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If you are looking to improve your metal health or fitness? Discover the benefits of mountain biking and hitting the trails!

The time spent outdoors, the physical and mental challenges, the mountain biking community and so much more. The benefits of mountain biking are as many and varied as the benefits of trails! So if you're wondering whether you should give mountain biking a try (or whether it's worth the blood, sweat, and tears), in this blog post, I share some why mountain biking is good for your mental and physical health. 1. Improving Your State of Mind We all know that exercise is good for our physical health, but did you know that it is also good for our mental health? According to the Mayo Clinic, “Exercise can help improve depressed mood and depression. »¹ And, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, “aerobic exercise has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression.” »² Mountain biking is a great form of aerobic exercise and can help improve your mental health in many ways. First, it can help reduce stress and anxiety. It can also help improve your mood, increase your energy levels, and improve your sleep. If you have mental health problems, spending time on the trails can help you feel better.

2. Maintaining A Healthy Weight If you want to lose a few pounds, mountain biking can be a great way to do it. According to Harvard Health Publishing, cycling at a moderate pace for 30 minutes can burn about 300 calories³. Of course, the number of calories you burn will depend on factors such as your current weight, the intensity of your cycling, and the terrain you're riding on. But even if you don't want to lose weight, mountain biking can help you maintain a healthy weight. And because obesity is linked to several chronic health conditions, like heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight is important for your overall health.

Moderate biking for 30 minutes can burn around 300 calories 3. It Will Make You Stronger If you're looking to build strength and muscle, mountain biking is a great way to do it. When you ride hills and technical trails, you engage your leg muscles, including your quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. Mountain bikers also use their core and upper body muscles, such as the arms, back, and shoulders, especially when going down hills or climbing particularly steep sections. Over time, mountain biking can help increase muscle strength and endurance. And since strong muscles help protect your joints from injury, that's good news for your knees, hips, and lower back! 4. It Will Improve Heart Health Mountain biking is a great form of cardiovascular exercise and like all forms of cardiovascular exercise, it can help improve heart health. Cardio exercises help strengthen the heart muscle and reduce resting heart rate. Cardio also improves blood circulation and can help lower blood pressure. All of these benefits help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. So if you're looking to improve your cardiovascular health, mountain biking is a great option. 5. Help Improve Your Balance & Coordination Mountain biking can help improve your balance and coordination. This is because mountain biking requires you to use both your upper and lower body to control the bike and this challenges your proprioception (the ability to sense your body's position in space). Improving your balance can help you stay safe on the trail and can also help reduce your risk of injury when riding and dismounting. The CDC reports that balance training can help improve your coordination, which can make daily activities easier, including the risk of falls as you age. 6. Be Out With With Nature For many people, one of the biggest benefits of mountain biking is that it helps them connect with nature. According to some studies, spending time in nature can have huge benefits for mental health and overall happiness⁴. So if you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, spending time on the trails can be a great way to do it. And if you live in a scenic area, mountain biking is a great way to enjoy the natural world. Spending time in nature is one of the best things about mountain biking, especially if you're dealing with negativity in your life and need a little motivation. 7. Creating A Community Mountain bikers are awesome if I do say so myself. We know how to have fun, go on fun adventures together, talk throughout the day, and drink lots of beer (or cider for me!). In my opinion, one of the biggest reasons to get into mountain biking is to connect with other riders and spend the day together on the trails. Mountain biking is also a great way to make new friends. There are plenty of local mountain bike Facebook groups to join, mountain bike clubs that host events (Google your state + "mountain bike club"), shops bike organizes weekly rides as well as other groups and events where you can find new riding friends. 8. It’s A Great Way To Bring Family Together Do you want to spend more time with your family? Take everyone mountain biking. Mountain biking is probably the most important thing that bonds my family. We take mountain bike vacations, ride local trails together, cook post-ride meals, talk about cycling and so much more! There's really no reason for someone not to mountain bike (unless they really, really don't want to…). E-bikes are great for family members who don't want a physical challenge, and there are plenty of cycling options for kids, like the Mac Ride that my brother uses for his kids. 9. Great For Exploring New Places If you like to travel, mountain biking can be a great way to explore new places. Whether it's a trip to the stunning red rocks of Sedona, the rolling green hills of Vermont, the mountainous fjords of Squamish or the top of the Whistler Bike Park, mountain biking can take you to quite some places. amazing. And mountain biking isn't limited to North America. There are literally incredible trails all over the world, from bike parks in Bali to the majestic Swiss Alps.

10. Relieving Stress & Anxiety If you're looking to relieve stress, mountain biking can be a great option. Exercising and spending time in nature can help reduce tension and stress. Therefore, mountain biking is a great option if you need to blow off some steam. Whether it's a quick ride after work on local trails or a week-long mountain biking vacation in Moab, mountain biking is a great (and healthy) way to get some exercise in. weight loss and control, stress and anxiety. 11. Mountain Biking Challenges You – Physically & Mentally Mountain biking can be difficult. It's really difficult. And not only physically, but also mentally. Trying out new features on a seemingly intimidating path requires a willingness to take risks and break down mental barriers. Often, I find that tackling a new fall or rock garden is more about overcoming the mental side of things than a lack of skill or ability. As for the physical challenge of mountain biking, I think it's pretty self-explanatory. Cycling uphill is difficult, but the more you pedal, the easier it becomes and the stronger you become.

Sustainable Cyclist Clothing Brands  1. Cadenzia  2. Endura 3. Isadore 4. KOSTÜME 5. Maap 6. Matchy Cycling 7. Rapha 8. TIC CC 9. Universal Colours 10. Velocio 1. Cadenzia

Cadenzia launches in spring 2022 and uses a blend of bamboo viscose and recycled polyester in its cycling jersey. “Bamboo is woven with recycled polyester to create a super soft, high-performance ripstop fabric that is durable and long-lasting,” explains co-founder Rob Stross. “Bamboo is a sustainable fiber, has natural performance benefits and is also one of the fastest growing plants on earth and one of the most sustainable and renewable resources on earth. world." “All of our polyester and nylon fabrics are recycled and Oeko-Tex certified, and we only use YKK Natulon recycled ocean plastic zippers.” The brand will have a line of cycling essentials, with three out-of-season and gender-neutral colors in its range, aiming to eliminate waste.

“Our jersey fabric is made in one color, natural unbleached white and the other colors are then computer printed with eco-friendly dyes directly onto the pattern pieces,” Stross adds. ”. Currently, products verified to contain at least 20% recycled materials can be classified as recycled, and all of its waterproof products are free of PFCs (perfluorinated chemicals used to make fabric is waterproof and very harmful to the environment). Cadenzia products are manufactured in China and shipped to the UK. When the company established its supply chain in Shanghai, it ensured that it was fully localized to the local area so it could track and reduce its carbon footprint, 2. Endura

Endura kit is built to last and be durable, which is why Scottish brand Endura, famous for its durable cycle clothing, was born. Endura incorporates recycled fabrics into its product line in an effort to eliminate waste. “They chose to use recycled fibers on polyester rather than nylon because they have more impact on polyester and solve the problem of plastic bottle waste,” explains Pamela Barclay, product manager at Endura. “This reflects why we don't have more styles with recycled fibers.”

According to the brand, 100% of mountain bike jerseys use recycled fabric compared to 33% of road jerseys. However, the brand hopes to increase this final figure to 100% from 2023. The brand also only markets a product as recycled if it uses more than 50% recycled fibers. In 2020, Endura launched the One Million Trees initiative, in which they pledged to plant one million trees every year for the next 10 years to offset their carbon emissions and aim to become carbon negative by the year 2024. Planting began in Mozambique and has now also begun in Scotland, the brand's country of origin. All Endura products have been PFC-free since 2018, and the company makes all its personalized clothing at its factory in Scotland and the rest in China and Asia. 3. Isadore

The brainchild of ex-pros and brothers Martin and Peter Velits, Isadore releases a sustainability report every year, with details of where its products are produced, progress it has made, as well as new aims and initiatives. The brand is working on core garment traceability and aims to replace all virgin synthetic materials in its products with their recycled counterparts by 2025. Much of Isadore’s kit is made from recycled materials and the brand recently introduced a majority recycled indoor line. ‘The most important part is that there is no performance difference between using virgin synthetics or recycled fabrics,’ explains Martin. ‘Our Alternative line is made entirely from recycled fabrics and we hope to eventually use 90% recycled sources for the synthetic materials.’

Isadore also uses a lot of merino wool in its products. The wool comes from New Zealand and Australia and then gets processed in Germany where the yarns are produced. The fabric is then woven or laminated in the Czech Republic. Isadore only works with Oeko-Tex and Bluesign certified suppliers and manufacturers. Isadore currently doesn’t have the resources to measure and communicate its carbon emissions but is working with its shipping partners to switch to carbon neutral or zero emissions programmes. The brand plans to have an independent audit to go through all its processes in the future. 4. KOSTÜME

KOSTÜME is a very small new brand which has a different business model to others in this guide. Founded by Ed Bartlett, KOSTÜME caps each of its collections to a small number and pre-sells them in advance which it says significantly reduces waste. ‘The fact is that the fashion industry – and that includes cycling apparel – is locked into a business model that creates unfathomable amounts of waste, right throughout the production and retail process,’ explains Bartlett. ‘We are nowhere near a point where so-called sustainable fabrics are going to fix our ecological problems, so the only way to really make an impact is to stop the waste at source, which is where our model comes in. ‘We also do other things like sharing fabric offcuts across multiple products, no hang tags in our packaging, 100% compostable packaging, working with factories with a clear focus on sustainability – but really it’s the limited pre-order model that makes the difference.’

100% of the current range is made from certified recycled materials, and also feature either bluesign, OEKO-TEX or GRS certification. The brand’s main factory is 70% powered by renewable energy, and KOSTÜME donates a percentage of every sale to Stripe Climate, an organisation which is specifically focused on investing in carbon capture and removal solutions.   KOSTÜME does not yet track its overall carbon footprint but it has plans to do this in the future, alongside a product repair and takeback scheme. 5. Maap

Australian brand Maap was the first cycling brand to join Bluesign as a full partner. ‘If something is a Bluesign partner, you know that audits have been done and that there will be a certain level of sustainability, which automatically gives you that peace of mind,’ explains Darren Tabone, VP of product at Maap. ‘In our case, Bluesign act like a bit of a big brother, they evaluate your organisation, help review your supply chain and look at all different tiers of the code. Becoming more sustainable is a journey and there’s no real end goal in the sense that you are constantly evolving and learning.’ The brand current uses 95% Bluesign or Oeko-Tex materials and aims to up this to 100% by the end of 2022.

The majority of Maap’s printed fabrics use Green Soul technology which combines sustainable recycled fibres with the environmentally friendly dyeing and finishing processes. It also has had an OffCuts program since 2021 where it makes cycling jerseys out of excess fabric from previous production runs.  The bulk of Maap products are made in Europe and it is expanding its Asia source base.  The brand is not tracking the carbon emissions yet but this is part of its future plan. It is currently in the process of working out the tonnage of products which are from Bluesign-approved raw materials.  6. Matchy Cycling

Founded in 2016, Matchy Cycling is a French brand based in Annecy. All of its products are made from 30% to 100% recycled materials and the brand is extremely conscious of ensuring local production. ‘We prefer a product made in France using a French fabric that is not recycled than a recycled fabrics made super-far away,’ says Geoffrey Baudoin co-founder of Matchy. ‘All of our bib shorts are made in Italy because the chamois come from Italy so it avoids unnecessary shipping. ‘Some fabrics made by a supplier in France are three times more expensive than usual fabrics but offer a much better durability. It’s a complex topic and we need to look outside of just recycled fabrics even if it’s still an important point for us. ‘All recycled fabrics are not equal, it depends on the supplier and where they come from. The trend has obliged suppliers to invest in these fabrics and we can now say that recycled fibres are almost equal as virgin fibres.’

This year, Matchy begun tracking its footprint and is working with third parties to help understand it. The brand also hopes to become a B Corp by the end of this year. ‘Offering recycled products is one thing but we really try to go deeper as globally we need to reduce our impact which means extending the life cycle of the products, by repairing them, or giving them a second life,’ adds Baudoin. ‘We are working with a local tailor to offer upcycled products this winter.’ All of Matchy’s products are Bluesign-approved and use OekeTex material. The brand does not use any plastic packaging, only recyclable and compostable materials. 7. Rapha

Rapha currently produces 90% virgin materials and 10% environmentally preferred materials (recycled, certified organic or animal welfare versions) by volume but has pledged to flip this on its head by 2025. ‘Some people might be not impressed with 10% today, but it’s all about what we’re trying to get to,’ explains Duncan Money, Rapha’s head of social and environmental impact. ‘It is a journey, and we will be doubling that figure nearly every year to get there.’ Like Endura, Rapha doesn’t publicly market a product as environmentally preferred until this accounts for more than 50% of the product by weight.

Rapha aims to become carbon neutral by 2025, across scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. - Scope 1 emissions refer to direct GHG emissions that occur from sources that are controlled or owned by an organisation, such as emissions from company vehicles - Scope 2 emissions refer to indirect GHG emissions associated with the purchase of electricity, steam, heat, or cooling, and are a result of an organisation’s energy usage - There are also Scope 3 emissions, which include all other indirect emissions that occur in a company’s value chain It is currently working on its Science-Based Targets and will release these in the middle of the year. Rapha is also one of the founding signatories of the Shift Cycling Culture Climate Commitment. ‘Even if you just looked at it by weight, it’s quite obvious which one we should be addressing first and which one people should be challenging us on,’ says Money. ‘The cycling industry has the potential to be an incredible force for good in the world, but to make the necessary changes we need to take action with urgency, together.’ Rapha is a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition and uses Bluesign and Oeko-Tex certified materials 8. TIC CC

In 2019, TIC CC undertook a year-long period of ‘environmental reflection’ which led to 95% of the brand’s SS21 collection being made with recycled fabrics. The brand also reworked its supply chains so that 98% of fabrics and components now come from Europe. For TIC CC co-founder Andrew Monk, taking a holistic approach is an important factor to an evolving sustainability journey. ‘We find that a combination of recycled and virgin fabrics works best,’ says Monk. ‘Of course, this will change as technology improves but you have to take a holistic approach, looking at other impacts including production methodology and distance travelled from source.’

Notably, TIC CC advocates using a Guppyfriend washing bag when washing cycling clothing. Washing cycling kit in this bag prevents microplastic pollution from synthetic micro fibres getting into waterways. TIC CC and all of its key manufacturing partners use 100% renewable energy and the brand uses Bluesign and Oeko-Tex certified materials. TIC CC kit is made in Europe, and its caps are handmade in the UK. The brand has been tracking its emissions internally for the past three years and is considering getting this data accredited in the futu 9. Universal Colours

London-based Universal Colours takes an innovative conscious approach to its products. The brand uses pre-consumer waste and post-consumer waste fabrics and a fluorocarbon-free durable water repellent (DWR), called C0 which is a sustainable, vegetable-based technology. The brand aims to produce considerately sourced cycling clothing but to also educate the consumer on how to care for its garments in order to maximise their longevity. ‘With all our waterproof jackets we give a sample of Nickwax aftercare to reproof it,’ says Will Hurd, a designer at Universal Colours. ‘It’s really important that we communicate to our customers the importance of looking after a product. It’s wrong to assume that customers know what reproofing is.’ But it isn’t straightforward as Hurd explains: ‘We have our own paradox and our own complications because we know our price points are not accessible for everyone. But I think we are very clear and transparent about our fabrics, our costs and have strong ethical policies that we stand by.’

The brand also champions a circular approach, notably in its 100% taste-free biodegradable polyethylene bottle constructed using sugarcane, which can be wholly recycled. At the correct temperature in a landfill or under leaves and soil in a forest, the bio-batch additive activates, and the bottle decomposes into water, humus and gas. The brand says the composting process takes 1-5 years, compared to 450 years for a traditional plastic bottle, and the bottle becomes part of the natural world again. Most of its products are produced at LTP in Lithuania which is a Bluesign-accredited factory, and the brand also works with a factories in China and Taiwan for select products. Universal Colours is currently looking into tracking its emissions and is also a member of 1% for the planet 10. Velocio

The majority of Velocio’s products incorporate recycled or natural fibre, including all of its Spring/Summer jersey line. The brand is aiming to expand the use of these materials into the rest of its collection. Velocio makes its kit in facilities which use renewable energy, primarily solar and produces clothing in small-batch quantities in order to conserve energy, limit overstock and reduce liquidation. ‘It’s ironic given that the bicycle can be such an environmentally friendly mode of transportation, but the industry at large, especially at the aspirational end, has pushed newer/better/faster as their primary marketing language for so long that bikes are essentially disposable,’ says Brad Sheehan, CEO and co-founder of Velocio.

Sustainable Cyclist Clothing Brands  1. Cadenzia  2. Endura 3. Isadore 4. KOSTÜME 5. Maap 6. Matchy Cycling 7. Rapha 8. TIC CC 9. Universal Colours 10. Velocio 1. Cadenzia

Cadenzia launches in spring 2022 and uses a blend of bamboo viscose and recycled polyester in its cycling jersey. “Bamboo is woven with recycled polyester to create a super soft, high-performance ripstop fabric that is durable and long-lasting,” explains co-founder Rob Stross. “Bamboo is a sustainable fiber, has natural performance benefits and is also one of the fastest growing plants on earth and one of the most sustainable and renewable resources on earth. world." “All of our polyester and nylon fabrics are recycled and Oeko-Tex certified, and we only use YKK Natulon recycled ocean plastic zippers.” The brand will have a line of cycling essentials, with three out-of-season and gender-neutral colors in its range, aiming to eliminate waste.

“Our jersey fabric is made in one color, natural unbleached white and the other colors are then computer printed with eco-friendly dyes directly onto the pattern pieces,” Stross adds. ”. Currently, products verified to contain at least 20% recycled materials can be classified as recycled, and all of its waterproof products are free of PFCs (perfluorinated chemicals used to make fabric is waterproof and very harmful to the environment). Cadenzia products are manufactured in China and shipped to the UK. When the company established its supply chain in Shanghai, it ensured that it was fully localized to the local area so it could track and reduce its carbon footprint, 2. Endura

Endura kit is built to last and be durable, which is why Scottish brand Endura, famous for its durable cycle clothing, was born. Endura incorporates recycled fabrics into its product line in an effort to eliminate waste. “They chose to use recycled fibers on polyester rather than nylon because they have more impact on polyester and solve the problem of plastic bottle waste,” explains Pamela Barclay, product manager at Endura. “This reflects why we don't have more styles with recycled fibers.”

According to the brand, 100% of mountain bike jerseys use recycled fabric compared to 33% of road jerseys. However, the brand hopes to increase this final figure to 100% from 2023. The brand also only markets a product as recycled if it uses more than 50% recycled fibers. In 2020, Endura launched the One Million Trees initiative, in which they pledged to plant one million trees every year for the next 10 years to offset their carbon emissions and aim to become carbon negative by the year 2024. Planting began in Mozambique and has now also begun in Scotland, the brand's country of origin. All Endura products have been PFC-free since 2018, and the company makes all its personalized clothing at its factory in Scotland and the rest in China and Asia. 3. Isadore

The brainchild of ex-pros and brothers Martin and Peter Velits, Isadore releases a sustainability report every year, with details of where its products are produced, progress it has made, as well as new aims and initiatives. The brand is working on core garment traceability and aims to replace all virgin synthetic materials in its products with their recycled counterparts by 2025. Much of Isadore’s kit is made from recycled materials and the brand recently introduced a majority recycled indoor line. ‘The most important part is that there is no performance difference between using virgin synthetics or recycled fabrics,’ explains Martin. ‘Our Alternative line is made entirely from recycled fabrics and we hope to eventually use 90% recycled sources for the synthetic materials.’

Isadore also uses a lot of merino wool in its products. The wool comes from New Zealand and Australia and then gets processed in Germany where the yarns are produced. The fabric is then woven or laminated in the Czech Republic. Isadore only works with Oeko-Tex and Bluesign certified suppliers and manufacturers. Isadore currently doesn’t have the resources to measure and communicate its carbon emissions but is working with its shipping partners to switch to carbon neutral or zero emissions programmes. The brand plans to have an independent audit to go through all its processes in the future. 4. KOSTÜME

KOSTÜME is a very small new brand which has a different business model to others in this guide. Founded by Ed Bartlett, KOSTÜME caps each of its collections to a small number and pre-sells them in advance which it says significantly reduces waste. ‘The fact is that the fashion industry – and that includes cycling apparel – is locked into a business model that creates unfathomable amounts of waste, right throughout the production and retail process,’ explains Bartlett. ‘We are nowhere near a point where so-called sustainable fabrics are going to fix our ecological problems, so the only way to really make an impact is to stop the waste at source, which is where our model comes in. ‘We also do other things like sharing fabric offcuts across multiple products, no hang tags in our packaging, 100% compostable packaging, working with factories with a clear focus on sustainability – but really it’s the limited pre-order model that makes the difference.’

100% of the current range is made from certified recycled materials, and also feature either bluesign, OEKO-TEX or GRS certification. The brand’s main factory is 70% powered by renewable energy, and KOSTÜME donates a percentage of every sale to Stripe Climate, an organisation which is specifically focused on investing in carbon capture and removal solutions.   KOSTÜME does not yet track its overall carbon footprint but it has plans to do this in the future, alongside a product repair and takeback scheme. 5. Maap

Australian brand Maap was the first cycling brand to join Bluesign as a full partner. ‘If something is a Bluesign partner, you know that audits have been done and that there will be a certain level of sustainability, which automatically gives you that peace of mind,’ explains Darren Tabone, VP of product at Maap. ‘In our case, Bluesign act like a bit of a big brother, they evaluate your organisation, help review your supply chain and look at all different tiers of the code. Becoming more sustainable is a journey and there’s no real end goal in the sense that you are constantly evolving and learning.’ The brand current uses 95% Bluesign or Oeko-Tex materials and aims to up this to 100% by the end of 2022.

The majority of Maap’s printed fabrics use Green Soul technology which combines sustainable recycled fibres with the environmentally friendly dyeing and finishing processes. It also has had an OffCuts program since 2021 where it makes cycling jerseys out of excess fabric from previous production runs.  The bulk of Maap products are made in Europe and it is expanding its Asia source base.  The brand is not tracking the carbon emissions yet but this is part of its future plan. It is currently in the process of working out the tonnage of products which are from Bluesign-approved raw materials.  6. Matchy Cycling

Founded in 2016, Matchy Cycling is a French brand based in Annecy. All of its products are made from 30% to 100% recycled materials and the brand is extremely conscious of ensuring local production. ‘We prefer a product made in France using a French fabric that is not recycled than a recycled fabrics made super-far away,’ says Geoffrey Baudoin co-founder of Matchy. ‘All of our bib shorts are made in Italy because the chamois come from Italy so it avoids unnecessary shipping. ‘Some fabrics made by a supplier in France are three times more expensive than usual fabrics but offer a much better durability. It’s a complex topic and we need to look outside of just recycled fabrics even if it’s still an important point for us. ‘All recycled fabrics are not equal, it depends on the supplier and where they come from. The trend has obliged suppliers to invest in these fabrics and we can now say that recycled fibres are almost equal as virgin fibres.’

This year, Matchy begun tracking its footprint and is working with third parties to help understand it. The brand also hopes to become a B Corp by the end of this year. ‘Offering recycled products is one thing but we really try to go deeper as globally we need to reduce our impact which means extending the life cycle of the products, by repairing them, or giving them a second life,’ adds Baudoin. ‘We are working with a local tailor to offer upcycled products this winter.’ All of Matchy’s products are Bluesign-approved and use OekeTex material. The brand does not use any plastic packaging, only recyclable and compostable materials. 7. Rapha

Rapha currently produces 90% virgin materials and 10% environmentally preferred materials (recycled, certified organic or animal welfare versions) by volume but has pledged to flip this on its head by 2025. ‘Some people might be not impressed with 10% today, but it’s all about what we’re trying to get to,’ explains Duncan Money, Rapha’s head of social and environmental impact. ‘It is a journey, and we will be doubling that figure nearly every year to get there.’ Like Endura, Rapha doesn’t publicly market a product as environmentally preferred until this accounts for more than 50% of the product by weight.

Rapha aims to become carbon neutral by 2025, across scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. - Scope 1 emissions refer to direct GHG emissions that occur from sources that are controlled or owned by an organisation, such as emissions from company vehicles - Scope 2 emissions refer to indirect GHG emissions associated with the purchase of electricity, steam, heat, or cooling, and are a result of an organisation’s energy usage - There are also Scope 3 emissions, which include all other indirect emissions that occur in a company’s value chain It is currently working on its Science-Based Targets and will release these in the middle of the year. Rapha is also one of the founding signatories of the Shift Cycling Culture Climate Commitment. ‘Even if you just looked at it by weight, it’s quite obvious which one we should be addressing first and which one people should be challenging us on,’ says Money. ‘The cycling industry has the potential to be an incredible force for good in the world, but to make the necessary changes we need to take action with urgency, together.’ Rapha is a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition and uses Bluesign and Oeko-Tex certified materials 8. TIC CC

In 2019, TIC CC undertook a year-long period of ‘environmental reflection’ which led to 95% of the brand’s SS21 collection being made with recycled fabrics. The brand also reworked its supply chains so that 98% of fabrics and components now come from Europe. For TIC CC co-founder Andrew Monk, taking a holistic approach is an important factor to an evolving sustainability journey. ‘We find that a combination of recycled and virgin fabrics works best,’ says Monk. ‘Of course, this will change as technology improves but you have to take a holistic approach, looking at other impacts including production methodology and distance travelled from source.’

Notably, TIC CC advocates using a Guppyfriend washing bag when washing cycling clothing. Washing cycling kit in this bag prevents microplastic pollution from synthetic micro fibres getting into waterways. TIC CC and all of its key manufacturing partners use 100% renewable energy and the brand uses Bluesign and Oeko-Tex certified materials. TIC CC kit is made in Europe, and its caps are handmade in the UK. The brand has been tracking its emissions internally for the past three years and is considering getting this data accredited in the futu 9. Universal Colours

London-based Universal Colours takes an innovative conscious approach to its products. The brand uses pre-consumer waste and post-consumer waste fabrics and a fluorocarbon-free durable water repellent (DWR), called C0 which is a sustainable, vegetable-based technology. The brand aims to produce considerately sourced cycling clothing but to also educate the consumer on how to care for its garments in order to maximise their longevity. ‘With all our waterproof jackets we give a sample of Nickwax aftercare to reproof it,’ says Will Hurd, a designer at Universal Colours. ‘It’s really important that we communicate to our customers the importance of looking after a product. It’s wrong to assume that customers know what reproofing is.’ But it isn’t straightforward as Hurd explains: ‘We have our own paradox and our own complications because we know our price points are not accessible for everyone. But I think we are very clear and transparent about our fabrics, our costs and have strong ethical policies that we stand by.’

The brand also champions a circular approach, notably in its 100% taste-free biodegradable polyethylene bottle constructed using sugarcane, which can be wholly recycled. At the correct temperature in a landfill or under leaves and soil in a forest, the bio-batch additive activates, and the bottle decomposes into water, humus and gas. The brand says the composting process takes 1-5 years, compared to 450 years for a traditional plastic bottle, and the bottle becomes part of the natural world again. Most of its products are produced at LTP in Lithuania which is a Bluesign-accredited factory, and the brand also works with a factories in China and Taiwan for select products. Universal Colours is currently looking into tracking its emissions and is also a member of 1% for the planet 10. Velocio

The majority of Velocio’s products incorporate recycled or natural fibre, including all of its Spring/Summer jersey line. The brand is aiming to expand the use of these materials into the rest of its collection. Velocio makes its kit in facilities which use renewable energy, primarily solar and produces clothing in small-batch quantities in order to conserve energy, limit overstock and reduce liquidation. ‘It’s ironic given that the bicycle can be such an environmentally friendly mode of transportation, but the industry at large, especially at the aspirational end, has pushed newer/better/faster as their primary marketing language for so long that bikes are essentially disposable,’ says Brad Sheehan, CEO and co-founder of Velocio.

A fixed-gear bicycle (or fixed-wheel bicycle, commonly known in some places as a fixie is a bicycle that has a drivetrain with no freewheel mechanism such that the pedals always will spin together with the rear wheel. The freewheel was developed early in the history of bicycle design but the fixed-gear bicycle remained the standard track racing design. More recently the "fixie" has become a popular alternative among mainly urban cyclists, offering the advantage of simplicity compared with the standard multi-geared bicycle.

A fixed or single-speed transmission requires you to try hard to go uphill and in the latter case also to descend quickly the fixed gear does not allow free riding. Most bicycle hubs incorporate a freewheel to allow the pedals to remain stationary while the bicycle is in motion, so that the rider can coast, i.e., ride without pedalling using forward momentum. A fixed-gear drivetrain has the drive sprocket (or cog) threaded or bolted directly to the hub of the back wheel, so that the pedals are directly coupled to the wheel. During acceleration, the pedal crank drives the wheel, but in other situations, the rear wheel can drive the pedal cranks. This direct coupling allows a cyclist to apply a braking force with the legs and bodyweight, by resisting the rotation of the cranks. It also makes it possible to cycle backwards. As a general rule, fixed-gear bicycles are single-speed. A derailleur for gear selection would introduce chain slack, which would interfere with braking. Gear selection can, however, be accomplished with the use of an internally geared hub. For example, a Sturmey-Archer fixed-gear three-speed hub is a fixed-gear multi-speed arrangement. Most fixed-gear bicycles only have a front brake, and some have no brakes at all. Uses A track bicycle or track bike is a form of fixed-gear bicycle optimized for racing at a velodrome or at an outdoor track. Some road racing and club cyclists use a fixed-gear bicycle for training during the winter months, generally using a relatively low gear ratio, believed to help develop a good pedalling style. In the UK until the 1950s it was common for riders to use fixed-gear bicycles for time trials. The 1959 British 25 mile time trial championship was won by Alf Engers with a competition record of 55 minutes 11 seconds, riding an 84-inch fixed-gear bicycle. The fixed-gear was also commonly used, and continues to be used in the end of season hill climb races in the autumn. A typical club men's fixed-gear machine would have been a "road/path" or "road/track" cycle. In the era when most riders only had one cycle, the same bike when stripped down and fitted with racing wheels was used for road time trials and track racing, and when fitted with mudguards (fenders) and a bag, it was used for club runs, touring and winter training. By the 1960s, multi-gear derailleurs had become the norm and riding fixed-gear bicycles on the road declined over the next few decades. Recent years have seen renewed interest and increased popularity of fixed-gear cycling. In urban North America and similar areas in other Western cities, fixed-gear bicycles have achieved significant popularity, with the rise of discernible regional aesthetic preferences for finish and design details. Dedicated fixed-gear road bicycles are being produced in greater numbers by established bicycle manufacturers. They are generally low in price and characterized by relaxed road geometry, as opposed to the steep geometry of track bicycles. Fixed-gear bicycles are also used in cycle ball, bike polo and artistic cycling. A fixed-gear bicycle is particularly well suited for track stands, a maneuver in which the bicycle can be held stationary, balanced upright with the rider's feet on the pedals.

Typicaly fixie set has a double-sided hub like this. There's a single freewheel on the far side and the dual thread on the oposit. With alinment scews for agustment and sfety. Advantages and disadvantages One of the perceived main attractions of a fixed gear bicycle is low weight. Without the added parts required for a fully geared drive train—derailleurs, shifters, cables, cable carriers, multiple chain rings, freewheel hub, brazed-on mounting lugs—a fixed gear bicycle weighs less than its geared equivalent. The chain itself is subject to less sideways force and will not wear out as fast as on a derailleur system. Also, a fixed gear drivetrain is more mechanically efficient than any other bicycle drivetrain, with the most direct power transfer from rider to the wheels. Thus, a fixed gear requires less energy in any given gear to move than a geared bike in the same gear. In slippery conditions some riders prefer to ride fixed because they believe the transmission provides increased feedback on back tire grip. However, there is also an increased risk of loss of control in such conditions. This is especially so when taking into account the large number of riders who ride brakeless. These riders must brake entirely through the drivetrain. Ideally this is done by resisting the forward motion of the pedals, shedding speed while the bike is still moving. Alternatively, though far less efficiently, one can brake by stopping the motion of the pedals in mid-rotation, causing the rear wheel to lock in place, allowing the bicycle to skid and slow down from kinetic friction (see below). Descending any significant gradient is more difficult as the rider must spin the cranks at high speed (sometimes at 170 rpm or more), or use the brakes to slow down. Some consider that the enforced fast spin when descending increases suppleness or flexibility, which is said to improve pedalling performance on any type of bicycle; however the performance boost is negligible compared to the benefits of riding a free wheel. Riding fixed is considered by some to encourage a more effective pedaling style, which it is claimed translates into greater efficiency and power when used on a bicycle fitted with a freewheel. It allows for the rider to engage in and practice proper cadence, which is the balanced and rhythmic flow of pedaling, enhancing performance for both cyclist and bicycle. When first riding a fixed gear, a cyclist used to a freewheel may try to freewheel, or coast, particularly when approaching corners or obstacles. Since coasting is not possible this can lead to a "kick" to the trailing leg, and even to loss of control of the bicycle. Riding at high speed around corners can be difficult on a road bike converted into a fixed-gear bicycle, as the pedals can strike the road, resulting in loss of control. Proper track bikes have a higher bottom bracket to compensate for the constantly spinning cranks and largely mitigate this problem. Perhaps the most obvious disadvantage is the lack of multiple gears, and the flexibility in pedaling cadence and resistance made available through gear shifting. Hilly or uneven mountainous terrain with steep grades can be particularly challenging, as the rider cannot adjust the gearing to match the terrain. Brakeless

Cyclist riding a fixed gear bike without brakes Many urban fixed-gear riders think brakes are not strictly necessary, and brakeless fixed riding has a cult status in some areas. Brakes and their cables are said to add extra bulk to the simple appearance of a fixed gear bicycle, and they prevent trick manoeuvres that involve spinning the front wheel in a full circle, unless equipped with special 360° freedom "detangler" system already used on BMX bicycles. Other riders dismiss riding on roads without brakes as an affectation, based on image rather than practicality. Riding without brakes can be dangerous, is prohibited by law in many jurisdictions, and may jeopardize the chances of a claim in the event of an accident. Technique It is possible to slow down or stop a fixed-gear bike in two ways. The first, most efficient, and least stressful on the rider's body is by resisting the turning cranks as they come up and around, shedding speed with each pedal rotation. The second way, less efficient but more showy, is to bump or skid the rear wheel along the riding surface. Such a move is initiated by shifting the rider's weight slightly forward and pulling up on the pedals using clipless pedals or toe clips and straps. The rider then stops turning the cranks, thus stopping the drivetrain and rear wheel, while applying body weight in opposition to the rotation of the cranks. This causes the rear wheel to skid, and slow the bike. The skid can be held until the bicycle stops or until the rider desires to continue pedaling again at a slower speed. The technique requires practice and is generally considered dangerous when used during cornering. On any bike with only rear wheel braking, the maximum deceleration is significantly lower than on a bike equipped with a front brake. As a vehicle brakes, weight is transferred towards the front wheel and away from the rear, decreasing the amount of grip the rear wheel has. Transferring the rider's weight back increases rear wheel braking efficiency, but a front wheel fitted with an ordinary brake might provide 70% or more of the braking power when braking hard. Legality Austria – Brakeless bicycles are not legal to be driven on public roads. Every bike has to have two independent brakes, several reflectors and front and back lighting when conditions require it. Australia – Bicycles are regarded as vehicles under the Road Rules in every state. A bike is required by law to have at least one functioning brake. Belgium – All bicycles are required to have easy-to-hear bells and working brakes on both wheels. Lights and reflectors are not required on race, mountain, and children's bikes when not used after dark. Other (normal) bikes need reflectors and lights. These lights may be attached to the body and may blink. Brazil – Brazilian Traffic Law, article 105, subheading VI, says that, for bicycles, "bells, rear, front, sides and pedals signaling, and rear-view mirror on the left" are mandatory. Albeit, nothing is explicitly said about bicycle brakes. Canada – Laws vary by province, and are controlled by highway and traffic acts. In Ontario and in Québec, a rear brake is required, and not having one may subject the rider to a fine. Alberta requires one functioning brake. Denmark – All bicycles are required to have working brakes on both wheels, reflectors, and bells. France – A bike must have 2 brakes, 2 lights, numerous reflectors, and a ringer to be approved for road traffic. The laws are rarely enforced, however, and the sight of all kinds of non-officially-approved bikes is common. Germany – All bicycles are required to have working brakes on both wheels, reflectors, and bells. A local court in Bonn accepted that the fixed-gear mechanism was a suitable back brake, but high-profile crackdowns specifically targeted fixed-gear bicycles in Berlin in an attempt to control what police described as a "dangerous trend" Hungary – All bicycles are required to be equipped with two independent sets of brakes. Front and rear lamps, reflectors and a bell are also required. Italy – All bicycles must have tires, two independent sets of brakes, a bell, a front white lamp, a rear red lamp and reflector, amber reflectors on pedals and sides. The laws however are rarely enforced. Netherlands – All bicycles are required to have an adequate brake system. New Zealand – By law all bicycles must have a minimum of "...a good rear brake..."–and those made since 1 January 1988 must also have "...a good front brake..." Poland – All bicycles must have at least one functional brake. Russian Federation – All bicycles must have working brakes, handlebars and horns  Singapore – In a report submitted to the Singapore Ministry of Transport in December 2020, the Active Mobility Advisory Panel recommended that a new rule be put in place to allow only bicycles that have brakes installed in order for them to be used on footpaths and roads. In January 2020, a 13-year-old fixie rider died after she crashed into a railing at a multi-storey car park and fell from height, prompting a state coroner hearing the court inquiry to declare that such bicycles are not suitable for the young. Her death was ruled as a misadventure. Spain – All bicycles are required to have an adequate brake system on front and rear wheels, plus a bell. Sweden – Bicycles are required to have a brake and bell. Additionally, when it's dark outside they are required to have lights facing forward and back as well as reflectors facing forward, back and to the sides. United Kingdom – The Pedal Cycles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1983 require pedal cycles "so constructed that one or more of the wheels is incapable of rotating independently of the pedals, be equipped with a braking system operating on the front wheel"; riding a rear-wheel drive, fixed-gear bicycle with no front brake on public highways is illegal. Following the conviction of UK cyclist Charlie Alliston, who knocked over and killed a woman whilst riding a fixed-gear bicycle with no front brake, the UK Government announced a review of the laws covering "dangerous cycling" in September 2017. A brake on the rear wheel is only required for free-wheel bicycles. United States – The use of any bike without brakes on public roads is illegal in many places, but the wording is often similar to "...must be equipped with a brake that will enable the person operating the cycle to make the braked wheels skid on dry, level and clean pavement..." which some have argued allows the use of the legs and gears. The retail sale of bikes without brakes is banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission – but with an exception for the "track bicycle" (...a bicycle designed and intended for sale as a competitive machine having tubular tires, single crank-to-wheel ratio, and no free-wheeling feature between the rear wheel and the crank...). Conversion Many companies sell bicycle frames designed specifically for use with fixed-gear hubs. A fixed-gear or track-bike hub includes special threads for a lockring that tightens in the opposite (counter-clockwise) direction compared with the sprocket. This ensures that the sprocket cannot unscrew when the rider "backpedals" while braking.

Choosing Your Mountain Bike Shorts

Finding a bike seat or saddle that suits you is an essential step in enjoying optimal comfort while cycling. Whether you're a weekend cyclist or a regular long-distance cyclist, you don't have to feel sore at the end of your ride. Here are some important things to know when choosing a saddle.

First, an important note on conditioning: No respectable saddle can be completely comfortable if this is your first time riding a bike in a long time. That's because your body and butt need a little time to get ready for cycling. Don't be discouraged or discouraged! Start with a few shorter rides to get your body used to the saddle; Don't be surprised if you feel a little sore and before long you'll be enjoying the excitement of cycling. . Fatigue No respectable saddle can be completely comfortable if this is your first time riding a bike in a long time. That's because your body and butt need a little time to get ready for cycling. Don't be discouraged or discouraged! Start with a few shorter rides to get your body used to the saddle; Don't be surprised if you feel a little sore and before long you'll be enjoying the excitement of cycling. . Proper Fit When it comes to finding the most comfortable saddle, fit is the most important factor. Even a high-end saddle can cause discomfort if it doesn't fit you properly. There are three main things to pay attention to when choosing and adjusting a saddle: width, angle and height. Width. Width is certainly the most important of these saddle qualities. The saddle is designed to support your weight through contact with the sit bones, sometimes also called "sit bones": these are not the groin, legs, buttocks or prostate but the bones within the bones Your pelvis is called the iliac hump (commonly known as the "sit"). bone"). "). If the saddle is too wide it can cause thigh discomfort. If it's too narrow, your sit bones will shift to the sides and there will be too much pressure on your soft tissues. Corner. Placing the saddle too far forward or back can also affect its fit against your sit bones. The angle of your saddle will affect your weight distribution. If the nose is too tilted (this often happens with a saddle that doesn't fit properly to reduce pressure on soft tissues), you'll end up putting more pressure on your arms, wrists and neck. This can lead to many problems. On the other hand, if you tilt the saddle nose up too high, you will increase pressure on the soft tissues, which can end up cutting off circulation in the legs and is generally quite uncomfortable! Height. Ultimately, setting your saddle at the right height will affect your overall comfort. While not strictly butt-specific, a saddle that's too low can hurt your knees and make cycling ineffective. A saddle that's too high can cause you to rock back and forth as you pedal, as well as put too much pressure on your soft tissues. Finding the ideal saddle height may take some trial and error, but your bike shop or backtrack manager can help you get started. Don't be afraid to tinker until it feels right. If you're shopping for a saddle for your personal bike or a saddle for a Backroad trip, you should start with your local bike shop. They will have the expertise to adjust the saddle, install it and adjust it to your bike. Once you know your right saddle width and how to adjust it, it's time to decide which one to choose! There are many options and the right one depends on both your anatomy and your riding style. Here are some of the basics, but remember, whatever saddle you buy, make sure it fits you and is adjusted correctly. Design: This is perhaps the most subjective of the following categories. Saddles come in many different designs and aesthetic shapes to fit the contours of the body. The best way to choose a saddle is to try it on. Most quality bike shops offer a “ride before you buy” or saddle test program. Try out a few saddles before choosing one. Don't forget to let the store staff know what type of cycling you do and what your cycling goals are. Material: There are three basic types of fabric that cover all or part of a saddle: leather, Lycra or vinyl. You're looking for something breathable, durable, soft, non-slip, and flexible. The saddle shell or bracket also matters. High quality nylon and carbon fiber can provide excellent riding quality. Suspended skin may be suitable for your body but requires long-term use. No matter your preference or riding style, buy quality and don't be surprised to spend over $100 on a quality bike saddle. Cushion: Many companies advertise “gel” or super plush chairs. This is (mostly) inappropriate advertising. Many people instinctively press their thumbs on the saddle to determine whether it is comfortable or not. In general this is a bad strategy. What you are looking for is well-structured support. If you're worried about cushioning, focus instead on buying riding shorts or bibs with high-quality chamois. This will allow you to focus on a saddle that fits without having to worry about false promises of gel. Perhaps the most important thing to do when trying out a new saddle is to ride one. Ask your local bike shop about saddle testing, as there's no better way to know if your body actually likes the saddle than testing it by doing what you want. do. Make sure it fits well, doesn't put too much pressure on your soft tissues, and doesn't force you into an uncomfortable driving position. Don't focus on softness or appearance. Everyone can cheat! And remember, there is no such thing as a comfortable saddle; you are just looking for something that you don't pay attention to at all HOLIDAY SALE Make your day special refresh your handlebars withe tape from our collection. Shop Holiday Sales

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There are no more important parts on a bike than its chain. However, it is easy to overlook chain wear, which can lead to severe transmission inefficiencies and even the risk of chain failure. Clutching the teeth of your chain and sprocket, the chain transfers the power generated by your foot to the rear wheel. In doing so, its rollers and pins will gradually wear out. Usually considered stretched, the chain's length will actually stay the same, but its ability to do its job will decrease and decrease until your gear eventually slips. Heavily influenced by the conditions you drive and how much cleaning you might mind, its lifespan can be difficult to predict. Fortunately, there are ways to accurately diagnose your condition. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjGCpDX35Bs Let your chain wear too much and your ability to change gears will suffer, along with the condition of the chain, cassette and race wheels. However, replace it before it degrades too much and you will prolong the life of other components in the transmission. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the chain when the roller clearance has increased (due to wear) by 0.75%. Checking Your Bike Chain For Wear And Stretch

1. Check your chain with a chain checker

Various tools are available to measure chain wear; from manifold gauges to digital calipers and easy-to-install models. They all do the same job of measuring roller wear between a short track Easy to use, you just need to insert them between a defined number of links. Inner samples will fit on one side, if the second end also fits this usually shows 0.75% or 1% wear; it will be marked on the instrument, while more complex gauges may require you to zoom in on them for more accurate readings. 2. Check for wear without tools

A Comfortable Pedaling Cadence and Gearing One of the benefits of gear bikes is that they allow riders to maintain a comfortable cadence (revolutions per minute (RPM) of the pedals) over a variety of terrain. Variable speed makes pedaling on mixed terrain easier and maximizes the rider's power. If your bike is at high speed, you won't be pedaling very fast, but the force you apply with each push will be great. On the contrary, if you change to a low gear, it will be much easier to turn the crank but you will "spin" the pedal much faster. The goal is to find the happy medium, the balance between power and speed that keeps you going mile after mile. Depending on your physiology and preferences, you can use a higher or lower ratio than others. Some cyclists prefer a lower cadence (between 75 and 80 rpm) while others rev faster with lower gears. You should find the equipment that suits you best. However, it is generally accepted that shooting at higher tempos is more sustainable over long-term efforts. Higher cadences allow for faster recovery and less damage to the muscles. Pedaling at lower speeds with more force puts unnecessary strain on your knees and back. So how do you determine your cycling speed? You could count your pedal strokes against a stopwatch and extrapolate from there, but luckily there's another way. Most cycling computers and GPS computers allow you to measure RPM by attaching a magnet to one of the cranks or using an accelerometer to calculate the RPM for you. Tip: About Pedaling Cadence and Gearing An experienced cyclist will eventually be able to understand how fast they cycle, but a cycling computer's cadence feature is especially useful for beginners. How fast should you pedal? The range of 75 to 110 rpm is generally considered a safe range. If you drop below 60, your performance will decrease significantly and you're at greater risk of injury. Pedaling above 130 also reduces your efficiency and can also cause you to bounce on the seat as you pedal. Many athletes often climb mountains at a speed of about 100 rpm, which is relatively high. As you cycle, you'll find a pace that's right for you. The most important thing is to maintain consistency. This means shifting to a lower gear when things get tough, and vice versa for an easier downshift. Firing at 80-100 rpm will maximize the efficiency of your body's incredible motor and keep you sitting still for long periods of time! HOLIDAY SALE Up to 40% Make the day special with our collection of discounted products. Shop Holiday Sales

Our favorite Female Pros Share Their Secret Tips

Women have been facing this question for decades: How do I pee in shorts without completely undressing? Men have it easier… well, you know. But we women don't have fancy outerwear, and so our spandex has to separate to avoid getting soggy while riding. A brief survey of some outspoken women advocates garnered serious opinions, as did an open-ended question for our readers. Surprisingly, most of the experts said their method for peeing on the bike is to stop, drop off, and start again. They mention zip-up jerseys with surprising frequency. Others swear by the back and forth method: by pulling one leg of your shorts up as high as possible, then moving the chamois to the side. And some riders discussed the complications of simply “letting go” while riding. Don't try this on your trip to the store. Here are some more pee tips from some of our favorite racers. Jade Wilcoxson  Of Optum Pro Cycling explains: “I'm outdated. I pulled down my shorts and peed like a lady. I know other women lash out too. I haven't tried that yet; I think my thighs are too big for that. I saw a girl put a bottle in her shorts, pee in it, then take it back to her team car to dispose of it. It's fun and effective. “I never peed on my bike, I always stopped, even during races,” said Lyne Besette, a former Canadian Olympic road cyclist now living in the United States. "Women's races aren't long enough to have to pee unless I'm chatting! And that means the race is so slow and you have time to think about it. Wear a zip-up shirt pull, stop, pee, put it on in less than a minute…” This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in other formats, or you may find more information, at their web site. Helen Wyman, a British cyclocrosser racing for Kona

How To Clean Your bike Chain And Drivetrain In 5 Minutes Your bicycle is a collection of moving parts. When exposed to mud, dirt and debris, these parts begin to degrade. Routine maintenance (monthly, weekly or more often depending on your driving style) is important. If you spend a lot of time cycling in wet and muddy conditions, or if you cycle hard, fast, and often, plan on cleaning your bike more often. If you touch the chain with your finger and it turns black and greasy, that's a sure sign that it needs cleaning and lubrication. Another sign is that the chain's noise is too loud when pedaling. Keeping your bike components properly cleaned and lubricated is crucial for good performance. Lubrication protects moving parts from excessive wear due to friction, prevents them from "freezing" and helps prevent rust and corrosion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8T2TzQ0ChM&t=343s However, be careful. Excessive lubrication can cause poor performance and component damage (excess lubricant will attract dirt and other abrasive particles). As a general rule, excess lubricant should always be wiped off before using the bike.

Advice: When lubricating multiple parts at once, remember the order in which to apply the lubricant. Wiping off excess lubricant in the same order will give the lubricant time to soak in. Step 1: Chain cleaning device goes to work  Start by pouring the specified amount of degreaser into the chain cleaner and attach it to the bottom part of the chain - roughly between the bottom jockey wheel and the chain. Once attached, hold it in place and turn the cranks backwards to get the chain through the unit. Count about 30 to 40 pedals. Check out the string to see what it looks like. Keep spinning the pedals more if the chain is really dirty and needs more cleaning. Consider adding a more degreaser to your chain cleaner if the stain is really stubborn. Step 2: Brush your teeth (and jockey wheels)

Use a degreaser and stiff brush to scrub and stir the dirt throughout the drivetrain, paying special attention to all the cassette sprockets, rear mechanism, race wheels and chain teeth - basically is anything that moves. Use a regular bicycle dirt/cleaning spray (not a degreaser - please note the difference here! Degreaser is intended to remove oil/grease from the chain - spray bottle) Regular bike cleaners are only meant to help remove dirt/gravel from the road. These won't help with an effective cleaning. a chain) can also help with the exterior at this stage. Step 3: Rinse and rinse again  Once everything is scrubbed thoroughly, it will no doubt look a complete mess. But worry not! Now is the time to flush it all away, using hot soapy water, and the sponge, to help disperse the grime. This is a really important step. Make sure you thoroughly wipe and flush the chain and all other components with the hot soapy water. A hosepipe can also be used at this stage it makes life easier

Once everything is thoroughly cleaned up, it will inevitably look like a mess. But don't worry! Now it's time to rinse everything, using warm soapy water and a sponge to help dislodge the dirt. This is a really important step. Be sure to thoroughly clean and wash the chain and all other components with warm soapy water. You can also use a garden hose at this point (if you have one, but it's not necessary), but make sure to keep the water pressure low - you don't want to force water through the bearings' washers. A final rinse with clean water is the best way to finish, again to ensure all degreaser is removed. Remember that if there is still some degreaser left, it will start working on any new chain lubricant you apply and shut off immediately. into a messy black paste (a mistake many people make). But it is not a necessity) but be aware to keep the water pressure low – you don’t want to force water past your bearing seals. One final rinse with clean water is the best way to end, again to make certain all the degreaser is flushed away – bear in mind if there is degreaser still left behind, it will start to act upon any new chain lube you apply and immediately turn it to a messy black goo (a mistake many often make). Step 4: Dry then reapply lube

The question of whether you should use wet or dry lube really comes down to the conditions you are riding in whether on a mountain bike or a gravel bike. A dry lube, not surprisingly is better for dry conditions, it won't attract dirt or dust but it often doesn't last as long as more durable wet lubes. Dry the chain thoroughly - a good starting point is to spin the cranks quickly to effectively 'push' the water out of the links. Here, a fine microfiber cloth is most effective. An old t-shirt is fine, but not as good. If it's hot outside, it's not a bad idea to let the car sit in the sun for a while to dry naturally. Once you are satisfied, everything will be clean and dry if you apply new chain lubricant. Don't apply too much - a common mistake - it's best to apply sparingly and often. Regularly cleaning your chain and always refilling it with fresh lubricant will ensure a long service life, saving you some money. If you clean the chain after a few rides (and after each wet/dirty ride), it will cost you relatively little effort. If you let it accumulate piles of dirt and clutter, it will be much harder to clean and may never be completely free of dirt. Look at it like this: If you do not clean your teeth regularly, you will soon encounter dental problems. The same goes for dirty gearboxes. They don't last long and fixing them will cost you a lot of money. All of this can be avoided with a simple five-minute cleaning. Pro mechanic tips-How To Clean Your Bike Chain And Drivetrain In 5 Minutes

Dry lubricants are specifically designed for use in drier conditions and consist of 10% lubricant made up of synthetic oils and additives. The remaining 90% is carrier fluid. Some companies also refer to wax-based lubricants as dry lubricants.

Pedaling, shifting, and the rough road you travel on your bike will gradually wear down your bike's chain and sprocket. The chain stretches and so the shape of the teeth of your cassette gear changes, so that they become sharper and the planes between them larger.

The health benefits of cycling for women are fantastic. Since being quarantined or detained, we have been paying a lot of attention to our health and diet. The Health Benefits Of Cycling For Women, from controlling what we eat to finding ways to achieve our fitness goals, many of us have made drastic lifestyle changes. We tried many different home workouts, exercise regimens, and exercise routines to see what worked best for our bodies mentally and physically. While you're at it, did you know that something as simple as cycling can be very beneficial for you? Given the current situation, it is recommended to stay at home as much as possible. But if your residence and surrounding area are not restricted or if there are no travel restrictions, you can start cycling if you haven't already! Cycling has many benefits, especially for women who not only want to look good but also feel comfortable. Before we begin, know that you should always cover your mouth and nose with a mask whenever you go out and maintain social distancing. Yes, even when you're cycling. Also, take breaks, hydrate between sets, and don't ride for more than 15 to 30 minutes. - It is beneficial for your heart. Cycling is a great way to maintain cardiovascular health. This may reduce the risk of heart disease. This helps improve blood circulation. Once you reach a specific heart rate and control your breathing, cycling works your entire body. It helps you reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Your bike chain is the most demanding part of the entire assembly process. Even pedaling at a slower speed creates more metal-to-metal contact between the chain itself and all other parts of the drivetrain.

A chain in need of repair can make riding a bike more difficult than ever. There are many lubricants on the market designed specifically for bicycle chains, as well as many unique alternatives. So what can you use to lubricate your bike chain? You can use bike-specific lubricants (i.e. dry, wet, ceramic and wax) and substitutes like motor oil, silicone spray, and 3-in-1 oil. It is important to understand which lubricant will best suit your needs, its pros and cons. We'll dig deeper into what you can use, what you can't, and why. Why is it necessary to lubricate the bicycle chain? Bicycle chains should be lubricated regularly as this helps to protect them from rust and reduce friction. Abrasion makes the chain more likely to break. Therefore, taking good care of the chain not only ensures the top performance of your bike, but also ensures that the chain won't break or break. Lubricants protect the chain from the effects of the environment. Mud and sand can increase friction on the chain, while rain, snow, salty air, or any form of moisture can accelerate the rusting process. The Best Ways to Lubricate Your Bike Chain You can re-lubricate your chain by following easy-to-understand steps. After choosing a lubricant based on your needs, you'll follow these five steps to ensure your chain is properly lubricated.

Applying Degreaser To Clean the Chain You need to clean the chain properly first before you can re-lubricate the chain. Using soap and water won't help as it won't clean the chain as thoroughly as it should. This is where the degreaser becomes vital to the job. This will ensure that all debris, dirt, and old grease are completely removed from the chain. Slowly apply the degreaser while pedaling in the opposite direction, making sure the chain is properly coated. Removing the Grease From Your Chain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3-uxYMqidE&t=76s Let the degreaser sit on the chain for a while. This will allow it to penetrate enough and easily remove grease from the chain. After soaking, run the chain cloth or sponge over the chain to remove all the grease. Remove any Excess Degreaser From the Chain Then you need to remove excess degreaser by rinsing thoroughly with warm water. The easiest way to do this is to soak a paper towel in warm water and run the rope through the paper towel. Any excess degreaser will break down the newly added lubricant, which means the chain will not be lubricated enough. Applying the New Lubricant to Your Chain Once you've given the chain enough time to dry completely, it's time to apply new lubricant. Apply a steady amount of lubricant to the chain while reversing slowly. Make sure the leash is evenly covered and that there are any omissions. The best way is to smear it on the upper part of the lower part of the string. You can run your finger over the chain to check if all the links are fully saturated. Remove the Excess Lubricant from the Chain Allow the lubricant to coat the chain appropriately and let it sit for a minute or two. You should then gently wipe off excess lubricant on the chain with a new rag. Let the lubricant coat the chain appropriately and let it sit for a minute or two. You should then gently wipe excess lubricant off the chain with a new rag.  Types of Bike-Specific Lubricants You Can Use on Your Chain There are many types of bike-specific lubricants on the market, each with their own pros, cons, and specified uses that we'll cover. Different types include dry, wet, wax, and ceramic lubricants. Most lubricants contain synthetic oils as well as friction-reducing additives, such as Teflon. They also contain a carrier liquid that evaporates after the lubricant is applied. Lately, wax-based lubricants have become increasingly popular among more performance-oriented cyclists. Don't just think about price when choosing which lubricant to buy, because a cheaper but poor quality lubricant can cost you more in the long run due to its below-average performance. Types of Chain Lubricants Let's now talk about the different types of lubricants manufactured for use on bicycle chains and all their pros and cons, as well as the specific conditions under which they are designed. Dry Chain Lube Dry lubricants are specifically designed for use in drier conditions and consist of 10% lubricant made up of synthetic oils and additives. The remaining 90% is carrier fluid. Some companies also refer to wax-based lubricants as dry lubricants. Dry lubricants offer much greater efficiency with significantly reduced friction and much less debris grip. This is because the oil has a low viscosity. The downside of dry lubricants is that they can be easily washed away by water, rain or puddles. Some experts argue that dry lubricants are ineffective because they contain very little of the actual lubricant. About Dry Lube Wet Chain Lube Wet lubricants are designed for use in wetter conditions and year round. This lubricant has a much higher ratio of lubricant and viscosity. The greater thickness means the lubricant will have a much longer life and is less likely to be washed away by water or rain. The added benefits of this type of lubricant can also cause problems. Higher lubricant content means more dirt will be attracted, especially if applied too much. Higher viscosity will also reduce chain performance, mainly due to viscous drag. The chain needs to be cleaned regularly, as when wet lubricant deposits debris on it, it can cause the chain to wear out. About Wet Lube Ceramic Chain Lube Ceramic lubricants are a new addition to the lubricant market. They made claims of superior performance but much higher prices. Wet and dry ceramic lubricants are available. They are said to contain small ceramic particles that reduce friction more than the synthetic oils found in standard lubricants. The higher price of ceramic lubricants can be overlooked due to reduced friction and increased performance which increases transmission life. The increased durability reduces long-term costs due to less damage to the gearbox. About Ceramic Lube Wax Chain lube Lubricants have become popular in recent years among cyclists. This lubricant is paraffin wax based and has shown remarkable results in terms of increased performance, longer service life and much higher resistance to contamination. Wax lubricants are made from highly refined paraffin wax particles with additives such as Teflon and carrier fluid. For the lubricant to work properly, the wax must fully settle and form a hard, dry, frictionless coating over the entire chain. The dryness of the lubricant ensures that frictional contaminants are less likely to stick to the chain and damage the chain or transmission. Summary of all the different types of lubricants and the benefits of each: TypeBenefitsDry lubeSpecially designed for use in drier conditions and offer much greater efficiency with significantly reduced friction and they capture much less debris.Wet lubeDesigned for use in wet conditions year-round and the higher viscosity means the lubricant will have a much longer life.Ceramic lubeWet and dry ceramic lubricants are available. They are said to contain small ceramic particles that reduce friction more than the synthetic oils found in standard lubricants.Wax lubeThis lubricant is paraffin wax based and has shown excellent results in increased performance, longer service life and much higher resistance to contamination. Advantages of lubricating oils and Waxs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXJZ0WOr3SE Alternative Chain Lubes You Can Use While chain lubricants are the ideal tool to use on your chain and provide the best results, you may be looking for a cheaper solution or need a quick fix. Grease The use of household grease is every day when it comes to brake replacement or changing gear cables. Grease can be a temporary fix but lacks the properties necessary for a long-term solution. Grease can maintain its thick viscosity even at very high temperatures, so it cannot correctly coat all the small parts of the chain. Grease is incredibly sticky, making it a magnet for dirt and debris, and a thick and abrasive paste forms. The paste can extensively damage and speed up the breakdown of your chain. A damaged chain will end up wearing out your cogs and cassette. Grease is also tough to remove from the chain when changing lube.

Grease is a magnet for dirt and debris on your bike chain Engine Oil Engine oil, like most alternatives, can work in a pinch. It is designed to operate at much higher temperatures and speeds than those found on bikes. It will remain thick at the rates of your bike, making it difficult for the viscous oil to reach all the parts of the chain, and it will take longer to coat the chain. As it is thicker and stickier, it will gather up more dust and grime than regular bike chain lubricant. If you used it for an extended period, it would become dirtier, causing wear and tear on your chain.

Engine oil will gather up more dust and grime than regular bike chain lube Cleaning motor oil from your bike chain is also challenging because it is resistant to more moderate degreasers. You’ll need to use something more powerful to remove the motor oil from your bike chain. Sewing Machine Oil Since sewing machines contain tiny yet fast-moving components, the oil’s viscosity is relatively thin. It must be reapplied every eight hours of stitching. You would have to constantly apply oil to the chain due to its low staying power. Sewing machines are also used in a reasonably regulated atmosphere, with moderate temperatures and little dirt. Therefore, sewing machine oil isn’t designed to protect against the dirt and extremes a bike would encounter on the road. 3 in 1 Oil One of the top alternatives to bike chain lubricant is 3 in 1 oil. 3 in 1 oil is mineral oil, which implies it is derived from petroleum. It was designed to strike a balance between performance and protection. In other words, when used as a chain lubricant, this oil will preserve your drive train from wear and tear while also reducing friction, which loses energy. Silicone Spray Silicone has several advantages, including retaining its greasiness even at high temperatures, the inability to react to most chemicals, the inability to rust, and low friction. Silicone spray is fantastic because of its aerosol nature, which allows it to go into all kinds of tiny nooks and crannies, making it ideal for getting into the little portions of a bike chain. The disadvantage of silicone spray is that it is readily removed.

Building a bicycle with fixed gears is a relatively easy process due to the very simple fixed gear design. You can build a fixie from basic bike parts or convert another type of bike into a fixed gear bike pretty easily. Here are the basic materials you need to build a stationary gear bike.

The Bike Frame Various types of bicycle frames can be used to build a fixed gear bike. You can use a road bike, mountain bike, or mountain bike frame, as long as the frame has horizontal slides that are slots on the frame that receive the rear wheel axle. These slots are located side by side, allowing the shaft to be moved to tension the chain. This is important for the normal operation of a fixed gear bike. The horizontal drop points are an important factor because otherwise it would be very difficult to build the fixture and get the line working correctly.