of trial and error in working out what your body responds best to, as this will differ somewhat between individuals and their exercise load. Some people will find certain brands have more impact, are easier to digest or purely just taste better. Some popular brands of gels are produced by brands such as Endura, Clif Bar, Bonk Breaker.
