Over the years cycling gear continues to evolve through human imagination and a desire to move faster with less physical work. Some equipment is safety related while other equipment is designed to help you slice through the wind and reduce drag.
When I raced we did not have the aerodynamic handlebar extensions, our foot clips were much more primitive and are bikes were also a few pounds heavier. None the less even the our “old school” equipment really helped to keep us comfortable and kept us safe at the same time.
Bicycle Shorts
Bicycle racing shorts are made out of Lycra and 9 time out of 10 also have a chamois or some type of padding, this padding is suppose to help ones “private areas” when your on the bike for hours. You can spend any where from 20 bucks to 80 or even more on a nice pair of racing shorts. The quality cycling shorts should have at least 4 sections while top quality shorts will have as many as 8. Having more sections or “panels” is desirable as they will form to your body better.
Cycling Shoes
Like shorts cycling shoes do not come cheap, however it is very important that you don’t skimp when you purchase your shoes. Proper cycling shoes will keep your feet as pain free as possible and keep you “locked in” to your peddles. Their is nothing more dangerous than coming out of your shoes when riding, I have seen some riders crash in a final sprint as they pulled their foot out from a shoe and or peddle.
Cycling shoes should have an incredibly stiff sole, this way all the engergy is going into the peddles and NOT going into making your shoe flex.
Cycling Helmet
This one is a no brainer, cycle without a proper helmet and you might not have one!
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