Bike Tech We Should All Use But Don’t!

What is the most underrated and underused bike tech? Whether it's commuter and urban cycling tech like bells, bikepacking tech such as panniers, or road cycling tech in the form of gloves and TT bars, Ollie runs through seven things he thinks should be more widely used by us cyclists!
0:00 Intro
0:18 Panniers
1:25 Baskets
2:16 Bells
3:21 Onesies
4:10 Gloves
5:18 Tri Bars
6:48 Waxed Chains
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Did we miss anything? What bike tech do you think should be more widely used? 🧐 Let us know in the comments below! 💬
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[@gcntech]

Did we miss anything? What bike tech do you think should be more widely used? 🧐 Let us know in the comments below! 👇

[@florenceetalexismartel8365]

Lights ! Good for safety, 0 impact on performance ...(if you use the small flash lights to be used during the day). So why I'm not using them more often ... I don't know ...

[@coldforgedcowboy]

@GCN Tech... Have you tried to take a nature break in a Onsie??? (Awkward!)

[@thomasb.4219]

fenders

[@glycyldi]

@-alex-3724 If it wouldn't cover evenly, then your chain probably wasn't completely cleaned of oil-based lubes. Also, I believe that Super Secret is meant to complement a hot wax treatment, not as the sole lubricant. Personally, I don't care about the miniscule performance gains. But not getting black crap on your hands (or calf) whenever you touch the chain is reason enough to do it.

[@traderz13]

Casquette. Makes me sad every-time i see a podium with people wearing baseball caps. All the best cyclists still wear them, Pog and Remco.

[@nonamedpleb]

Im gonna say it, kick stand. If you're competing, sure, no way. But for everyday use, and even when touring, it's so nice to be able to just prop up your bike wherever you want it.

[@Frostbiker]

I'm looking at Ollie with different eyes after listening to his very reasonable take on panniers, baskets and bells. I thought he was an aero/speed fundamentalist, and it turns out that's just one side of things. Now I need to watch him offer advice on cargo bikes.

[@mericanignoranc3551]

He's a spokesman whose job is to sell you things. You're a tad out of touch with reality....gl with that

[@Frostbiker]

Everybody knows they are salespeople, but only edgelords feel the need to point out the obvious as if they had some special insight.

[@philadams9254]

It's faster than the backpacks and saddle bags he mentioned though. They seriously compromise performance and bike handling.

[@cliffordromina3527]

If he continues to be an aero geek that he is/was, he might he might produce a recumbent cargo bike in the future.

[@aminul7]

Russ from Path Less Pedalled moves across the ocean and all of a sudden GCN is telling me I need panniers, baskets, and bells. Coincidence? 🤔

[@roydrink]

😅😂😊

[@JIMMYHIBBS1]

Ollie recommending two aero killing features - baskets and panniers - whatever next? Simon recommending zip ties for routine maintenance, and Hank recommending pre-ride risk assessment spreadsheets? .... 😄

[@gcntech]

Not sure Hank knows what they are! 😂 Ollie is all over the shop at the moment, he's even got himself a non aero bike! 👉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpa6eGl8e56noq8

[@BooRay1]

Basket and tribars cancel eachother out xD

[@permanenceinchange2326]

For commuting I use a top bag on a rear carrier - I agree on the disadvantages of a backpack. Since it sits straight behind me, it's aerodynamic though.

[@lostinature]

What we are now realising is that Ollie isn't really about aero... just convenience. I had a sneakin' suspicion back when he went bikepacking on the E-bike with Hank and Connor and resorted to the glamping pod over a tent... Aero is a convenience. More speed for less effort. Baskets are less effort when lugging groceries. Panniers are not so bad when kept on the back (tested by GCN as far as I remember), but also more convenient then drybags for packing and unpacking

[@nickeveritt4391]

The Bell used to be the first thing I would take off after buying a new bike, it’s now one of the first things I put on a new bike……so useful when on tracks, canal towpaths etc.

[@PrzemyslawSliwinski]

In a tandem, we have four of them (two are enough, but the other two are for symmetry). PS I think the main reason bells are not popular amongst serious riders (and wannabes) is that they are not aero (and wouldn't work if made of carbon fiber)...

[@DS-um9hi]

​@@PrzemyslawSliwinskithe reason my bell comes off is because they cause more problems than they solve, the bell seems to be no directional so peds look around instead of moving to the side, unless it's a decent ring the sound gets lost amongst other traffic and noises, it seems to get peds backs up and they are less likely to move as they think you're being aggressive. I find a cheery passing on your left/right, followed by a thank you works wonders (unless the peds have earphones in then a bell wouldn't work anyway.) My only other solution is to get the classic clown honking horn, that seems to amuse people.

[@PrzemyslawSliwinski]

@@DS-um9hi I make the bells sound muted initially (with a finger) and start ringing from distance.

[@gcntech]

Definitely an essential on shared paths! That or a really loud freehub 😂

[@PRH123]

​@@PrzemyslawSliwinskiyes, just a soft polite ding at a distance is enough for most people, just a polite "here I am, just want to let you know I'm here"... The nice thing about a mini bell is, if needed, you can do as many rings and as soft or as loud as you like... one soft ding at a distance for the dog walker or couple or baby carriage... a flurry of staccato blasts for the food delivery guy on his escooter.... :)

[@paulb8587]

Bells; After a bike rebuild I visited my local bike shop to buy a bell. The shop was full of carbon bikes and performance stuff. When I asked for a bell the man behind the counter went pale. He than rummaged under the counter and produced a battered cardboard box full of bells of all shapes and sizes which had been removed from other bikes. He kept an eye on the door in case anyone came in and saw him selling a bell. He was clearly uncomfortable about having such things in his shop. I felt as though I should have been wearing a dirty raincoat! I chose a bell and he said I could have it for free before he quickly hid the box out of sight. I always have a bell on a bike even though the headphone wearing crowds cannot hear me!

[@TenFalconsMusic]

After receiving little to no benefits using a bell, mounted an air horn (verified 160db) to my bike. Sounds like a deranged oil tanker horn and frightens pedestrians & motorists alike into rigor mortis. Immediately stops them from the stupidity they were or were about to partake in. Problem solved.

[@fredsirvalo1904]

I finally broke down and aquired panniers this year. I'm never reverting to a backpack. This is the best commuter bike upgrade I've ever made.

[@a1white]

Yes! A convert. Aren’t they amazing?

[@prophetzarquon1922]

I used panniers for years & recently tried a trailer, & I love how the bike's handling feels almost unchanged, whereas bags can make it feel like riding a tub full of water! 60lbs of groceries no problem.

[@PistonCalfMark]

My body shape isnt acceptable for a onesie 😂

[@GeorgeD1]

The voice of (almost) all people. 😁

[@Acyclistandhockeysnob]

Truth. I prefer the bunching at the front bottom of my jerseys. It hides my dad bod better😂

[@J.P.1.]

I'm a chef so there's NO hiding me tum

[@nischleranton5665]

😂

[@johnnydoe66]

Alot of people's bods aren't acceptable in alot of clothing, but if you have the confidence, don't care what others say, and/or have no self esteem issues, go for it.

[@princeandrew5430]

Onesies do not save money. The bib part wears out first, and then you need to replace the whole thing (have to sacrifice the jersey part). You could cut the jersey out with scissors but the whole point of these items is aero and your best riding kit, so you don’t want a jersey cut with scissors anyway. Debunked that codswallop!

[@brannmacfinnchad9056]

Definitely Team Panniers here! I shake my head sadly every time I see y'all doing a commute video with massive backpacks. Bonus to panniers; if you go down, they can protect your bike! When I got hit by a car (sideswiped the rear wheel)...my rear rack acted as a crumple zone, and the derailleur didn't hit the pavement at all because I had the pannier full. And my newest bike is set up with a rando bag...I can fit all my work stuff in there for a commute, or an easily accessible bunch of pastries for a long ride. And have room to carry a pair of grocery bags on the back end.

[@shalakabooyaka1480]

Racks and panniers with a rando bag up front for me as well.

[@tmayberry7559]

I have one bike dedicated to just this purpose. Regarding backpack. I use one because i carry all the things I need or someone else needs. Plus the storage like small grocery items It all depends on what I have to carry or what I have to pick up. For example, I took a frame ( draped over my neck), fork( carbon) parts in a backpack while riding the bike I was transferring them to. Took them to a shop to have them into one bike In closing it all depends on what I am going to do which I choose for the right purpose

[@CatManDoSocial]

Excellent list, Ollie! 1) Immersive chain waxing is the best. I'll never go back. 2) I don't understand not wearing gloves on a bike, ever. This is a more recent trend that makes no sense to me. 3) As a former triathlete, I can confirm that tri bars rule. That said, I've never had them on my pure "road" bike. I also love bullhorn base bars. They're super comfortable and I descend much faster with them.

[@stiffjalopy4189]

+1for gloves. Crash protection and sweat absorption, no brainer.

[@spectator1996]

Bells are fantastic. Use one and you’ll be both a trail boss and immune from criticism from other users.

[@festerofest4374]

For real. I ride a busy trail sometimes and I also walk that same trail. When walking I get irritated by the number of cyclists who sneak up and scare the crap out of me. If it's still and quiet I can hear them coming with a moment of notice, but if windy out they are suddenly right beside me.

[@LordFata]

Aero bars are fantastic if road conditions allow it. For ultra distance, I used FreeCad to design 40mm spacers which a friend printed. Also set them up wider and closer to me. Allowed me to comfortably ride about 75% of time in the bars on a 20h ride. In strong consistent head wind in open terrain, switching the position gained me 3 kph, while resting my upper body.

[@gcntech]

So important for those kind of distances! Couldn't imagine being in the same position for that long 😅

[@DrewKime]

@@gcntech That's one of my favorite reasons for them. Not just less weight on my hands, but basically resting my arms, not having to hold myself up at all.

[@Tarmaccyclocross]

Absolute bollocks

[@a1white]

Yes! Panniers!! Thank you. Couldn’t cycle without one. Absolute game changer. I use the Tortec velocity ones. Slimline and angled in to get the centre of gravity even better towards the centre of the bike. Really lightweight and cheap for what they are too.

[@doernerrr]

I recently thoroughly degreased my bike’s chain and applied hot wax. I was worried the advertised benefits could be hype but they aren’t. Drive train is quieter (that probably means faster also) and shifts are effortlessly smooth, plus now totally clean. Fantastic bang for the buck.

[@lukasg6504]

Did it too for the mentioned benefits. Drove through light rain less than 100 km after I hot waxed a new chain and immediately got rust on it. Did I anyone experience the same, or did I do anything wrong?

[@doernerrr]

@@lukasg6504 Guess I should have mentioned mine is a TT bike so it doesn’t see much wet weather and, therefore, I can’t comment on the potential for rust. Also I’m using a high spec SRAM chain and it appears to perhaps have some type of surface treatment or plating that may inhibit corrosion.

[@gcntech]

Whoop whoop whoop! Once you wax it won't come back 🙌

[@dh7314]

@@lukasg6504 has happened to me before, not always though. I now just wipe down the chain when I get home, just a couple of seconds with an old towel

[@Imagine2035]

@@lukasg6504 The chain has to be dried with paper or microfiber after getting wett in rain or after cleaning to avoid rust.

A nice sounding freewheel is better than a bell!

[@Bike4Coffee-Cake]

Love my panniers for shopping, commuting or bike packing - so much easier! And have a trunk bag if I want just a bit of space for bread/croissants after a morning ride. Just trying out waxed chain for the first time - will see, but definitely like how clean it is staying even through puddles…

[@christopheroliver148]

Wet is a bit of a problem for wax, or so I've read. You should wipe off your drive train if you've run through the yuck, or rust is a possibility. My errand bike is still on wet lube even if my road bikes are on wax.

[@gcntech]

Who doesn't need more space for pastries and bread! 👀

[@peterharrington8709]

Bicycle bell is iconic. A friendly hello used the world over. Like waving at trains... it's something you do to make the world a nicer place.

[@christopheroliver148]

It's certainly more pleasant sounding than someone yelling "on your left."

[@gcntech]

How about waving to people from boats... it's just got to be done! 👀

[@peterharrington8709]

@@gcntech And every sailor knows.... The sea is ALWAYS waving.... Ahoy!!! 😃

[@markricketts6957]

The main disadvantage of a onesie is when you have to stop for a pee.

[@vosch8229]

Tribars are a must have for me. It's not so much the speed advantage, but the comfort. I can't understand why there's not a good solution for aero handlebars.

[@stefanwagener]

Yeah, it's unfortunate that most bikes are designed to be UCI legal instead of being designed for "normal" people with optimizations for aerodynamics, comfort, safety, ...

[@gcntech]

Do you take them on all rides, or just the long trips where comfort is key? 🚴

[@vosch8229]

@@gcntech On all rides. I even miss them on my trekking bike ;)

[@lbx5359]

I use a bar end bell (Canyon-branded, but I'm sure they exist in other brands). It replaces a plug, and the great thing is that you can keep your hands on the brakes and shifters, while ringing.

[@gcntech]

Sounds like a great hack! 🙌 Do you find it rings when you go over bumpy roads?

[@lbx5359]

@@gcntech Not really, no more than any other bell. I use it on gravel and it's fine!

[@MrLuigi-oi7gm]

If main stream chain manufactures would offer some of their chains pre-waxed, without having to pay a HUGE premium for the feature, I think it could be a game charger. The hardest part of waxing a chain is preparing it for its first waxing. Manufactures could really help by removing that arduous step.

[@stiffjalopy4189]

Molten Speed Wax sells YBN chains pre-stripped and waxed, I think for $40 extra. Definitely worth it to me, because stripping the factory lube is the biggest hurdle to going to immersive wax. Once that’s done, it’s way easier than traditional lube.

[@makantahi3731]

it is not so hard to remove grease: put chain in thinner for few hours, wipe it and instal on bike and you can wax it by inductive heater and repeat it every 50-100 km , after 3-4 times all rest of grease will be replaced with wax

[@lesliereissner4711]

1. Riding the Camino de Santiago for 10 days I had everything I needed packed away in panniers and a handlebar bag. These new-trend frame bags would not have been nearly as useful although I guess if you are riding through brush or something on an epic trip like the youths do nowadays they won't get caught. 2. Almost all of my bikes have bells because I got tired of yelling at people staring at their cellphones in the middle of the bikepath--I rotate the bells so they are under the bars and not so visible (aesthetics). 3. Gloves! Yes yes yes. I am astonished when I see pros riding without them (think Lizzie Deignan at Paris-Roubaix) let alone amateurs. I have kept my knuckles intact at the cost of a few pairs. 4. Ollie (former Droppee now Dropper) looking svelte in his onesie but I think people would point and laugh at me if I wore one. But then again they point and laugh at me anyway. 😉

[@a1white]

OMG finally you’ve acknowledged that GCN presenters don’t wear mitts! Thank you Ollie. Why is that? Is it that they are deemed uncool? Ps. Sorry, but there is no way I’m EVER going to wear a onesie. 😅

[@willmo1725]

Mitts lol gloves, are a must, 100% agree. Protect those hands. Wax chains I probra ly never do it. Just to much, of and on the bike. I have been tempted to try a onesie. More afordable faster, but out in the sticks I already get some pretty odd stares in bibs and a jersey. I might try one all the same, give them something to talk about.

[@topi3146]

Fully agree on the panniers and the bell. The bell is so useful on a Sunday when the cycling path at the Rhein are packed with other cyclists and panniers over so much more space for the € compared to bike packing bags (if you can mount them of course)

[@gcntech]

Are panniers the next big thing in cycling? Is bike-packing going to move over 👀

[@agentzapdos4960]

It's unfortunate that not all bike frames come with the proper mounts on the frame for a rear rack and panniers.

[@TheAlan1953]

Rear view mirrors. Good to be aware of other road users

[@20yearsagotoday1]

Get the Garmin Varia. You’ll never ever ride without it again after 5mins of using it.

[@mikeainsworth4504]

Great observation by Dr Bridgewood that most of us do not ride under the jurisdiction of the UCI. To avoid any confusion whilst out on the bike, perhaps the GCN shop could sell a ‘The UCI has not jurisdiction here’ onesie; or failing that, a t-shirt?

[@christoph1]

or gloves

[@gcntech]

That's a great idea hahah

[@PRH123]

Perhaps we could petition the UCI to begin issuing city-bike regulations..? :)

[@MalcolmJameson_1]

I always wear gloves every single ride, no matter what the weather is, its the same as a helmet a protection for your hands. Always have i got tri bars on my bike, even if i ride on a cruiser bike i attach tri bars on it, looks a bit funny but its really effective. Never ever have I felt the need to use a bell, because i always ride with 2 loud speakers playing music at full power, pedestrians can hear me approach from afar.

[@238949]

Do love these "Ollie rant" videos 🤩 I always wear gloves and both my bikes have a bell but have never worn a onesie 😘

[@gcntech]

Ollie rants about tech in his sleep

[@238949]

@@gcntech he is lovely when he rants though

[@martj.1350]

Thanks for highlighting the bicycle basket! Best addition to almost any bike!

[@LT-rk6fr]

The first thing popped in my mind about onesies is the pee break. Panniers are awesome, I use them for shopping, commute and joyrides as well. Although you will definitely feel a bit wobbliness when riding with a heavier load. Once because the load is usually free to move a bit and once because the frame is flexing and acts as a giant "spring". Aero bars are awesome as well. I tried drip on wax but am uncertain about its effectiveness. The chain seems to get noisy sooner than with oils. My hands still get dirty if I touch the chain although it is easier to wash off as it is not so sticky as oily gunk. Sometime in the future I will try hot melt wax as well to see how it fares.

[@paulmcknight4137]

As far as pee breaks, bib shorts are also a real PITA. As far as wobbly panniers, I've noticed they absorb shocks and make a stiff frame more comfortable!

[@john_7986]

I am surprised that some bike shops aren't already offering replacement chains pre-waxed as an optional service!

[@tomschenk5148]

They will kill their over all chain, cassette and chain ring sales. But I know what you mean and I an just going g to spend that money on something else in the shop anyways.

[@seattlegrrlie]

I always wear gloves. Sun gloves in the summer, mid-weight in Spring/Fall, and rain proof in winter. I don't need sun damage or wind burn on the backs of my hands and it protects against scratches from bushes and cuts if your fall

[@bugsygoo]

I've never understood why the Lycra crowd refuse to use bells. In Denmark, where I ride, it's mandatory except for the MAMiLs, apparently. Must be an aero thing🤣

[@alexbergkvist7214]

Tbh, i rather meet a Mamil than a Mawiyp(middle age woman in yoga pants)

[@bugsygoo]

@@alexbergkvist7214 Well, whichever way you swing, I guess!

[@recstoppauseplay]

Thanks Ollie, all good stuff. Where I ride there are lots of trails that were supposed to be designed for bicycles, pedestrians and horses and a bell is highly recommended by various authority types to the point where it's close to mandatory. Yes, families meandering around with little kids on bikes, folks who think they're training for the next time trials and horses leaving little digested gifts on the trail. The bell is invaluable. The 'onesie' might be pretty nice. I'll have a look.

[@steveyankou4144]

All right, that's it. I'm gonna start waxing my chain. I love my onesie, tribars, and gloves, and it felt nice to be validated by Ollie. I might even get a bell.

[@leanneearle3652]

I'm all on board with the panniers and gloves! I have different gloves for each season and when I crashed recently, my gloves helped to protect my hands. My under-utilized tech is the good old camelbak. I don't like bottles on my bike and I'd rather have my water on me.

[@gcntech]

You don't realise how much you wanted gloves until you come off! Then it can get nasty 👀 Camelback is a great shout! Although a still a rare sight on the road, it's pretty common in our off road friends.

[@jw3638]

Instead of a bell, I added a car horn. I'm more worried about drivers not stopping to look in my direction as they turn into the intersection. Also, a radar light is a must for me now. It preps me for when a vehicle (s) is coming at me with speed so I can safely avoid potential hazards up without having to worry that a car is coming up on me quietly (Electric vehicles more so now). We don't all have the luxury of a film crew around us that makes cars give us proper space as we ride. In addition, open ear headphones (bone conduction ones) are safer than in-ear ones, especially when you have one drop out when you have to adjust your sunglasses, helmet or scratch an itch on your head

[@nkantar]

One of the best additions I've made to my gravel bike is a passive bell (rings on its own, mine is a Timber). I switch it on when I'm on trails frequented by hikers and horseback riders and everyone is happier to hear me sooner, so we can all adjust a bit and carry on with minimal fuss.

[@DEAR7340]

Yep. I live in a rural area and ride on U.S. Forest Service Roads during the winter. The passive bell gives me some comfort that I will not be surprising the bears, or myself, when I take a curvy descent.

[@douglaspate9314]

My girlfriend has panniers, a basket and a BELL on her e-bike. If we are riding through town together, me behind her on my road bike, she clears the path in front of her like the parting of the waves. And she wears mitts!

[@PhilOsGarage]

I tried a onesie a few month’s ago, total game changer. Forgot the speed, the comfort is unrivalled. I found one that isn’t a uniform colour top and bottom, so it looks like a jersey and shorts at a glance.

[@gcntech]

Style of jersey and bibs and the advantage of the onesie! 🙌

[@SMathai]

What's the restroom situation with a onesie? After a few hours of riding, you got to go somewhere, and a onesie requires a full undress! Unless I'm limiting ride time to under 1.5 hours with a careful check on what I drank prior to leaving the house, this is a no go for me.

[@samuelgaspar4742]

Fun video. I agree with everything. But the full body suits are not so easily available / budget friendly in my region (Portugal, Spain). Can you give good value recomendations? Thanks

[@rogerretzlaff5010]

Lately I've been using pinning to join chains instead of quick links. Mainly I've observed quick links being much more prone to stretching and have in some instances, simply been longer than a standard link when new. Maybe that isn't significant to overall chain wear, but since I run Campagnolo on three bikes and like the pinned Shimano chains, I don't see hot bath waxing as viable to keep them clean and lubed. Now I am no stranger to waxing chains and relied on it in the 1970s-80s for my 6 speed bikes when breaking the chain and repining it was all we could do. So once I moved to 9 and 10 speed drivetrains, I switched to Phil's oil and do a lot of chain massage with mineral spirits every few rides. Now that all of the bike media seems in love with wax lubes, I'm in a bit of a quandary about going back. Since I can't find someone stocking the original White Lightening or any other drip wax, it seems there just isn't a good way to go back to waxing for pinned chains. So what would GCN do?

[@ELMARIACHI13]

I never ride without my Crumpler Bicycle Courier bag.Have had it for over 20 years now,and,still going strong.Thank you Stu Crumpler.😀🚴

[@GregLanz]

Interesting how GCN's appreciation of waxing chains correlates to the lack of muc-off ads... I do have to credit muc-off with me switching to waxing my chains as the last stuff I bought from them was a literal magnet for dirt and grime.

[@fredmcgough748]

Great job Ollie! Great tips! When I was 14 yrs. Old I actually carried a bowling ball while riding my bike. Because of the weight I kept verring off the road. A basket would definitely help.

[@gcntech]

Hahahaha were not sure a blowing ball in a basket is a good idea 😂

[@bartomiejczado7952]

In Poland a bell is actually a mandatory piece of equipment for a bike (also reflective lights are, btw). Sadly, as it's not strictly policed, many people don't have them indstalled.

[@josephruby2981]

I commuted 18 miles round-trip for years and always a small pair of panniers to carry a change of clothes and shoes (showered at the office), a laptop, often other work stuff, and a lunch.

[@serendipityrecordco9380]

As a paramedic for 10+ years, I recommend full finger gloves to keep your fingertips and fingernails attached to your fingers if you have the misfortune of performing a high speed dismount

[@gcntech]

Eeeek 👀

[@DP-eu8gg]

Ouch…. I won’t ask….

[@serendipityrecordco9380]

I’ll also add: FFS, wear a helmet. I have seen 5 different riders suffer permanent traumatic brain injuries from single rider crashes. You have a custom Ti bike and all the kit, but no helmet. Now you are repeating the same phrase every 10 seconds for the rest of your days like a cyclist version of Hodor.

[@lostinature]

Danish guy here! Around here baskets are widely accepted and used on townbikes and in the urban/singlespeed community. ALL of my bikes have bells. zero reason not to... I bikepack alot and i'm totally in on the panniers - on the front, which in turn gives my bike the frontal area of a bus and effectively also cancel out the benefit from my aerobars, which are also on there. The reason bikepacking bags look the way they do, are probably down to their origin and heritage (and perhaps coolness factor). Originating from explorative off-road riding where panniers are quite frankly really unpractical. Guess we should all just do it our own way and own our choices ;)

[@viffer94]

Joined the chain wax gang this summer. A bit of a pfaff to get started especially stripping a new chain but once you’re in it’s not much more work than properly maintaining a lubed chain. Less mess and all your pricey components should last longer too. But I draw the line at onesies. Nope.

[@jasonsoper9444]

BRB, just filing a patent for the tri-ba(r)sket, the latest in aero baguette storage.

[@888johnmac]

lol , i was thinking along the same lines .. crack on & have a like

[@jirdesteva]

I'm not a racer and most of my rides are short but gloves, panniers, racks and a waxed chain I truly believe are a must. I don't wear lycra because I doubt i would make it look good.

[@ewanbent9028]

My Ortlieb panniers are perfect for the shop run. I hate having a sweaty back.

[@sean7456]

As a Kansan bike commuter, I have aero bars on ALL my bikes: there is no better way of punching through headwinds than properly fitted aero bars. Now, for that same reason, I also don't use panniers on my commuter bike: there's extremely noticeable drag, especially in high winds. I use a trunk bag instead: just as stable but more aero.

[@gcntech]

Getting super aero always feels good! 👌

[@fleurdelispens]

SPD sandals. When you live in a hot area, there's no better shoe in the summer

[@johne7100]

Bells: I have a good half-dozen bells of them in the workshop, whereof only two do not rattle when I'm riding. They're not the loudest, though. You can't win. Wax: Been waxing my chain for the last couple of years. My tips: cleaning and waxing takes time, so use two chains and alternate them. I get 600-700km per waxing. Clean the chain with petrol and then boiling water, otherwise your wax will get filthy. Also, joining up a freshly-waxed chain can be difficult, so put the quick-link in before putting it in the pot.

[@The123fiona]

How then do you put the chain on the bike without removing and replacing the link?

[@johne7100]

@@The123fiona The point of putting the link in is that it the hole in the roller doesn't fill up with wax and articulating areas of the cheeks don't get covered either. Obviously you remove and replace the link when fitting it after waxing.

[@lafamillecarrington]

Panniers - pretty much all the time. Bell - yes. Gloves - check! Tri bars - love them when its windy, great upgrade. Onesie - my rabbit onesie doesn't seem to help much. Glad I tried though, because I got lots of attention. Oh - add in a hub dynamo.

[@PRH123]

Baskets are awesome. I have a Thule basket on my gravel single speed, and 2 full bags from the supermarket fit in it perfectly. Just throw them in and go. Have a mini bell on it too. Front and rear Ibera racks. And full fenders (mudguards).

[@gcntech]

Convenience is key!

[@joneaton3366]

Thanks, yes i would absolutely were a onesie always and after watching your informative wind tunnel video i bought a skin and i couldn't find a mens onesie anywhere online. Ive got mitts for your stated reasons and another of my own to protect from the branches and nettles but not been back in the habit of wearing this year so ill dig em out for tomorrow's 😊.

[@twatts4436]

Panniers and baskets are not how i expected this to start 🤣

[@jackseph03]

Big vote for the Spruicycles bell. Stylist, discreet and a lot more useful than calling out “excuse me”. Also mitts. I raced on the track in my youth and they were compulsory. I never ride without them, but they have fallen out of fashion with many pros, and most of us follow what the pros do, so…

[@festerofest4374]

I have a couple of the much cheaper Rock Bros knockoffs (approx $15 US) and they have held up well. They are on the handlebar tucked up next to the stem and they are stealth and out of the way until I need to flick it with my thumb. (Mounted upside-down, really, so an upstroke from the thumb from a normal hand position on the tops is quite ergo.)

[@overcookit1433]

#askgcntech : You should also test aero helmets which nowadays does not necessarily mean TT helmets (I myself love Specialzed McLaren TT), but meanwhile there are many helmets around with visor (e.g. Ekoi has got a quite cheap one - Ironman aero16), which help keeping out flies and wasps in summer, rain the whole vear, and cold air in fall/winter. Instead of a bell, I use a whistle (Bookman bike whistle), as it even helps defending against ruthless car drivers (I am sure a bell cannot be heard in a car). Concerning tribars: With the shown model, you can easily try and leave off one side, and just use e.g. the right one, which you can turn 90°, so the s-bend part shows to the inside, and you can easily put both hands on it. I came to that idea with my TT-bike, when I has watched several times the World ITT championships 2013 which took place in Tuscany, Italy, where the Swedish rider Gustav Larsson only had installed the right extension, which he grabbed with both hands. As I ride a Giant Cadex CFR converted to a TT bike, I can use a down-tube shifter for the front derailleur, and the idea with only one extension works pretty well. Waxed chains I use now already the third year, and this year I had to put off the 11-23 11speed cassette, from which (the 19/21/23 spiderarm) I let cutting off some material, so it fitted on a 8speed freewheel (on both a Specialized trispoke and a HED 3D disk wheel). I replaced it by a 19/21 spiderarm of a 11-30 11speed Ultegra cassette, and a 1.85mm spacer. The original Ulterga 11-23 cassette had about 27.000 km, with the use of oiled chains on the beginning. One waxed chain (only the drip-on Silca Super Secret) lasts about 7.000 km, as I often ride the big chainring in combination with the 21/19/18 teeth sprockets. With the use of oil, I would have had to replace the cassette last year, and the chains every 3000km, and I replace the 11speed chains when the wear is 0.5mm, as it is advised. For the chain, I use the KMC X11 SL - maybe the Dura Ace 11speed would even last longer, as it has got a special coating on it.

[@wrwicky]

I’m in on the deal, already waxing chains. I’ll shop for a onesie today

[@herculesrockefeller8969]

Waxing chain also gives you the benfit of the best performing lube, shown in test after test - paraffin.

[@jascollinscork]

Great tips….. I can tick 2 off these off!! The Skinsuit and the aero gloves!!! Just because of comfort AND safety with the gloves for my hands!! Get great tan lines too 😂 Ollie you forgot the most Aero wearable product….. Aero socks…. Love my aero coach ones!!!

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

Our parents used bike bells. Therefore we don't. However, our kids will. 🙂

[@challacustica9049]

🤣

[@ChazHarding]

Seen the Spur Cycle bell? It's pricey, buy very well made and a true thing of beauty!

[@mileslong9675]

Tribars are great for long rides. I used them back in ‘91 on the STP (a 200 mile ride from Seattle to Portland). Great for comfort, easy on the hands. Sure, maybe a bit unsafe, but what the hell.

[@bobrong9645]

I know drive belts are far less efficient than chains, but if I have to buy a new ebike, I'll seriously consider it.

[@ColinBroderickMaths]

Well they're not FAR less efficient, and depending on the type of riding you do, the other benefits are potentially much more important.

[@JackMott]

if you had the choice of buying your whole team carbon aero frames or well fitter onesies, the onesies would save way more performance. so of course do both.

[@franksorry2653]

I’m sold on waxed chains and onesies already, no need for mittens. I don’t know if Ollie should be kept on a leash or I want to see more vids of him off the leash like this. Loved it! Bye 😊😂

[@cyclingSausage]

I've never had much luck with specific cycling gloves. I use Site gloves from Screwfix with thin woolly gloves as a liner. They work great; The only downside is when you wipe your nose with the back of your hand they're a bit rough.

[@DEAR7340]

Costco (US) sells the Head brand ski gloves that are snug and grippy; they are kind of a thin nylon/neoprene. They are a great deal, compared to higher priced ones marketed as cycling-specific winter gloves.

[@Dhungerf60]

I mounted some tribals onto my gravel bike a few years ago, I was initially laughed at, but after the other riders/racers saw the added performance and comfort they gave me, they started mounting them onto their bikes.

[@gcntech]

How influential of you 😉

[@ltrtg13]

I use the Knog Oi bells on my bikes. I also have an air horn as well. I don't always use it as the air bottle takes up a bottle cage. It does have a refillable bottle so you don't need to replace it after use. On my road bike and hybrid I do use the pannier. When I'm riding my road bike or hybrid. I always wear my long mountain bike trousers and GMBN race top. I never ride without gloves or mitts. I would never use tribars. They would have no benefit as I use a rucksack with a 3 litre Camelbak bladder. Also my Orbra Laufey with 140mm travel forks and 780mm wide bars with 35mm rise would REALLY silly. I won't be waxing my chains. Firstly I'm TOO bone idle to spend that much time doing it. I also ride my mountain bike more often. In UK wet and muddy conditions. I don't want a rusty chain due to the wax been washed off.

[@dontaylor8540]

Great questions! 💸 Now I'll be waxing my chain, wearing gloves and onses, and looking into areo bars ⛓️ 🧤 💰💰💰 But I've thought of most of these to improve my rides.

[@dontaylor8540]

Now I have to see about a GCN onesie 😉

[@fredjohnstone7027]

I totally agree with the comment about panniers. those seat post bags were designed for mountain bikes with rear suspensions. There’s no reason to use them on a hard tail. I have a basket on my cargo bike for store runs. I also have expandable bags that clip onto the side of the basket that essentially triple my carrying capacity.

[@MrJhamil05]

I use Panniers for bikepacking, commuting, shopping and touring

[@PoulHansenDK]

Finally someone speaks up against those silly 17 little bags you have to strap to your bike when doing the fancy new activity: "Bike packing" Old time bike touring with panniers give you so many advantages but doesn't have a fancy name and they can't sell you a lot of silly bags. PS: backpack also load your bum with most of the weight of it's content

[@christopheroliver148]

Agree. To me bike packing and gravel sound as if some trendy marketer just heard of bike touring and cyclocross and misunderstood both.

[@K1989L]

Panniers are the best. Quick to attach and detach. Holds lots of stuff and still handels great!

[@orwellklimt9947]

I installed a small bell. and it's very convenient to announce your approach to unsuspecting pedestrians.

[@gcntech]

Always best to be considerate!

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

It's so true. The "cool factor" is a huge influence in how we setup our bikes.

[@gcntech]

Thankfully, Ollie is above looking cool 😉

[@PRH123]

I rode for 20 years without fenders as I thought they looked dorky, getting mud and water all over my feet and chain and up my back and in my face... the first time I tried them was a revelation... have them on all bikes now except the race bike....

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

@@PRH123 Same for me 😀

[@mikehoward7777]

I bought a trigger bell. Can break and change without taking my hands off the bars. But then I don't have tri bars.

[@lucakieft2671]

for commuting to work everyday, i use the steco monkey-mee. a backpack carrier that you can bolt on your existing luggage carrier but you can secure your backpack on it

[@lordoverride]

Bells: For my Canyon Grizl I am using the Canyon Road Cycling Bell, mounted at the end of the handlebar as a plug.

[@Metaspection]

“Share with your friends, if you got any.” The cheek!!! 😂😂😂

[@adossantos69751]

Tailfin is the solution to replace the saddle/seatpost bag. Its expencive but its awesome. My main transport is my bike, I commute everyday by bike on all weather conditions. Taifin made my commiting life so much easier.

[@sventice]

Tailfin is great for light touring. You can carry quite a bit of stuff without ruining the ride performance too much. It is expensive, but worth it in my opinion.

[@senorwoohooSD]

Gloves/mitts; added benefit, if you sweat a lot, it'll save your bar tape and stop the corrosion of your handlebars from the salt.

[@rhobson]

Where I'm from, bells (and lights) are actually required by law. I use a horn, it's easier to press a button and it's VERY loud, compared to traditional bells. And I'll die on this hill: waxed chains belong to the same bin as tubeless tires, definitely not for me! I don't ride as often, and I definitely do not ride on the wet, so minimal oiling every now and almost-never is more than enough to keep things well lubricated and rust-free, and since I use WD-40, it's a dual job of both cleaning and lubricating the chain, and it never gets dripping-oil-wet that attracts dirt like a magnet. ;)

[@peterdraper1478]

I'm about to head out for my first ride with my new tribars!

[@challacustica9049]

Another great one that's changed riding for me - dynamo! Dynamo lights can be way bright than battery operated ones and give you such a peace of mind if you regularly commute in the dark. Also, eye shield/clear visor on helmets are a godsend if you ride in rainy, cold and/or windy conditions regularly. Cycling goggles can protect your eyes, but the rest of your face will still be exposed. This means you can nicely fit a scarf around your mouth and ears and have your entire face well protected from the wind, and use your normal glasses, or lack thereoff as well. On the topic of helmets, adding a mirror is great for road safety too if your country lacks bike lanes.

[@sventice]

How do dynamo lights affect rolling resistance? Is it even noticeable?

[@meibing4912]

Don't do dynamo light - magnetic are a far better choice and last forever. Much more light weight too.

[@challacustica9049]

@@sventice not really, it's noticeable if you're going all out sprint, but for cruising (~30 kmph) it's pretty unnoticeable, beyond the noise. I personally have a bottle dynamo, which can be disengaged, but the con of that over a hub dynamo is that it's louder, less efficient and the traction wheel wears out over time

[@robertcarrington4014]

"share it with your friends, if you've got any" ... you know me too well! 🤣

[@redalert2834]

I think bells are a legal requirement. Waxed chains are excellent unless you live in the UK where it rains most days and you don't mind skipping chains with stiff links that ruin the fun of cycling.

[@mlee6050]

Timber bell is the best if need a bell often As can't get "onesie" skinsuit/speed suit I want, I'm looking at a morphsuit as no padding and long sleeve on all limbs

[@wcoin794]

I really enjoyed the tips and 95% yes to all. The onesies for women for a quick pee stop? I am not so sure about that. It's hard enough that most bibs aren't designed for quick pee breaks for women. I always buy bibs with a feature to help pee. This is also why a lot of "average" female cyclists, prefer shorts to bibs. THANKS FOR ALL THE TIPS. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. My other low tech tip is carrying an emergency whistle attached by velcro to my stem. With a loud whistle that I can quickly access, I can alert friends if I have been dropped due to a mechanical, alert danger, or even scare off a charging dog.

[@buenox1414]

i have a Domga F in Sram Red and i use closethegap bell i'm not using that much in a ride but every time i use it people thanks me, Every time you have the possibility to have bell take it's will be really important if you ride alone on little road.

[@user-lx3ld9lp6w]

Tried bells but huge numbers of people just ignore them. A friendly shout of 'hello, bike behind' seems to work much better.

[@redpandamaniacal]

I wore through my first pair of gloves by crashing a few times. I'm hoping not to take any tumbles in the future, but to not wear them almost feels as dangerous as not wearing a helmet. If I'm doing anything more than going on a short trip to a convenience store, I'll probably have the gloves on, but only on my road bike. I still ride gloveless on my mamachari. I've had issues with my wrists that got to the point where I couldn't use my left hand for a bit that cycling without gloves might have contributed to when I was getting started. They're great for longer rides though, which is something I'm trying to do more of and I might want to change my bar wrap some time soon as it's starting to come apart and something more padded might help. Tri bars feel really tempting, although I'm concerned about either getting them caught on something or spearing someone by accident. I can totally see myself catching them on an electric pole or something when doing a sharp turn at low speeds very close to a corner.

[@paulsymons562]

Mudguards. If you live in the UK and ride from September to June, they are life altering. Add a nice long flap to the back of front and rear guards for total protection. Saves your ass, drivetrain and legs from dirt and spray. Try them. You might like 'em.