Newsletter Issue No. 1159
February 6, 2025
Are Bicycle Bottles Safe to Drink From?
Jim’s Tech Talk
By Jim Langley
You might recall that in the past we reviewed a biodegradable bicycle bottle from Elite. It being one of the first pollution-fighting bidons we’d seen, we awarded it our highest rating of 5 stars. The review is here if you missed it: Elite Jet Water Bottle and Vico Carbon Cage Review. Read more.
Track Your Intensity for Maximum Gains (and Fun!)
By Lars Hundley
Ever wonder if you’re pushing too hard or not hard enough on your rides? Or maybe you’re curious about how your fitness is progressing over time. Well, there’s a simple solution that can help you dial in your training, track your progress, and even add a new level of fun to your rides: using a heart rate monitor or power meter. Read more.
Relevate Designs Mag-Tank Top Tube Bag with TPU Liner – Quick Review
By Sheri Rosenbaum
I first became aware of Relevate Designs by listening to Lael Rides Around the World podcasts. The company is from Lael Wilcox’s home state of Alaska and has been designing bikepacking gear since 2007. In her podcasts, Lael kept mentioning the Mag-Tank bag she uses for carrying her nutrition, making it easy to stay fueled while riding. Read more.
Rene Herse Handlebar Roll Bag Review
By Stan Purdum
Typically, on day-long rides, I don’t want the weight of a rack and a trunk bag or panniers on my bike, but I nonetheless like convenient, lightweight ways to carry two general groups of items with me. Group 1 includes those items I hope not to need but am glad to have along should a mechanical problem arise: a spare tube, a patch kit, tire levers, few small tools and a pump. I carry those in a bag that hangs behind my saddle. Read more.
Try This: Boost Your Sprinting Power
Whether you’re racing or just trying to beat your buddies to the town line sign, a powerful sprint can be your secret weapon. Here’s how to develop your fast-twitch prowess:
Start with a good warm-up. Sprinting cold is a recipe for pulled muscles. After 15-20 minutes of easy spinning, do a few short accelerations to wake up those fast-twitch fibers. Read more.
Question of the Week
Do you use a heart rate monitor and/or power meter?
Other Cool Things to Read
PEZ: Cycling gadgets you didn’t know you needed
BBC: Cycling bans carbon monoxide rebreathing
Road.cc: Is this strange looking aero bike the fastest road bike in the world?
Most Clicked Last Week
Leo Jed’s Tips on John Forester’s “Instant Turn”
End Notes
