Bike shop bikes versus big box/Amazon bikes. Isn’t a bike, a bike? What’s the difference?

How to Store Your Bike During the Winter Months

Winter weather can be harsh on your bike, so proper storage is crucial to keep it in good condition and ready for the next riding season. Here are some tips on how to store your bike during the colder months:

1. Clean Your Bike: Before storing your bike, give it a thorough cleaning to remove dirt, grime, and salt. Salt from winter roads can corrode the frame and components, so it’s important to clean and dry your bike thoroughly.

2. Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a lubricant to the chain, gears, and any other moving parts to prevent rust and keep them functioning smoothly. Be sure to wipe off any excess to avoid attracting dirt.

3. Store in a Dry, Cool Place: Ideally, store your bike indoors in a dry, temperature-controlled space like a garage or basement. Avoid leaving it in damp or unheated sheds or garages, where rust and corrosion can develop.

4. Elevate the Bike: If possible, hang your bike or store it on a stand to keep the tires off the ground. This helps prevent flat spots from forming on the tires and reduces the risk of moisture buildup.

5. Check Tires: Before storing, inflate your tires to the recommended pressure. This helps prevent damage to the tires while they are not in use. If you can, remove the wheels to further protect them.

6. Protect Your Bike with a Cover: If you don’t have indoor space, consider using a bike cover to protect it from the elements. This will help shield your bike from dust, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.

By taking these simple steps, you can ensure your bike remains in great condition during the winter and is ready to hit the road as soon as the weather warms up.

Are you ready to hit the road on two wheels? With so many bike types and options available, finding the perfect one to match your needs can be challenging. This guide explores the five most popular types of bikes and their unique features. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting, we’ll help you navigate the world of bikes and find the perfect ride for your adventures.

From mountain bikes to electric bikes, this guide covers the unique characteristics of each type, including their design features, intended uses, and key considerations before purchasing. Let’s dive into the essentials of mountain bikes, road bikes, hybrid bikes, gravel bikes, and electric bikes.

Combining cycling with strength training in a park or playground is an excellent way to develop full-body fitness while making the most of outdoor spaces. After riding your bike to the park, you can use the playground equipment and park fixtures like picnic tables and benches to craft an effective workout. This routine will help you build strength, flexibility, and endurance—especially for cycling. Let’s explore a variety of exercises that target key muscle groups and enhance your cycling performance.

Owning a fat bike offers numerous advantages, especially for cyclists looking to expand their riding capabilities. One of the primary benefits is that fat bikes can handle a variety of challenging terrains, including snow, sand, mud, and loose gravel. Their wide tires, often between 3.8 to 5 inches, provide superior traction and stability compared to traditional mountain bikes. This allows riders to explore off-road trails, beaches, and even snowy winter paths, making fat bikes incredibly versatile for year-round use.

When choosing a drivetrain for your bike, a key decision is whether to opt for a 3x (triple) drivetrain or a 1x (single) drivetrain. Both systems offer distinct advantages depending on your riding style, terrain, and mechanical preferences. Understanding the differences between the two can help you make the best decision for your cycling needs.

Cyclists in DuPage County are also treated to a wealth of amenities along these trails. Many routes provide access to local cafés and restaurants, allowing riders to take breaks and enjoy local flavors. Popular towns like Naperville, Wheaton, and Glen Ellyn offer plenty of spots to relax and refuel after a ride through the fall countryside

Cycling along the Illinois Prairie Path, Fox River Trail, and Great Western Trail offers not only scenic rides but also the chance to explore a variety of fun destinations. Whether you're in the mood for a quick snack, a refreshing drink, or live entertainment, there are plenty of venues along these trails to satisfy your cravings. Here's a guide to some of the best stops you can ride to:

In the competitive landscape of cycling, Surly bicycles have established a reputation that sets them apart from other manufacturers. Renowned for their durability, versatility, and meticulously engineered designs, Surly bikes are often favored by cyclists who prioritize quality and reliability. Whether for bikepacking, commuting, or long-distance touring, Surly offers a diverse range of models that excel across various terrains and conditions. This article explores the distinctive qualities that position Surly bicycles as a leading choice in the market.

Mastering Clipless Pedals: A Comprehensive Guide for Cyclists

Transitioning to clipless pedals can be a game-changer for cyclists, offering enhanced efficiency, control, and power transfer. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you learn how to ride with clipless pedals, packed with detailed instructions and tips to ensure a smooth transition.

Why Switch to Clipless Pedals?

Clipless pedals, despite the name, involve clipping into the pedals using cleats attached to cycling shoes. The benefits include:

Improved Power Transfer: Direct connection allows for efficient power transfer from your legs to the pedals.

Better Control and Stability: Feet stay in place, providing more stability and control, especially on technical terrains.

Increased Comfort: Reduced pressure on the feet, leading to a more comfortable ride over long distances.

Maintaining your bike’s cleanliness is crucial for its performance and longevity. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of washing and cleaning your bike, detailing each step to ensure your bike stays in top condition.

Supplies Needed:

Bucket

Chain Keeper

Mild Detergents and Degreasers

Soft Brushes (various sizes)

Hard Brushes

Sponges

Microfiber Towels

Bike Repair Stand or Holder

Water Source (hose or spray bottle)

Cycling's resurgence in popularity underscores the need for heightened safety measures on the road, with proper lighting emerging as a critical component. Riding without lights poses significant risks, but statistics overwhelmingly support the safety benefits of using flashing lights on bicycles. Let's delve into the data to illuminate just how much safer it is to ride with lights compared to without.

In a world often characterized by complexity, the allure of simplicity has never been stronger. Enter the single-speed bicycle, a timeless two-wheeled companion celebrated for its minimalist design, ease of maintenance, and affordability. For riders seeking a hassle-free cycling experience, the appeal of single-speed bikes extends far beyond aesthetics, offering a practical and efficient means of transportation perfectly suited to the flat terrain of the Midwest.

Wooden bicycles were once all the rage, with the earliest models predominantly crafted from timber. Thousands were manufactured and utilized until a surge in accidents led to its swift decline in popularity, eventually prompting police intervention and prohibition.

Bicycling, also known as biking or cycling, serves not only as a mode of transportation but also as a popular leisure-time physical activity. Its health benefits are manifold, including improved cardiovascular fitness, enhanced muscle strength and coordination, reduced body fat, and a boost in mental well-being by lowering stress levels and releasing feel-good endorphins.

How Often Should Bicycle Helmets be Replaced?

Maintaining your bicycle is crucial for ensuring a safe, smooth, and enjoyable riding experience. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or new to the sport, understanding basic bike maintenance is essential. Here's your comprehensive guide to keeping your bike in top condition

Embarking on a bikepacking journey opens up a world of adventure and exploration, allowing you to traverse rugged terrain and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Contrary to popular belief, you don't need a specialized bike to get started—your existing bike can be transformed into a capable bikepacking rig with the right gear and mindset. Here's how to kickstart your bikepacking adventure…

When preparing for your inaugural gravel race, there are invaluable insights about training that can significantly enhance your experience. Here are some crucial pointers I wish I had known before embarking on my first gravel racing journey…