The Ultimate Cycling Gear Holiday Gift Guide for Two-Wheel Junkies

Cycling is hotter than ever this unusual 12 months, spurred on by the pandemic’s social-distancing restrictions and must get out of the gymnasium to train. But that recognition additionally meant extreme shortages at retailers and devastated producer stock as provide strains acquired hit onerous by the lockdowns. Now although, on the finish of the 12 months, simply as the vacation giving season is heating up, most shops (on-line and off) are prepared and restocked with a great deal of nice biking goodies.

Though it’s not onerous to seek out new bike-gear items galore, selecting the right and coolest from the lot isn’t any small job; we did that so that you can construct the final word biking present information for two-wheel junkies (and people who love them). From commuters to dirtbags to roadies, there must be an ideal present—or two—for any bike rider in your checklist. Plus, cyclists, don’t be shy! There are plenty of nice concepts to ahead on to the gift-givers in your life—hopefully serving to make the tip to 2020 satisfying for all.

Bikes

All-Rounder:

Diamondback Haanjo
Bikes that may carry out properly on all sorts of surfaces, typically referred to as gravel bikes or all-rounders, have been gaining in recognition due to their superior versatility. Diamondback has a strong line of those bikes beneath the Haanjo identify, all with huge stays for larger tires, mounts for racks and fenders, and both an aluminum or carbon body. Our selection, if cash wasn’t an possibility, is the brand-new Haanjo 8c Carbon—it come normal with carbon body, forks, handlebars, seat submit, and rims—and hubs! Add in a killer Shimano GRX gruppo with hydraulic disc brakes and all roads are open this 12 months.
[From $750; diamondback.com]

MTB:

Specialized Stumpjumper
The storied Stumpjumper model, discovered first tearing down trails in 1981, is alive and properly at Specialized—the most recent fashions are a number of the finest quiver-killing mountain bikes you should purchase. The vary is available in “alloy,” or aluminum, variations and carbon choices, each utilizing an analogous, asymmetrical brace design for supporting the rear suspension and offering higher efficiency on diversified terrain. We particularly dig the Comp Carbon, which has a 12-speed SRAM NX groupset, 27.5-inch wheels, and a Fox DPS rear shock already tuned for many riders. (Another bonus on the carbon bikes is entry to the cavity contained in the down tube for storing tubes and a pump, or no matter else you prefer to stash…)
[From $2,200; specialized.com]

Commuter:

Priority Bicycles Brilliant
Not everybody needs, or wants, the most recent featherweight carbon bike that sports activities options like wi-fi shifters. Quite a lot of of us simply need a fundamental, reasonably priced bike that’ll get them to work and across the metropolis—which is the place Priority Bicycles shines. It makes high-quality townie bikes which might be thoughtfully constructed to maintain maintenance at a minimal (all fashions include a virtually maintenance-free Gates Carbon Drive belt) whereas nonetheless providing some type and performance. Top picks from its lineup embody the 600—a workhorse of a motorbike with a candy sealed gearbox that provides you a digital 30-speed gear vary and an built-in hub-powered generator for lighting and USB charging—and the Brilliant L Train, a light-weight and fast and easy chromoly commuter with a slick Shimano 7-speed hub.
[From $549; prioritybicycles.com]

Helmets

Road:

Sena R1 Evo
If you’re shopping for one thing for the bicycle owner who loves listening to music whereas they journey, this helmet is the proper decide; built-in audio system above the ears can stream music from a smartphone by way of Bluetooth. And for seamless communication with pals additionally sporting a Sena helmet, it has Mesh Intercom tech so you possibly can simply converse within the saddle. Built-in taillights add further safety and remove the necessity to carry a separate unit. Best innovation on this head-saving package deal? All three options could be accessed with easy voice instructions.
[$159; sena.com]

MTB:

Sweet Protection Dissenter MIPS
For the mountain biker in your checklist who must improve his battered helmet, the Dissenter is a superb selection because it makes use of tech from higher-end helmets however is available in at a extra inexpensive value. The shell is comprised of a single piece of polycarbonate, making it light-weight and low-volume, and the MIPS safety system helps scale back rotational forces on grey matter throughout a spill. An Occigrip turn-dial makes for fast sizing changes whereas on-the-go.
[$150; sweetprotection.com]

Commuter:

Thousand Chapter MIPS
We can all agree that helmets, whereas important, largely make you look fairly dorky. The Thousand Chapter although, seems to be rattling cool. It combines traditional styling with neat touches for a helmet any bicycle owner can be proud to profile—we particularly just like the Club Navy colorway (pictured), which comes with a hand-painted tortoise shell visor. Other standout options embody a magnetically hooked up, rechargeable rear taillight and particular pop-out panel for locking your helmet securely to your bike.
[$135; explorethousand.com]

Shoes

Flats:

5.10 Trailcross LT
If you’re keen on the liberty that you just get with flat pedals, the brand new Trailcross flat sneakers from 5.10 must be in your checklist. They function the corporate’s famed Stealth rubber sole for further grip whereas pedaling your mount, but additionally mix trail-running options like an prolonged ankle collar for higher safety and quick-drying, breathable higher for further consolation when out of the saddle.
[$140; adidasoutdoor.com]

Clipless:

Specialized 2FO ClipLite
For these mountain bikers who’re all-in on the clipless system and wish a brand new pair of killer kicks, the ClipLites are a stellar possibility. They are lighter than the unique 2FO however nonetheless provide the identical shut connection and pedal efficiency attributes: Body Geometry sole development to spice up energy and effectivity, Landing Strip cleat pocket for foot-out driving, Lollipop nylon composite plate for added stiffness, and SlipNot rubber outsole topped by two, easy-to-use Boa snap dials.
[$180; specialized.com]

Bontrager Espresso
Toying with the thought of attempting out a clipless setup however don’t wish to go entire hog and purchase some uncomfortable-to-walk-in roadie sneakers? Then the brand new Espresso could also be your finest guess as they offer you top-shelf clipless efficiency with a pliable, steady rubber sole that makes trotting round city a no-fuss affair. The inForm Race final offers you a roomier, however nonetheless racy, match and a glass-reinforced nylon plate stiffens up the shoe for no compromises when pedaling onerous.
[$160; trekbikes.com]

Light

Nite Ize Radiant 125 Rechargable Bike Lights
More bikes on the street means extra probabilities for getting plowed by a automotive (particularly within the early winter darkness), so be sure you get your family members some high-quality and high-powered lights like these from Nite Ize. Pick up a entrance white mild (125 lumens) and the crimson rear (53 lumens) with 180 levels of visibility that can each final round 3 hours for important, enhanced security on the street. Both connect (and detach) rapidly with a powerful rubber band.
[$30 each; niteize.com]

Hydration

Hydro Flask Down Shift Hydration Pack
Getting biking backpack means deciding on one that can give your again loads of air flow. The new Down Shift pairs an articulated panel that retains the pack off your again with Hydro Flask’s bread and butter—tech to maintain your water colder, longer. The Cold Flow System marries an insulated reservoir with an inside, reflective-lined sleeve to assist chill water for as much as 4 hours. A big inside house with pockets galore will maintain your entire necessities organized and in place.
[$145; hydroflask.com]

Camelbak Repack LR 4 Belt
If you like not having a backpack clinging to you want a weak monkey clawing your sweaty again, try Camelbak’s new waist pack. As properly as retaining your higher physique cooler, it helps present a decrease middle of gravity by dropping all of that water weight (1.5 liters). And the smaller dimension means you’ll have to hold a extra streamlined loadout on the path (however sufficient for some instruments, tubes, and jacket). Small stash pockets on the edges are excellent spots for a snack or two.
[$80; camelbak.com]

Polar Breakaway Insulated Bottle
For those that don’t wish to be burdened by any packs in any respect, and prefer to maintain it tremendous minimal, loading up with bottles is a should. But in case you are a fan of chilly water, conventional bottles gained’t lower it, so decide a Polar. It suits into a traditional bottle cage and holds up with 24 oz of chilly agua, however has a particular Tri-Layer inside liner that displays warmth and insulates to maintain water colder for twice as lengthy.
[$15; polarbottle.com]

Sunglasses

Smith Wildcat
Cool sun shades are a should when biking, and these are in all probability a number of the sickest on the market, particularly in case you’re into ’90s throwback-style. Rad options embody the ChromaPop lenses for making path particulars bounce out and enhancing distinction, One hundred pc UV safety, non-slip Megol temple and nostril pads, AutoLock hinges, and a sturdy TR9/TPU body. Zubaz pants optionally available…
[From $209; sithoptics.com]

Wiley X Valor
Wearing sun shades whereas driving isn’t nearly shielding glare and heightening particulars and searching candy—additionally they operate as eye safety from street particles or pokey branches. And the perfect shades for which might be from Wiley X as a result of all fashions meet stringent ANSI and OSHA ballistic requirements for high-velocity and high-mass impression safety. Meaning they gained’t get punctured or shattered after a violent encounter. We counsel selecting up Valor package deal which presents three quick-change lenses in clear, smoke grey (glare discount), or mild rust (medium-to-low-light enhancement).
[From $85; wileyx.com]

Shorts and Chamois

7mesh Farside and Foundation
If you wore out your summer time equipment this 12 months from all the quarantine driving, add up a brand new pair of shorts and chamois from 7mesh to your checklist. These light-weight shorts are manufactured from a four-way stretch nylon confronted with a double weave for softness and a looped yarn inside so that they don’t really feel like a clingy artificial when damp with sweat. Reflective touches, strengthened crotch, and side-zippered pocket make them further path prepared. For butt safety, the brand new Foundation chamois is made with plenty of ethereal mesh and a chamois pad that’s relieved within the frontal space to restrict warmth build-up and discomfort within the saddle.
[$120 each; 7mesh.com]

Shirts

Patagonia Merino ¾-Sleeved Bike Jersey
Sometimes a easy, snug jersey is simply what you wish to slip on for a night journey. This tender and breathable merino/recycled polyester shirt from Patagonia is a superb selection as a result of it presents heat on chilly days and breathability once you warmth up. The three-quarter sleeves will cowl up elbow pads whereas not getting bunched up by your palms and the bike-specific tailoring means an extended again hem and tailor-made seams. A skinny wire on the neck allows you to dry the sweat out with out stretching it.
[$99; patagnoia.com]

Rapha Pro Team Thermal Base Layer
Crisp and chilly days require a multi-functional base layer like this trick choice from Rapha. The quick-drying polyester cloth has these little nubs which might be acquainted from conventional thermals—they assist entice heat air towards the physique however nonetheless permit for quick wicking of sweat from the pores and skin. Pull up the lengthy turtleneck to chop chilly winds on the face and ears when placing the hammer down. Reflective stripes down the again of the neck gaiter additionally assist alert after-dusk drivers to your biking presence.
[$100; rapha.cc]

Jackets

Kitsbow Wind Jacket
Stuff this skinny however windproof and waterproof jacket into your jersey or pack for on-the-go safety from the weather. Long aspect zips offer you entry to again pockets in your jersey and an asymmetrical entrance zip strikes the tough plastic edges off of your throat and Adam’s apple when absolutely deployed. Other slick particulars embody laser-perforated air flow holes beneath the pits, reflective particulars on again and aspect, and non-slip hems.
[$180; kitsbow.com]

Pearl Izumi Elevate AmFib Jacket
For a bicycle owner on the lookout for a bit extra of an insulated jacket—however one nonetheless with high-performance options—to put on when driving in chilly climate, the AmFib ought to make the checklist. It’s filled with 100 grams of Primaloft Gold with Crosscore tech for much less bulk and extra heat within the chest and arms, and clad in a One hundred pc-recycled polyester Barrier DWR cloth for further safety from the weather. The remainder of the jacket is made up of a breathable, light-weight, wind- and waterproof softshell that’s tremendous comfortable.
[$200; pearlizumi.com]

Pants

Endura Xtreact Gel Knicker II:
When placing on critical miles in winter climate, a close-fitting tight with built-in chamois is a should. This pair from Endura is comprised of a super-wicking Xtract cloth that’s mated to multi-density gel pads which might be strategically positioned for max consolation. A tender, double-layered waistband, flat-locked seams (none contained in the leg), and silicone hems end out the biking tights necessities.
[$75; endura.com]

Maljoa MomosM
For driving the paths in inclement climate, loose-fitting however robust pants just like the MomosM are a requirement. They are comprised of a three-layer windproof cloth that’s stretchy and breathable and pre-articulated knees remove bunching whereas pedaling. An adjustable waistband with Velcro tabs helps dial-in match and zippered vents permit for further on-trail air movement when the sweat begins constructing.
[$199; mountainroadoutfitters.com]

Jersey and Bibs

Panache Pro Jersey and Bibs
Though you don’t must don a full biking equipment with bibs and jersey to journey like the perfect, they may help you get essentially the most out of lengthy periods within the saddle. The tight-fitting type issue improves aerodynamics and the low waist on the entrance of the bibs helps your diaphragm develop and contract, letting you get fuller breaths. So in case you really feel able to step up and take your biking to the subsequent degree this vacation, try the choices from Panache, like this wicking jersey with pre-rotated sleeves, silicone hems, two-position zipper, and three again pockets. Add in bibs with stretchy chamois, ethereal mesh, flat-stitched seams, and comfortable compression match to finish your equipment.
[$129, jersey, $199, bibs; panachecyclewear.com]

Socks

Swiftwick Pursuit
Socks make nice stocking stuffers, and these merino mix infants from Swiftwick offer you nice in-saddle efficiency for the worth. Offered in six totally different heights, from hidden to over-the-calf, the socks have reasonable compression and include two cushioning choices, ultralight or medium. The pure merino wool helps regulate temperature all 12 months spherical whereas additionally serving to to beat back blisters, and synthetics like spandex and nylon enhance robustness and supply an in depth match.
[From $17; swiftwick.com]

Storage

Old Man Mountain Sherpa Rack
Having an on-bike storage possibility is important for critical cyclists. Backpacks could be cumbersome and have an effect on motion whereas additionally heating up your again, so attempt placing on a entrance or rear rack and panniers so that you by no means need to take care of a limiting pack once more. The Sherpa line is manufactured from sturdy and light-weight 6063 aluminum tubing that mounts to quite a lot of bikes with a through axle (and can match these with common-size fast launch axles). By going by way of the hub as a substitute of bolted into eyelets, this steady rack offers you plenty of further power and help—sufficient to have the ability to load as much as 70 kilos.
[From $160; oldmanmountain.com]

North St Morrison Backpack Pannier
Panniers are nice to have in your bike however most are solely helpful on the bike, which could be limiting. The Morrison is a combo backpack and pannier so you possibly can carry it in purchasing with you to load up after which rapidly and simply place again on a rack with the included bungee hook mount. Handmade in Portland, OR, these fashionable baggage are clad in a sturdy 1000-denier Cordura shell and lined with a One hundred pc waterproof and recycled woven polyester. Convenient aspect sleeves work for storing water bottles or a U-lock.
[$200; northstbags.com]

Maintenance/Tools

Wolf Tooth Encase System Bar Kit One
If you might have a motorbike with flat bars, or conventional drop bars, it’s good to purchase this revolutionary device equipment. Ingeniously designed to suit into the empty (and unused) cavity at both finish your handlebars, the Encase System presents you a hex-bit wrench multi-tool with 14 features, chain and tire plug multitool that’s suitable with all bicycle chains, and two rubber storage sleeves that be sure that your instruments match snugly in no matter diameter bars you might have.
[$120; wolftoothcomponents.com]

Uncharted Supply Co Triage Kit
Putting your individual first-aid equipment collectively could be chore and also you’ll inevitably overlook a number of key items, so why not let the consultants at Uncharted do it for you? They provide tons of equipment choices, however the Triage is the proper probably life-saving package deal to toss in your biking pack. It options an emergency blanket, aspirin, bandages, blister gels, band-aids, wound strips, duct tape, petroleum jelly, security pins, wire, zip-ties, and storm matches, all saved in a resealable, double-ripstop nylon navy parachute pouch.
[$62; unchartedsupplyco.com]

Velofix
Lots of motorbike retailers are nonetheless strapped for components, have restricted entry to browse round inside, and are backed up on repairs as a result of coronavirus. If you want upkeep or components or simply some one-on-one assist, however don’t wish to go away the home, try new biking service Velofix. They’ll come to you in a fully-outfitted bike store on wheels, eliminating the necessity to take your bike anyplace. Velofix brings you at-home bike service by native, licensed bike mechanics providing a spread of choices from a easy tune-up and full bike builds to fittings and leases.
[From $69; velofix.com]

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