The winter has finally arrived here in UK and again it is he time of the year to think what to wear, eat, drink for a ride.
There are few points to cover which are quite important, that I like to remind everyone to follow, if possible, for your own safety.
I will start with one of the most causes of cyclist crashes or silliness. The name is famous and worldwide known as, Strava. Why? I am not going to teach you rocket science but I should think you get to the point without my explanation. A lot of riders nowadays cycling daily, aiming to get a fastest segments, a KOM, a QOM, a challenge. The bravado kicks in the human brain and it forgets to consider other road users, turning riders into hooligans of the road. Why sprint between traffic lights 50 metres apart, looking like unleashed lions, crossing red lights causing havoc to other road users. The Other day, I saw a cyclist checking their computer without realising there was a static car ahead and boom (yes like Batman). People are more concerned about showing off to others what they can do, yes you can do that, well done. But cycling is freedom to be on the 2 wheels enjoying the surroundings.
Credits to Batman
The next point is personal safety, which includes wearing helmets. I know exactly it does not look cool and it messes your hairs up. But please wear it, I have seen a few head split in half, like a cracked egg. Few day ago I rode with this young guy, called Chris, strong and fast legs at the age of 14, and an amazing hair cut, he could be the future of British cycling but he does not like to wear an helmet.
Credit for this image to http://www.biggreenjewish.com
Days are getting shorter, then strong lights are important to be seen, to see obstacles in the road. I know some can be expansive but nothing is more valuable than your life. I personally love Lezyne lights, which are efficient and affordable.
Dirt, mud and grit are coming back, keeping company together with other debris on the road discharged by other road users and non. My advise is to go on a thicker tyres, like a 25mm, to provide extra security, but I also know that some of you might disagree with me saying that it is too hard to spin it around. Come on now, we know that cycling is pain and flabbergasting when goals are achieved. Also it could be a good excuse for training. I deeply recommend Thickslick Tyres by Freedom Bicycles.
Available to purchase in UK
The final point of our preparation for the cold months, is to provide you the correct clothing.
There is a lot of brands out there selling nice fancy, sexy, cool looking clothing, proper cycle porn, but my question and intriguing point is "do those items do what they say do on the label" for the price you pay.
Well, you might call it propaganda on our behalf, but SaddleDrunk apparel does the job it says on the label, made in Italy, stylish, cool at an affordable price. Please do not forget to visit our online store (please ignore the models used!).
We have now also in stock SaddleDrunk Custom Ekoi Sunglasses ,that are also available in clear lenses ideal for the winter ride that provides protection for your eyes.
Special Edition price £50
Be safe on the road and share the road with others.
SD