May 10, 2018

Cycling in the Spring Sun

April showers bring May flowers, and May flowers bring damn good cycling weather. Cool-ish mornings, sunny and 75 in the afternoon, and as each day passes, nighttime pauses its advance for a few minutes more. Compared to cycling in the cold and dark, riding in this weather is easy, and it’s also an opportunity to look good while still maintaining the functionality you want out of your cycling gear. Here are a few accessories and pieces of apparel that will do the job.

Disclosure: all of these items were free media samples provided by the companies.

Cotopaxi Teca Windbreaker

Cotopaxi Teca Windbreaker

The Teca Windbreaker from Cotopaxi is even more colorful in person than you see in the pictures. While it isn't technical hi-vis cycling jacket, this piece stands out on the roads. Perfect for windy days, misty mornings, and when you have to stay at the office until dusk. I stuff it in my bag, where it takes up little to no room.

More...
Lizard Skins Bar Tape

Lizard Skins Bar Tape

As far as bar tape goes, Lizard Skins is the cream of the crop; watch a race and you'll see it frequently used by the pros, but that's not why they're on this list. Lizard Skins has 28 color combinations - from solid brights to two-color combinations to fun camouflage mixtures with unconventional colors. They're also the first company to offer 3 different sizes - 1.8mm, 2.5mm, and 3.2mm - of thickness. Dress up your stallion, and when you have too many miles with one color, switch it up for a brand new look.

More...
Craft Ride Polo

Craft Ride Polo

Craft, normally known for more technical cycling and nordic skiwear, has a couple of casual designs for urban commuters. The Ride Polo has a modern, but relaxed fit, and a breathable fabric. I find myself wearing this shirt a lot - a little sweat disappears quickly, and it's stylish enough to ride your bike to meet people for dinner. The colors available are only black and grey for now.

More...
Brilliant Reflective

Brilliant Reflective

When the sun goes down, you can still light up with this reflective tape from Brilliant Reflective. It comes in Stick-On and Iron-On, both of which are very low-profile until a light hits them. The stickers are perfect for the forks on a bicycle, where you can wrap it such that it will be seen from both cars behind and from the side.

More...
Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L

Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L

While it may look simple, the Everyday Sling is loaded with features. In fact, they even have a videos on their website to explain all of the different features and how to customize the bag to your needs. The bag is fitted with removable and movable panels that can create a snug pocket for camera lenses or the Tupperware that holds your lunch. On hot days, a sling bag is much preferred to a backpack - the bag touches about half of the real estate on your body, which means less sweat marks.

More...
MtnMeister T-shirt

MtnMeister T-shirt

The MtnMeister T is specifically designed to be your favorite t-shirt. Neutral yet fashionable colors that go with everything - try to find a pair of shorts or pants that doesn't match. Men's and women's styles available.

More...

Discuss

Questions? Comments? Let's hear 'em.