How to choose cycling equipment?

Athletes-cyclists take the choice of cycling equipment seriously, which is not always the case for beginner bikers. But in order for outdoor activities to bring only pleasure, the possibility of injuries and bruises should be minimised. This is what special equipment is designed for.

Selection of cycling clothing

Manufacturers in the cycling industry design clothing for cyclists, taking into account the wishes of cycling stars. Modern innovative models not only have a bright and beautiful design, but also allow the body to «breathe» during movement - they provide continuous air circulation. Thanks to the elasticity and smoothness of the fabrics, aerodynamics, wear resistance increase, and most importantly, the places most outspread to injure are reliably protected.

Cycling shorts

Tight cycling pants, overalls or shorts differ from ordinary clothing in increased comfort, which is immediately felt when riding, especially over long distances:

• cycling shorts;
• protect the skin from friction against the saddle, and the coccyx, muscles of the buttocks and legs from injury when falling;
• do not cling to the elements of the bike;
• increase aerodynamics;
• provide maximum removal of excess moisture - the body remains dry and «breathes», even in hot weather;
• internal 3D diaper (padding) soft, seamless and durable with an anatomical cut (for women and men) - guarantees the most comfortable fit, protects against chafing, injuries;
• diaper (padding) improves depreciation, absorbing vibration, shocks from bumps in the road;
• branded models provide better support, work of the muscles and joints of the small pelvis, due to compression;
• the presence of ventilation pockets provides additional air circulation;
• some models have plastic protection;
• the cuffs with silicone do not allow the trouser leg to bend, do not squeeze the leg.

The fabrics used for cycling shorts are polyester, nylon and lycra; they perfectly stretch, do not hinder movements, are breathable, resistant to tearing and mechanical damage. For cold seasons, choose fleece-lined cycling pants or cycling pants. High-quality cycling shorts consist of separate panels, the more there are (from 4-6 to 8-10 (high class)), the better the model sits on the rider, like a second skin. Popular brands include the Mavic Cosmic Elite and the budget dhb Shorts.

Jersey T-shirt

The main element of cycling equipment is a jersey; it protects the pilot from wind, heat and cold. Due to the presence of zippers (in front), you can fix the most comfortable collar, unfasten it completely in the heat. The back area is often made of a denser fabric to protect against UV rays.

Characteristics:

• the most ventilated material, perfectly removes excess moisture, leaving the body dry;
• in cold weather, jersey keeps you warm;
• excellent tight fit (elastic fabric) on the figure - does not hinder movement, increases aerodynamics;
• a special cut with an elongated back provides protection against blowing through the lower back;
• the presence of a pocket in the back area allows you to carry the necessary little things with you - a phone, a bottle of water;
• reflective elements make the rider visible from a distance and ensure safe riding.

For cross-country, you should choose the most form-fitting option that will provide excellent aerodynamics. For lovers of aggressive driving, loose jerseys without zippers, pockets, but with sleeves are preferred. A mesh thermal shirt is recommended for the winter season - for layering. It keeps you warm and wicks sweat away. Brands: BBB, Ganso.

Windbreakers, jackets

In cold weather, a biker cannot do without warm, practical things. In the off-season, a cycling windbreaker is an indispensable piece of equipment. It will protect from wind, precipitation, dirt and splashes. A bike jacket will also protect you from the cold during the winter months. This clothing is durable and wear-resistant and has an adjustment «under itself».

Windproof strips, tight cuffs and collars reliably protect against blowing and precipitation. There are ventilation holes or pockets (with a zipper for adjustment). The presence of pockets and reflectors and light weight increase functionality. Models with soft protective inserts in the areas of the elbows and shoulders are popular: Rogell, Nalini.

Cycling boots

The cyclist must have comfortable shoes (for example, Shimano), since he works with his feet almost all the time.

Cycling shoes have their own nuances:

• solid outsole - dampens impacts from bumps on the road surface;
• the anatomical cut of the boot gives the foot maximum comfort - the leg does not get tired even during a long ride;
• the outsole provides maximum grip on the bike pedal;
• high-quality material protects the leg from possible bruises and injuries;
• cycling shoes are not designed for normal walking.

For contact pedals, separate special shoes are provided. If the pilot chooses to ride on the streets of the city, asphalt, then it is better to give preference to road cycling shoes. The mountain version is suitable for fans of MTB (mountain bike) - it is easier and faster to quilt.

Cycling gloves

Cycling gloves are a required element of rider protection. They perform several tasks: they smooth out shocks, protect tendons and joints from injuries, and exclude the possibility of blisters. It is required to use Airmech material (mesh), which provides a perfect fit. The special design of gloves reduces the load from the fingertips, the palms do not go numb.

Characteristics of gloves that guarantee maximum grip on the steering handlebars:

• on modern models (on the index and thumb) there are special inserts for the ability to use gadgets;
• numerous perforations and ventilation inserts for air circulation;
• wear-resistant textiles or durable (reinforced) leather in especially abraded areas ensures durability;
• reliable inserts on the «fist» zone and finger joints guarantee protection in an emergency - according to statistics, a pilot, falling, intuitively puts his hands in the direction of falling;
• wrist strap for a snug fit.

Cycling gloves should be chosen for each season separately. Lightweight (fingerless) mittens, short and open for the summer, and for the off-season with a thin lining that protects against wind and rain. For winter, there are multi-layered, warm models that can remove excess moisture and not let the cold in from the outside, there is a division according to the temperature regime.

You should know that the classic version of gloves is suitable for ordinary skiing, walking, with enhanced protection - for extreme sports. Innovative models with turn signals allow you to drive safely at night (brands IG-626, Trix LCL).

Additional bike protection

In addition to cycling clothing, a biker also needs additional protection, which will protect him from injury as much as possible in case of an accident or a fall.

Bicycle helmets

All professionals recommend that beginners purchase a helmet first. It is guaranteed to provide protection against serious injury in the event of a fall or emergency.

Cycling helmet features

1. The outer strong shell is made of modernised super resistant plastic EPS, PPU, or polycarbonate. It has sliding properties on the surface and prevents splitting.
2. The main protection (internal) made of lightweight expanded polystyrene or expanded polypropylene has the ability to «recover» after impact. This part of the structure absorbs, softens the blow, distributing it over its surface.
3. Existence of ventilation provides comfortable cooling of the head.
4. The lining is removable and helps to adjust the model «under itself».
5. The presence of a mosquito net protects against flying insects into the ventilation.
6. The size adjuster and fixation straps ensure a perfect fit.
7. Reflectors allow you to ride at night. (brands MERCEDES, AUTHOR «ROOT2»).

For each type of riding, you should choose a special helmet:

• lightweight, disposable cross-country model (up to 400 grams) (with a visor) protects the upper part of the head - for beginners and lovers of city walks, deforms after impact;
• light road version more often without a visor, enhanced ventilation, no mesh - recommended for racing;
• enduro has protection for the temporal part and the back of the head, the rest of the indicators are identical - suitable for daily use, the weight is heavier;
• bowler model with minimal ventilation, which significantly increases the strength of the structure, protection of the back of the head and temples - for lovers of tricks and extreme sports;
• the track version in the form of a drop enhances aerodynamics - for racing on tracks;
• a heavy-duty full-face model completely protects the head and lower jaw, with a visor, it is used in a set with goggles (weight up to 1,800 grams) - designed for high-speed downhill descents.

For the latest model, experts recommend purchasing neck protection to avoid injury. When buying a bicycle, a child must also purchase a children's bicycle helmet.

Collar

This item of equipment is necessary for cross-country racing enthusiasts, when the possibility of neck injuries increases significantly when colliding with an obstacle (tree, snags). The perfect tandem with a full face helmet.

Cycling glasses

When riding a bike, it is extremely important to protect your eyes from dust, small pebbles or splashes, precipitation or insects, as well as from the bright sun and lights of oncoming traffic, otherwise an emergency may occur. Goggles are combined with a cross-country helmet, and a mask with a bowler hat or full face (Northwave Predator, Select Sport brands).

When choosing, you should pay attention to the characteristics of glasses:

• transparent polycarbonate lenses are preferred - they are 16 times lighter than glass and 2 times stronger;
• nose pads must fit;
• the presence of protection against UV rays and fogging;
• protection against the penetration of reflected light;
• the earpieces are comfortable and soft.

Branded products have a coating that is resistant to scratches and chips. Models for sports skating are coated with a coating that increases brightness, contrast and clarity.

Elbow and knee pads, body kit, tortoiseshell, shell

Many people are skeptical about protection in the form of elbow and knee pads, but these elements play an important role, especially for children, teenagers and extreme sports enthusiasts. Elbow and knee pads protect critical joints from fractures and injuries. Depending on the type of skiing, you can choose protection only for the knee, shin or general. Popular bicycle protection manufacturers: Leatt, Wosawe.

The body kit consists of protective elements of the chest, elbows, collarbones. The shell protects the chest and back, and the turtle also protects the arms up to the hands. This equipment is designed for extreme types of cycling and protects the entire body of the pilot. Riders who ride e-bikes at high speed also respect this equipment (for example, the Fox Racing Titan Sport brand). Maximum protection for the extreme seeker will be provided by a jacket with full protection or a shell from the Troy Lee Designs brand.

Ankle protection

About half of the injuries are sprains, ruptures, damage to the ankle ligaments, so this element is designed to fix the injured part of the leg, the joint. Wear-resistant, elastic materials do an excellent job of this task (brand 7iDP Control).

Bicycle accessories

The requirements for technology and appearance for a cyclist of the 21st century have changed dramatically; every modern pilot wants to use all the innovative technologies to the maximum for comfortable cycling.

Reflectors, brake lights, flashers

Bright LED brake lights, flashing lights, reflectors provide excellent visibility of the cyclist on the road at a great distance at night or in poor visibility (fog).

Instruments

So that an accidental breakdown does not take a cyclist by surprise, you should have the most necessary tools with you:

• compact pump - in case of wheel inflation, for example, from the WindGun brand;
• montage - for beading tires in case of a puncture;
• a bicycle first-aid kit with a set of patches and glue to eliminate a puncture;
• multitool tool kit with screwdrivers and hex keys, for example from Prime Fold;
• wire cutters / shirts;
• spoke, cone and pedal wrench;
• squeezing d / chain - if you urgently need to replace / repair the chain on the way.

During operation, the bike requires frequent maintenance, so detergent, brushes, rags and lubricant are also necessary.

Trackers

A GPS tracker is an accessory that is necessary for modern and expensive equipment. Electronics periodically receives satellite data about its location and transmits them via GSM to a smartphone or to a specific service centre.

Types of GPS trackers

1. Included - start working at a certain signal (from the brought «key»). Plus - it works when required, minus - the moment of switching on is noticeable to scammers.
2. Continuously running is the simplest.
3. Managed and «smart» - controlled from gadgets.

The module can perform additional functions - GPS-receiver, sports performance. Trackers are mounted on the bike in three ways: in the form of a taillight, in the seatpost or in the steering column.

The tracker is an essential element for a cyclist, it will not only help to find the bike in case of theft, but also notify about a possible emergency, the location of the (injured) pilot himself. Popular manufacturers: Garmin and Moov Now.

Bicycle Gadgets

A modern biker can no longer imagine his bike without such necessary details as gadgets. The bike computer provides the pilot with the following indicators:

• route
• speed mode
• distance travelled
• air temperature
• energy expenditure in calories
• date and time.

Veloradar will notify you about the traffic situation from behind. The innovative steering wheel, in addition to electronics, has turn signals on the handles. A GPS navigator is indispensable for tourists and travellers on bikes and an alarm system, for example, Spystrongike will protect you from theft.

A modernised and reliable bike lock is one of the most important gadgets. This secure steel arch design is unlocked with a combination lock or smart phone app. The castle has solar panels that charge the device with a built-in antenna during a long trip. This makes it possible to throw off data in case of encroachments of scammers, or at the time of an accident.

Dashcam is a «fashionable» attribute that allows you to record the necessary high-speed races, routes, tricks and in the event of an accident, it will give irrefutable proof of who was responsible for the collision. It can be mounted on the handlebar, frame, fork or helmet, jacket.

Battery charger is a dynamo type charger with a hub. It is inserted into the wheel of the bike and the USB cable is connected to the handlebar to power the devices. The mechanism is waterproof, it can be of any configuration.