Life In The Saddle

Over the years I have tested countless handlebar bags, both for multi-day bikepacking expeditions and for everyday adventures; in that time, I have created a mental five-point checklist of all the things a compact handlebar bag must deliver on and feature: 100% waterproof – it needs to keep its contents safe and dry; otherwise, tools will go rusty, and you will need to take it off the bike every time you wash it or ride in the rain.  Secure Velcro mounting – straps are better than buckles in my experience, causing less damage to handlebars and allowing for maximum versatility.  Below computer mounting – it needs to hang below the horizontal level of the handlebar, so it does not conflict with the computer mount, but not so low that it hits the front wheel.  Durability – it needs to stand the test of time and constant use. This means the materials need to cope with prolonged periods of dampness and the buckles or zips need to last.    Compact size – large eno...

We invest thousands of pounds into our outdoor equipment and apparel, and spend hours researching the best options to keep us comfortable, safe and fast. But, post purchase, do we invest enough time and care into looking after these investments? I am normally quite fastidious at keeping my kit clean and organised, helping it to last as long as possible and avoid premature replacement. In this pursuit, there are some tips and tricks that I have learnt through trial and error over the years. Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of both hardware and clothing. Putting equipment into storage just slightly damp is a recipe for mildew, rust and bacterial growth. From bikes to waterproof jackets, gloves to rucksacks; I have made the expensive mistake of stashing these items damp and slightly dirty, to come back a month later and find them ruined. So, what can you do? Clean It Quick Keeping kit clean is the first step. Read some of my previous posts such as ' Re-waterpro...

Low temperatures and winter storms push wind-chill factors to sub-zero. Bike riding does not have to cease in freezing conditions though; with the right clothing, there is no reason not to enjoy your cycling, even in the chilly months of winter. In this blog post, I offer my tips and advice for the right clothing to keep you comfortable when cycling in the depths of winter… 1 – Long Sleeve Base Layers Cold hands when cycling in low temperatures? Long sleeve base layers are the key to comfort here. Your hands are an extremity—they are one of the furthest points from the central boiler pump that is your heart. In order to keep them warm, you need to keep the blood that is flowing to them warm. Protecting your lower arms from wind-chill and insulating them with a long sleeve base layer will aid warm blood flows down your arteries all the way to your hands. The best long sleeve winter cycling base layer I have used is the GripGrab Expert Seamless Thermal Long Sleeve Cycling ...

The Gobik Polartec Long Sleeve Envy Jacket is a close-fitting outer layer made from Polartec's innovative NeoShell® fabric—the world's most breathable waterproof fabric. This is a winter cycling jacket that feels more like a long sleeve jersey, thanks to its stretch and performance cut; but it offers the protection of a deep winter outer shell. Polartec® NeoShell® was developed by the American brand to offer the optimal balance of waterproof protection and breathability that is sought-after in active wear. The fabric is used in hiking jackets, cycling jackets, and waterproof trousers with tremendous success, and this deployment in the Gobik Polartec Long Sleeve Jacket is a strong example of utilising the fabric well. The NeoShell® fabric provides a high stretch bonded three-layer covering, with taped seams to prevent water from seeping in. The high cut collar, lower cut rear hem and YKK® Vislon® AquaGuard® zipper all enhance the protection and coverage provided by the jack...