Why Budget Bikes Are The BEST Option! | GCN Tech Show Ep. 338

[@gcntech]

Do you love budget bikes? 💸

[@feedbackzaloop]

Do not really like budget bikes are not that budget. Gotta be a dedicated roadie not to go for a flat bar hybrid.

[@doctorscoot]

Yeah. It very hard to justify the ten grand bikes. I’m not a pro so 🤷‍♀️

[@MarkSmithSa]

My Triban RC 520 is fantastic for the price. It's like driving a Jaguar at the cost of a Fiesta. My Trek FX3 flat bar trainer is pretty awesome as well, although I have converted it to 11 speed. Both well under a 1000 and I regularly beat other cyclists using Rouvy because it is the rider that counts, not the tens of thousands spent on a frame and a couple of wheels.

[@ramsden35]

I do and will explain. I only started riding in Oct 2023, I bought a Ribble Endurance AL Disc for £999. I then set about getting “bike fit” after years of CrossFit. I rode the Ribbler (as it’s now known) every weekend during winter, in March I was hooked so spent a considerable amount of money on a Cube C62 SLT. I had that bike 3 weeks before it was returned under warranty due to a dodgy frame socket, and I’ve still not had the bike returned! So the Ribbler has stepped up and put the work in; It has done several hilly sportives (Pennines) and got its first 100 mile ride at the end of March. Granted he’s a heavy bike, but that’s made me stronger on hills. But it’s never missed a beat! Only parts needed due to wear and tear; rear hub bearings thanks to winter and a new cassette. It does two commute days a week which is 50 mile round trip and long rides on Sundays and hill reps one day a week. If you know anyone at Cube have a word haha

[@Alex-gl2dw]

I don't like that they put the crappiest groupsets on budget bikes and still dare to ask 2000+ EUR for it. In which country is this considered budget? Even kids bikes prices are totall ripoffs. Also, mid range frames now generally cost ~4000 EUR, top range start at 5000+. And of course all of them try to shove proprietary integrated everything along with it, some integrated handlebars now cost more than 800 EUR. Da hell is this? Just utterly ridiculous when you add the cost of groupsets that are decent enough. Time to switch to Chinese market, people, it's the future. Especially considering that most of those overpriced frames are built in the same factory with the same technology and then are sold in the West with huge margin, while China sells basically the same ones at half the price under a local brand. And I've no pity for bike industry companies that will go under next, they've dug themselves into a hole by greed and incompetent management. It's also telling how they'd choke themselves than sell their warehouses still full of unsold stock from Covid times at a discount worth noting.

[@becksywecksyd3123]

I had a collision with a car, it pulled out of a junction in front of me, legs hit bumper, head hit bonnet - flipped and landed on opposite side the road. On first glance helmet looked minimally damaged (scratched with dinks/dent) however on closer inspection the impact was of such force that a clear imprint of the fabric strap remained on the polystyrene inside the helmet. Yes I have life changing injuries to legs, fractured eye socket and mild traumatic brain injury - but I am so very thankful to have been wearing a well fitted, high quality helmet.

[@Deckzwabber]

That sounds bad. I hope you will recover fully.

[@andrewking1122]

Since I am not independently wealthy and have a family a budget bike is what I ride. That being said I still bought the best I could afford, and it shows since I am still riding it 15 years later!

[@MookPanda]

Check out the Virginia Tech helmet testing labs, they started with American Football helmets and has led to a reduction in concussion in college football. When they first tested Ice Hockey lids, only one got a 3 or more. 5* cycle helmets are available for £40

[@chuckd7177]

Virginia Tech testing clearly shows that some bicycle helmets offer more protection than other.

[@jerrymckittrick3039]

Thanks for showing and talking about my StumpJumper gravel conversion project! I decided to do the project after seeing on GCN videos that a 1993 MTB with no suspension was no longer a MTB and more like a gravel bike. Agree the front end looks odd. Quill stems with holes for cantilever brake cables are few, and had to shorten the stem to counter the increased reach caused by changing flat to drop bar. Not as good as a new gravel bike, but good enough for this old biker who bought it new and wanted to make it fun to ride again. Thanks for all the instruction and inspiration to tinker and to ride!

[@swazi5]

Very cool bike. Big Microshift cassette looks awesome

[@stuartfreedman6854]

I did the same thing to my 1987 Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo and love love love it!

[@vermilionink]

In Amsterdam, biking is so normalized as transport that a lot of the hazard is removed. Cycling is done at a casual pace, in an easy upright position, by people very practiced at riding in this manner, on roads that properly accommodate safe biking. It’s very different from faster-paced sport cycling, or riding on roads where bike riders are a secondary or tertiary afterthought at best.

[@cruachan1191]

I was in the camp of I wouldn't wear a helmet for years, but about a year before I started cycling again a friend fell in the shower and fractured their skull. Whilst they've made a full physical recovery, they still suffer with mood swings and have never fully regained their sense of smell and taste, so it's made me a lot more aware of how serious a head injury can be.

[@DarenC]

And that's why I always wear a helmet in the shower!

[@peterwillson1355]

So you wear a helmet at all times. Got it.

[@___Bebo___]

Never seen the shower argument for pedal bike helmets before, thank you for that.

[@rob-c.]

This isn’t an argument to wear a helmet cycling…

[@alessiob8700]

That happens when you try to fit multiple people in a shower. Showers are designed for 1 person at a time.

[@fennec13]

I don't care if there are laws for wearing a helmet or someone is against helmet laws; I'm wearing one every time I ride. The potential for injury between with Vs. without a helmet is literally the difference between life and death in many accidents.

[@gcntech]

Of course, we also will wear helmets as much as possible. It would be a shame to see more barriers of entry though 👀

[@ericpmoss]

My helmet saved my noggin years ago, so I wear one even though it is frankly kinda miserable. When people say "oh, but the Dutch don't wear helmets and they have very few problems", they ignore how the Dutch have a huge bike network that separates bikes from cars, has traffic lights for bikes, loads of traffic-calming designs, and the average speed is maybe 10mph and doesn't require dodging cars going 4x that speed.

[@fennec13]

@ericpmoss _ fair enough but even if you are riding on a closed (car free) trailway you could still be injured, it's just not worth the risk and anybody thinks that they're >such< a great rider... even Pros hit the deck every so often.

[@DavidS-ev4er]

I whole heartily agree. And while only 18% of all bike crashes result in head injuries, it's just not worth taking the chance. And I can honestly say my noggin has been saved twice from wearing a helmet from freak incidents.

[@rob-c.]

@@fennec13 another commenter referred to a friend’s head injury suffered slipping in the shower. By this logic you shouldn’t take the chance showering either. Cycling isn’t inherently dangerous, despite what Alex said.

[@dubber36ish]

One thing to consider with helmets is that they must be replaced if the have had a bump. If it's an expensive one, many people will be reluctant to replace it due to the cost if it still 'looks OK', but if they have cheaper ones, then they are more likely to get a new one straight away.

[@crbondur]

Two things: I too had a crash recently and damaged my helmet. I'm grateful for the protection it provided. I'm sure I would have been much worse off without it. Second: I paid about $1200USD for the bike I have now. I bought it used from a neighbor. I made sure the bike fit well, and that the frame was of good quality. I've had it for about 3 years and have slowly upgraded parts as things have needed to be replaced. I still love it.❤

[@GansGenaus]

In the Netherlands people cycling for sports do wear a helmet.

[@Deckzwabber]

I can confirm. I will never wear a helmet when I'm on my upright bike riding in the city. But when I'm going 30 kph+, clicked in to my pedals, bent over in the drops... Obviously I'm wearing a helmet.

[@TheHermeynator]

Only for sports though, way too many people on e-bikes without one.

[@inz_uzi]

I was gonna say the same thing. In the Netherlands cyclists are sacred cows - in a good sense - and the infrastructure is magnificent (i still have wet dreams with memories of the bike only tunnel under the channel in Rotterdam 😂) so the risk is minimal if you're just commuting on your city bike. Here at home if I were to ride in the traffic I wouldn't feel as safe and I wouldn't mind wearing a helmet if I had one around me.

[@___Bebo___]

@@Deckzwabber I crashed into a steel pole head first with no give at a little faster than 30 kph. I didn't even feel dizzy, no concussion and no dent in the front of my skull. Your skull is stronger than you think it is, you don't really need a helmet at those speeds.

[@jepulis6674]

​@@___Bebo___Were you buy any chance fooled by your friends to train headers with medicine balls for a year or two?

[@sherab2078]

I believe that even if buying a fully new bike, given we've done proper research and chosen the right brand, we can find most of what we need without too many compromises in the 1000 pounds range. The new players on the market, such as Microshift for example, provide well-working groupsets for really reasonable prices. As long, as we are not about racing, but more about training, the feel of speed, adventure, the joy of riding and so on, we don't really need much more. The high-end carbon-frame bikes give us mostly marginal gains in terms of performance and efficiency. They may decide about winning or losing a race but from the perspective of a common rider, I think, the gains are so tiny the price for them is in no way justifiable. This cost goes not only into money spent on a purchase but also into money and time spent on maintenance. In the price range of 1000 pounds, we can expect a mechanical group set - more durable and easy to maintain by ourselves. In this price range, we can also expect an aluminium alloy frame and this brings up a recurring problem of comfort, or rather the lack of it. I'm not sure, however, the frame material really has that big impact on felt comfort. As I understand the problem, crucial elements here would rather be the choice of a bike type (and frame's size) fitting our body and our level of elasticity, the choice of a saddle, a seatpost, the tyres, and the proper setting of the bike. This may require some additional shopping for parts but will be still way cheaper than buying a high-end bike. Weight doesn't matter that much if climbing is not the only thing we do.

[@a1white]

The most important aspect of a cheap bike is that it has a decent frame. The Boardman you featured is probably a good example of that. Other components such as wheels can be upgraded over time, when your budget allows.

[@ChrisGuarraia]

I was reminded today on a gravel ride of the importance of a helmet. In an attempt to get out of sugar sand (really loose sand) in a road, I tried going up on the grass, something I’ve done many times before. It was hot (98F). We were an hour into a lunch ride. The sun was kinda draining our energy and concentration. I got to the transition of sand to grass and didn’t get the angle right. At just around 10kph, I hit the deck, landing on my right side and my head hit the ground. I did take a few moments to assess how I felt, and my riding buddy was keeping an eye on me as well. Fortunately, no concussion.

[@feedbackzaloop]

When you come so early, only bots in the comments and the lights in the studio are still out

[@gcntech]

The early bird.. catches better engagement! 🪱

[@feedbackzaloop]

@@gcntech early worm escapes the early bird

[@robbchastain3036]

I like your comment about how this video brings everyone together for a wholesome experience about community involvement. O and let's not forget all the hard work that went into making this video possible, something like that. :)

[@robbchastain3036]

Well, hmm, I just wrote a response in perfect bot-speak, but it didn't even post, lol.

[@feedbackzaloop]

@@robbchastain3036 patience, young padawan. YT has to take time to admire your wittiness

[@GrandpaWood_UK]

Would say wear a helmet it may save your life. I was hit by a lorry a number of years back. Was knocked out and had pretty bad concussion - may not be alive today if I didn't have a helmet on.

[@jc2685]

Had my first ever crash 2 weeks ago. Similar scenerio to the regents park accident. Was going 17mph according to my apple watch. Pedestrian was fine, young 6ft male. Direct impact no time to brake. Painful rare rear shoulder dislocation and fracture. Helmet saved me from further injury. Now i want shoulder protection pads in the future.

[@WarHammerWH]

Always a pleasure to have Manon co-host.

[@jeremynorth]

I'd agree but she doesn't know much about bikes

[@Spacemonkeymojo]

Triban make great bikes for 1000 pounds or less, would be good to see you guys talk more about those bikes. And I always wear a helmet when I get on a bike, it’s not a hard thing to do nor do I think it’s dorky or lame to wear one. Being safe shouldn’t be frowned upon.

[@johnstrac]

I agree with Alfred, I never go out without my helmet but wouldn't want it to be mandatory.

[@andrewjandik337]

The affordable bike discussion reminds me of The old Chinese Food Conundrum - You can have it cheap, fast or good but you can only pick two.

[@Deckzwabber]

I think you can have it fast as well

[@Deckzwabber]

Good, cheap and fast

[@DG-tf9rp]

I do own 2 pairs of custom D2 road shoes, $1000us a pair. 1 pair are 15yrs, 40,000miles, 1pair 6yrs, 36,000 old. Both pairs are still going strong and are the most comfortable shoes I own. Yes they are expensive and I will not be able to buy another pair, but they are worth every penny.

[@Pionirish]

I think helmets should be personal choice although I do wear one myself. It's also worth mentioning that a foam hat isn't going to save you when a driver wipes you out because they're looking at their phone.

[@GaryM-ft7pw]

more survivable with it than without

[@Pionirish]

@@GaryM-ft7pw citation needed

[@GaryM-ft7pw]

@@Pionirish You want a citation that a force absorption layer reduces the force transmitted through it? even you can't be that disingenuous

[@roelofdutoit3962]

My absolute pet peeve on helmets is seeing someone riding with their helmet swinging from the handlebars. If you arent going to wear it why turn it into something that could cause you to crash. Wear a helmet...look stupid. or dont wear one and be stupid.

[@tommccafferty5591]

When I see a child wearing a helmet, I always comment to them how cool their helmet is. Hopefully it will instill in them the desire to wear a helmet.

[@michaelclark3860]

Thanks for the shoutout guys! I’m still 20kg over that crux’s wheelset limit though 😂 perhaps ‘functional’ is like beauty. It’s in the eye of the beholder!

[@purelyrecovery]

I go back to get my helmet if l’ve forgotten it. I hit my head with a helmet on and am very grateful for it, l think it’s better to be safe, but understand that some people wouldn’t wear one with a short term rental. ❤

[@alexhadfield657]

I love that you're putting more emphasis into entry level bikes. I've just bought myself a new gen 3 Trek Domane AL2, reduced from £975 to £685 and I agree that comfort is the way to go. Sure, it might not be particularly aero or light at this price point, but if you're comfortable you're going to feel better about riding it and will probably put more effort into your rides, therefore making yourself faster. Onto helmets, I won't go out on my bike without one, even to the shops a mile away from home. I don't think making them mandatory is the way to go either, I'd much rather see people wearing them by choice than diktat.

[@trevorknowles7912]

Wow just a few months ago I complained about too much focus on 10k bikes most of us don’t need or want. And now there’s been tons of shows about 2k and under bikes. Thanks! Hope it’s working. You guys should interview Ron ultraromance and pathlesspedaled.

[@stefanvasilev2013]

Used to commute without a helmet which carried over to when I started riding for sport. Then I had to hit a tree to start wearing one on sport rides and with age and experience (not only personal; head-to-head rider collision, one died, the other told the story...), came to the conclusion that it's generally a good idea. A good way for me to build a habit was mounting my rear light to the helmet as I never ride without it. Makes switching bikes easier and you always have your helmet on.

[@robbchastain3036]

It's okay, Manon, if you just learn about the Schwinn Sting-Ray. For a lot of us, and years before BMX and mountain bikes, the Sting-Ray was everything and then there was BMX and then those guys on downhill klunkers in their outdoor paradise north of the Golden Gate Bridge and then the early '80s arrived with Specialized mass-production bikes and a whole lot more, like single-speed 26" BMX cruisers and those were great for desert riding, as I fondly recall. :)

[@Dsmcycle]

I applaud the efforts bicycle companies are taking to make their products more environmentally conscious. Now they need to apply some that attention to the mountain of shipping materials that are required to deliver their bikes to the shops.

[@jonk5755]

I've just bought a Triban RC520 sub £1k to replace my 13 year old hybrid. It has comfortable geometry (for me) and is a good 6kg lighter than the hybrid. I'm 69 and have been dithering about replacing my bike for too long wish I'd just done it earlier! It has renewed the joy of cycling and given me the motivation to get back out on the bike after lung surgery. I jokingly said to the surgeon "should I book 100 mile ride in September?" he said that there's no reason not to and it's a good target. I've done two 100 mile rides (my first aged 66) on the old 18kg hybrid so not out of the question!

[@peterwallace1277]

Cracking bike!. My son has one which I pinch occasionally.

[@fabianbinder3681]

I might be getting old, but I refuse to call a 1000 quid bike a budget bike. Wholeheartedly.

[@aboomination897]

It's what it's

[@dominickbrookes5103]

25 years ago I bought a giant ONCE for 1200, it was 105... but the old 1K bike vs the new 1k bike could not be more different.

[@aliensporebomb]

I have the same bike - 105 9 speed everything and cxp21 rims. It’s my trainer bike now though gets pressed into service as my rain bike from time to time.

[@01FozzyS]

I never ride without my helmet. Much as I would like it mandatory I doubt it can happen. So it's all up to the person to take the risk.

[@Anniesbikeshed]

I recently got a Giant Avail, perfect size for me, for £100. After a good clean and lube, new bar tape, new pedals and a 2nd hand computer, its great. What a difference compared to my heavy old hybrid.

[@1kdp493]

It wasn't until I reached the age of 60 that I started getting "proper" biking shorts, shoes and shirts to go with my budget bikes. Riding 50 miles in high top basketball shoes, surf trunks and a T-shirt here in Honolulu was my jam. Once I had 16 to 24 months of riding, I'd give the bike to someone in need and move on to the next bike. Same bike habit, just coincided real bike attire is more comfortable.

[@David-jl6hr]

I like budget bikes, but would certainly appreciate a road bike of superb quality and performance. Thank you GCN

[@addiecusack1530]

I think you have to have a helmet on it should be law as the smallest of crashes or falls can cause serious injury. If You can go at 20-40mph on a bike without a helmet your mental ?

[@rob-c.]

All helmet laws do is lower the rate of cycling, increase a sedentary lifestyle and create a more unhealthy population.

[@Narezaath]

When it comes to wearing a helmet, I go by what I've been told once: any surgeon will put your legs together, a good surgeon will put our spine together, but NO surgeon will put your skull and brains together in working order.

[@4everascending511]

A month ago I broke my left wrist from a sudden brake. Fell off the front and used arms to protect the face. Left wrist gave in. If my arm does go back to being what it was I plan on trying to wear wrist protection whenever I go out riding. Be safe guys..

[@DavidWhiteOfFleet]

I think biggy bigs works for a black chain. I vote for super-nice!

[@gcntech]

The rules of the bike vault seem to be very fluid 🤣

[@johne7100]

Budget bikes: I'm with Alex, comfort über alles. But I'd add: tubular 27.2 mm seat post that you can clamp stuff onto, and (difficult one these days) a hole through the fork crown so that you can mount a light there and leave your bars free for other stuff. The only bike I know that matches these criteria is Decathlon's Triban Gravel RC520, which has both. I'd get rid of the plastic saddle and put one of my incredibly comfortable Selle Anatomicas on, though. Re helmets, having broken one with my head in it (a) I don't want to repeat the experiment and (b) I'm exceedingly grateful that it was between me and the road. I've had idiots suggest that if the helmet hadn't been there my head wouldn't have hit the ground, but looking at the broken bit I'm pretty sure it would have. My crash was over 20 years ago, but the helmet still hangs in a place of honour on my office wall. (I've also had people saying "if your helmet broke failed". Gimme a break, they're designed to, Dumbo.) Another point: there are el cheapo Chinese helmets on the market with an absolutely brilliant magnetic visor system. Being a spectacles wearer with astigmatism, I find those visors perfect, especially since in winter I can put a helmet cover on and clamp the visor on on top. I don't think a 35€ helmet is really the best skull protection available, but "decent" helmets with similar systems are rare birds and liable to cost more than several times as much.

[@michaelclark3860]

Risk is simply too high on UK roads in my opinion, I always wear a helmet.

[@erlendsteren9466]

About budget, I like the sweetspot, the best function available that dont cost too much. I think the gears makes a difference in price and the best gears I ever have used (never tried electronic and are afraid of loosing the gears due to betterydrain) is the Shimano GRX 11 speed with 30-46 chainring and a 11-34 cassette. Supersmooth shifting! And useful gear-range. I have not tested the probably less expensive GRX 10 speed, but guess it is fantastic too.

[@addiecusack1530]

Love your videos👍👍 I’ve done well on a 300 quid bike back in my day and you still have to pedal them 💪💪👍👍

[@jimcappa6815]

Maybe you could do a gravel setup on a tricycle recumbent? Even lower to the ground than a regular recumbent, so Hank wouldn't have as far to fall

[@AnnoyingRash]

as a Dutchy on helmets: casual riders don't wear them because cycling should be save, if not the infrastructure should be changed. most rides are done 20kmph or less. allmost all verhicle-drivers are also bike-riders so there is a bit more understanding. as for sport-bike-riders: everybody just wants to look like a pro. and that is not a bad thing.

[@horribleguts]

Helmet laws did nothing to cut the rate of death in Australia. They mainly serve to discourage bike riding. GCN hosts ride $10000 pushbikes at dawn so what do they care about everyday commuter participation and infrastructure.

[@shannontaylor3565]

Re: helmets, I always wear them, my poor Mum got into a freak cycling crash a month ago and thank goodness she had a helmet - would have been so much worse without. We were on easy UK side roads, should have been fine but it wasnt. I come from a country (NZ) where they're mandatory - i honestly dont think it changes much? You can get cheap, tested, and legal helmets for dirt cheap from the same shops you get the kinda crappy department store bikes. Its an extra £5-10 which is totally a barrier but not an insurmountable one.

[@rob-c.]

The mandatory helmet law has seen a dramatic decrease in the amount of people cycling, which is proven to be detrimental to cycle safety. The amount of miles travelled has never recovered to pre-helmet law years, despite the increase in the population.

[@krisjones74]

I think the white bike with the black chain was a super nice. Biggy Biggs is a weird choice, but it accentuates the black of the chain. Also pedals level, wheels lined up, and a great looking custom paint job? Supernice all day long.

[@padmanabhaprasannasimha5385]

As a pretty light rider myself, I'd pick a lightweight bike that fits me. I'm comfortable on almost any bike on which I can fit and reach the bars. Plus light bikes are great for climbing hills which I love.

[@nativezero]

Bought a broadman slr 8.9 has been great for the money at £1000. I have now upgraded wheels, tyres and pedals. I wouldnt say buying a more expensive bike than i have would increase my speed enough to worry, so im happy to keep upgrading a few more components which is more accessible financially to do over a period of time.

[@ronaldweed6103]

I'm for helmets. I had two serious wreck on bikes,& i wish i had a helmet on. Back in the day we,Washington State,did not require helmets.

[@gcntech]

Are you always now wearing a helmet?

[@brianeberly3279]

I've only ever had budget bikes (and they have all been second hand or homemade). Upgradeability is the most important feature on a bike. When it comes to weight, aero, and comfort, the frame isn't really the low hanging fruit. You'll get more weight, aero, and comfort bang for your buck with wheels, tires, group set, and maybe a fork. As long as the frame fits, you can upgrade it with better parts later. Get the cheapest bike that has thru axles, disc brakes, and a tapered head tube.

[@reecedawson6113]

If i didn't wear a helmet then i would've been killed many times by now 😂

[@ronwhite8503]

Maybe put your stabilisers back on 😉?

[@matt_acton-varian]

The Dutch have nailed helmet use. In isolation, cycling is inherently safe. It is the environment that represents the dangers. Dutch cycle paths provide a complete and effective barrier to the biggest dangers to anyone on a bike, and helmets aren't necessary in that environment. However at higher speeds, on open roads, or riding off-road hands down should be worn. I agree that mandatory laws are also detrimental to cycling uptake. But local infrastructure should meet the standards to allow the choice of non-wearing to be viable.

[@GaryM-ft7pw]

Inherently safe? a bike is inherently unstable with a very high centre of gravity on very narrow wheels that are highly succeptable to road surface changes, they also prevent the rider from moving freely. A significant amount of cycling head injuries occur simply getting on and off of them

[@rob-c.]

It’s pretty easy to get the valves to line up on a fixed gear if you fit the chain with everything aligned 🤷‍♂️

[@tattooedfred]

After getting wiped out by a car last year and landing head first on the tarmac, I can 100% say my helmet saved me, so I fully believe that everyone should be made to wear them. If you start your kids wearing one when they are young, it will become second nature for them to wear one. That's what we did with our kids, and they always grab their helmet now when they go out. It's better to look uncool than look dead

[@JanneRasanen2]

I always say that I use a helmet because I have something worth protecting😊 A jogger ran in front of me a month ago making me crash OTB in a downhill emergency brake when the rear wheel lifted off. My helmet got minimal scratches so I was happy to have the helmet take that damage instead of my skull. Landing on my nose bleeding from both nostrils was bad enough. Not sure I want to use full face helmets though.

[@romanluu]

Am I the only one who thinks helmets actually are cool? I mean, there are some really nice ones out there and boy do I appreciate when they are matched properly with the rest of the gear. Speaking of safety, I bumped my head after a fall a few months back and while it was a bit painful to have to purchase a new helmet, it would have been much more painful to be in a hospital with a broken skull. Not to mention that in my country some insurance companies actually give you money to buy safety gear like helmets.

[@leeleemurph]

I think it would be great if you could make a video of a visit to a helmet manufacturer to see how helmets are made and tested and how the mips technology works. I see a helmet the same as a seatbelt, I would never drive without a seatbelt and I never cycle without a helmet.

[@markkabuto]

Coming from the Netherlands (Utrecht, which I feel isn't a huge difference to Amsterdam): I've only recently started wearing a helmet on my commutes (always have worn them on my race bike). Bike lanes started to get busier in the spring, and more and more people are using e-bikes (/horrific fatbikes). With many different speeds on a cramped bike lane, accidents are just around the corner. Especially with people rushing to get to work on time. The problem with making them mandatory though, to me, is that you could accidentally end up without one. Borrowing a bike somewhere, going on a trip and forgetting it, losing/breaking it. Imagine getting fined for not wearing a helmet as you're going to a shop to buy a replacement helmet..

[@Bandyrobs1]

As you know Alex, I had a great gravel ride at the weekend on my 28 year old Scott MTB. So whilst I do own a few expensive road bikes and was very envious of your Canyon Grail you dont need to spend a fortune to enjoy riding a bike. I would also always wear a helmet whether on or off road and feel that they should be mandatory.

[@robertclark5002]

A helmet saved me from a concussion last year. When I got to the hospital the doctor said get him the Cat scan to see what we have. The split helmet proves its worth the money to be a bit safer driving on Canadian city streets. I'm a big proponent of bike lanes and why we need to keepvcycling as long as snow and ice are not in our way. Bob Clark

[@jean-paullanglois5452]

Saved you from a fractured skull, maybe 😊!!!!

[@robertclark5002]

VERY LIKELY. A incredibly important idea not enough people think about. Just like an insurance for a bad day. 🚴‍♂️🚴‍♀️

[@geoffbuck6890]

Each individual has a responsibility for their health: so if you don’t wear a helmet and crash, don’t expect the NHS to sort out the consequences of your irresponsibility…

[@rob-c.]

I hope you never get a head injury walking or driving - wouldn’t want you to be turned away at the hospital for being ‘irresponsible’ 🙄

[@geoffbuck6890]

@@rob-c. I try to minimise risk of injury when driving or walking by wearing a seat belt or tying my shoe laces. All I’m saying is that it is irresponsible cycle without a helmet then expecting others to sort out any resulting head injuries, what’s the problem? 🤔

[@rob-c.]

@@geoffbuck6890 because it’s not irresponsible for people not to wear a helmet cycling when it’s not inherently dangerous? For example in the US 70% of car collisions involve a head injury and in the UK nearly half of all brain injuries occur in cars. If you want to save the NHS, be responsible and wear a car helmet.

[@wspmjw]

During my cycling journey, what I've seen that consistently amazes me is a family riding with the children wearing helmets and the adults not wearing helmets. Lead by example Mom & Dad!

[@Cyps36]

Regarding Budget Bikes as a quite new cyclist, they are very important as a bad one will ruin your beginning. Or help you get your momentum and enthusiasm in a positive direction.

[@iamadairjr]

I had a dangerous crash few years ago and wearing a helmet probably saved my life. I was crossing an urban segment and I lost control of my bike in the end of a descending, falling on the ground and hitting the back of my head on the curb. It's a Chinese branded helmet (Rockbros), it's obviously retired, but I keep it as a symbol and a reminder.

[@anterrickson2585]

Helmets are like fashion. Wear a different helmet for different bike & clothes. Fit the helmet to the fit, and ride. Social rides, wear something a little more relaxed. Fast road ride, fast roadie helmet. No one ever said to only have to helmet. You can have more than one!

[@RobinT346]

I always wear a helmet. Concussion is just too much of a risk and you're at higher risk of a head injury coming off a bike than just walking along. Beginners and experienced riders, careful cand careless riders, leisurely and fast riders alike. But then I never look cool helmet or no helmet so it's not going to impact my "image"

[@jimboburgess42069]

Having ridden "budget" bikes for a long time and havjng just purchased a bike for $4k. A new bike for that much got me modern tech, comfort, and is fully a bike i plan to ride until it becomes the budget bike i was buying. Getting a 10 year old bike woth modren components will get you a nice ride, then swap some parts intentionally and itll do everything you want. The hard pary is you cant just walk into a bike shop and find the perfect used bike.

[@wertacus]

If I'm looking at a $1000 bike the number one thing im looking for is the frame for future upgradability.

[@VFXBishop]

I do love a budget bike, I have a '94 HR Ultra that I've done a drop-bar conversion on and it's my favorite bike to ride.

[@scottbush6943]

Virginia Tech has an independent bike helmet testing lab if you’re considering a new helmet.

[@jc2685]

High end bike for budget price. Love my ribble endurance sl full carbon frame, full 105, gaterskins, bought for £560 2nd hand, worth 2.2 gees. Now i need to upgrade to some faster tyres, tpu and tt bars. Stonking deal

[@questgivercyradis8462]

I absolutely love my $1100 CAD Brodie Dynamo bike. She's a commuter, made in a city known for commuting on bikes. It shows. She's aluminum, lighter than a big clunky steel bike, and I can ride her in yoga pants with no padding for 100km because she's comfy. Is she the fastest? Nope. But she can get me from point A to point B, and lug my groceries, and do it comfortably. Alex is 100% right that comfort should come first. Also: helmets always. Only time I've ridden without are in the TINY parking lot to test shifting after I cleaned my chain, and on the indoor fitting bike. I feel naked without my helmet. The helmet won't save me from a car, but it can save me from me or basic accidents.

[@fartman10284]

Bike helmets…. Just like when I snowboard, I am more comfortable when I’m wearing a helmet, whether I’m snowboarding or on my bicycle. Both my helmets have Koroyd or Wavecel technology to act as crumple zones And Virginia Tech has some helmet test ratings

[@godatitsbest]

I think I prioritise group set almost subconsciously. Can’t deal with crap shifting 😂

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

"I choose comfort"... Alex rocking his beach cruiser with double-wide spring saddle and semi-circle handlebars 🤣

[@inspiredinthedark23]

Riding a Giant Contend 3 these days (bought it with a big discount). Not so expensive, reliable, comfortable. I'd love to have something a bit "better," but it took me many years to find a bike my size in South Korea (I'm 6'3" or 190cm). Also have to import shoes. The only other one I've ever seen was way out of my budget range. I've been riding a road bike that was a bit small for me. It wasn't horrible, and is even a bit better quality than the new bike. But, the new bike is more comfortable, and I can extend my legs better and engage my glutes more.

[@OldDavo1950]

When it comes to helmets,most important does it fit your bumps in your head. Last helmet I bought tried alot brands. And some of the well known brands just felt awkward on your head. I ended up with a lesser known one, just because when I put it on it felt like it fitted the shape of my head. Being a bit short in the hair dept was a factor as well.

[@charlesblithfield6182]

I ride a lot. The one time I ended up in hospital with the top of my head gashed open was when I didn’t put on my helmet to pop to a shop that was 300 yards away. BTW it was inset railroad tracks that brought me down - try to ride over those tracks as close to perpendicular as possible or you wheels can be caught in the track.

[@tertiaryeel2066]

Week 66 of asking for a "The UCI has no jurisdiction here" t-shirt

[@tonyBobb5209]

GCN do not want a lawsuit on there hands but I approve your request

[@Twistandgouk]

Make your own clearly a market for them

[@___Bebo___]

Point of a sport is to see who the better man is. Adopting odd looking positions or dangerous tech is pointless as if you knew you were the better man you would have zero desire to do this.

[@michaelplantarich3375]

I'd 100% buy it 😂

[@AsantePE]

Why not make the shirt your self :) and sell them or I can make them if you want ?

[@clivegower-collins9012]

Helmets are mandatory in my jurisdiction. The data didn't support it, but we had politicians taking flak about cycling safety, so that was Wellington's answer. But, and this matters, kids cycling related accidents (from data) are mostly stationary, and severe. Remember standing over your bike with your mates and all rabbiting on, and someone tangles and falls? Yeah, kids hitting the side of the cranium on hard surfaces accounts for many of the severe injuries. I hate being made to do anything, but even if you don't want to wear one - get your kids doing it. And if that takes you setting the example, I say do it.

[@StuFromOz99]

As a stupidly tall person (2m) who struggles to find shoes big enough to match my feet, I am intrigued by the idea of 3d printed shoes and the offer of a better fit. At the same time there is no way I could justify paying that amount of money. I am also someone who has thinks bike helmets are essential, but also strongly recommend finding ones that fit comfortably. Not every helmet sits well on every head. A better fitting helmet makes for a much more pleasant ride, and probably also improves the chance of avoiding injury as well

[@davidadamus177]

I definitely am a big fan of helmets. If I won the lottery, would buy a pile of them and hand them out to the little kids flying down the street. Lol

[@gcntech]

We would love to see it 🙌

[@davidadamus177]

@@gcntech maybe they could say GCN on the helmets too. Lol it's a small dream I have. So many kids in our neighborhood, almost none of them have helmets.

[@rob-c.]

I’d spend my money campaigning for better cycling infrastructure instead. Far better for societal health.

[@johnhatfield1070]

One of my bikes, in fact my favourite, cost £89 thirty years ago. It’s a Raleigh Pioneer classic, named Sir Walter. It’s now a fixed gear 48/20 big tyres , B17 Brooks and quite frankly I get more comfort and satisfaction out of it than I do from my Specialised Tarmac.

[@___Bebo___]

The Reynolds 853 version of Sir Walter with modern wheels is about as good as you can get in biking, IMO.

[@glennbrody]

I just bought a Van Rysel EDR AF for 1200 canadian dollars. super comfy, pretty light (8.8 kgs.) and - the group set of the people! (albeit with rim brakes. which I happen to love!)

[@Kurgish]

I do think helmets should be mandatory, same as wearing a seatbelt in a car is. Sure it costs a little bit more money, but potential savings are insane. Also most crashes I have been in were not my fault. Luckily my bike crashes resulted in just a few scratches and small equipment damage. On the other hand my snowboard crashes, also with a helmet and back protection, were often severe and even with helmet resulted in concussions. That shows how important helmets are and how lucky I was on a bike so far. Budget bikes are more than fine. Just research a bit to find the one with best properties you want and without major bad ones. These days my also major spec would be comfort, but I would be looking for possible major issues that might still kill the joy out of the ride, like overly heavy. Sure, it will be heavier than carbon, but it shouldn't be too heavy. Same goes for other elements like transmission, gearing, brakes etc. Just make sure everything is at least "okay" level.

[@kooooons]

I wouldn't want helmets to be mandatory. People should WANT to wear one instead of being forced to. That being said, my 4 yo daughter always yells "it's not smart to ride without a helmet" at strangers when she sees it. I might or might not have something to do with that. 😬

[@currentlyidentifyingasfrom6667]

I am not anti helmet or pro helmet. I sometimes wear a helmet, and sometimes don't. Generally, if I am off roading I wear my helmet. If i'm just popping out I dont. Its interesting that you say that there cannot be any argument against the added safety of wearing a helmet; this would depend on how you are measuring danger. For instance, wearing a helmet actually subconsiously dehumanises you in the eyes of a driver. It has been clearly proven that the less human a cyclist looks (helmet/lycra etc) the more that a driver will subconsiously see the cyclist as an object and therefore, treat the cyclist as such; passing closer and faster than if they were dressed more like an everyday human. But either way, i'm glad you made the point that it should not be compulsory.

[@jaysonosantosramos2537]

i joined a duathlon using a sunpeed triton budget bike and I went head to head against those using branded bikes and even tri bikes. At the end of the day i realized that before i get a branded bike or nicer bike, i need to get more fit first. haha

[@JLasTSR]

I would agree whole heartedly with Alex and Manon on helmets. When I was a boy cycle helmets were a joke, they offered very limited if any protection. I did not wear one then and fortunately in the one or two occasions when I came unstuck my head did not come in contact with anything. from about 2012 I started wearing a helmet and in 2023 I had the accident that I guess we all dread a car pulled out of a side road and I went head first into it. I was out cold I had bits of tooth missing, I had lots of bruising and some bleeding and a broken rib but the main impact was on my helmet it had deformed on one side from the impact and I had then had another impact point where it had actually broken right through. I still don't remember the accident. My wife and the hospital told me I was a goldfish for the next 6 hours repeating the same 4 questions again and again. Then suddenly I was aware of being somewhere strange with no shirt and no trousers (Slightly Embarrassing). I think my injuries would have been much worse without the helmet I would never make it mandatory to wear a helmet as it should always be someone's choice.

[@davidheathfield5040]

They do do a gravel recumbent. Ice Trike have done an off road recumbent for quite a few years. We have one for hire at Pedal Power in Cardiff if you fancy sending Hank down to try it out 😉

[@greengonzonz]

I come from the time before helmets but these days I couldn't imagine riding without one.

[@erikwiseman1702]

Always wear a helmet! When i was, maybe, 12 and younger helmets weren't really a thing that was common. Later, my sports team started doing summer cross training on bikes, we had some training on riding safely, adjusting bikes correctly, etc., and we had to wear helmets. From that point on I never considered riding WITHOUT a helmet.

[@katesmiles4208]

Helmets should be compulsory for anyone under 14. They don't have the judgement necessary to make sound enough decisions on their safety.

[@gregorylockhart7206]

My cycling mentor stated on the first ride: “Buy the lightest bike you can afford”. You will never regret it!

[@ericpmoss]

Notice the scene of Amsterdam cycling at 7:18 -- physically separate from cars, quality tarmac with proper drainage, UPRIGHT bikes that make it easier to see your surroundings, mostly wider high-traction tires, and speeds of maybe 10mph. In that scenario, I can see cycling without a helmet, but pretending that is what the rest of us face as an excuse to not use a helmet is pretty disingenuous.