What are
/r/ladycyclists'
favorite Products & Services?
From 3.5 billion Reddit comments
The most popular Products mentioned in /r/ladycyclists:
The most popular Services mentioned in /r/ladycyclists:
Strava
Komoot
Ride With GPS
Bikemap
Costco
The most popular reviews in /r/ladycyclists:
Men can be extremely persistent when they think they can help. The only things I can think of that you haven't mentioned in your original post:
- do a bike maintenance class if you haven't already
- carry a power bank to charge your phone (I've linked to the one I have which might be overkill, it's good for about four full charges).
Pasty ginger with a history of bad skin spots checking in! Good question that everyone should contemplate! I use a spray that’s SPF 50+ for my legs, arms, neck, chest, and ears. My worst spot came on my neck, so I’m particularly concerned with slathering it up and reapplying when I’m outside for a long time.
On my face, I use a Neutrogena SPF 55 sunscreen that doesn’t make me break out. It was a bit of trial and error to find something that didn’t smell bad, make me break out, or feel greasy, but the one I use checks all those boxes. A friend who is particularly concerned about her nose uses zinc oxide, so that’s something to consider if you want to take it a step further.
PSA for everyone (particularly for this sub with folks who spend a lot of time outside): Be sure to get annual skin checks by a dermatologist! Skin cancer is highly treatable if caught early, and a trained eye is key.
Do you have a tire gauge? I notice that when I put air in my tires, if I just go by 'feel,' it feels like they have enough air, but actually the recommended pressure is much higher. And if you have a little pump, it may be DIFFICULT to put enough air in your tires! I use a floor pump with a gauge like this one because that makes it easier to pump in as much air as I need.
It is also possible that your tires have leaks, but usually tires can be stored for a while without getting damaged/degraded. So first of all make sure that you're getting your tires up to the recommended pressure.
Oh, make chamois cream a regular thing - there's no badge to be earned for enduring friction! I even use some with unpadded liner shorts (like nike pros) when I'm riding socially and don't want to sit in a chamois all evening.
Look for chamois butter - they sell single-use packets as well as larger tubes. If you didn't trust the packaging, you could find an alternate container. I've used regular chamois buttr and currently have a tub of their European style cream. I'm sure there's a range of other products you can try as well, but body lube is your friend!
I wear them all the time and love them. My preference is to wear mountainbike shorts or pants with lots of pockets when I ride and I was wearing my regular lycra shorts underneath, but that was too warm. Also, in Germany, cycling for sport and for utility is sharply divided and wearing lycra makes you more of a target for cars, so I like camoflaging my activity as more daily riding even on long rides.
I settled on Cycorld because the shorts are light and comfey and you can get the underwear for a decent price. The underwear are light weight aside from the chamois, and the chamois has multiple panels that really work well.
Broke a new personal record this weekend! 29 miles on the mountain bike. Was very difficult, almost bonked but kept myself motivated to the very end. Strava proof
I use sufferfest to do more structured training, and it has done wonders for my fitness, but my plan generally has me on my bike 6 days a week, which sounds like is a bit more than you're looking for.
This might be useful? I have read it, but I found that I just prefer to ride my bike every day, as it benefits my mental health.
I actually have aero bars on my trainer! I don't use a switch, but I do have a trainer desk with a keyboard and mouse so I can just hop on the trainer during boring zoom calls, or to watch a movie.
I would say this: Aero bars themselves can offer a good way to rest your wrists so you don't strain too much, but you should make sure your trainer bike's stem is nice and high, because an actual aero position isn't helpful indoors. No gain from aerodynamics, and if you're too folded over, your diaphragm can get compressed and impede your air intake, which is more important.
The bike on my trainer is my touring bike, which has clip-on aero bars, but they're more for giving me a resting position on long tours than actually getting aero =)
I would recommend snagging a copy of "Zinn and the Art of MTB Maintenance," it's a fantastic guide that will walk you through everything you need to know!
https://www.amazon.com/Zinn-Art-Mountain-Bike-Maintenance/dp/1937715477/
I would also suggest checking with your local bike shop or cycling club if you have one, they often (pre-pandemic at least) offer "bike maintenance 101" classes where they'll teach you how to fix a flat, tweak your shifters, and get everything ready for a ride.
Changing tubes and tires is definitely do-able for a beginner! I think everybody should know how to replace a tube in case you get a flat while out riding. Swapping out brake pads is also a pretty easy fix.
For bike parts, you'll probably want to avoid the no-name-made-in-China parts that you might order off Amazon, but if you order from your local bike shop or an online bike retailer, pretty much anything you get should be decent quality!
I found some really good Canari shorts on Amazon for about $40: Canari Pro Gel Cycling Short Womens (Black, Medium) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BBGDHM/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_nQo7vbPM6SGHR
I have a few pair of ~$90 shorts and choose the Canaris whenever possible.
I use Chamois Butt'r Her cream: Chamois Butt'r Her' 8oz tube https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D535IAG/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_ORo7vbDYWW2RD
And a Brooks B17s (the short or female version) saddle.
With that combination, I have completely gotten rid of any of the discomfort in that area.
I just bought this pump and had it in my back pocket today and didn't feel heavy at all.
The fact that he took your tools from you would have enraged me. I think you handled the situation well, imo there is no winning because had you declined they would have been mad at YOU because of how persistent they were.
The only thing I can think of is "Hey I really appreciate you wanting to help, but I would like to do this on my own have a great day!" along with not allowing him to take the tools. BUT that could still cause drama with him, greater chance of no damaged tube though.
I'm so frustrated for you! Ugh, I hope others have given good recommendations to you and it sounds like you're already changing things for next time for the better!
Edit: forgot to add the link
I like these. Wear my regular shorts over.
I use La Roche Posay Anthelios tinted sunscreen, SPF 50. I am one of the palest human beings alive, and I just did a metric century last weekend in the sun and heat. Came out with my face as white as ever, never reapplied it during the ride. I was really impressed with it.
​
I got me a nice little QOM on a speedy group ride on Sunday. The best part is that near the end of this ride, a male friend who usually pulls us slower riders bonked from giving blood a couple days earlier and I had to pull him the 6 miles back home. Of course I immediately let the entire group know (we were alone in between the really fast riders and way ahead of the slower riders so nobody saw this) so they could tease him mercilessly.
I’m not sure if this would help but when looking for arm / leg warmers on Amazon recently I came across warm weather versions, mainly for Uv protection I believe. Maybe something like these in white could help keep you cool but also covered?
I bought some general purpose velcro straps for this very reason - I strap the front wheel to the down tube and that keeps it fairly secure!
I like my Shredly shorts and my Five Ten Freeriders. I also bought a hydration pack that I love. I personally use my road helmet, but that's on my list of things to acquire someday.
Just discovered this sub, and this thread :-) Have followed a few of you ladies if you want to do the same! I haven't been saving my commutes (too short), but training for a tri so there are some longer rides in there: https://www.strava.com/athletes/9899412
In Ireland, we always fondly remember 1987 as the year Stephen Roche won the Tour de France.
Charlie Haughey (1925 - 2006), was our Taoiseach (leader of the country/Prime Minister) and always a man to seize a photo opportunity flew to Paris for the celebrations and jumped up on the podium to kiss and hug the race winner.
There is still some confusion about which one of them won the race that year.
https://www.amazon.ae/Guy-Tour-France-Other-Fables/dp/0717119165
My sister has something like this to deter dogs from chasing: https://www.amazon.com/Dog-Dazer-II-Ultrasonic-Deterrent/dp/B000IBRI2Y
It let's out a high pitched beep that confuses them. Effective probably ~90% of the time
Last year I started out with Amazon stuff. I bought these shorts and these tights from the Beroy brand. They've held up well over the past year. Last week I ordered my first jersey from Specialized (it was on sale haha), and I plan to buy some nicer shorts too!
​
ETA: My boyfriend bought Pearl Izumi stuff from Sierra Trading Post for a discounted price. So you may want to look there as well.
I used to wear a pair of Craft cycling tights that are made for spin classes -- so there is a chamois, but it's pretty thin. It's enough for a short ride, though, and prevents sore sits bones.
I got them off Amazon a while back, and it looks like they have been discontinued, but there might be a newer version. If you wear a size L, I'd be happy to send my pair to you! This is my second pair, and they don't have much wear.
In the end the waist was a little low for me, so I switched to padded cycling underwear -- they're okay but not great. The chamois is fine and they have a slim profile (i.e. I don't feel like I'm walking around in a diaper), but they tend to ride up on my butt and I have to adjust them a lot.
I also have a tiny head. I bought this guy and love it! It has a dial in the back that cinches it down on my head.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JBD7WD2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_tH2lzMnK6bnKx
Edit to add: the visor is detachable if you don't like the look.
I have tried oceans of pumps and only found one which is easy to pump and use:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001SMAFKE?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share. It's out there but that's a visual reference. Yes it's pink and marketed towards us but for once.....
The height is great for my partner (she's 5'2") and me (5'6"), it has plenty of volume for road and mtb tyres and it doesn't wear us out. The grabber thing for the valve grabs onto to even short stems and works on shraeder and pista valves. I can read the guage even without my glasses and there's a telltale. It's absolutely great.
I'm sure that Topeak will do the trick (has pretty much everything you'll need), the classic do-it-all multi tool is the Crankbrothers M17 (https://smile.amazon.com/Crank-Brothers-Multi-17-Tool-Limited/dp/B00ZDUGKG0/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=crank+brothers+multitool&qid=1620428655&sprefix=crank&sr=8-4).
It's my favorite multi, I've had it for over a decade and it works just as well as when I bought it. Highly recommend.
You should need a saw to shorten your seatpost!! All you have to do is loosen the circle shaped clamp that holds your seatpost in place and lower it "into" the tube" then retighten the clamp. The clamp should be below your seat on the seatpost and look something (probably not exactly though) like this: https://www.amazon.com/WILEY-007-Bicycle-Aluminum-31-8MM-34-9MM/dp/B07GQPHGGK/ref=zg_bs_3494301_9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=7VXAK3QEKR8CPC56C0KY
Thank you. I'm feeling a lot better this morning.
I used this (solarcaine sunburn relief. Maybe if I had an appropriate product it would be fine. So I just want to encourage caution. Maybe I used too much. Maybe I'm allergic to something in this solarcaine mix. Who knows.
Not sure if they're still available but I really liked a pair of Adidas sport sunglasses that are similar to these. On the pair I had, you could adjust the angle of the arms (preset positions but it helped since I'm pretty sure my ears aren't level) and the nose piece can be made tighter by squeezing them closer together. Since it was for "sports" the arm and nose piece were rubberized which helped with the slipping even when I was all sweaty.
I was super sad when one of the arms snapped after about 5 years of abuse D:
+1 to the fan, prevent the sweat from happening in the first place! I got this Lasko fan and it's been really great.
Feeling pretty silly abt this but I picked up a floor pump from my bike store a few weeks ago and I... Can't figure out how to use it? It says it has a "hybrid" head but when I put it on my presta valve tires, i can't secure the pump onto the head tight enough to get any pressure in my tires? Or it hits the top of the valve and releases all the air :/ I've only used the "presta specific" pumps before so any advice would be amazing!! The pump in question:Serfas FP-T3 Air Force Tier Three Bicycle Floor Pump https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087QW8QJL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabt1_PqxSFbEF2ZSD4
The Rit Dye people make a wash in sun protection called Sunguard. You wash your clothing with it once and it stays in your clothes for 20 washes. You can get it from Amazon
I have no comparison but aside from the bunching down, I find them quite comfy! They're the Elite In-R-Cool
edit to add the right link
I have a teeny little first aid kit that works great for bike stuff. Fits great in a saddle bag or camelbak pocket!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BIRMTY4
It's got small bandaids (I added a jumbo knee-sized one), alcohol wipes, and neosporin. Works great for bits of road rash!
For saddle theft deterrent, a very thin cable wrapped around the saddle rails and the bike frame might work. Obviously anyone can cut a cable, but adding the cable would lessen the chances of it being stolen if it’s a crime of opportunity.
Yes! It’s all about confidence, but that is no easy task. Especially when you’re tired, frustrated with the flat, etc. I really think as long as you keep striving for it and keep riding that confidence will come! I’ve found the more confidence I’ve gained riding has helped me gain confidence off of it.
You are strong, you are powerful and it’s just a matter of believing it yourself 🥰
Oh here is the link for the pump!
my dad is really into cycling so when I bought a bike recently he pushed me to get chamois and anti-chafe cream first thing. I've ridden a good amount this week for a total beginner (at least 9 mi every day, my longest ride was roughly 25 miles) with very little soreness and no sores or chafing at all. for someone who avoided cycling for like ten years because I hated feeling pain on the bike, the padded shorts are a godsend. I got cheap ones on amazon (noomye brand) because I didn't want to spend a ton on bike stuff as a newbie and they're really high-quality compared to other athletic stuff I've ordered on Amazon.
I have all sorts of expensive bike bibs and shorts, but my most comfortable pair is from Amazon:
​
Mountain bike liner shorts and padded cycling undies might be good for you. They're meant to be worn under regular clothes, so gives you the cushion you need without having to change from spandex to slacks.
Someone recommended Pearl Izumi, but I found that Louis Garneau Optimum 2 shorts had a longer pad structure in front, so much more comfortable for me.
Enjoy the rides!
Yes. Never diet ON the bike.
You should read Matt Fitzgerald's The Endurance Diet.
He basically outlines the key parts of these five elements:
Eat everything
Eat quality
Eat carbohydrates
Eat enough
Eat individually
It's a great book...I found it very informative.
Hello! Not OP but I’m also close in height, weight, but younger in age. New to cycling but just wanted to recommend these from Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09NM6J3F8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_dp_5HGJSSA4Y2AW3G4MWNS4 they’re the Baleaf 6.5” 4D padded shorts in XS. They’re shorter than the normal bike shorts, but I tried those in the same brand (8” - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091T35HYR?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details ) and found them uncomfortable for some reason. But the 6.5” seems to work better! Just wanted to give you another alternative if ever :)
To expand on this:
Separated bike paths with underpasses designed with the intent of ONLY cycling: Best. Multiuse-paths: Second best. Protected bike lanes: Third best. Buffered bike lanes: Better. Regular bike lanes: Good. No indication of bike lane or anything: Not good. Sharrows: Bad.
Sharrows have been shown add no additional safety to a bike route, if not making it worse for the cyclist as it tends to instill a false sense of security.
Indications of actual vehicle travel speed on roads with unprotected bike lanes is also important. A street where traffic goes 20mph doesn't really need any infrastructure. A street with 35mph traffic probably needs protected bike lanes minimum. A road with 40mph+ traffic should not have bike traffic integrated with traffic at all. A path next to it should be in place to be a worthwhile route to take.
I personally don't like the frequency of use by other cyclists as a metric for road safety. Because sometimes it's a case of "There's no other option" as opposed to actually being a safe road to ride on. There's a route I've ridden on that went from "okay unprotected bike lane" to "this bike lane is narrower than my road bike".
Additionally: If it's a bike lane, buffered or not, protected or not, is it swept regularly? Or do sticks and rocks and debris constantly build up on it? There's routes in my town that I've started to avoid, even though it has great pavement quality, even though they are easier for commuting or shorter, etc. simply because they have so damn many sticks and rocks in certain sections of the bike lane.
I'm over 60 and feel silly in biking shorts. I bought some padded cycling underwear. Now I can ride to breakfast with coworkers or an event and be dressed appropriately.
I have a road bike with 47cm frame and the water bottle spaces is also very small. But I manage to fit 2 bc I use a water bottle cage with side opening at the back. Something like this.
I have a "pro bike tools" pump that I love. It is super small and comes with a water bottle attachment. Also small enough to just tuck into my jersey with no complaints.
I have struggled with pressure sores for decades. I finally had a professional fitting and discovered that my saddle was too big and too far back. I highly recommend a fitting. It will save you a lifetime of difficulty.
(I tried solving the problem with shorts... and spent a fortune doing so.) Yes, it is true that padding and overall size may or may not be related, and depth of padding can vary even across identical models.
I settle for Pearl Izumi pro and select, and alternate. Pros are smaller, tighter, and less likely to bunch up with perspiration and humidity. Select have a wider padding, which is good for me for long rides.
I use Ruby's Lube every time: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017E0VLII/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have also transferred knowledge from Pilates that has really helped my situation. By tucking in my tailbone and allowing my weight to be distributed a bit further back on the pelvis, I am much more comfortable and engaging my abdominal muscles also takes the pressure off the front.
Good luck and have a great trip!
I've got a pair of shorts from Pearl Izumi and a few pairs from Amazon. So far this pair has my favorite chamois (specifically that pair, others that are different colors/cuts from the same seller don't have the same chamois), better even than the more expensive brand name pair. I just bought a pair of The Black Bibs that I'm excited to try and depending on I like those I might also buy a pair of nicer bibs from Pearl Izumi or Rapha.
All of my jerseys are from Amazon, they are cheap and work fine and are far less important than shorts/bibs. Most important thing to me in the jersey are pockets on the back, it's where I store my phone/keys/snacks on rides.
I live in Seattle so there's a certain combination of staying warm and dry during the winter. I share in your tiny hands pain too.
If it's not raining, I actually use these Smartwool liners: http://www.smartwool.com/shop/women-accessories-technicalgloves/liner-gloves-sw0sc300?variationId=001
If it is raining, the Head Gloves from Costco work well and are pretty warm: http://www.costco.com/Head-Ladies'-Digital-Sport-Running-Glove---Black.product.100222044.html
I used to hate the tan line until I realized that was how other cyclists could recognize me as One Of Them. :D Now I just lean into it.
I draw the line at jersey tan lines, though. I just bought a pack of these for summer rides (I hate sunscreen and I tan through it after a few hours anyway). I have some of the normal arm-only ones, and they work well (and they're cooling!) , but they don't stay up over my big guns. I'm pretty excited to try this style.
I wear long baggy pants when I go mountain biking to protect my legs and knees. I like these, you could size up if you want them baggier!
https://www.amazon.com/ROCKBROS-Cycling-Quick-Dry-Outdoor-Mountain/dp/B09442MQH7
I'm here: https://www.strava.com/athletes/267142
Been largely inactive for the last 3 - 4 weeks because I got married and went on honeymoon, but I'll soon be back to racing 1 - 3 times per week and training. :)
Basically any bottle with an old-school valve that you have to open and close can be made quiet. If nothing else, you can slow down the expansion of the bottle after each sip with hand pressure.
Decent basic bottle: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B3YQRJD
Not even remotely a dumb question. Lots of options - each with pros and cons - worth exploring.
I like Hafny's mirrors. The one I currently have mounts inside the hand grip and extends out. Ball joint on the mirror makes it infinitely adjustable. https://www.amazon.ca/Hafny-Handlebar-Blast-resistant-HF-MR095-Anti-glare/dp/B074T612KL/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1PC9DMKUI13O0&keywords=hafny+bike+mirror&qid=1640541893&sprefix=hafny+bike+mirror%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-5
I used my cannondale quick 6 on a cheap trainer for a while. I put a tire that was specifically for a trainer on the wheel though.
I really like Kuumba Made Herbal Healing Salve for just about anything that’s wrong with me, including chafing in the genitals from cycling.
Kuumba Made Herbal Healing Salve 1oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006ZE6BJY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_P2DE9Y89D3Y83MQ0WHZP
Faced my fears of riding in inclement weather (wintry mix) at night on and off road: https://www.strava.com/activities/458636776
I especially love that my boyfriend was all "you know I wasn't serious when I suggested we do this, right?" Well, I called his bluff. LOL.
My nemesis is fortunately nowhere as intimidating as yours!!! I think I will gladly keep mine for now... :) Though, we do have this evil climb that is somewhere on my to-do list.
But I think it can wait a while.
Going through Redfield (there's one obvious road) is pretty but adds a fairly good-sized climb -- I did this route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/8200530 several years ago and the roads on it were generally delightful -- it doesn't quite go through Rome but you still might find it useful.
An electric shoe dryer. Shoes get cold or wet on the commute? Put the shoes on these, plug them in and switch it on. They very gently warm and dry your shoes for you.
I don’t have any experience with these conditions but maybe one of these kind of differently shaped saddles without a nose would help you? Maybe it’s worth looking into.
I’m so sorry you had to endure that.
I carry Sabre self defense pepper spray and you can buy one with a practice canister loaded with water so you can test out the trigger and the spray — my neighbor and I (also a cyclist) went outside and sprayed each other so we’d know what to expect.
I don’t, but I know some women carry whistles on a lanyard - may make sense if you are in areas where there are houses/other riders/walkers within earshot.
Where do you carry your phone? if it’s not easily accessible, another thing to consider is a smart watch. I have an Apple Watch with cell capability and I splurged on it precisely for riding and walking alone. I can yell “hey Siri call 911” without fumbling for my phone - although you could also test if your phone‘s assistant can “hear” you from wherever you store it and that might work as well. The Apple Watch will also call 911 automatically if you crash or fall (or someone causes you to}— there is a message prompt on the watch that asks you to verify you are all right and if you don’t verify, it will automatically dial 911 (I have experienced this. I was really impressed — I was okay so I cancelled the impending call to 911, but I legitimately had crashed).
I hope you find something that will help bring your confidence back, it is a terrible thing.
I don’t ride singletrack during my commute, but I do bike commute year-round in the Midwest and actually have crashed on my bike (it was relatively minor, but a crash nonetheless). I have this laptop case which is a nice combination of tough yet soft and it has kept my computer safe so far. You’d have to crash pretty hard for your laptop to sustain any damage. Happy riding!
My first set of rims just didn’t play nice with my Michelin’s. New rims, can pop my tires off and on with ease.
That said, get a faster tire. And get something like this not sure what size tires you have, so make sure you have the right size. Few years back, I was getting flats almost weekly. Glass, wires, rocks, you name it. I’d been using the same type of tire for ages, so I knew it wasn’t that. Popped these bad boys in- no more flats. Moved, and the problem stopped. 🤣
It seems like you can get a special inflator that uses unthreaded cartridges - https://www.amazon.com/Asura-Enclosed-Inflator-Unthreaded-cartridges/dp/B07HQSYXMK#customerReviews. The reviews are pretty bad, though.
The vast majority of inflator valves for use with co2 cartridges for inflator bike tires are threaded. Could you maybe exchange the unthreaded ones for threaded jobbers?
I have a try Domane. Get a different seat until your sit bones are broken in. Or if $ is an issue, I used a seat cover: Cevapro Bike Saddle Cover, Soft Silicone Padded Bike Seat Cover Improved Comfort Breathable Anti-Slip Bicycle Seat Cover for Spin Stationary Cruiser Bike Mountain Road Bike Outdoor Cycling https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B2QQTN6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_NK232BVX9CNBGGXTVMX4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Fabric Line Shallow Wide Elite
It was cheap enough I could give it a try without hating myself and it turned out to be a great fit for me! I also tilt my saddle up just a bit.
As someone with reeeeeally heavy periods, i've tried a lot. There are some herbal remedies you can take that will slow your flow down a lot so that it's more maneagable (depending on how heavy, it might bring you to a complete halt). Sure, it might extend your period some days, but if it's a short trip, i'd try it and deal with period when I got back home. I've done it many times for half marathons. Shepard's Purse tincture from Herb Farm is my go-to, I keep this in my med cabinet. I take a full dropper to stop the action. I used it this weekend on my rides as well. Do some research on it and see if it might work for you. We'll see if this link works... https://www.amazon.com/Herb-Pharm-Certified-Organic-Shepherds/dp/B000S88UG0/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=shepherds+purse+herb+farm&qid=1623107291&sr=8-2
One XS left in yellow on Amazon US https://www.amazon.com/Shebeest-Divine-Short-Sleeve-Jersey/dp/B07NDM5BG1/ref=sr_1_25
I got a pair of these for Christmas and it worked out pretty well on rides. They’re photochromatic so changes colors in the sun. I like that they wrap around the face. Rock Bros Sunglasses
I have one of these (for a different purpose) and it makes a difference.
https://www.amazon.com/Velo-Orange-Wheel-Stabilizer-VELO/dp/B006VERHKA
I also found this when looking for what I have: https://www.amazon.com/Boncas-Adjustable-Stabilizer-Innovative-Spinning/dp/B07VZDL829
I have the Serfas women's pump: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001SMAFKE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_04HGKT6MJCM9P9S1V64G?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1. like everything else you'll have to look around because it's sold out a lot of places but this is now shrink and pink but the best pump I've ever used and I've heavily used it for four years so far.
I'm 168cm (5'6"), it's the perfect height. Easy to pump, always grabs the stem and the dial is easy to read. Absolutely nothing bad to say about it.
On the road I use a roadmorph which also has gauge and is decent and reliable.
Similar to above because I don't know how long they'll last, but I have these: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B088TJ13HD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and have been very happy.
I recently bought these and I like them more than some expensive ones I got an REI years ago. Now I don’t know how long they will hold up a year from now but I can say I’ve enjoyed them- I measured my hips and waist and if I recall correctly the size guide was accurate for me.
Wow these are fantastic! In all my research I hadn't seen this pair yet and really like them. I'm thinking about doing a shoe like this (for it's versatility) and then a pedal like this for my road bike: https://www.amazon.com/BV-Shimano-Compatible-Pedals-Included/dp/B081BDDGJ8 so that I can use the toe grips for more casual rides and the SPD for more intense rides. Do you think that would work? I'm super new to cycling like this so I'm happy to have any feedback
My wife struggled with saddle comfort for a few months on her first road bike this year. We got a fancy sport saddle, that didn’t work... threw on the spare saddle from our old beach cruiser (a heavy sprung deal) and that didn’t work... The problem was soft tissue pain in her sensitive lady areas.
After a bit of research and talking to some fellow lady riders, we ordered this a few months ago. She went from barely able to enjoy a 15 mile ride to laying down 20+ mile rides on consecutive days multiple times. We’re getting ready to head out and break the 30 mile barrier for her for the first time and she swears by her new split nose saddle.
This is the worsssssst!!! I have been extremely UTI prone my whole life and when I started cycling it was worse than ever, but I haven't had a single one since I changed chamois cream to this one with anti-bacterial properties. I also shower IMMEDIATELY after riding and if I feel any irritation in that area I take a prophylactic dose of Cystex and drink even more water. This combo has kept me UTI free for months now.
I switch wheels (road/gravel) and have similar issues. Sometimes they line up nicely, sometimes they have to be tweaked. The more I do it, the faster I get at it, and I solved a bunch of headaches by just breaking down and buying a super nice 5mm Allen wrench on Amazon for $8.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005G3959S/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_1ozMFbZFQKR02?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Well..... The display of the element is much bigger than the bolt so if you wear glasses it's way easier to see. Also, it's winter time so do you have a trainer? I also got a wonderful floor pump which looks "girly" but even my very butch partner raves about:)
Following...struggling to find gloves for the cold that work well with brifters. My husband just bought these and said they were very difficult to use while shifting. Might be the year to invest in pogies.
Ah, that's so annoying! Efficient storage will probably depend a lot on where in your building you have room to store things, but here's a couple ideas.
We have one of these from Amazon. You can buy a kit to make it hold four bikes - two on front and two on back. You just extend the pole to fit tightly between the ceiling and floor - no screws or holes. Plus it looks really nice. We are able to put it pretty close to the wall and still get the two bikes on the back side off - I put a wall hanging behind it to prevent marking up the walls. But this means our dining room is now a bike room *shrug*
I also saw this while looking for the link for you and think it looks pretty great for corner storage!
I just bought a Liv Alight 3 bike. I was in the same boat that I didn't want to spend much and wanted the bike to be comfortable. Liv is made by Giant, so if you find a bike shop that sells that brand, take it for a test drive. I swapped out the seat for a $30 seat on Amazon that is much more comfortable and I've been doing 8-9 mile rides comfortably.
I use some fairly cheap padded liner shorts from Amazon under my regular shorts or tights.
These or these for commuting, longer ones for mtb.
I used the high end expensive shorts like Pearl Izumi for years before switching to the cheap ones a few years ago. I bough one pair for $10 just to try then got 4 more pair I liked them so much.
I bought the Joroto indoor bike. I prefer cycling outside but I wanted to cheap bike for rainy days. I like it. Some people recommend buying a cadence tracker to go with the bike.
https://www.amazon.com/JOROTO-Indoor-Cycling-Bike-Trainer/dp/B07988PF5Z
They're the Elite In-R-Cool so realizing they're tri shorts if that matters, not sure if they also run small but they don't feel tight anywhere. But yeah after more research it looks like this one is also not supposed to be a high rise, so that would probably explain why it goes down to the hips when I cover my belly button
If you have a hitch on your car, I think there are nice ones out there. I, however, do not have a hitch, so I own this super cheap thing:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TRTSAZM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I can say that I've taken two road bikes on it, on the highway, for 3.5 hours, twice and never felt nervous. Tips and tricks for it:
- Make sure your car model is supported by this rack; if not, Allen has some racks for other car types, I think their website has a model finder
- READ the instructions thoroughly! If you attach and tighten the straps in the right order, as they tell you, you shouldn't have a problem.
- Be careful of the metal clamps, if you're not careful, you can do little scratches if you fling em around.
- The instructions didn't say to do this I don't think, but after I tighten each strap, I tie a knot with the strap, just in case if it loosens, it won't go past the knot.
- This rack only holds up the bike by the top tube, so if you've got a top tube with a slant, your bike will sit tilted on it. I wouldn't worry about it unless the tilt is extreme, in which case, they do sell a straight-tube add-on thingy (the instructions talk about it). But I didn't find it necessary
- Because only the top tube is held, the front wheel turns+rotates freely, as does the back wheel. Use the extra long straps left over to tie them and prevent them from rotating. Also strongly advise using some cheap bungie cords as insurance, and also to latch the front wheel from swinging left to right. I generally use 1-2 to both stabilize the front from careening left+right, while also looping it over the rack and hooking to the seat stays in the back.
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07FNZDH42/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1#
I couldn't afford anything fancy so these have done the job. Major difference in my overall comfort :)
Thank you! Is this the saddle you have? https://www.amazon.com/Selle-SMP-Lady-Cycling-Saddle/dp/B073QQZ8QZ
I will def look into it! Right now I have the saddle that cane with my bike (bought it on Craigslist) with a terry cover. I was also thinking of looking into the selle Italia.
I have had the same issues, resulting from a car accident a few years ago. I tried EVERYTHING to fix it. One day I caught a glace of myself in a reflection while riding on my indoor trainer. My left shoulder was drooping and my shoulders were completely uneven. I built up my left grip so my whole left upper extremity was raised. It solved the issue. If you have a trainer, put your bike in front of mirror and get into a riding position to see what the issue may be. I have also used this to play with my handle bars on other bikes, there are many varieties available, depending on what size you need.
https://www.amazon.com/FOMTOR-Adjustable-Degree-Handlebar-Mountain/dp/B07QRPVKKL
yes- happens with regularity. I started wearing a thin "skull cap" like this: https://www.amazon.com/Moisture-Wicking-Cooling-Helmet-Running/dp/B083QB4W1N/ref=sr_1_18?crid=2IQ3L0X0D0WAD&dchild=1&keywords=cooling%2Bunder%2Bhelmet%2Bcap&qid=1597855986&sprefix=cooling%2Bunder%2Bhelment%2B%2Caps%2C140&sr=8-1... which I got at a running store. It actually does work to keep me cooler, keeps some sweat out of my eyes and also my hair out of the helmet bits and pieces.
I also keep the thing on for about half-hour after riding which, I accidentally found out, ends up drying my hair really well and helps get the saltiness out if I have something to do before I can shower it out.
Picking parts is the most fun! Building is almost anticlimatic for me although the appreciation and attachment I have to the bike radically increases to the point that I know have built all the bikes I own!
Ebay and craigslist are great for parts. Don't be afraid to experiment as you can generally sell what you don't like as easily as you bought it. I just swapped out cranks and ended up making $50 on the transaction! Since you mentioned a gravel bike, I cannot recommend using magura brakes enough- they are super easy to bleed and maintain. If you go cable discs, SRP hybrids are the way to go as they work with everything and avoid the major hassle of shimano to sram hydraulic systems.
road or mountain? For Road, I'd recommend Zen and the art of bike maintenance https://www.amazon.com/Zinn-Art-Road-Bike-Maintenance/dp/1934030988. It's not expensive and includes LOADS of details. Sheldon brown as recommended below is wonderful legacy from an amazing individual. Youtube is also great when you know what you're looking for and there are a few good whole bike builds. However, I would have the headset and bottom bracket installed at a shop- with modern frames it's easy for these to turn into a major issue and it's only $30 or so for a shop to do it- well worth it. I would look for a threaded BSA bottom bracket btw, so much more trouble free and easy to maintain.
As far as tools, a torque wrench and set of allen and torq sockets are a great investment. As is a chaintool, cassette socket and chain whip. Some basic lithium great as well. For most builds you shouldn't need much else.
I think you'll very much LOVE the experience. I'm glad to answer any DMs!
I like the Fox Dirtpaw. I literally just started riding my new gravel bike this week after the okay from my orthopedic doctor. I have two pairs of the Dirtpaw for mountain biking but I used them last night on my new gravel bike and they were fine. I didn't even notice them and it was over 100 degrees outside. They're also very brightly colored which I like for riding on the road. My husband wears them too.
If you can move your bed away from the wall, you could lean this type of a rack between your bed and the wall so the bike is hanging over your bed (does that make sense). Should be safe enough there not to be knocked over. Maybe behind a desk or a dresser is also another option.
I just take them before I go exercising outdoors in the heat, especially if I'm taking just water and not a sports drink. They've worked great so far, these are the ones I use:
https://www.amazon.com/Flyby-Electrolyte-Replacement-Tablets-Rehydration/dp/B07T3249GQ/
I have these from Amazon, they were only $30 but I frickin' love 'em. I've never had expensive ones before, and these are only my second pair ever, so I can't compare to any actually nice or expensive ones. Looks like they only have the XXL so if that fits you I'd definitely recommend! Good luck.
I have the same one from Amazon!
Delta Cycle Leonardo Da Vinci Single Bike Storage Rack Hook Hanger for Vertical Indoor Garage https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B000FGTTEW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6SLuFbY52GX04
My SO bought it on Amazon and it didn't work on their bike, so I inherited it. It's this one: https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B07JCRGPQK/
I love it, it's pretty large and spacy and my large smartphone fits inside. It's water-proof and works well with the touch screen.
Totally feel your pain...I bike commute 70+ miles per week, there is no way of knowing how a saddle is going to feel until you test it out for a longer ride. I probably tried out 6+ saddles from Amazon before finding the two brands/types that actually work. Pain and saddle sores just became an everyday thing. The Selle Royal Repiro is free shipping/returns right now, hopefully that or something similar works for you.
I have a few cheap jerseys from Amazon and they have not killed me yet! Personally, I prefer to put more of my dollars into buying nice bike shorts.
I have one of these and one of these and I wear them both all the time for rides up to 30-40 miles and they're fine. They run even smaller than most bike jerseys and they're made of thin, pretty cheap-feeling fabric, but eh, whatever.
If your LBS is still open I'd say go check them out. I've gotten most of my kits from there for steals from the clearance rack. Also this from amazon works for me really well. The padding fits my body's design really well and it's at a decent price. I've had it for a while now and still is my go to cycling outfit.