Tuesday, May 2, 2023

Best Gravel Bikes Under $1,000

Cycling is an activity that has seen a surge in popularity over the past few years, and it's easy to see why. Not only is it an excellent form of exercise, but it's also a great way to explore new places and take in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. However, with so many different types of bikes available, it can be tough to know which one to choose. Today we'll take a look at why you should consider purchasing a gravel bike and list the Best gravel bikes under $1,000.

The Best Gravel Bikes Under $1,000.

  1. State 4130 All-Road
  2. Diamondback Haanjo 2
  3. Surly Preamble
  4. Salsa Journeyer Advent
  5. Marin Nicasio

Gravel bikes, also known as adventure bikes, are designed to handle a variety of different terrains, including dirt roads, gravel paths, and even single-track trails. They are typically characterized by wider tires, a more relaxed geometry, and a durable frame that can withstand the rigors of off-road riding. Here are some reasons why you should consider buying a gravel bike:

  1. Versatility: Gravel bikes are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of activities. Whether you want to explore new trails, commute to work, or tackle a long-distance bikepacking trip, a gravel bike can handle it all. With their wider tires and comfortable geometry, they are perfect for both on and off-road riding.

  2. Comfort: One of the main benefits of a gravel bike is the comfort it provides. The wider tires and relaxed geometry make for a more comfortable ride, which is especially important when you're spending hours in the saddle. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking to do longer rides or multi-day tours.

  3. Durability: Gravel bikes are built to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. They typically have a more durable frame and components, which means they can handle rough terrain and challenging conditions. This makes them a great investment for anyone looking for a bike that will last for years to come.

  4. Adventure: Gravel bikes are designed for adventure. They allow you to explore new places and take on new challenges, whether it's a long-distance bikepacking trip or a weekend camping excursion. They provide a sense of freedom and adventure that you just don't get with other types of bikes.

  5. Fun: Perhaps the most important reason to buy a gravel bike is that they are just plain fun to ride. Whether you're cruising down a dirt road or tackling a technical single-track trail, a gravel bike provides a sense of excitement and adventure that is hard to beat.

The Best Gravel Bikes Under $1,000.

State 4130 All-Road

State 4130 All Road Gravel Bike

The 4130 All-Road is State Bicycles most capable bike ever! With the choice of 650B or 700C wheels, the rugged chromoly steel frame and forks feature plenty of cargo mounts, an 11-speed drivetrain, and disc-brakes.

If you have a little extra to spend, State offers several upgrades including carbon fiber forks, Selle Italia or Brooks saddles, tubeless wheels, racks, and handlebar bags. The listed price of $899.99 is a tremendous bargain.

Diamondback Haanjo 2

Diamondback Haanjo 2 Gravel Bike

Most of us don't have room for all the bikes we desire. The Diamondback Haanjo 2 can fill the role of multiple bikes at once. Want to take a long road trip on a touring bike? The Haanjo 2 has mounts for dront and rear racks to carry all your gear. Need a fast, reliable bike for commuting? Fender mounts will help keep yu clean and dry. Looking for off-pavement fun? The Haanjo 2 features grippy 700x38 tires to handle dirt and gravel with ease. The Diamondback Haanjo 2 is a steal at $925.00.

Surly Preamble

Surly Preamble Gravel Bike

The challenge was to build a serious steel bike, keep it simple, and give it only the attributes that mattered most. It had to be quick and comfortable riding on pavement, but stable and confidence inspiring when handling dirt or gravel. Surly's answer to the challenge is the Preamble.

Available in drop-bar and flat bar configurations the Surly Preamble has mounts for racks, fenders, and water bottles. The simple 12-42t, 1x8 drivetrain minimizes the chances for problems while the disc brakes ensure stopping power. Priced at $899.00, the Surly Preamble eliminates all excuses for not owning a gravel bike.

Salsa Journeyer Advent

Salsa Journeyer Advent Gravel Bike

The Journeyer Advent is a gravel adventure bike that fills the needs or novice or experienced cyclists. The aluminum frame and fork provides relaxed geometry for a great ride on city streets or tough gravel roads. Three-pack mounts on the fork, top-tube and accessory mounts, provide a perfect platform for long gravel days, commuting, or bikepacking excursions.

Available with 650B or 700C wheels and a 1x9 drivetrain, the Salsa Journeyer Advent can be yours for just $999.

Marin Nicasio

Marin Nicasio Gravel Bike

The Marin Nicasio is built around a smooth-riding and stylish CrMo frame and fork with 700C wheels and room for 35mm tires. The Nicasio comes complete with a 2x8 speed Shimano Claris drivetrain, mechanical disc brakes, and fender and rack mounts.

Whether you're interested in adventure road, off-road, or long distance commuting the Marin Nicasio will get you where you're headed at the low price of $899.00.

A gravel bike is an excellent investment for anyone looking for a versatile, comfortable, and durable bike that can handle a variety of different terrains. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, a gravel bike is sure to provide you with hours of fun and adventure. So why not consider buying one today?

The 10 Best Backpack Panniers


Backpack panniers are a great option for cyclists who want the flexibility to switch between biking and walking with ease. These bags are designed to attach to a bike rack, and can be easily converted into a backpack when you're off the bike. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start your search. In this post, we'll cover the 10 best backpack panniers available today.

The 10 Best Backpack Panniers:

Ortlieb Back-Roller City: Ortlieb is a well-known brand in the cycling world, and the Back-Roller City is one of their most popular backpack panniers. This bag is made from waterproof polyester and features a roll-top closure for added protection. The Back-Roller City also has reflective accents for added visibility, making it a great option for commuting.

Thule Pack 'n Pedal Commuter Pack: Thule is another trusted brand in the cycling world, and the Pack 'n Pedal Commuter is one of their best backpack panniers. This bag is made from durable materials and features a waterproof cover to keep your belongings dry in wet weather. The Pack 'n Pedal Commuter also has a padded laptop compartment, making it a great option for students and professionals.
Blackburn Local Trunk Bag: Blackburn is a lesser-known brand in the cycling world, but the Local Trunk Bag is a great option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly backpack pannier. This bag is made from durable materials and features a large main compartment and several smaller pockets for organization.
Arkel Bug Pannier Backpack: The Arkel Bug is a high-end backpack pannier that's designed for serious cyclists. This bag is made from waterproof materials and features a removable backpack harness for added versatility. The Bug also has a padded laptop compartment and several smaller pockets for organization.
Vaude Aqua Back Plus: The Vaude Aqua Back Plus is a waterproof backpack pannier that's great for touring and commuting. This bag features a roll-top closure for added protection and a padded back panel for added comfort. The Aqua Back Plus also has reflective accents for added visibility.
Brooks Saddles Pickwick Pack: Brooks is a well-known brand in the cycling world, and the Pickwick is one of their best backpack panniers. This bag is made from waterproof materials and features a roll-top closure for added protection. The Pickwick also has a padded laptop compartment and several smaller pockets for organization.
Axiom Seymour Oceanweave P35+: The Axiom Seymour Oceanweave P35+ is a waterproof backpack pannier that's great for commuting and touring. This bag features a roll-top closure for added protection and a padded back panel for added comfort. The Monsoon Seymour P35+ also has reflective accents for added visibility.
Topeak MTX Trunk Bag DXP: The Topeak MTX Trunk Bag DXP is a budget-friendly backpack pannier that's great for commuters and casual cyclists. This bag features a large main compartment and several smaller pockets for organization. The MTX Trunk Bag DXP also has reflective accents for added visibility.
Roswheel 14892: The Roswheel 14892 is a budget-friendly backpack pannier that's great for commuters and casual cyclists. This bag features a large main compartment and several smaller pockets for organization. The 14892 also has reflective accents for added visibility.
Ibera PakRak: The Ibera PakRak is a budget-friendly backpack pannier that's great for commuters and casual cyclists. This bag features a large main compartment and several smaller pockets for organization. The PakRak also has reflective accents for added visibility.

There are a wide variety of backpack panniers on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits. Whether you're a serious cyclist or a casual commuter, there's sure to be a backpack pannier out there that meets your needs and budget.

When choosing a backpack pannier, it's important to consider factors such as waterproofing, storage capacity, comfort, and visibility. You'll also want to think about whether you'll be using the bag primarily for commuting, touring, or recreational cycling, as different bags may be better suited to different activities.

No matter what your needs and preferences are, investing in a high-quality backpack pannier can make cycling more convenient and enjoyable. So take the time to do your research and find the perfect backpack pannier for you, and get ready to hit the road (or trail) in style and comfort!

Sunday, April 30, 2023

Why Do My Hands Go Numb When Cycling?


Cycling is a popular physical activity for many people around the world. It is a great way to stay fit and healthy, and it can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors. However, many cyclists often experience a common problem: their hands go numb when cycling. This can be uncomfortable, distracting, and even dangerous, as it can impair your ability to steer and brake effectively. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why your hands may go numb when cycling and what you can do to prevent it.

Understanding Hand Numbness When Cycling

The sensation of numbness in the hands when cycling is a result of compression or pressure on the nerves and blood vessels that run through the hands and wrists. This pressure can occur due to several reasons, including:

  1. Cycling Position: One of the primary reasons why cyclists experience hand numbness is due to their cycling position. When you are cycling, you lean forward and put your weight on your hands, which can compress the nerves and blood vessels in your wrists and hands. This can cause your hands to go numb, especially if you maintain this position for an extended period.

  2. Grip Pressure: Another reason why cyclists experience hand numbness is due to their grip pressure. When you grip the handlebars tightly, you can compress the nerves and blood vessels in your hands, leading to numbness. This can be more common in beginner cyclists who are still learning how to properly grip the handlebars.

  3. Road Vibrations: Road vibrations can also cause hand numbness when cycling. When you are cycling on rough terrain, the vibrations from the road can travel up the handlebars and into your hands, causing them to go numb.

  4. Cold Temperatures: Cycling in cold temperatures can also cause hand numbness. When your hands are cold, the blood vessels in your hands constrict, reducing blood flow to your fingers, and leading to numbness.

Now that we understand the common causes of hand numbness when cycling let's discuss some of the ways to prevent it.

Preventing Hand Numbness When Cycling

Adjust Your Cycling Position

One of the easiest ways to prevent hand numbness when cycling is by adjusting your cycling position. When you are cycling, try to distribute your weight evenly between your hands and your seat. You can achieve this by adjusting your handlebars and saddle height, and positioning your hands on the handlebars in a way that feels comfortable for you.

Loosen Your Grip Pressure

Another way to prevent hand numbness when cycling is by loosening your grip pressure on the handlebars. When you are cycling, try to maintain a relaxed grip on the handlebars, and avoid squeezing them tightly. This will help reduce the pressure on your nerves and blood vessels and prevent hand numbness.

Wear Cycling Gloves

Wearing cycling gloves is another way to prevent hand numbness when cycling. Cycling gloves are designed to provide extra padding and support for your hands, which can help reduce the pressure on your nerves and blood vessels. They also provide additional grip, which can help prevent your hands from slipping off the handlebars.

Use Bar Ends

Bar ends are extensions that attach to the end of your handlebars, providing an additional hand position that can help prevent hand numbness. Bar ends can be especially useful for long-distance cyclists, as they provide an alternative hand position, which can help distribute weight and reduce pressure on your nerves and blood vessels.

Take Breaks

Taking breaks during your cycling session can also help prevent hand numbness. If you are cycling for an extended period, try to take a break every 30-45 minutes to stretch and rest your hands. This will help reduce the pressure on your nerves and blood vessels and prevent hand numbness.

Conclusion

Hand numbness when cycling is a common problem that many cyclists face, but it can be prevented. By understanding the causes of hand numbness when cycling and taking preventative measures, you can enjoy a more comfortable and enjoyable cycling experience.

In addition to the tips mentioned above, it is also important to make sure that your bike is properly adjusted and fitted to your body. A bike that is too small or too big can cause additional pressure on your hands and increase the likelihood of hand numbness.

If you continue to experience hand numbness when cycling despite taking preventative measures, it may be a good idea to consult with a medical professional. They can help identify any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your hand numbness and provide additional guidance on how to prevent it.

Hand numbness when cycling is a common problem that can be prevented. By adjusting your cycling position, loosening your grip pressure, wearing cycling gloves, using bar ends, taking breaks, and making sure your bike is properly fitted, you can enjoy a more comfortable and enjoyable cycling experience. Remember to always prioritize your safety when cycling and take any necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

Saturday, April 29, 2023

5 Skills Every Cyclist Should Learn


Cycling is a great way to stay fit, explore the outdoors, and have fun. However, to fully enjoy this activity, there are several skills that every cyclist should learn. In this blog post, we'll cover some essential skills that will help you become a more confident and competent cyclist, including how to use tire levers.

  1. Bike maintenance

Keeping your bike in good working order is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride. Learn how to maintain your bike, including cleaning, lubrication, and basic repairs such as fixing a flat tire or adjusting the brakes. Check out The Ultimate Guide To Bike Maintenance.

  1. Cycling safety

Knowing how to cycle safely is crucial for your well-being and that of other road users. Learn how to signal, how to ride in traffic, how to navigate different road conditions, and how to use hand signals. Always wear a helmet and high-visibility clothing when cycling.

  1. Riding skills

Riding skills are essential for efficient and enjoyable cycling. Learn how to use gears effectively, how to climb hills, how to descend safely, and how to brake correctly. Practice riding in different conditions such as on gravel, in wind, and in rain.

  1. Bike handling

Bike handling skills can help you avoid accidents and improve your performance. Learn how to balance your bike, how to ride with no hands, how to corner smoothly, and how to bunny hop over obstacles. These skills will make you a more confident and competent cyclist.

  1. How to use tire levers

Flat tires are an inevitable part of cycling, so it's essential to know how to change a tire. To remove a tire from the rim, you need to use tire levers. Here's how to use tire levers:

  • Remove the wheel from the bike frame and deflate the tire.
  • Insert one end of the tire lever under the bead of the tire and hook it onto a spoke.
  • Insert the second tire lever a few inches away from the first one, and use it to lift the bead over the rim.
  • Slide the tire lever around the rim to lift the entire bead over the rim.
  • Remove the inner tube and replace it with a new one.
  • Reinstall the tire onto the rim, starting at the valve and working your way around the rim, pushing the tire bead into the rim.
  • Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.

Cycling is a fantastic activity that provides many benefits for both physical and mental health. By learning these essential skills, you'll become a more confident and competent cyclist, allowing you to enjoy all the rewards that cycling has to offer. Remember, practice makes perfect, so get out there and start pedaling!