I should have started using Marathon PLUS (37mm thick) tyres earlier. I first used the RUMA standard. This tyre was not very good. I had about 4 punctures in 2020. Since 2022 I use the Schwalbe Marathon PLUS. Since then I had no more punctures.
100%. I never ride without them -- even in broad daylight - flashers front and rear. I like walking and talking and anything to pull a driver's attention away from their texting, DVD player or out of the back seat of their "self driving" Tesla is a plus.
Absolutely. I used to work nights and when I rode 5:43 to and from work, it was often dark. Lights made my ride a lot safer and good lights can be had for not a lot of cash.
Workstand was my holy grail of bike life. I was always working with my bike leaned against something, upside down, sideways on the ground, my life got so much easier once I had the stand. I don't know why I didn't think I needed it either, I'm usually game for tool buying. Dumb.
I am 39 year old here and didn't cycle for the last 25 years and the last one was a MTB, so last year when decided to finally buy my now beloved Tarmac I precisely dedicated hours literally "tons" of hours of taking notes from you guys starting with the clothing, tools, bike stand and maintenance videos and it has done this 25 year absence totally painless and saved me also lots of money. I followed the wise men tips and never regret it. You guys totally rock!!
Totally agree on trainers. Started out on a solid Kurt Kinectic fluid and then a Tacx Flow smart. Best additions that helped me keep spinning during the winter days when it's too cold, icy or wet outside.
They're such a useful training tool! Plus when we have over a hundred documentaries on GCN+, you're never short of content to keep you entertained on the turbo! 👉 plus.globalcyclingnetwork.com/films
Track pump was the game changer for me! Mainly because it's so much easier to keep tyres at the right pressure (so probably saved a number of punctures too) £25 with a discount over ten years ago, and the ability to replace bits rather than the whole pump (via LBS) has saved a chunk of plastic and metal from landfill
Got myself a "gabba" style (perfetto ros) jacket a few months ago. Gamechanger! Something beeing so thin that can keep you warm (with just a base layer) and blocking the wind whilst still wicking sweat is incredible.
Yes, totally agree. Actually, all my Gabba clothing has taken a backseat to Perfetto, the lighter Windstopper versions. Gabba only for very cold rides now. Kudos to Gore for coming up with Windstopper and Castelli for turning them into breakthrough cycling clothing! 😊
Decent bike specific clothing was a game changer for me particularly bib shorts. You don’t need to spend the earth either. Watch for sales - especially Pearl Izumi which run then at least quarterly.
For tools, you should buy cheap tools first, and then buy expensive ones, once they break, that way you only buy the expensive stuff for the tools you use a lot. For rarely used tools, the cheap ones will last quite a while
The real reason you buy better tools is so you don't mess up the expensive parts you're working on. Tools that actually precisely fit the screws, bolts, etc and are properly hardened so it lasts. Unlike working on automobiles or especially trucks, it's not like you actually break tools working on a bike. It's all about protecting your expensive alloy parts.
Nah, I like my tools. They make me happy. I have more money into tools than I have into bikes. That's my thing. The satisfaction when using the perfect tool for the job is close to none. 👌
A road bike. I started out with MTB and would drive to trailheads on weekends for rides. They were great. Did that for years. Driving, parking, riding. I still love doing that. Then when I became house poor I for years commuted on it. I installed smooth tires and then finally got into triathlon and bought ... a tri bike. Then in 2009, a Cannondale CAAD9 was for sale used and I bought that. Instant love. I have never lived in comfortable riding distance to a MTB trail but roads have always been right out my front door. Now there's no excuse (except the weather, work, family...) to not go on a ride!
My pop was an old school machinist and he taught me (along w/ many mechanics): buy the best tools you can afford. That bit of advice has served me well, from being a bike mechanic all the way to my career in engineering.
Latex tyres the best up grade I have done. Comfort and performance improvement amazing for the price. Great advice on quality tools. Cheap tools often are to use.
Good quality allen keys/hex keys that won't round out the bolts are definitely worth a few extra quid. You only really need a 4mm and 5mm for most things on a bike too
What's important to do imo: Try to reach every bolt of your bike. Sometimes multitools are too bulky. I collected hex keys from our tools drawer and put them into a small zip bag.
By far best thing I have which I would immediately replace if lost or broken is my bar end mirror. It's the Italian Bike Mirror, utterly brilliant. Yes head unit etc are essential but safety wise and convenience wise it can't be beaten.
Another thing to think about when buying tool especially hex key is cheap one can also round out the bolts you are trying to undo so may cost you more in parts and repairs than you save on the cheap tools
Started using Zwift soon after the 1st UK lockdown, had a dumb turbo trainer and opted to go for power meter pedals rather than smart trainer - still get all the benefits Zwift, RGT etc but also get power meter on my IRL rides
I agree with all of this; however, I wished I would have just bought items with room to grow into. For example, when I just started cycling, I thought I would just get the cheapest bike computer I could find. While it got the job done, I found I wanted access to more data/features as I became more experienced. This happened with my bike stand too. I bought the cheapest bike stand I could find because I didn't know what to look for/what I needed. It was only after having bought the cheap stand that I was like, I need this feature or I wish the build quality was better. TL;DR: cheapest isn't always best so give yourself room to grow into the hobby/sport.
Clipless pedals! I had a great deal of trepidation about them. It felt like I had accomplished a moonshot when I finally tried them. That was nearly thirty years ago. Other technologies I was slow to adopt include a cycling gps computer, disc brakes, electronic shifting, and a smart trainer and Zwift Subscription. I have not yet made the transition to tubeless tires.
I think the most important one in this list is tools. Quality tools are always best. I have some tools that I owned since the early 80's and they are far better than many of the newer tools being built now. I also inherited some tools from my grandfather that he used over his 60+ years as a car mechanic starting in the 1920's.
Agree with all of your comments, but haven’t succumbed to a smart trainer yet, as for the last 20 yrs or so I’ve relied on commuting for my training. I’ve invested in excellent lights, and although expensive, give me confidence when riding. I’ve heard of too many stories where cyclists have been hit by motorists! I think the gilet comment is very true. When I started road cycling in the 80’s, there were such things as a wind proof jacket and a thermal jacket….oh how clothing technology has moved on. I too was initially sceptical about the cost of a wind gilet, and then a thicker/more insulated gilet. Well, they are some of my favourite bits of clothing. Especially the wind gilet as they are remarkably effective at keeping you a few degrees warmer and scrunch up into almost nothing, to fit in your rear pocket if necessary. 👍🏻
You’re on a roll with these videos Alex - thanks. And spot on with the wish list. I started off in T-shirt and shorts, then padded shorts but when I bit the bullet and went for bib shorts and jersey it was a night and day change. My next steps were track pump, bike work stand and multi tool for maintenance, clipless pedals and shoes and head unit. Add a saddle bag and I’d say you’re a well prepared cyclist. I’ll look at tyres when my current ones wear.
@@gcntech that got me thinking - I’d say invest in a good helmet. I had a Specialized Align and upgraded to a Giro helmet with more ventilation. Much lighter and cooler.
You seriously do not need cycling-specific clothing unless you want it, or you’re racing. The chamois adds minimal improvement at best in comfort. A good pair of shorts of any fabric is fine. I am partial yo denim or khaki shorts as the thicker middle seam adds more comfort than foam, at least for me. Cycling jerseys, not really for the same reasons. You can find a good t-shirt made from wicking breathable material for a fraction of the cost. Special socks? No. I use calf length compression socks. Helps in recovery. Gloves, yes. Helmet, definitely. I don’t care how much fun the Dutch will make of you, wear one. Dutchies seem to think helmets are only for kids or weak. I invite them to go to America, UK, or even Asia like Taiwan and go sans helmet. This is just my opinion. I do not see the reason to invest in extra kit that I have to don just to go for a bike ride. But, its your life and your monies. Do what you want. Moving on…
Right there with you on the smart trainer and especially the bike stand. Was fixing my front derailleur and had it in the bike stand struggling to clean and adjust the cable tension with the cable guide under the bottom bracket. Then realized I could almost turn the bike upside down in the stand and at that moment I was blown away how much easier it was and wished I’d bought one years of not decades sooner.
All very good points from Alan. I‘d add in clipless pedals and STI levers. None of both were available for a 12yo when I started cycling as a sport. Biggest game changer more recently is the smart trainer. I don‘t want to stare at a lever that goes from 1 to 7 for the whole winter again.
@@gcntech Level 35 but not raced yet. I‘m a bit put off by the „full gas from the start“ dynamics of Zwift races. My time in a race comes after 3 hours.
Concerning bike tires: Unfortunately the Pirelli Zero Velo TT is not available in 23mm or at last in 24mm (the old version was far more vulnerable than the beloved and still used due to having bought in large numbers when available Conti Supersonic), the Grand Prix Supersonic was 140 gr in 20mm (the last version was 22mm on a 13C rim), and the (also discontinued) Tufo Calibra Lite was 152gr in 23mm. As I (and I suppose I am not the only one) still use 13C/15C rims, already 25mm is far to fat for those wheels. On my winter/summer bad wheather bike I still run my Campagnolo Shamal HPW wheels, which are pretty fast in combination with 23mm Conti 5000 (which are also dicontinued, the actual version starts at 25mm) and latex inner tubes - I (62kg/1.77m) run them with 6.25 bars in front and 6.5 bars on the rear, which is already sufficient. I started with 5.75 in front and 6 on the rear, but three weeks ago I had a snake bite on the front tire, and as if this was not bad luck enough, I also had forgotten my small bag in which I store two reserve inner tubes (Conti race lite), the tire levers and so on. As this was on my way back and just about 5km from my home, I decided to run home slowly on the flat tire, which worked quite well. Concerning indoor trainers: I still use my Tacx T1810 with magnetic brake and 10 resistance steps. It works well in combination with a MP3-player and several extended version of 80's songs, such as Blue Monday (New order), or Last Countdown (Europe). While Last Countdown, I use to do intensive intervalls (6 to 10 times up to the max heart rate and release down to 130); in case the song is finished before, I restart it quickly. I don't know whether this was already mentioned by GCN, but just until two years ago, I made the big, big mistake to train indoor without jersey, and additional had the towel around my neck like a scarf - and therefore sweated a lot more than necessary, although my indoor trainer is in the basement, where ist is noticeably cooler than in my appartment.
My cycle computer is more just GPS/mapping specific, I'm not fussed about stats on my wattage etc. but the route planning and battery life so so useful out on long rides.Glad I go it. Track pump is invaluble to maintain tyres to the correct pressure (mine is a fairly inexpensive but excellent Bontrager one that has served me well for 12 years now). I have simple Allen key tools and the like, for most simple adjustments. For servicing my bike, I use my local bike workshop. I don't mind spending money their and supporitng them as they'll always be able to maintain my bike better than me.
Talk about bike computers. Bike computers go back into the 80's. I had Avocet Model 30, 40, and 45, before I changed over to different Cateye models that would give you data like speed, time, distance, average and max speeds, and odometer. By the late 80's you had Heart rate monitors, with data that you could download, to let you know how much time you spent in every zone, that you could manually set.....Talking about pumps, in 1985, I bought a Silca track pump, and still use it in 2023 to inflate my tires.
Padded shorts, led headlight and taillight, track pump and a multitool. The rest of the stuff are just niceties that you might need if you're a competitive cyclist. I've been riding longer than any of the GCN presenters have been alive and if you're riding for enjoyment and fitness there's not much that you need. A led headlight rather than the dynamo driven incandescent one I rode with in the 80's/90's is absolute magic. If you want a dumb trainer just strap 1 of the oldschool dynamo's to your bike.
Agree on everything in the video, plus: 1. Power meter - improved my pace dramatically 2. Clipless pedals - would not ride a road bike without any sort of clipless system
One thing I wish GCN and other reviewers would make clear is that there are basically three categories of bike computer 1) mapping, which are basically smartphone type computers, with integrated memory and maps and powerful processors and displays (Wahoo, Hammerhead); 2) GPS computers which use GPS to record tracks and speed and display sensor information (old Garmins, old Polar); 3) sensor (e.g. magnet based) devices that just count distance and speed, and perhaps display cadence and heart rate (e.g. Cateye). When you understand this, you can understand the differences in price and even battery life. One of the most reliable and trouble-free models for those who only want to record distance and speed is the third type. No batteries to charge, accurate and can easily last for over a decade, perhaps even more. Because there are so many good smartphone applications to direct you, and even record your ride to Strava, the first type of expensive computer may be unnecessary, especially if you often ride in an area you are already familiar with. However, if you travel internationally a lot and ride in new places, then it may be helpful, especially if you like to have maps on the head unit.
I'm lucky that when I started a few years ago the budget options (not the cheapest Amazon bits) are pretty decent. You can get a good quality basic jersey and shorts for around £30 to £40 each. They aren't as exotic as the high end stuff but are functionally suitable for the job.
Sign up to something like Kinomap and ride routes anywhere in the world on your smart trainer. Just add in a GoPro and GPS unit and then you can film and upload your own rides to repeat during poor weather.
For tools, I learned long ago that buying cheap is buying twice - at least twice, that is. Twice for tools, and twice for whatever you wanted to use them on. (Luckily, it was mostly only IKEA furniture I ruined during my university days in my case… and not my Koga Miyata…) Since then, I only use industrial-quality-level tools, like Würth or HM Müller and similar. They may cost a bit more, but they outlast anything else, and once you learn how to use a torx or hex wrench correctly, it is nearly impossible to destroy something by accident - unless you still don’t know what a torque wrench is for. For cycling specific tools, I go the same route, like for Park Tool and some others. Depends on what is available when I need to order something new, I don’t really have specific preferences for these.
Glad to see you pushing Pirelli tires over Conti....I'm so done with worrying about crushing the lip of the rim with tire levers to get a Conti installed. Pirelli goes on like butter on hot toast.
The one thing I wish I’d got earlier is a radar back light. I live in a city and you don’t know how useful it is until you try it. I would literally not go back ever to not having one unless ai moved to the middle of nowhere. I use a Garmin Varia 510 and don’t see how the newer ones add much. It already connects wirelessly to a head unit and beeps/lights up to show cars. There is a maker other than Garmin too who is cheaper/newer. Actual light is apparently quite good too. Blinks quicker if a car approaches. Works on relative speed so if a car travels at your speed it won’t see it, but then if a car is going that slowly it’s relatively safe anyway.
Oh and a torque wrench that does both directions. Those normal ones often only do clockwise; which is useless for things that thread in reverse. I literally have a pointless clockwise only torque wrench that I never use because my anti-clockwise one also does clockwise.
I'm curious about the radar, because I've never been surprised by a car approaching me from behind. I've been surprised by how close some a**holes will pass me, but not by their presence. What does the radar do for you that your ears don't?
@@dreimer2112 especially useful in a headwind when it's noisy a Varia will alert you to cars coming from a long way, once tried you feel naked without it, game changer for riding solo
Solid collection of recommendations, Alex! After having just finished a 7-day cycling vacation on roads that on occasion had more than its share of car traffic, I would have to put my Garmin Varia radar/tail light unit at the top of my list. None of the other delicious items you mentioned really matter if you're dead. 😳
A decent pump is practical for on the road. . i have a stand pump at home and use a C02 and normal Mini Pump when out on the road. . better safe than sorry
Now my dreams are bigger. One day I might be able to attain these nice gadgets. I agree with this video when you said purchase the quality stuff for better results. Next on my list is a power meter and head unit. Cheers
This might be triggering for the bike snobs but I just bought a bike work stand from Lidl. I wasn’t expecting it to be that good for the price paid but it is really strong and does everything I need it to do.
The trouble of it is with bike computers is the distance that you can set them up. I own a couple Tadpos Trikes, my favorite is the Catrike Dumont and with winter months I have a setup roller system that I ride in the house and wanting to record my ride but these bike computers have to be within about 32 inches which is 12 to 18 inches to short.
i never understood why people would spend so much money on cycling specific clothign but ever since i bought my first bib shorts and shirt, I never went back. It really changes the whole experience.
Great point! It can seem daunting at first but all makes sense in the end! There are now some great options for those looking to wear baggier clothing! 🙌
Great video. New to tubeless and upgraded my bike last year. My nice new bike has been over wintering for the spring. Should I change/ refresh my sealant in the spring?
Workstand... can be more or less a cheaper one if quality is ok and supported weight is for all your bike. I have one and it changed everything for me.
sorry but regarding clothing i am not wearing one of those t-shirt bra's that Olli showed us..no way. yeah an upgrade in tyres is one of those upgrades that is really worthwhile, even if your bike isn't the dogs bollox a good set of tyres make all the difference, it suprised me how much of a difference they make,
Ive bought a garmin bike computer loads of times and each time sell it. The maps cant be read while youre riding, its another thing that can get stolen off a locked bike and youll have your phone anyway. Oh and it breaks first when you crash
Cameras: Go Pro on the front and Cycliq in the rear. Go Pro helped me get a driver cited when he almost hit me in an intersection when I had the green light. Fortunately, I don't TRUST any driver on the road. I got his plate ID, turned it into the local police department and he was cited for running the red light. Plus, I posted my video to FaceBook.
A good track pump will cost you €50 and will last a lifetime. Buy a model like SKS that’s in production for 50 years or so, parts will be available forever. Quality t-shaped allen keys can be bought cheap at any hardware store. For hobby use you will never ever wear them out. Spend what you save on specific cable cutters or other bike-only tools. On a bike stand I don’t agree. Stands go for €200 and hanging your bike from the ceiling is a €5 solution if you have a shed or garage.
Are jerseys really that necessary for casual riders? I am never going fast enough for the aero gains to matter and I wear sports shirts that wick away the sweat. Am I missing something so beneficial as to change the way I feel when riding?
The cut is more comfortable when in a cycling position, both around the shoulders and at the waist (longer in back than in front). And they tend to have convenient pockets on the lower back. If neither of these matter to you, then there's no reason not to stick with what you're doing.
Tire pressure you have to head out for swiss cycling they made tests what the best tire pressure is for minimal resistance. Because to much pressure can increase your resistsnce again.
I still don't understand bib shorts. I have worn pearl izumi shorts since I started riding, and they have never once moved or fallen down. I did try one set of bib shorts and they just annoyed me. Regular biking shorts also make the infrequent required restroom break much easier at the side of the road
I used to find regular shorts dug into my waist and were uncomfortable after a while. And since I now have a colostomy bag the elasticated waist of regular shorts would interfere with it - bib shorts are brilliant for these.
If you're in need of some entertainment whilst on Zwift, you could always watch some of our films we have on GCN+! 👉 plus.globalcyclingnetwork.com/films
Well I think I ticked most of the boxes I have access to high quality tools due to my dad and my grandpa they are older but still working great, my cycling kit is good, I own a head unit (wahoo element roam) and I just ordered new tyres for my road bike no smart trainer tho
Gore tax Shakedry still the best piece of cycling clothing that I simply cannot do without. A proper game changer! Expensive but the best investment I’ve made!
Having toured France for several weeks I VERY quickly found that many route finding apps were completely squit with brass knobs on. Triple squit or worse. Utterly useless. I wanted to ride on quiet roads, not sandy or rocky farm tracks or worse, not dual carriageways with enormous lorries passing very close at high speed ... After 2 or 3 hideous days, and having planned what I thought was a great route before I left home, but discovered was nightmarish, I discovered the right app for me; quiet roads that allowed my thin tyres and heavily laden bike to progress without trying to kill me
Best advice I can give to any person that is mechanically adept is too invest in good tools as soon as you start earning your own money. Good quality tools are invaluable and will last a lifetime.
What other pieces of tech do you wish you'd bought sooner? 🤔 Let us know in the comments! 👇
I should have started using Marathon PLUS (37mm thick) tyres earlier.
I first used the RUMA standard. This tyre was not very good. I had about 4 punctures in 2020.
Since 2022 I use the Schwalbe Marathon PLUS. Since then I had no more punctures.
A set of waterproof cycling overshoes and waterproof gloves.
Varia taillight.. unless I’m on a MTB trail I have one on. The safety it provides by alerting you of cars and letting the cars see you is invaluable.
Clipless pedals, no need for further elaboration
Met Trenta 3K helmet lol.
A set of quality lights is a must if you like longer rides.
100%. I never ride without them -- even in broad daylight - flashers front and rear. I like walking and talking and anything to pull a driver's attention away from their texting, DVD player or out of the back seat of their "self driving" Tesla is a plus.
Absolutely. I used to work nights and when I rode 5:43 to and from work, it was often dark.
Lights made my ride a lot safer and good lights can be had for not a lot of cash.
Workstand was my holy grail of bike life. I was always working with my bike leaned against something, upside down, sideways on the ground, my life got so much easier once I had the stand. I don't know why I didn't think I needed it either, I'm usually game for tool buying. Dumb.
You'll never go back after using a god quality stand, it makes the world of difference! 🙌
Radar rear light (Garmin Varia) was a game changer for safely riding on the road.
They sponsored by wahoo anyway
if you don't want to spend the money. A barend mirror for a couple of bucks works well enough for that purpose.
Magene has a similar product for less money, works great.
sounds like unnecessary weight and money during the day time ;)
@@Timtimzi ok tadej 🤣
I am 39 year old here and didn't cycle for the last 25 years and the last one was a MTB, so last year when decided to finally buy my now beloved Tarmac I precisely dedicated hours literally "tons" of hours of taking notes from you guys starting with the clothing, tools, bike stand and maintenance videos and it has done this 25 year absence totally painless and saved me also lots of money.
I followed the wise men tips and never regret it.
You guys totally rock!!
This is super cool to hear! Glad we could help you get into cycling, do you still have the tarmac now or have you moved on? 👀
@@gcntech I do have it yes but don't get me started now I am looking forward for an S-works lol totally hooked with this 😄 😃✌️
Totally agree on trainers. Started out on a solid Kurt Kinectic fluid and then a Tacx Flow smart. Best additions that helped me keep spinning during the winter days when it's too cold, icy or wet outside.
They're such a useful training tool! Plus when we have over a hundred documentaries on GCN+, you're never short of content to keep you entertained on the turbo! 👉 plus.globalcyclingnetwork.com/films
@@gcntech If I rode while I watched all that I watch I'd look like you lot already :)
Track pump was the game changer for me! Mainly because it's so much easier to keep tyres at the right pressure (so probably saved a number of punctures too) £25 with a discount over ten years ago, and the ability to replace bits rather than the whole pump (via LBS) has saved a chunk of plastic and metal from landfill
I think mine cost me about the same, about 12 years ago. Such good value for work it does. so invaluable.
Great stuff! LBS saves the day! A proper track pump is a bit jump up from a little portable one 🙌
Got myself a "gabba" style (perfetto ros) jacket a few months ago. Gamechanger! Something beeing so thin that can keep you warm (with just a base layer) and blocking the wind whilst still wicking sweat is incredible.
GAME CHANGER! 🙌
Yes, totally agree. Actually, all my Gabba clothing has taken a backseat to Perfetto, the lighter Windstopper versions. Gabba only for very cold rides now. Kudos to Gore for coming up with Windstopper and Castelli for turning them into breakthrough cycling clothing! 😊
Decent bike specific clothing was a game changer for me particularly bib shorts. You don’t need to spend the earth either. Watch for sales - especially Pearl Izumi which run then at least quarterly.
For tools, you should buy cheap tools first, and then buy expensive ones, once they break, that way you only buy the expensive stuff for the tools you use a lot. For rarely used tools, the cheap ones will last quite a while
The real reason you buy better tools is so you don't mess up the expensive parts you're working on. Tools that actually precisely fit the screws, bolts, etc and are properly hardened so it lasts. Unlike working on automobiles or especially trucks, it's not like you actually break tools working on a bike. It's all about protecting your expensive alloy parts.
@@joelhansen7373 exactly that!
@@joelhansen7373 this is a really valid point, I've never thought of it like that! Cheers!
Genius words from Adam Savage - this dude knows what’s up.
Nah, I like my tools. They make me happy. I have more money into tools than I have into bikes. That's my thing. The satisfaction when using the perfect tool for the job is close to none. 👌
A road bike. I started out with MTB and would drive to trailheads on weekends for rides. They were great. Did that for years. Driving, parking, riding. I still love doing that. Then when I became house poor I for years commuted on it. I installed smooth tires and then finally got into triathlon and bought ... a tri bike. Then in 2009, a Cannondale CAAD9 was for sale used and I bought that. Instant love. I have never lived in comfortable riding distance to a MTB trail but roads have always been right out my front door. Now there's no excuse (except the weather, work, family...) to not go on a ride!
My pop was an old school machinist and he taught me (along w/ many mechanics): buy the best tools you can afford. That bit of advice has served me well, from being a bike mechanic all the way to my career in engineering.
Latex tyres the best up grade I have done. Comfort and performance improvement amazing for the price. Great advice on quality tools. Cheap tools often are to use.
Good quality allen keys/hex keys that won't round out the bolts are definitely worth a few extra quid. You only really need a 4mm and 5mm for most things on a bike too
Great point! It's also worth looking at the bolts that are used, you can always swap them out to something a little more solid! 🙌
What's important to do imo:
Try to reach every bolt of your bike. Sometimes multitools are too bulky.
I collected hex keys from our tools drawer and put them into a small zip bag.
9:00 I never tire of seeing the clip of Ollie touch-typing at 150wpm on his laptop. It's great!
By far best thing I have which I would immediately replace if lost or broken is my bar end mirror. It's the Italian Bike Mirror, utterly brilliant. Yes head unit etc are essential but safety wise and convenience wise it can't be beaten.
Another thing to think about when buying tool especially hex key is cheap one can also round out the bolts you are trying to undo so may cost you more in parts and repairs than you save on the cheap tools
Started using Zwift soon after the 1st UK lockdown, had a dumb turbo trainer and opted to go for power meter pedals rather than smart trainer - still get all the benefits Zwift, RGT etc but also get power meter on my IRL rides
For me the best bit of kit has been a bike bag for top tube to hold all things i need for a ride. No more sore shoulders from carrying a backpack.
I agree with all of this; however, I wished I would have just bought items with room to grow into. For example, when I just started cycling, I thought I would just get the cheapest bike computer I could find. While it got the job done, I found I wanted access to more data/features as I became more experienced. This happened with my bike stand too. I bought the cheapest bike stand I could find because I didn't know what to look for/what I needed. It was only after having bought the cheap stand that I was like, I need this feature or I wish the build quality was better.
TL;DR: cheapest isn't always best so give yourself room to grow into the hobby/sport.
Clipless pedals! I had a great deal of trepidation about them. It felt like I had accomplished a moonshot when I finally tried them. That was nearly thirty years ago. Other technologies I was slow to adopt include a cycling gps computer, disc brakes, electronic shifting, and a smart trainer and Zwift Subscription. I have not yet made the transition to tubeless tires.
Once you start using clipless its hard to imagine riding without them!
I think the most important one in this list is tools. Quality tools are always best. I have some tools that I owned since the early 80's and they are far better than many of the newer tools being built now. I also inherited some tools from my grandfather that he used over his 60+ years as a car mechanic starting in the 1920's.
I highly recommend Park tools. I've bought several tools from them and I can tell they will last my entire life +.
Really GOOD & correct fitting Cycling Shoes !
Great point! Did you get a fit or just work out for yourself?
Agree with all of your comments, but haven’t succumbed to a smart trainer yet, as for the last 20 yrs or so I’ve relied on commuting for my training. I’ve invested in excellent lights, and although expensive, give me confidence when riding. I’ve heard of too many stories where cyclists have been hit by motorists!
I think the gilet comment is very true. When I started road cycling in the 80’s, there were such things as a wind proof jacket and a thermal jacket….oh how clothing technology has moved on. I too was initially sceptical about the cost of a wind gilet, and then a thicker/more insulated gilet. Well, they are some of my favourite bits of clothing. Especially the wind gilet as they are remarkably effective at keeping you a few degrees warmer and scrunch up into almost nothing, to fit in your rear pocket if necessary. 👍🏻
You’re on a roll with these videos Alex - thanks. And spot on with the wish list. I started off in T-shirt and shorts, then padded shorts but when I bit the bullet and went for bib shorts and jersey it was a night and day change. My next steps were track pump, bike work stand and multi tool for maintenance, clipless pedals and shoes and head unit. Add a saddle bag and I’d say you’re a well prepared cyclist. I’ll look at tyres when my current ones wear.
Great stuff John! Great to hear that you have invested in your cycling, you won't regret it!!! What's the one tip you would give to new riders?
@@gcntech that got me thinking - I’d say invest in a good helmet. I had a Specialized Align and upgraded to a Giro helmet with more ventilation. Much lighter and cooler.
You seriously do not need cycling-specific clothing unless you want it, or you’re racing. The chamois adds minimal improvement at best in comfort. A good pair of shorts of any fabric is fine. I am partial yo denim or khaki shorts as the thicker middle seam adds more comfort than foam, at least for me.
Cycling jerseys, not really for the same reasons. You can find a good t-shirt made from wicking breathable material for a fraction of the cost.
Special socks? No. I use calf length compression socks. Helps in recovery.
Gloves, yes. Helmet, definitely. I don’t care how much fun the Dutch will make of you, wear one. Dutchies seem to think helmets are only for kids or weak. I invite them to go to America, UK, or even Asia like Taiwan and go sans helmet.
This is just my opinion. I do not see the reason to invest in extra kit that I have to don just to go for a bike ride. But, its your life and your monies. Do what you want.
Moving on…
Right there with you on the smart trainer and especially the bike stand. Was fixing my front derailleur and had it in the bike stand struggling to clean and adjust the cable tension with the cable guide under the bottom bracket. Then realized I could almost turn the bike upside down in the stand and at that moment I was blown away how much easier it was and wished I’d bought one years of not decades sooner.
Bike stand for the win! It's a great bit of kit 🙌
All very good points from Alan. I‘d add in clipless pedals and STI levers. None of both were available for a 12yo when I started cycling as a sport. Biggest game changer more recently is the smart trainer. I don‘t want to stare at a lever that goes from 1 to 7 for the whole winter again.
Hahaha smart trainers are the future! Have you been on Zwift? A good Zwift race is a great way to keep training fresh 🙌
@@gcntech Level 35 but not raced yet. I‘m a bit put off by the „full gas from the start“ dynamics of Zwift races. My time in a race comes after 3 hours.
@@chrisridesbicycles Give it a try, you can always exit if you are not feeling it! They tend to settle down after the initial sprint for position 👀
@@gcntech Maybe if the weather turns bad again. Much too nice at the moment. And of course it‘s We Ride Flanders next week before.
I cannot believe high quality road shoes didn't make the list. Indoor smart trainer is a game changer.
Concerning bike tires: Unfortunately the Pirelli Zero Velo TT is not available in 23mm or at last in 24mm (the old version was far more vulnerable than the beloved and still used due to having bought in large numbers when available Conti Supersonic), the Grand Prix Supersonic was 140 gr in 20mm (the last version was 22mm on a 13C rim), and the (also discontinued) Tufo Calibra Lite was 152gr in 23mm. As I (and I suppose I am not the only one) still use 13C/15C rims, already 25mm is far to fat for those wheels. On my winter/summer bad wheather bike I still run my Campagnolo Shamal HPW wheels, which are pretty fast in combination with 23mm Conti 5000 (which are also dicontinued, the actual version starts at 25mm) and latex inner tubes - I (62kg/1.77m) run them with 6.25 bars in front and 6.5 bars on the rear, which is already sufficient. I started with 5.75 in front and 6 on the rear, but three weeks ago I had a snake bite on the front tire, and as if this was not bad luck enough, I also had forgotten my small bag in which I store two reserve inner tubes (Conti race lite), the tire levers and so on. As this was on my way back and just about 5km from my home, I decided to run home slowly on the flat tire, which worked quite well.
Concerning indoor trainers: I still use my Tacx T1810 with magnetic brake and 10 resistance steps. It works well in combination with a MP3-player and several extended version of 80's songs, such as Blue Monday (New order), or Last Countdown (Europe). While Last Countdown, I use to do intensive intervalls (6 to 10 times up to the max heart rate and release down to 130); in case the song is finished before, I restart it quickly.
I don't know whether this was already mentioned by GCN, but just until two years ago, I made the big, big mistake to train indoor without jersey, and additional had the towel around my neck like a scarf - and therefore sweated a lot more than necessary, although my indoor trainer is in the basement, where ist is noticeably cooler than in my appartment.
My top 6: power meter, bike computer, GP5000 tires, latex tubes, carbon wheels, and hot wax chain
I can't get tyres here in the US, but I've found that tires are an acceptable substitute.😜
Is it something that tires you, not being able to find suitable tyres?
@@timwheeler8618 And that's not the only word Americans can't spell! 🙂
@@stevemawer848 😂
We'll do some testing... but that should work 😉
@@gcntech 😂
My cycle computer is more just GPS/mapping specific, I'm not fussed about stats on my wattage etc. but the route planning and battery life so so useful out on long rides.Glad I go it. Track pump is invaluble to maintain tyres to the correct pressure (mine is a fairly inexpensive but excellent Bontrager one that has served me well for 12 years now). I have simple Allen key tools and the like, for most simple adjustments. For servicing my bike, I use my local bike workshop. I don't mind spending money their and supporitng them as they'll always be able to maintain my bike better than me.
You ca't beat the local shop for those finer details! Great to see you supporting your LBS! What one tip would you give to a new cyclist?
Talk about bike computers. Bike computers go back into the 80's. I had Avocet Model 30, 40, and 45, before I changed over to different Cateye models that would give you data like speed, time, distance, average and max speeds, and odometer. By the late 80's you had Heart rate monitors, with data that you could download, to let you know how much time you spent in every zone, that you could manually set.....Talking about pumps, in 1985, I bought a Silca track pump, and still use it in 2023 to inflate my tires.
Padded shorts, led headlight and taillight, track pump and a multitool. The rest of the stuff are just niceties that you might need if you're a competitive cyclist. I've been riding longer than any of the GCN presenters have been alive and if you're riding for enjoyment and fitness there's not much that you need. A led headlight rather than the dynamo driven incandescent one I rode with in the 80's/90's is absolute magic. If you want a dumb trainer just strap 1 of the oldschool dynamo's to your bike.
Agree on everything in the video, plus:
1. Power meter - improved my pace dramatically
2. Clipless pedals - would not ride a road bike without any sort of clipless system
When I started riding a road bike I initially bought GCN fan kit because it was a good value, and still is today.
One thing I wish GCN and other reviewers would make clear is that there are basically three categories of bike computer 1) mapping, which are basically smartphone type computers, with integrated memory and maps and powerful processors and displays (Wahoo, Hammerhead); 2) GPS computers which use GPS to record tracks and speed and display sensor information (old Garmins, old Polar); 3) sensor (e.g. magnet based) devices that just count distance and speed, and perhaps display cadence and heart rate (e.g. Cateye). When you understand this, you can understand the differences in price and even battery life. One of the most reliable and trouble-free models for those who only want to record distance and speed is the third type. No batteries to charge, accurate and can easily last for over a decade, perhaps even more.
Because there are so many good smartphone applications to direct you, and even record your ride to Strava, the first type of expensive computer may be unnecessary, especially if you often ride in an area you are already familiar with. However, if you travel internationally a lot and ride in new places, then it may be helpful, especially if you like to have maps on the head unit.
3:52 --- " Buy Once, Cry Once " ...Very true for many things.
😂😂
I'm lucky that when I started a few years ago the budget options (not the cheapest Amazon bits) are pretty decent. You can get a good quality basic jersey and shorts for around £30 to £40 each. They aren't as exotic as the high end stuff but are functionally suitable for the job.
If it does the job and gets you out riding that is all that matters! 🙌
Sign up to something like Kinomap and ride routes anywhere in the world on your smart trainer. Just add in a GoPro and GPS unit and then you can film and upload your own rides to repeat during poor weather.
For tools, I learned long ago that buying cheap is buying twice - at least twice, that is. Twice for tools, and twice for whatever you wanted to use them on. (Luckily, it was mostly only IKEA furniture I ruined during my university days in my case… and not my Koga Miyata…)
Since then, I only use industrial-quality-level tools, like Würth or HM Müller and similar. They may cost a bit more, but they outlast anything else, and once you learn how to use a torx or hex wrench correctly, it is nearly impossible to destroy something by accident - unless you still don’t know what a torque wrench is for.
For cycling specific tools, I go the same route, like for Park Tool and some others. Depends on what is available when I need to order something new, I don’t really have specific preferences for these.
waterproof jacket, power meter, trainer, decent tubeless tyres, HR monitor. decent daylight lights.
Glad to see you pushing Pirelli tires over Conti....I'm so done with worrying about crushing the lip of the rim with tire levers to get a Conti installed. Pirelli goes on like butter on hot toast.
Ollie at 9:00 is hilarious!!!
The one thing I wish I’d got earlier is a radar back light. I live in a city and you don’t know how useful it is until you try it. I would literally not go back ever to not having one unless ai moved to the middle of nowhere. I use a Garmin Varia 510 and don’t see how the newer ones add much. It already connects wirelessly to a head unit and beeps/lights up to show cars. There is a maker other than Garmin too who is cheaper/newer. Actual light is apparently quite good too. Blinks quicker if a car approaches. Works on relative speed so if a car travels at your speed it won’t see it, but then if a car is going that slowly it’s relatively safe anyway.
Oh and a torque wrench that does both directions. Those normal ones often only do clockwise; which is useless for things that thread in reverse. I literally have a pointless clockwise only torque wrench that I never use because my anti-clockwise one also does clockwise.
I'm curious about the radar, because I've never been surprised by a car approaching me from behind. I've been surprised by how close some a**holes will pass me, but not by their presence. What does the radar do for you that your ears don't?
@@dreimer2112 especially useful in a headwind when it's noisy a Varia will alert you to cars coming from a long way, once tried you feel naked without it, game changer for riding solo
Great tips Fred! Easier gearing, padded shorts and cycling shoes were the first for me.
Easy gearing! That's a very sensible first upgrade... we love it!!! 🙌
Lots of Aled on GCN Tech these days - nice one Aled!
Solid collection of recommendations, Alex! After having just finished a 7-day cycling vacation on roads that on occasion had more than its share of car traffic, I would have to put my Garmin Varia radar/tail light unit at the top of my list. None of the other delicious items you mentioned really matter if you're dead. 😳
Now that I have one I can’t imagine riding without it.
Good suggestion! Safety is always key.
@@jameswitte5676 I know, James! That's exactly how I feel. 👍
@@gcntech 🔑👍☺️
hex keys that you can grind back to a clean hex (to remove rounded corners) is a must for pro mechanics.
A decent pump is practical for on the road. . i have a stand pump at home and use a C02 and normal Mini Pump when out on the road. . better safe than sorry
Cycling glasses with proper coverage for wind/dust/debris.
Got a set of continental gaskin tyres last year haven't got a puncture yet on road and off road the best tyres ever.
Castelli Gabba, yes that’s totally essential! (Named after Gabriel “Gabba” Rasch, Norwegian pro, he invented this together with Castelli)
My Gabba is by far the piece of cycling clothing I have worn most.
Now my dreams are bigger. One day I might be able to attain these nice gadgets. I agree with this video when you said purchase the quality stuff for better results. Next on my list is a power meter and head unit. Cheers
Glad you liked it! Its definitely worth building up a collection over a period of time!
Thanks AKA and crew...the realization that you don't make enough money !! Sheeeesh
8:26 The lighting scheme in Alex's pain cave is awesome. 🎉
Glad you like it!
Great info good tools are essential not just for lifetime but they won’t strip out that expensive bike and make life easier as far as maintenance
Absolutely. Its worth investing to keep down the costs in the future!
This might be triggering for the bike snobs but I just bought a bike work stand from Lidl. I wasn’t expecting it to be that good for the price paid but it is really strong and does everything I need it to do.
If it works then why not!
The trouble of it is with bike computers is the distance that you can set them up. I own a couple Tadpos Trikes, my favorite is the Catrike Dumont and with winter months I have a setup roller system that I ride in the house and wanting to record my ride but these bike computers have to be within about 32 inches which is 12 to 18 inches to short.
Smart trainer for sure.
Great video Alex:)
They're a game-change aren't they!
Who is Alex?
Garmin fenix is a must, paired with HUD glasses. Clean info always in your face.
i never understood why people would spend so much money on cycling specific clothign but ever since i bought my first bib shorts and shirt, I never went back. It really changes the whole experience.
Great point! It can seem daunting at first but all makes sense in the end! There are now some great options for those looking to wear baggier clothing! 🙌
Great video. New to tubeless and upgraded my bike last year. My nice new bike has been over wintering for the spring. Should I change/ refresh my sealant in the spring?
The cheapest aero gains are latex tubes and kit that is tight.
Bike stand...get one that's tall enough. Not "rolling around on the floor" is great, but not having to "stoop" is great, too.
Sram tire pressure calculator was so useful for me (and it's free)
Workstand... can be more or less a cheaper one if quality is ok and supported weight is for all your bike. I have one and it changed everything for me.
It really makes such a difference when trying to work on your bike!
Tires! A smart trainer and Zwift. The BEST choices I have ever made. Cheers!
You really can watch your fitness skyrocket!!
sorry but regarding clothing i am not wearing one of those t-shirt bra's that Olli showed us..no way.
yeah an upgrade in tyres is one of those upgrades that is really worthwhile, even if your bike isn't the dogs bollox a good set of tyres make all the difference, it suprised me how much of a difference they make,
Ive bought a garmin bike computer loads of times and each time sell it. The maps cant be read while youre riding, its another thing that can get stolen off a locked bike and youll have your phone anyway. Oh and it breaks first when you crash
Never buy cheap tools, get the best you can afford as and when you need them starting with a good precision set of hex keys.
A work stand makes working on your bike so much easier and are not expensive
Cameras: Go Pro on the front and Cycliq in the rear. Go Pro helped me get a driver cited when he almost hit me in an intersection when I had the green light. Fortunately, I don't TRUST any driver on the road. I got his plate ID, turned it into the local police department and he was cited for running the red light. Plus, I posted my video to FaceBook.
A good track pump will cost you €50 and will last a lifetime. Buy a model like SKS that’s in production for 50 years or so, parts will be available forever.
Quality t-shaped allen keys can be bought cheap at any hardware store. For hobby use you will never ever wear them out. Spend what you save on specific cable cutters or other bike-only tools.
On a bike stand I don’t agree. Stands go for €200 and hanging your bike from the ceiling is a €5 solution if you have a shed or garage.
Alex!! You mad lad! You have a pixel phone!! Saw it in other videos but I wasn't too sure. Now I have confirm it!! #pixelfamily #googlepixel
Are jerseys really that necessary for casual riders? I am never going fast enough for the aero gains to matter and I wear sports shirts that wick away the sweat. Am I missing something so beneficial as to change the way I feel when riding?
The cut is more comfortable when in a cycling position, both around the shoulders and at the waist (longer in back than in front). And they tend to have convenient pockets on the lower back. If neither of these matter to you, then there's no reason not to stick with what you're doing.
6:06 If you don't have tires on your bike, I recommend getting them, that would be an unmatched upgrade 🤣
If you don't have them it's not an upgrade, it's a fitment! You can't upgrade something that doesn't exist. 🙂
Netter title: „How to cram all your sponsors in one video“
Tire pressure you have to head out for swiss cycling they made tests what the best tire pressure is for minimal resistance. Because to much pressure can increase your resistsnce again.
I still don't understand bib shorts. I have worn pearl izumi shorts since I started riding, and they have never once moved or fallen down. I did try one set of bib shorts and they just annoyed me. Regular biking shorts also make the infrequent required restroom break much easier at the side of the road
I used to find regular shorts dug into my waist and were uncomfortable after a while. And since I now have a colostomy bag the elasticated waist of regular shorts would interfere with it - bib shorts are brilliant for these.
Amazing as always!
Alex is always on point 🔥
Recently bought a Kickr, so much fun. Zwift is indeed 100x more fun than using a dummy trainer.
If you're in need of some entertainment whilst on Zwift, you could always watch some of our films we have on GCN+! 👉 plus.globalcyclingnetwork.com/films
@@gcntech already subbed!
Well I think I ticked most of the boxes I have access to high quality tools due to my dad and my grandpa they are older but still working great, my cycling kit is good, I own a head unit (wahoo element roam) and I just ordered new tyres for my road bike
no smart trainer tho
Torque wrench . Bigger cassette. Garmin.
Gore tax Shakedry still the best piece of cycling clothing that I simply cannot do without. A proper game changer! Expensive but the best investment I’ve made!
Best cycling clothing I have owned is a neckwarmer - 99p
A power meter should have been on my list sooner.
I just got a power meter about 5 months ago. I'm kicking myself for having not gotten one sooner.
My next two purchases; 1) tires/tubes 2) smart trainer.
Having toured France for several weeks I VERY quickly found that many route finding apps were completely squit with brass knobs on. Triple squit or worse. Utterly useless. I wanted to ride on quiet roads, not sandy or rocky farm tracks or worse, not dual carriageways with enormous lorries passing very close at high speed ... After 2 or 3 hideous days, and having planned what I thought was a great route before I left home, but discovered was nightmarish, I discovered the right app for me; quiet roads that allowed my thin tyres and heavily laden bike to progress without trying to kill me
What app do you use?
I think bibs are a relic of the past. Those straps don't do much
Biggest upside to a bike computer for me was independent battery life!
Best advice I can give to any person that is mechanically adept is too invest in good tools as soon as you start earning your own money. Good quality tools are invaluable and will last a lifetime.
Front and rear cameras. Definitely something you'd rather have and not need, than to need and not have.
What makes me hesitant about bib shorts is comfort around the shoulders since the straps will sit atop of my bra straps.
My wife wears shorts, no bib, ditto tights…….
They also have benefits for comfort breaks 😉
Try a sports bra with wider straps 😉
Are those three bikes riders on your t-shirt Alex?!
Love the t-shirt! Where can I find one like that?
Which websites do you use, to draw a route and download onto your wahoo?
I was super slow in switching to bib shorts. I wish I had adopted years ago.
Me too!
I'd go indoor smart, rockerplate, good fan and climbr coz watts n fitness always beats kit.