These cycling hacks will make your ride better, more enjoyable, and may even save you money. We have compiled seven clever ideas with big effects that make your everyday cycling a lot easier and more efficient:
- You’ve probably worked hard to get your saddle at the perfect saddle height. Be sure to mark the height with a piece of tape, permanent marker or a sticker. That way when you have to pack your bike you won’t lose your saddle height. Bonus – you’ll find the exact saddle position every single time you put everything back together.
- What do you do when both tires go flat when you’re riding? Most cyclists don’w carry two spares, so be sure to carry a few dollar bills. Dollar bills make great temporary tire patches. Worst case scenario, if you’re out of money, energy bar wrappers work great too. You can also use an old race bib.
- Baby Powder – It’s not just for chafing. Put your spare inner tube in a small plastic bag with a sprinkle of baby powder. The baby powder will allow the tube to slide around the tire as you inflate it. The powder will help reduce friction and unnecessary pinch flats.
- Whether it’s rain or hot weather, no one likes soggy bills or a sweaty, sticky phone screen. A simple Ziploc bag will keep your items dry from sweat and rain. Bonus – you can still use your touchscreen through the thin plastic bag.
- Your rear tire usually wears out twice as fast as your front tire. When it’s time to replace the back tire, put your front tire on the back and put the new tire on the front. Just like when you rotate your car tires. The new tire on the front wheel will improve handling on descents.
- Get your furniture polish out and use it on your bike frame. Not only will it polish it, but it will also limit the amount of dust and dirt that attaches to your bike frame while you ride. Be careful not to spray your brakes, so don’t spray the polish directly on the frame – spray it on a rag first, and then rub down the frame. Bonus – it’s cheaper than specific bike polishing products!
- Get the duct tape out! Wrap a piece around your seat post and you’re ready for a quick fix while you’re cycling. You can use it to fix anything on your bike or even a torn shoe.
Hopefully the above cycling hacks will make your life on the road easier and they’ll make it more enjoyable too. Try these tips for yourself and let us know how you like them. Contact us today for additional training tips and more!
Train Right, Tri Right,
Coach MJ
