5 BICYCLING MUST HAVES
FOR THE AVID CYCLIST TO THE BEACH CRUISER

by Samantha Wien / Centre Court Magazine

Bicycling lets you have fun and get exercise while being kind to the environment at the same time. It can also be a great way to run errands, commute to work or experience a backcountry trail, not to mention more serious pursuits such as touring or racing. Whatever your goals, you have a number of bicycle options to take you there. The aim of this article is to help beginners, casual riders or avid road cyclists become safer riders and gain knowledge of some of the best accessories on the market today. I have been an avid road cyclist and mountain biker for four years now, riding only for my own personal enjoyment due to my strong passion for cycling. I have compiled a short list of what I believe to be are most important necessities needed for riding any type of bicycle.

	ROAD ID This sporty invention is extremely durable and comfortable...never mind the fact that it might save your life someday. Wear it running, cycling, hiking, swimming or on any of your adventures. In fact, make a lifestyle statement and wear it all the time like I do. You can go to RoadID.com and choose from the ankle ID, bracelet ID, necklace ID or even the Shoe ID all available in bright, fun colors-this company engraves your name, address and any information of your choice on the ID tag in the event of an accident or crash. A true must have! Standard Retail Price: $29.99 www.RoadID.com
	INSULATED POLAR BOTTLES These might just be one of the greatest inventions-especially for us warm weather riders! These insulated bottles, available at Sports Authority, any local bike shop or PolarBottle.com in various colors and sizes, are guaranteed to keep all liquids colder then any other water bottles currently on the market. I use my insulated bottle for every bike ride, spin class and gym visit. Simply fill with ice and the liquid of your choice and go! Standard Retail Price: $9.99 www.PolarBottle.com
	SADDLE-IT'S ALL ABOUT COMFORT! In my opinion, there is nothing worse then having to endure an uncomfortable saddle while riding a bike...for any length of time! Choosing the best bike saddle that works for you is truly a case of trial and error. After all, this saddle is going to bear our entire body weight during our rides. Talk to friends if possible and borrow a few saddles just to try them out. When you like one, you could approach the local dealer/bike shop for assistance. Some bike shops also offer demo saddles from the manufacturers, which you may make use of. The best bike saddle shape depends on our own body shape and will be very personal; it can even depend upon how we ride, and our riding style. Here are just a couple of my own personal recommendations: For the "Roadies": Fi'zi:ik Saddles (pronounced "physique") are high performance saddles which are great for all road cyclists; whether you are just getting into the sport or are already hooked! Fi'zi:k is a racing brand specializing in handmade high-end Italian saddles and accessories and recognized mostly for their modern representation of cycling in the twenty-first century. You will find their prices to be a bit on the "steep side", but in this case, you truly get what you pay for. Standard Retail Price: From $69.99 to $229.00 depending on weight, size and style. www.fizik.it For the "Cruisers": Velo Plush Brand (available on Amazon.com) is truly the best for ultimate comfort. These saddles are known for their long lifespan, deluxe comfort and ability to endure just about anything! I used to get a lot of lower back pain when I rode, but once I swapped to this saddle on my cruiser, I immediately noticed a difference and no longer have to suffer through a ride…Two thumbs up!
	"ONE GOOD EARBUD" If you are at all like me, I absolutely LOVE to listen to music while riding my bike. This unique invention allows you to enjoy all of your music and still keep an "ear open" for cars and pedestrians. It's all about riding safe and having fun at the same time! Be sure to first check if your state allows bicyclists to wear headphones; in many states it is prohibited. Standard Retail Price: $19.99 www.OneGoodEarbud.com
	RUDY PROJECT HELMET Hands down, a helmet is THE most important accessory to bike riding. A helmet is a proven life-saver. Ever since I first started to become interested in cycling, I have been on what felt like a never ending quest for the "best" helmet. I wanted comfort and durability, all while being esthetically pleasing at the same time. Rudy Project Helmets fit my requirements and then some. Their overall comfort, adjustability and customization really exceeded any expectations and even better-they have excellent customer service and amazing warranty! Standard Retail Price: $110-$250 www.RudyProjectUSA.com

This list of riding essentials will help make every ride safer and more comfortable and will enhance your enjoyment of this great mechanical marvel called the bicycle. As H.G. Wells said, "When I see an adult on a bicycle, I do not despair for the future of the human race." Now go ride!!!

Samantha Wien is a true fitness enthusiast with a strong passion for bicycles! She is a Johnny G Certified Spinning Instructor and has been an avid road cyclist and mountain biker for five years. Throughout her cycling career, she has explored the gorgeous roads and trails throughout Napa Valley, Italy, Colorado and South Florida. Samantha can be found on A1A alongside the beach riding one of her many bicycles, usually solo or alongside her boyfriend of four years who she accredits her love for cycling to. "To ride is to truly be free…"

If you have any cycling questions for Samantha please email info@centrecourtmagazine.com.

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