Newsletter Issue No. 1244
October 1, 2026
1X and 2X Drivetrain Comparison Follow-Up
Jim’s Tech Talk
By Jim Langley
Thanks everyone for sharing your thoughts and preferences in comments regarding “1X” and “2X” drivetrains (say “one by” and “two by”), which was the subject of last week’s column: Should You Consider a 1X Drivetrain on Your Next Road Bike?
Within the comments were a couple that are worth discussing a little more, which we’ll do here. Read more.
The Off-Season is Dead
By Ric Stern
Last week I wrote about surviving two weeks in the Alps on vacation. Plenty of riding, no structure, lots of coffee and pastries. It was brilliant. But this week I want to talk about what comes next — because for a lot of riders, October means one thing: feet up, bike in the garage, see you in January.
And I think that’s a mistake. Read more.
Cycling Inconveniences, Rightly Considered
The term “adventure” is often applied to cycling, but what do we mean when we use that term? The writer G.K. Chesterton said, “An adventure is only an inconvenience rightly considered. An inconvenience is only an adventure wrongly considered.”
As a case in point, look at this photo. Do you think these riders had planned to deal with such watery inconvenience when they set out to ride that day? They did not. And I know that because one of the cyclists is me. Read more.
Best Cycling Shorts Under $100, Compared
You don’t have to spend $150 or more to get comfortable cycling shorts. The best budget shorts now use better chamois, more useful sizing, and fabrics that hold their shape for many rides.
The trick is finding a pair that fits your riding. Waist shorts are simple and easy to layer. Bibs stay in place on longer rides. Some riders want a short inseam, while others need more coverage. This guide focuses on current products that are under $100. Read more.
Quick Tip: Change Out of Sweaty Shorts
After a long ride, the easiest thing is to sit in the car, stop for coffee or do a few errands before going home. But if you are still in damp cycling shorts, change that plan.
Sweat, road spray and a wet chamois hold moisture against skin that has already spent hours under pressure and friction. The longer you stay in those shorts, the more likely you are to get chafing, rash or the beginning of a saddle sore.
Make changing part of the end-of-ride routine. Keep clean underwear, loose shorts and a small towel in your car or ride bag. When the ride ends, get out of your cycling shorts as soon as you can. If you cannot shower right away, at least dry off and put on clean, breathable clothes.
This matters even more after a hot ride, a rainy ride or a long day in the saddle. It also matters on a cycling trip, when you may be tempted to wear your shorts around town after the ride.
Do not wait for skin irritation to tell you that your routine needs work. A clean, dry change of clothes is simple prevention. It also feels much better than driving home in a cold, soggy chamois. Leave a comment.
Other Cool Things to Read
Cycling Weekly: Riding after 50? Ric Stern helps explain 19 ways to make it better
Cyclingnews: Brandon McNulty rides solo to the first U.S. elite men’s road world title since 1993
road.cc: Bigger wheels and a 14-speed groupset — a look at the new tech from Sea Otter Girona
Brújula Bike: The UCI is reconsidering the rules behind bike weight and design
Bikerumor: Still like steel and rim brakes? Ritchey’s Road Logic returns with Tom’s signature
Question of the Week
What would most tempt you to replace your current road bike?
Most Clicked Last Week
Should You Consider a 1X Drivetrain on Your Next Road Bike?
End Notes
