Cycle Gear

Careful consideration of your cycle gear is important to have a fun and successful trip. There are a few items that represent an absolute must when talking about cycle gear including a helmet, a wind stopper, and glasses. Any full service bike shop should be able to handle all of your cycle gear needs.

When considering a helmet, it must, above all meet certain quality standards. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) created a standard called ANSI Z80.4 in 1984 and more recently the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) created its own mandatory standard for all bicycle helmets sold in the United States. Surveys show that most bike owners also purchase helmets together with their bikes, but they don't use them on a regular basis. All parents be absolutely certain that a helmet is included in the collection of cycle gear they buy for their children.

Most manufacturers provide a range of sizes in both children and adult sizes. The correct size is important; some adjustment can usually be made using different thickness foam pads and most have adjustable straps as well. A cycle helmet should be comfortable, light in weight and should provide adequate ventilation, while minimizing interference with the cyclist’s vision. For helmets used during the cold season, you might consider buying a larger size under which a hood may be worn.

The shell is the part of the cycle gear that protects you from the wind and rain. The shell can be worn alone or over another jacket. It should be made of a lightweight fabric that is windproof, water resistant and highly breathable to keep you dry and comfortable. An extra long back is a preferable feature to have so that the position in the saddle doesn't expose you to water dripping. The shell can be matched with good waterproof gore tex pants that are ideal for the use in wet and windy conditions.

It is hard to enjoy outdoor without a good pair of glasses to protect your eyes. Glasses are very useful on all types of weather and are an essential part of your gear. Glasses with a wrap design will provide the best protection form the effects of wind, snow, and glare. Interchangeable lenses are a great feature to have. Most manufacturers offer a variety of lenses with several polarized or mirrored options.