Bike Tech We Should All Use But Don’t!

[@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.

[@glansberry]

I stand behind you Ollie, regarding your backpack rant! I ditched the backpack on long unsupported gravel rides (I'm looking at you, covid) for a rear rack and top bag. Additionally, I can't stress how essential TT Bars have been for those longer rides as well. Rant over, carry on (and not the backpack). 👍

[@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.

[@SianaGearz]

What happened? There aren't a thousand people telling you the stand will impale you to death? And another 200 saying they are impossible since their bike is missing the dedicated frame feature?

[@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.

[@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.... :)

[@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

[@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?

[@prophetzarquon]

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.

[@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.

[@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]

😅😂😊

[@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.

[@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.

[@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! 👀

[@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!

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@BigMarkDru]

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.

[@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 ;)

[@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!!! 😃

[@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.

[@SignorLuigi]

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. 😉

[@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

[@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..? :)

[@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. 😅

[@fleurdelispens]

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

[@unknownKnownunknowns]

@5:05 who makes that bike bag please?

[@markricketts6957]

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

[@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?

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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 😊😂

[@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.

[@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.

[@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! 👌

A nice sounding freewheel is better than a bell!

[@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.

[@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

[@martj.1350]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@EGL24Xx]

Biggest issue with waxing chains is most quick/master/missing/etc. links are single use, or 2-3 use at best with 11+ speed chains.

[@Ivan-oh6ug]

Single use! Don't believe everything you read. It's simple mechanics and you can reuse them dozens of times - as long as there is resistance when the chain is pulled tight you're good to go. Remember the chain is under tension when you ride so you'll be fine. I have been riding road and MTB like this for decades and never had an issue.

[@viffer94]

Manufacturers are just trying to cover their legal butts by saying they’re single use and side benefit, they get to sell you more of their stuff. As long as it isn’t damaged you can reuse a master link. But make sure you carry a spare on your rides just in case.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@miroslawkobus1491]

'why isn't everyone using mounted panniers and baskets?' - how many frame mounting points do most of the bikes in the audience have, outside of the front triangle? Sun screen - don't use it as much as I should, but it should also be used more widely, even if it's among the many faffs you have to deal with getting ready to ride in the sun.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@DetroitJohnny]

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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@mattburkey8393]

Which knobs are coming into the office with backpacks? I've gone bikepacking with panniers, worked great.

[@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

[@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.😀🚴

[@DonutEndurance]

I really don’t agree with most of this rant, but I still enjoyed it.😂 I did find it interesting that apparently dogs and children are put in the same category… I have way more trouble with adults wearing headphones. No bell gets those special individuals’ (that also always seem to be walking in the middle of the path) attention. They also always seem to want to yell out you for not let them know you were passing when you rang your bell multiple times and yelled “on your left.”

[@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.

[@ewanbent9028]

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

[@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 ;)

[@Murgoh]

I have panniers on my winter commuter bike, bells on all of my bikes (a signaling device is mandatory here, as are lights if you ride during the dark time), gloves are necessary for a large part of the year here in Finland, I wax my chains and I have tri bars on the aforementioned winter commuter (a 90:s mountain bike fitted with drop bars and a road crankset) and of course on my TT-bike. So I already use most of these. Don't own onesies or baskets, a basket would not sit right on any of my bikes, might try onesies though.

[@a1white]

It’s actually meant to be mandatory for new bikes in the UK to have bells, so I’m guessing GCN presenters remove them from their Pinarellos 😅

[@davomoto42]

I have a front basket on my commuter bike and it's awesome. I can put my laptop bag in it, groceries, a case of beer... all kinds of stuff!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 😉

[@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.

[@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!

[@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. ;)

[@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

[@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 😀

[@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!

[@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.

[@prestachuck2867]

Babies wear onesies. Athletes wear skinsuits. Get it right, Boliver. 😄 Skinsuits are even more inconvenient than bibs are when a natural break is required. Skinsuits for time trials and crits only. Back in 1980, my road cycling coach taught me to ALWAYS wear gloves when cycling. Nobody wants road rash on their palms. Waxed chains rock! Great video, have an epic ride and a great day.

[@christopheroliver148]

Here, I think onesies are referring to skinsuits with rear pockets.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@truvc]

3:23 where do I get onesies? I looked and couldn’t find any that were available except triathlon wetsuit onesies. But I don’t want a wetsuit onesie.

[@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 😂

[@twatts4436]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@ComputerRouter]

Day Time Running Lights are must for me I'll only wear gloves in the depths of Winter, but WAY more important than protecting your hands, look after your eyes with clear or photochromic glasses Glasses keep flies out, gravel out, dust, chaff and heavy smoke - maybe even make you eye sockets more aero!

[@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.)

[@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 😊.

[@lordoverride]

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

[@nickkambitis5340]

I went to waxed chains 3 years ago. You’ll never go back to lubes once you’ve changed. I rotate 3 chains and I’ve not replaced a chain in 3 years! I ride approx 5-6k mile a year!! Super clean setup. I rotate the chain every 120 miles. P.s quick links never break and I use the three quick links in my rotation tens if not hundreds of times.

[@gcntech]

Sounds like you've got the ideal setup there!

[@nickkambitis5340]

@@gcntech it’s trying to persuade my friends to take the leap that’s the issue! It’s surprising how many people think it’s a faff when in reality with the proper thermostat pot it’s dead simple and requires little effort. I run Dura ace and Record chains across my three bikes so I save loads of cash.

[@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 😉

[@bubblesezblonde]

4:21~I respectfully disagree Dr. Bridgewood. The Ginormous Leprechaun wears his quite a lot. And yes it always DOES seem to be the single safety gear that GCN presenters seem to ignore and never talk about. Road rash hands hurt--- plain and simple. You are spot on about bells and panniers but yeah, we cool kids hate 'em ALMOST as much reflectors and fenders.

[@K1989L]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@chrisridesbicycles]

You can leave the mitts of (and trash your hand on the first tumble). I‘m still not buying a heated pot, an ultrasonic cleaner and loads of chemicals only to make one of the cheapest wearable parts last a tiny fraction longer than with simple drip wax. On the skinsuit topic: Not everybody has a body suitable for that and you can‘t combine the chamois that fits you best with a jersey you like.

[@christopheroliver148]

Good chains aren't that cheap these days; some are about the same price as a good sew-up tire. I run immersion wax, and I don't have an ultrasonic cleaner.

[@jonathanrobinson2628]

Panniers and aero bars are my road commuting staple. Even at low end zone 2 effort, you immediately see a 2kph increase the moment you drop onto the aeros (even with the panniers). I don't really understand why people use all those frame bags and oversized saddle bags

[@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.

[@questgivercyradis8462]

Agree: Panniers!! LOVE Mine. Ortliebs - waterproof suckers, gets my laptop through monsoons, still good after beating them up for 3 years. Gloves: I use fingerless. I like them. But they start smelling funky after a while so uhh... wash them. Alternative: No basket - get bungie cords! Leave the bungie cords in the panniers when you go grocery shopping. Plan the big squishy items on top of the rack, panniers on the sides. Wanna see just how much popcorn and toilet paper and gallons of kombucha I can haul? Cuz.... it looks ridiculous, but the bungee cords are great for that TP. And then no worries about the basket on days I don't need it. Panniers are better anyway. Nope: Onesie. For the same reason I don't get one piece dresses in favor of a skort or shorts + shirt for weightlifting. For the same reason I get a bikini instead of a one piece swim suit. Because one-piece suits are a pain in the rear when I need to stop and pee!! Bell. Urban area pedestrians I've seen just get confused by it and scatter in random directions. Best just yelling at them as loud as you can.