Field Tested Gifts for Cyclists

When it comes to cycling gear and accessories I'm always looking for something new that is functional and improves my ride.  I have field tested a lot of products over the years and found items that worked great and others that didn't.  This post will highlight some products that met or exceeded my expectations and would make great gifts for the cyclist (or yourself) on your holiday shopping list.

Knog Oi Bell

After using other bells in the past on my mountain bikes I wanted one that would fit stealthily on my bars.  The Knog Oi Bell fit the bill perfectly.  I could install it neatly seated between my brake lever and dropper post lever so that it isn't very noticeable, that is until I ring it.  This bell has a loud tone and resonates nicely to alert others of an approach or overtaking.  The Knog Oi Bell comes in two sizes, Small for 22.2mm bars (pictured above) and Large for 23.8 – 31.8mm bars.  Installation is easy and handlebar cables aren't a problem with a built into the mount cable management system.  Knog Oi Bells come in numerous colors, Classic (shown), Luxe and Limited Edition models.  The Classic is available at local bike shops, online retailers and has an MSRP of $19.99.

Revelate Designs Hoppper Frame Bag

When I saw that Revelate Designs had come out with a new frame bag that would fit most bikes and allow me to still have a bottle cage in my main triangle, I had to have one.  Not only does the Hopper Frame Bag fit smaller frames but also many full-suspension frames with a vertically mounted shock.  There are no zippers on this bag but rather an adjustable magnetic closure that can easily be accessed with one hand.  This single compartment, 4 Liter bag is made with Dimension Polyant VX-21 with abrasion resistant finish, 420-denier diamond ripstop lining and closed-cell foam making it very durable and water resistant.  It is a great bag for storing a tool/flat kit and still has plenty of room for snacks and even a windbreaker.  Accessing bag contents while riding is very easy with the large opening flap and closing it securely is even easier.  Visit the Revelate Designs website for a sizing chart and printable full size PDF pattern.  Makes a great gift for any mountain biker or fatbiker.  Available from Revelate Designs and your local bike shop for $79.

Fix It Sticks Ratcheting T-Way Wrench

with Locking Hex Drive

I've always carried a set of the Original Fix It Sticks in my on-bike tool kit and have used them regularly for small jobs working on bikes in my shop.  Since Fix It Sticks came out with the newest version of their Ratcheting T-Way Wrench I've switched over and it's now my compact multi-tool of choice.  The Fix It Sticks Ratcheting T-Way Wrench with Locking Hex Drive accepts any standard 1/4" bit and holds them securely with magnets on all three ends.  The spring loaded magnetic locking collar makes this multi-tool configurable to get into tight places and breaks down for more compact storage on the bike.  The reversible ratchet makes quick work of shop and trailside repairs or adjustments.  Pair it with a Mounting Bracket, T-Way Case or Chain Breaker for a great gift that is sure to get used.  Available from Fix It Sticks for $48. 

EverClear Frame Protector

I have been using EverClear Frame Protector on my bikes for years.  It's the perfect solution to help keep your frame's paint job looking brand new.  EverClear comes in 2″ x 60″ 12M (MicroMeters) thick rolls in Matte or Glossy for $13.99/roll.  The EverClear Frame Protector Sheet works great for larger areas and custom cut pieces and is available for $19.99.  The sheet comes in a 2' x 8" strip that is  8M (MicroMeters) thick.  I've used the sheet for protecting areas bikepacking bags come in contact with my frame and to protect the finish on crank arms.  Never leaves a gluey residue.

Anker PowerCore Essential 

20000mAh Power Bank

For the cyclist on your list that is a long distance rider, bikepacker or commuter, the Anker PowerCore Essential 20000mAh Power Bank has enough energy stored in a cell phone sized package to last you for days.  This ultra-high capacity battery bank has the power to charge an iPhone or Android phone up to five times.  It features twin USB ports so charging a cell phone and cycling computer at the same time won't be a problem.  With a combined output of 15W, this power bank charges devices quickly.  While it doesn't come with a wall charger, I added a 20W USB C Fast Charger ($13.99) and a USB C to USB C Cable, 60W Type-C PD Fast Charging Cord ($7.99) to charge the power bank in half the time (10 hours) as using a 5W wall charger with the included Micro USB cable.  The Anker PowerCore Essential 20000mAh Power Bank is available in black or white from Amazon for $49.99.

Lezyne Tubeless Kit

Many mountain/fat bikers are now riding tubeless tires on their bikes for quick sealing of punctures and to run lower tire pressures without the risk of pinch flats common with using tubes.  But not all of them carry a plug kit for larger punctures that sealant can't seal up.  This is why I recommend those running tubeless to always carry a tire plug system.  I've had to use mine several times now and it saved the ride from becoming a long walk of shame back to the start.  After using a couple of different models I settled on the Lezyne Tubeless Kit because of its small size, ease of use and the storage tube that holds the plugs doubles as a handle.  This kit has become a staple in my on-bike tool kit for all of my bikes.  The large sized plugs work best on mountain and fatbike tires so I also purchased some Genuine Innovations Sides of Bacon from my local bike shop so I could use it with my gravel/commuter bike tires.  Available from Lezyne and local bike shops for $19.99. 

GoPro Hero 9 Black

When GoPro released their latest Hero 9 Black Edition with a bunch of new improvements making it their best camera ever, I knew it was time to upgrade.  I have had a couple of months play around with all of the features and WOW, the video and photos are amazing.  New on the Hero 9 is a video front display, pro-quality 20MP photos, up to 5K video resolution, 30% more battery life and GoPro's most advance stabilization ever with HyperSmooth 3.0.  Other features include 8x slo-mo, TimeWarp 3.0, Hindsight to capture footage before you start recording, Live Burst, Scheduled Capture, Duration Capture and HyperSmooth video live streaming.  

If you have a commuter, mountain biker or roadie on your list, they would love to get this feature packed new camera.  The Hero 9 Black Edition is available from GoPro and GoPro retailers for $449.  If you act while GoPro has their Holiday Sale going on you can pick up this camera for $50 off and it includes a 32 GB MicoSD card and Camera Case.  Save $200 with their Holiday Sale Bundle which comes with a Magnetic Swivel Clip, Spare Battery, Floating Hand Grip, 32GB MicoSD Card, Camera Case and a one year subscription to GoPro which includes unlimited cloud storage in full resolution, total camera replacement and up to 50% off of GoPro gear, mounts and accessories.

Field Tested Gifts for Cyclists

For the last couple of years I have put out a list of cycling gift ideas containing quality products that I have tested and use regularly.  This year's list contains eight of those items that will make the cyclist on your shopping list happy without breaking the bank.

Park Tool 
Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair

For the cyclist that would like to learn more about how to work on their bikes, the Park Tool Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair is a perfect gift.  This mechanic's guide covers everything from simple adjustments to a complete overhaul.  It's full of step-by-step, easy to follow instructions with color pictures and charts that demonstrate the repairs.  This is a great pairing with any cyclist wrencher's toolbox.  Available in hard cover from Park Tool, local bike shops and book retailers for $29.95.  Paperback and e-book versions are also available.

Garmin Edge Remote

If you're shopping for a roadie or a mountain biker that has a Garmin Edge compatible cycling computer, they'll love the Garmin Edge Remote.  This Ant+ wireless connectivity 3-button remote comes with a road and mountain bike mount.  No more taking hands off the bars to swipe to the next screen, hit the lap button or a number of other programmable options from a preset list of functions.  I use this remote for both on and off-road and it is much more glove friendly than trying to use the touchscreen of the Edge.  The Garmin Edge Remote retails for $49.99 and is available from local bike shops, Garmin and outdoor retailers.

Pearl Izumi WxB Shoe Covers

The shoulder seasons (spring & fall) can present some challenges to keeping feet warm and dry so Pearl Izumi WxB Shoe Covers are my choice for chilly or wet rides.  These shoe covers feature a fleece lining for warmth, a two stage hook and loop closure for a proper fit and windproof/waterproof PRO Barrier WxB fabric.  Available in Black and Screaming Yellow for $55 from local bike shops, Pearl Izumi and outdoor retailers.

Fo//ow Ho//ow 

Performance Alpaca Socks

When it comes to cycling socks, I have a huge collection of them, but if I had to choose only one pair it would be Follow Hollow Performance Alpaca Socks.  These hypoallergenic, baby Alpaca fiber socks are outstanding at regulating heat, wicking moisture and are extremely soft and comfortable.  This is truly a no-itch, all-day, no-stink sock. I wear them for a morning ride and then the rest of the day at work.  Follow Hollow just recently surpassed their Kickstarter goal and these are now available for pre-order in two sizes. Single pair price is $25 with orders being shipped out before December 20, 2019.  Buy two, four or eight pairs and receive a discounted price.

Bontrager Windshell Balaclava

I'm a big fan of balaclavas during the cold months to keep my face, neck and head warm.  I have several of them but I really like the Bontrager Windshell Balaclava because of its Windshell fabric that has a brushed thermal interior and clamshell design that allows me easily adjust it up or down on my face while riding.  This year's model has added laser-cut holes by the mouth and nose.  Available from Authorized Trek Dealers and Trek for $29.99.

Pro Bike Gear

Discover Bikepacking Bags

If you have a cyclist on your list that is interested in getting into bikepacking or bikecamping there are a couple of quality bags from Pro-Bike Gear that aren't too expensive.  The Discover Seatpost Bag is a 15L waterproof bag with anti-swing construction.  This bag is big enough to hold my bivvy tent with plenty of room to spare.  For the cockpit there is the Discover Handlebar Bag.  This 8L waterproof bag with handlebar wrap also has anti-swing construction and opens at both ends for easy access.  I've used this bag for my sleeping roll on my gravel bike and my bivvy tent on my fatbike and still had room to load other smaller gear.  Available from local bike shops and outdoor retailers for $69.99 each.

VeloInk Decals

VeloInk has the perfect gift for the cyclist that would like to add that personal touch to their rides, helmets or other bike gear.  I've been using these high quality, laminated vinyl decals for years and they stand up to whatever I and the elements have thrown at them.  Choose from a variety of different flag/graphic styles, fonts, colors, sizes and finishes.  Create a design with VeloInk's easy to use templates so you can preview it before you buy.  VeloInk Personalized Decals start at $9.95 and come with a satifaction guarantee.

Prestacycle
Prestaflator Mini Bicycle Tire Inflator

Why use a tire pump if you have an air compressor? The Prestaflator Mini Bicycle Tire Inflator is a shop quality, one-handed tire inflator with models for both presta and schrader valves.  I check and adjust my tire pressure before just about every ride and using one of these with my compressor is much quicker and easier than using a hand pump, especially for my fatbike.   Top off that tire pressure or seat a tubeless tire in seconds with this handy shop tool.  Available at local bike shops, Prestacycle and Amazon for $24.95 to $36.95.

Field Tested Cycling Gifts-Part 2

When it comes to cycling gear and accessories I'm always looking for something new that is functional and improves my ride.  I have field tested a lot of products over the years and found items that worked great and others that didn't.  This part-two post will highlight some products that met or exceeded my expectations and would make great gifts for the cyclist (or yourself) on your holiday shopping list.

Yeti Rambler with Chug Cap

I've been using the 18 oz. Yeti Rambler as my go-to winter water bottle for a couple of seasons now.  Its double-wall vacuum insulated design keeps my water from freezing up in subzero temperatures and ice cold for hours during the heat of the summer.  Yeti introduced the Chug Cap accessory for the Rambler which makes it even easier to take a swig out on the trail.

The 18 oz. Rambler fits perfectly in any standard water bottle cage making it a great choice for cyclists.  The 18 oz. Rambler sells for $29.99 and Chug Cap for $9.99 and both are available from Yeti, outdoor and sporting goods retailers.

Ass Savers

Ass Savers are lightweight portable fenders that attach to saddle rails without the use of any tools.  The Flip-Tip attachment system keeps it locked on securely and fits just about any standard rail saddle and even works with a saddle bag in place.  Its simple design is meant to do one thing, and that is to keep your butt dry for comfort on cold wet rides.

I purchased the Ass Saver Regular to use on my road bike for the wet fall riding season and it got its first real world test at this year's wet and snowy Filthy 50 gravel race.  While it wasn't long enough to keep some of the water and gravel slop off my back, it did its job well keeping my butt dry.  It's compact enough where if there's a chance of rain during a ride, I will store it in my frame bag and install it in seconds if needed.  The Ass Saver Regular fits tire widths between 25-35mm and is available from Zeitbike and Amazon for $11.95.

Bontrager Storage Bottle

The Bontrager Storage Bottle is a great way to carry tools and a flat kit stored in any standard water bottle cage.  It's always on my bike so I have everything I need in the event of a flat or mechanical problem.  It has a screw top lid for easy opening and padded inside to keep your things from noisily bouncing around.

For its small size it can hold a lot.  I keep my multi-tool, tire levers, chainbreaker, chain lube and CO2 cartridges with inflator stored in it.  When switching bikes, I grab the Storage Bottle from one and transfer it to the other and I'm ready to roll with all my essentials.  The Bontrager Storage Bottle is available from Trek and Trek Authorized Dealers for $6.99.

Banjo Brothers Large Top Tube Pack

The Banjo Brothers Large Top Tube Bag is a staple cockpit accessory on my road bike whether I'm heading out for a few hours on the gravel or a short commute to work.  This "gas-tank" style top tube bag has 65 cubic inches of storage with a rigid bottom and padded sides to hold its shape.  It's big enough to hold my wallet, keys and cell phone or a multi-tool and flat kit.  The zipper is easy to open and close with one hand while riding making this bag a great place to store gels and snacks for refueling during a ride.  Available from Banjo Brothers and local bike shops for $19.99.

Field Tested Cycling Gifts-Part 1

When it comes to cycling gear and accessories I'm always looking for something new that is functional and improves my ride.  I have field tested a lot of products over the years and found items that worked great and others that didn't.  In this two part post I will highlight some products that met or exceeded my expectations and would make great gifts for the cyclist (or yourself) on your holiday shopping list.

Upstand

The Upstand is not your normal kickstand.  It's made from carbon fiber, is lightweight, compact and fully detachable.  It has a strong neodymium axial magnet that keeps it attached to the metal tab that installs on a quick release skewer or thru axle.  I recommend purchasing it with the Upclip so it can be attached to the water bottle boss bolts on the bike's frame for storage when not in use.  With the Upstand you no longer have to lean your expensive bike up against something or lay it down risking scuffs and scratches.

The Upstand is available for bikes with standard 26"/700, 29" and 20" wheels with either thru axles or standard quick release skewers.  Available from The Upstanding Bicycle Company for $34.95.

Hot Sockee

The Hot Sockee is a product I came across at Interbike '17 where I bought a pair to try out because the first thing to get cold on close to or below freezing rides is my toes.  These 1.5mm thermal neoprene toe warmers slide on directly over socks to give that little bit of extra insulation to keep phalanges from getting cold.  I primarily use them in the Winter with a cold weather cycling boot but have also opted for them in the Fall and Spring with my cyclocross boots or mtb shoes.

The Hot Sockee buys me some extra time out on the road or trail to enjoy the ride and because I roll with clipless pedals year round, they provide one more layer of warmth from the cold conducted through the sole from metal cleats. Pair them with wool socks to wick away any moisture if feet get a little too warm.  Available from TraxFactory in sizes S/M, L and XL in a two pack for $27 or a four pack for $50.

G.H. Meiser Accu-Guage

For accurate tire pressure readings in any temperature, you can't beat the G.H. Meiser Presta Valve Dial Gauges.  These gauges have bronze bourdon tube precision movement that is not affected by temperature, altitude or humidity giving the most accurate reading possible.  These easy to read dial gauges come in a variety of psi readings for everyone from the low pressure winter fatbike rider to the high pressure roadie.

I have two of these gauges, one for my fatbike tires (0-30psi) and one for my gravel bike tires (0-60 psi).  Meiser gauges really let you dial in that perfect ride feel/traction and they are all I ever use when checking my tire pressures.  These gauges make a perfect gift for any cyclist whether they are an avid rider or just get out for a ride occasionally on the weekends.  Available from local bike shops and Amazon for around $15.

Bontrager Ion Pro RT/Flare RT

The picture above is a very common sight on my desk. I use these two lights on every ride whether it is to be seen by motorists on the road during the day or lighting up the trail while mountain biking at night.  The Bontrager Ion Pro RT and Flare RT definitely are my favorite, and I have a bunch of different lights.  Both units have nice battery life and are extremely bright.

Pair them with your Garmin GPS device using the Bontrager Connect IQ app to control them and see the remaining battery life.  The Ion Pro RT has five modes (1300LM-1.5hrs, 800LM-3hrs, 400LM-6hrs, night flash-26hrs, day flash 22hrs) for daytime and night riding.  The Flare RT has five modes (Flash: 90LM-6hrs, 45LM-12hrs, 5LM-15hrs Steady: 25LM-4.5hrs, 5LM-13.5hrs) and is daytime visible from up to 2km away.


Available from Trek and Trek Authorized Dealer bike shops as a pair for $154.99 or individually, $99.99 for the front light and $59.99 for the rear light.

Look for part two of this post soon with four more of my field tested gifts for the cyclist on your list (or yourself).