Gift Ideas for Cyclists-Part 2

Now that the holidays are almost here, I have put together a list of some more cycling products that are sure to please the cyclist on your list.  Some of these items are new while others have been around for a while.

The Weatherneck System

$40

The Weatherneck System is a 3-in-1 modular balaclava consisting of Mullet Hat and Facemask that has a variety of uses depending on the weather you'll be riding in.  The Mullet Hat covers the ears and neck and can be used alone for those days when only a hat is needed.  It also comes with a secret pocket in the back that is great for stashing cash or a chemical hand warmer and has a pony tail pass through.  The facemask has a unique mesh design that makes it easy to breathe during rigorous activity and helps prevent fogging of glasses or goggles.  Magnets in the facemask adhere to metal on the back of the Mullet Hat to combine the two pieces for use as a balaclava.  One size fits all and the metal/magnet positioning for the facemask helps achieve this.  Available from theweatherneck.com and select bike shops.

Yeti Rambler-18 oz.

$30

The Yeti Rambler 18 oz. is a product that I used a lot last winter to prevent my water from freezing up while riding in below freezing temps.  This vacuum insulated container fits in a standard bottle cage and works much better than plastic water bottles especially when the temps dip below zero Fahrenheit.  It also keeps hot beverages hot for hours if you need a little warm-up out on the trail.  Available from Yeti, Amazon, Cabela's and other outdoor retailers.

Fork Cork
$30

The Fork Cork is a new item from Miles-Wide Industries that is designed to fit in the hole at the bottom of a tapered steerer tube creating a secret storage spot.  With the Fork Cork in place it will create a water tight seal for storing items like money, gps bike theft tracker, a multi-tool, matches/lighter and many other small items.  Installs quickly and stays put.  Available from Miles-Wide Industries and select bike shops.

WSI Sports HEATR Baselayer

$30-$149

My go-to baselayer for the coldest weather Minnesota can dish out is WSI Sports HEATR Baselayer.  This specially engineered fabric actually warms up when skin comes in contact with it.  HEATR Baselayer provides excellent thermal protection and wicks moisture away from the skin to keep you warm and dry.  Pair this baselayer with a windproof breathable outer shell and you're ready for an all day Winter adventure out on the trails.  Shown in the picture above are HEATR Socks, HEATR Glove Liners, Full HEATR Shirt and Full HEATR Pant.  Available online from WSI Sports or at their Eagan showroom.

Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter

$49

For the adventure fatbiker that likes to go where others don't, there's the Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter.  This gaiter features a waterproof/breathable upper, is contour-fitted and lightweight.  The zipper makes them easy to put on and the adjustable straps at the top and bottom make for a perfect fit with your boot.  Not only will the keep your legs warm, but will prevent snow from getting into your boots for those deeper hike-a-bike sections.  I also like to use them in the late Fall and early Spring when conditions tend to be a little more wet to keep my legs dry.  Available from Hillsound and outdoor retailers.

Gravel Cycling

$25

If you have a gravel cyclist on your list, they will love Nick Legan's new book "Gravel Cycling: The Complete Guide to Gravel Racing and Adventure Bikepacking".  Nick writes about the gear, bike setup and tips to get you riding as well as profiling some of America's best gravel and bikepacking events.  Available from Velo Press and select bike shops.

My Favorite Winter Fatbike Gear-Part 2

Winter is my favorite time of the year to ride my fatbike, it opens a whole different world of exploration possibilities.  But, cold weather does present its own challenges that that can be overcome with the right gear.  I have tried a lot of products over the last four Winters and have come up with a new list of some of my favorite items that I use regularly.  This is part two of a three part series where I highlight my favorite Winter fatbike gear.

Bontrager RXL Waterproof

Softshell Split Finger Glove

When the temps dip into the teens and below I like to continue to ride without pogies but I need a pair of gloves that will keep my hands warm.  To achieve this I wear the Bontrager RXL Waterproof Softshell Split Finger Glove.  When it gets below zero I can extend my ride time by adding pogies to my bars if the conditions demand.

These gloves have a Profila Softshell outer lining that is windproof/waterproof combined with 100 grams of 3M Thinsulate insulation and a full finger fleece lining providing a comfort zone for hands in extreme cold weather.  The split finger and inForm cushioning allow for dexterity when braking and comfort in the pressure areas of the palm that mittens can't provide.  Available in XS, S, M, L, XL and XXL at Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops for $69.99.

45NRTH Bergraven Gaiters

After last weekend's trip to Cuyuna where over the two days I was there we received about 5 inches of fresh powder, I was glad I had my 45NRTH Bergraven Gaiters.  The snow was deep on the trails and lakes and the groomer hadn't been out yet so keeping the snow out of my boots and my legs warm was definitely a plus.

My friends and I like to venture off the beaten path in the Wintertime for areas normally not available during the warmer months and that will take us to places like lakes, creeks, marshes and woods where the snow is deeper and may involve some "hike-a-bike" sections.  These definitely do the trick for this type of riding. 

Bergaravens are easy to put on and take off and have tear-resistant outer shell with 100 grams of Primaloft Eco Gold insulation.  They will keep your legs warm and make sure snow stays out of your boots.  Available in 38-40 (Small), 41-43 (Medium), 44-46 (Large), 47-50 (X-Large) at Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops for $85.

HotHands Toe Warmers

Sometimes those expensive cycling boots or regular Winter boots need a little boost to help keep your toes warm when riding for hours out in the cold.  My toes have a tendency to get cold easily, even in the 20's°F.  HotHands Toe Warmers are super thin and can be placed on the top or bottom of your toes with a stay-in-place adhesive that sticks to your sock.  They last for hours, are pretty inexpensive and will extend your ride time.  When it is really cold out I will place a set on the top and bottom of my toes to really keep my feet warm.  HotHands Toe Warmers are available at sporting goods and hardware stores for around a $1 for a two pack.

Sticky Pod

The Sticky Pod is a product I highlighted earlier this Fall and I've continued to use throughout the Winter as my compact tool kit for rides.  Depending on how light I travel, I will put it in my hydration pack or back jacket pocket.  The larger model holds everything I need for trailside repairs including my compact frame pump in the event of a flat or change in tire psi.  This compact kit has room for a chain tool, master links, spare derailleur hanger, multi-tool, zip ties, CO2 cartridges/inflator and a tube patch kit.  You can even put your smartphone in the side that has the plastic window for safe keeping and easy touchscreen access.  Available from Miles-Wide Industries in two sizes and color choices from $14.99-$17.99.

My Favorite Fatbike Accessories-Part Two

Winter is here and to quote Guitar Ted, "White is the new dirt".  Cold weather brings on a whole different experience and there are a lot of fatbike accessories to make riding a little more comfortable and easier to carry the gear needed for those longer rides.  Below are some of my favorite items that I use regularly throughout the Winter.

Gaiters

Gaiters are a great way to keep legs from the knees down warm, dry and boots from taking on snow.  I like the Crocodile Gaiter from Outdoor Research because they are extremely durable, waterproof and breathable.  Breathability allows transfer of vapor keeping my tights and baselayer dry underneath, which is key on long rides in the cold.  Blocking the wind and providing a little extra thermal protection are added bonuses to keeping the snow from working its way into my boots.  For deeper snow and frigid temperatures gaiters make a great addition to your fatbike riding apparel.

Tire Gauge

Keeping your tires properly inflated is key to speed, control and traction.  Colder temperatures can cause tire pressure to decrease as much as 2% for every 10° F drop, so checking your tires to ensure proper inflation should be done before each ride.  A change of as little as a pound or two of psi can make a huge difference to how a fatbike tire reacts to the conditions you are riding.

I carry a G.H. Meiser Low Pressure Presta Valve Dial Gauge to give me accurate readings at very low pressures that regular gauges might not be able read.  This model reads tire pressure from 0 to 30 psi and is not affected by cold temperatures unlike some digital tire gauges.  This gauge is an excellent choice for fatbikers looking to dial in that that precise inflation for the conditions, whether they be soft/hard pack snow, "mash potatoes" or fresh powder.  With a little experimentation you will learn to set tire pressures exactly to your liking.

Frame Pump

I carry a small frame pump with me on rides to modify tire pressure giving me the ability to adjust for changing trail conditions.  It gives me the freedom to let some air out of my tires to gain traction with the ability to increase tire pressure if the riding conditions require me to do so.  Adjusting tire pressure up or down by a pound or two can make a big difference.  I like the Bontrager Air Support HP Pro (short model) for its compact size and the flexible hidden hose that threads onto Presta valves making inflation easy.

Fenders

When temperatures get above freezing riding a fatbike can get a little messy.  Mud, sand, slush and puddles can get a rider all wet.  To combat this and keep riding dry and comfortable, Portland Design Works has made Dave's Mud Shovels.  These lightweight, quick-install fenders are wide enough to keep water, mud and muck from being flung all over your legs and backside from those big tires.

The front and rear models install quickly and accommodate a wide variety of tube diameters.  They are reasonably priced, lightweight and really do keep you dry, even when splashing through big puddles.  If you're an all-weather rider like me, you'll come to rely on Dave's Mud Shovels for those messier rides.

I will continue with more of my Faviorite Fatbike Accessories in one more upcoming post.

Gaiters for the Winter Bike Commuter or Fatbike Adventurer

The winter bike commuter or fatbike adventure rider may want to invest in a good pair of gaiters to keep legs from the knees down warm, dry and boots from taking on snow.  I had some time to test out two gaiters recently and depending on what type of winter riding you do, one of these will do the trick.

Louis Garneau Robson MT2

First up is the Louis Garneau Robson MT2.  This gaiter comes in two sizes (SM, L/XL) and is available in men's and women's styles.  It is constructed from 600D WR and Ripstop Nylon making them light, abrasion-resistant and water repellent.

The front Velcro closure made putting these gaiters on and taking them off quick and easy.  Three adjustable straps located at the top of the calf, ankle area and under the sole held them securely in place during my rides without any need for additional adjustments.  I hardly noticed I was even wearing them.  I like the rigid piping at the bottom of the gaiter and the boot lace hook.  These features keep it tight around the boot preventing snow and water from getting in and under the gaiter.

The Robson MT2 did perform well at keeping the snow out and prevented water and slush from getting my legs wet.  It rolled off the water-resistant nylon as I rode through puddles and melting snow.  When riding in winter, wearing apparel that is breathable is key and this is where the Robson MT-2 failed.  After longer rides and in warmer weather I noticed when removing them they did not allow vapor to pass through leaving my tights and baselayer damp from perspiration vapor.  For quick trips this may not be a problem but on longer ride it could result in legs becoming chilled.

These lightweight gaiters would be a good choice for winter bike commuters to keep legs dry on wet or slushy rides to and from work.  For the fatbike rider I wouldn't recommend using them because they do not allow transfer of vapor which is key on long rides in the cold to help regulate body temperature.

The Louis Garneau Robson MT2 is not available on the Louis Garneau website but can be purchased from various online sporting goods retailers for $34.99.

Outdoor Research Crocodiles

Next is the Crocodile Gaiter from Outdoor Research.  This gaiter comes in Men's and Women's styles with 5 sizes (S, M, L, XL, XXL) for men and 3 sizes (S, M, L) for women.  These expedition-style gaiters designed for mountaineering are extremely durable and come with Outdoor Research's Infinite Guarantee.  They are made with waterproof/breathable 3-layer 70D Taslan Gore-Tex fabric in the leg section and a 1000D Cordura boot section, lined with coated 8 oz. packcloth.  


The 2" wide Velcro closure, adjustable top strap, tapered ankle, boot lace hook and BioThane® Instep Strap combine to keep them in place without shifting while riding.  They fit nicely around the base of the boot preventing snow from getting in under them.  I have worn these gaiters on long rides in sub-zero temperatures and they do wonders at blocking the wind and provide a little extra thermal protection while keeping out the snow.  The breathable fabric construction allows vapor to pass through keeping my tights and baselayer dry underneath.

This is my go-to gaiter for all of my winter fatbike rides.  I was very impressed with its performance in a variety of different winter weather conditions.  The quality design/construction, durability, waterproof material and Infinite Guarantee make it an excellent choice for the winter fatbike adventurer.      

The Men's and Women's Crocodile Gaiter is available from Outdoor Research, Amazon, REI and various other online sporting goods retailers for $75.

Disclosure:  Louis Garneau and Outdoor Research provided the review samples for this article, but offered no other form of compensation for this review.

Gift Guide for the Fatbike Cyclist

With the ever-growing popularity of fatbikes and snow biking, I have compiled a list of great gift ideas for the wide-tire enthusiast on your shopping list.  If you're a fatbiker, you may even want to get one or several of these products as a gift for yourself. 

Banjo Brothers Waterproof Saddle Trunk
$49.99

This bag has 400 cubic inches (12.5” L x 7” H x 8.5” W) of carrying capacity for those times when you need space for your gear.  It has a waterproof liner to keep your items dry, an outside pocket for small things like keys and money and a webbing loop on top for strapping on a jacket.  With the capacity of a trunk bag and no need for a rack, it installs securely with four point strapping to virtually any bike.  I've loaded it up with gear for long rides and it holds in place without moving around when riding bumpy terrain.  Available from Banjo Brothers, Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Portland Design Works Dave's Mud Shovel-Front
$20

This fatbike specific front fender does an excellent job at blocking snow, mud, water and sand from being flung upward onto you and your frame.  It's lightweight design installs quickly and it has the length and width to keep you dry when riding through the muck.  Available from Portland Design Works, Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops. 

Portland Design Works Dave's Mud Shovel-Rear
$28

This rear fender is also fatbike specific with its wide, extra long design.  It also does does an excellent job at blocking snow, mud, water and sand and keeps it from ending up on your backside.  It's very lightweight and installs in seconds.  Available from Portland Design Works, Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

Columbia Bugaboot Plus II Omni-Heat Boot
$120

This boot is a more cost effective option to those higher priced winter cycling boots.  It's a seam sealed, insulated (rated to -25° F), waterproof boot with Columbia's patented thermal reflective Omni-Heat insulation that retains and reflects body heat while dissipating moisture.  It is very lightweight (size 9, ½ pair = 24 oz) and flexible making it a great choice to pair up with a good set of pinned, flat pedals for winter riding.  The Omni-Grip rubber outsole will provide greater traction on all types of winter terrain.  Available from Columbia and numerous retailers.   

G.H. Meiser & Co. Low Pressure Presta Valve Dial Gauge

$16

When running very low air pressure that fatbike tires are known for, you will want to be able to dial them in to the proper inflation.  G.H. Meiser's Low Pressure Presta Valve Dial Gauge will help do just that.  Whether riding hard-packed singletrack, snow-packed trails or fresh powder, this gauge will make sure you know you are at the right pressure for for the conditions.  Simply press onto the Presta valve and hold until you get a reading and remove.  The needle will indicate the pressure and stay there until the button is pressed resetting it to zero.  Over time you will get a feel for what psi works best for differing conditions.  Available from Penn Cycle, Fatbikes.com and other online retailers.

Bar Mitts

$64.95

Riding fatbikes in winter presents many challenges due to the weather and keeping your fingers warm is one of them.  A set of Bar Mitts greatly improves keeping your hands warm and maintaining finger dexterity for shifting and braking.  Made from Neoprene, they protect from rain, snow, wind and cold.  Installation takes seconds and they can be used with fingered gloves or lobster claws for extra warmth.  Available from Bar Mitts, Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops.

ColdAvenger Pro Softshell
$59.95

The ColdAvenger Pro Softshell half facemask will protect your face and lungs in the most extreme conditions.  It has fleece insulation with a water-repellent/breathable, windproof shell that covers your neck, ears and face.  The ColdAvenger ventilator warms and humidifies cold, dry outside air and does not impede breathing during rigorous activity.  It has been designed to work with goggles and helps prevent fogging when wearing them.  I have spent up to five hours in sub-zero temperatures wearing it and having a cold face and neck was never an issue.  Available from ColdAvenger, REI, Amazon and other online retailers.   

Lone Peak Pfeifferhorn Handle Bar Pack
$39.95

The Pfeifferhorn Handle Bar Pack has 330 cubic inches of storage space with an external pocket for small items.  An internal full length polyethylene stiffener maintains the pack's shape and provides stability.  Its three-point suspension system fits almost any handle bar type.  This pack is a great add-on for carrying gear on longer rides or a spacious alternative to a seat bag.  It comes in handy for carrying a tool kit, gloves, goggles or snacks for out on the trail.  Comes in four colors: Black, Blue, Red, Steel.  Available from Lone Peak and online retailers.

Light & Motion Stella 500
$199

The Stella 500 is a compact, lightweight, high-output LED headlamp with long run times.  Powered by a Li-ion rechargeable battery pack, it has six light modes:  High (500 lumens), Medium (275 lumens), Low (140 lumens), Pulse (140 lumens), RaceHi (500 lumens) and RaceLo (275 lumens) with run times of 2¾ to 12 hours (24 hrs. on Pulse mode).  With power like that, you'll be ready for those long rides between dusk and dawn.  Mounts without tools to your helmet or handle bars and the external battery pack can be placed in a pocket or strapped to your bike frame.  Use the Pulse mode to get you seen in the daytime on snowmobile trails or in town.  Available from Light & Motion, Penn Cycle and online retailers.  

Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiter
$75

These gaiters are tough.  They have a breathable/waterproof Gore-Tex Nylon upper and a lower panel of Cordura-coated Nylon lined with packcloth.  The two inch wide hook and loop fastener runs the full length of the gaiter to allow it to be easily put on and adjusted to many different boot styles.  The BioThane webbing instep strap keeps them securely in place and the boot lace hook keeps them from shifting.  Designed for snowshoeing, cross county skiing and glacial climbing, they will provide that extra protection needed from the knee down when riding in in wet or snowy conditions.  Available in Men's and Women's sizes from Outdoor Research, REI, Amazon and other online retailers.

Xpedo Face Off 18 Pedal
$99

This low profile, large platform pedal has 20 replaceable pins that provide excellent grip in all weather conditions.  The large openings on each side of the spindle keep snow and ice from building up and interfering with foot to pedal contact.  It has a cromoly spindle with cartridge bearings, DU bushing and a 6061 CNC Aluminum body that weighs in at only 385 grams.  Available in three color choices (Black/Silver, Red/Pearl White, Gold/Navy Blue) and comes with extra pins and wrench.  Available from Xpedo, Penn Cycle (call for availability) and other fine bike shops.