Newsletter Issue No. 1214
March 5, 2026
Event Gear CUBE Chain Wax Lube Revisited
Jim’s Tech Talk
By Jim Langley
You’ve surely heard the saying, “never discuss politics or religion.” When it comes to cycling, I would add “and chain lube,” because it’s one of the things riders disagree about and argue about most. Even when there’s agreement on the type of lube used, debating HOW to use it can result in a ruckus. Read more.
Bell vs. “On Your Left”: A Friendly Debate With My Predecessor
By Lars Hundley
One of the things I genuinely enjoy about this job is that I still trade texts and emails with John Marsh. If you’ve been a long-time reader, you already know John well — he was the publisher of Road Bike Rider before me, the second in a line that started with the site’s founders. He’s never lost his enthusiasm for cycling, or his willingness to share a strong opinion, which is exactly why I enjoy staying in touch. Read more.
Backpacker’s Pantry – Freeze-dried food – Quick Review
By Sheri Rosenbaum
There’s something liberating about loading your bike with just the essentials and hitting the trail for a multi-day adventure. No matter what adventure is on the agenda, one thing is certain: your body needs proper fuel to keep pedaling mile after mile.
The challenge? Finding food that checks all the boxes: lightweight enough to carry, nutritious enough to sustain you, and actually tastes good. Read more.
How can I prevent cramping in my toes, feet and ankles?
Question: As a cyclist, I’m used to having muscle cramps in my legs from time to time, especially after I’ve really pushed myself on the bike. But sometimes, after rides where my legs have been just fine, the muscles in my toes and/or feet and/or ankles will cramp up. What’s going on, and how can I prevent this? (P.S. I wear mountain bike shoes without cleats, and I use flat pedals.) —Lenny S. Read more.
Other Cool Things to Read
Cycling Weekly: One wheel collapse that was not the fault of hookless rims or incorrectly inflated tires
Road.cc: Trek is 50: let’s look back at its first bike
Cycling Weekly: World Bicycle Relief celebrates one million bikes helping communities around the world
Question of the Week
Do you ever use a bell on any of your bikes?
Most Clicked Last Week
Q & A: Stop Breaking/Bending Presta Valves
End Notes
