Newsletter Issue No. 1187
August 21, 2025
Why Dropped Handlebars are Usually the Best Choice for Road Riding
Jim’s Tech Talk
By Jim Langley
Not too long ago in one of our Quick Tips stories, we answered the question, “Are drop bars better?” I want to add a little to the original answer because dropped (also called “drop” or “racing”) bars are often misunderstood. For example, people new to them can assume the only way to use the curly bars is to ride on the lowest positions – because that’s where it’s easiest to brake and shift. Read more.
Bikepacking Gear Roundup – Part 2
By Sheri Rosenbaum
Figuring out how to carry gear on a bikepacking trip can cause anxiety, especially if you don’t have a bike with dedicated mounting points. Companies are well aware of the growing interest in bikepacking, particularly with non-traditional bikepacking bikes, and now offer solutions that allow you to use any bike for your adventure. Yes, road bikes included.
Read part 1 of my Bikepacking Gear Roundup, published last week, where I provide rack and bag options. In Part 2 of the series, I’m sharing some more of my favorite gear finds. Read more.
What’s the rule for calling “car back” when traffic is constantly passing?
QUESTION: I enjoy cycling on club rides, but because I’m one of the slower riders, I often end up at the back of the pack. I don’t mind that, but when our route takes us on a busy road with lots of motor vehicle traffic, I end up shouting “car back” every few seconds, which is tiresome for me and must be annoying for my fellow riders. What’s the proper etiquette for calling “car back” when traffic is constantly streaming by. —Nick C. Read more.
Quick Tip: No-Hands Way to Apply Chamois Cream on the Road
When it comes to applying chamois cream on the road – assuming it’s an organized ride with at least a couple rest stops – here’s a tip to keep you lubed up and your hands clean.
When Should I Replace My Bicycle Helmet?
It’s often recommended that a helmet worn frequently should be replaced every 3 years or so. The reason is that the foam degrades due to sun, heat, salty sweat and other environmental factors, added to the usual knocks of regular cycling activity.
These things make the foam unable to provide the full protection it’s designed for in the event of a head impact. A helmet should certainly be replaced after it’s damaged in a crash or even dropped hard. Read more.
Other Cool Things to Read
Road.cc: Hookless road rims: “Maybe ‘scam’ was a bit strong, but I want it to go away
Florida Today: Miles, memories and grit: One Brevard man’s cross-country bicycle adventure at 71
Question of the Week
Have you ever ridden a multi-day bicycle tour?
Most Clicked Last Week
Tech Q & A: Standard Tire Availability?
End Notes
