Category Archives for Bike Accessories

Schwinn Folding Bike Buyer’s Guide with Recommendations 2018

Schwinn 20-Inch Loop Folding Bike, Black

Many individuals who ride traditional road bikes or mountain bikes are unfamiliar with the real beauty of folding bikes. In fact, very few even recognize that they exist. For those who have heard of folding bikes, they seem to give mixed reviews. Individuals have a hard time getting their heads around the idea of a bike that is collapsible. The questions that are typically asked are: How does a bike fold? How does it operate efficiently? So, let’s put everyone’s mind at ease and fill you in on just how advantageous foldable bikes can be.

Schwinn, an American bike company, known and respected for making innovative bicycles, has managed to develop this unique mechanism. This bicycle is designed to offer commuters incredible flexibility as they collapse into a compact form. This function allows anyone commuting to work or traveling around town to efficiently store and retrieve their bicycle when required—and even carry it on public transport.

It eliminates the bulk and allows commuters to use spaces that would seem impossible with the size, and length of a traditional bike. If you are considering a folding bike, but are uncertain of where to start or what to purchase, this review offers a few recommendations and gives ideas on what to consider. To help with your purchase, review the suggestions made below.

What Are the Principal Advantages a Folding Bike Offers?

A folding bicycle is an innovative creation and it offers a number of benefits. These include convenience, security, storage, and ease of usage in busy places. It affords convenience because of its portability. It can easily be folded and carried around with minimal effort, which is an option that makes public transit far more accessible.

Stowabike 20″ Folding City V2 Compact Foldable Bike – 6 Speed Shimano Gears White

Security is a benefit of this folding bike, too. If you decide to pop into your favorite coffee shop to grab your morning coffee, you do not have to worry about losing your bike. In fact, you don’t even have to leave it outside. Instead, you can fold it away and bring it inside with you. For storage, it offers the most significant benefit. Furthermore, if space is limited in your home, you can collapse the bike, making it compact enough to fit in almost any cupboard or closet.

Which Features Should be Considered When Purchasing a Folding Bike?

Before you purchase a folding bike, there are a number of things that should be considered. First, consider your intentions for the bicycle. Is it merely for commuting to and from work or will there be other activities involved? This is important, as you certainly want to acquire a bicycle that operates efficiently, but that collapses with ease as well.

If your reason for purchasing this bike is for its usefulness, think about the size of its wheels. Bicycles vary in size, as do their wheels. Paying attention to this area is essential. Typically, larger wheels offer a better ride and take longer to fold. Smaller wheels fold effortlessly but deliver a less comforting ride.

Therefore, for commuting purposes only, smaller wheels may be a better option as they collapse much quicker and allow you to get to where you need to be—and on time. For additional activities and situations that do not require such punctuality, such as leisure adventures or a nice bike ride in the park, larger wheels may be more suitable. They offer more grip and speed. Also, the time they take to fold compactly will be less of an issue.

To add to this, the frame of the bicycle is also important. Collapsible bikes are generally made in one size and are intended to fit individuals ranging in height between 148 cm and 193 cm. For this reason, individuals that are much taller than this must consider making appropriate changes to the bicycle.

To ensure that each rider engages in a comfortable and efficient ride, handlebars and saddles must be positioned suitably. If not, cyclists may risk injury over time. The important thing while riding a folding bicycle is to be in a position that is comfortable and secure.

Stowabike 26″ MTB V2 Folding Dual Suspension 18 Speed Shimano Gears Mountain Bike White

Recommendations

Folding bicycles are, of course, made with the intention of offering convenience. However, they are also created with the consumer in mind. Each folding bike provides something unique to that person. They are designed with purpose and the understanding that they will be contributing if not improving someone’s life.

Schwinn offers a range of folding bikes that cyclists can select from, depending on specific needs and budget. Each folding bicycle provides distinctive features, such as different gearshifts, a carrying rack, a protective nylon case and other features that can improve the rider’s trip.  Read on to find out which bike is for you with these Schwinn folding bike reviews.

Schwinn’s Adapt 3 9 Speed Folding Bike in Gloss Red/Silver

For commuting purposes, Schwinn’s Adapt 3 9 Speed Folding Bike in Gloss Red/Silver makes an excellent commuting companion. This bicycle was created especially for individuals seeking a bike for traveling to work.  It is lightweight, easy to fold and pack away. It comes with a durable nylon storage bag, which is ideal for keeping your bicycle safe and intact.

Although compact, this bike offers nine speeds with SRAM X5 shifters and rear derailleur. These features give this bicycle a bit more edge and speed than other folding bicycles. A carrying rack is also available so, should you decide to stop for groceries on the way home, you can.

It features 20-inch alloy wheels with full Wrap fenders and tires that are great for tarmac. Despite its large wheels, this bicycle has been designed to fold effortlessly. So, individuals do not have to worry about the amount of time it takes to collapse it fully.

Schwinn 20-Inch Loop Folding Bicycle

Schwinn 20-Inch Loop Folding Bicycle is also designed for those that require a bike for their various commuting needs. It features 20-inch alloy wheels, which are suitable for ensuring a smooth yet efficient ride.

It features a low stand-over frame and rigid fork, which makes it very easy to jump on or off this bicycle quickly. Also, to guarantee the safety of its riders, alloy linear brakes are incorporated into its design.

With a 7-speed drivetrain, this bike is provides optimized gearing for trekking up steep hills. A rear carrying rack is also available for carrying your shopping bags and work items home. Overall, this compact bicycle offers ideal and realistic features.

Afterword

If you are considering a folding bicycle, do not hesitate to purchase one. Folding bikes are becoming more realistic and suitable for people living in busy cities. They offer portability and features that traditional bicycles simply cannot provide.

ORKAN 20″ MTB Folding bike Sports Shimano 6 Speed Silver Bike SLIVER
Vilano Urbana Single Speed Folding Bike
Stowabike 26″ MTB V2 Folding Dual Suspension 18 Speed Shimano Gears Mountain Bike Black
GTM 26″ Folding Mountain Bike 7 Speed Bicycle Shimano Hybrid Suspension MTB Blue

Gravel Bike Tires that are Built to Last: Reviews 2018

Challenge Gravel Grinder Plus Tire

As with a road bike or a mountain bike, aside from the chassis of your gravel bicycle, tires also play a crucial role. They are in charge of maintaining your speed and accurately gripping the road while you are mounted on your bike. Between your bike and the trail, your tires operate as this medium and they play a vital role in keeping you safe and stabilized while cycling.

They guarantee that when you make that swift turn, or cycle over different types of terrain, you remain fixed to the ground. So, when you see the tires on your bicycle beginning to lose their grip, it is essential that you shop for a new set. Damaged or worn tires are a no-go for your bike, especially if you anticipate it to perform at its best. Dilapidated tires are a threat to the safety of the cyclist. 

If your tires are beginning to lose their sturdy shape, consider taking a look at some of the best tires listed below. In this review, the best and most durable tires are reviewed for gravel bikes.

VittoriaTerreno Mix Gravel Road

One of the top-rated tires for gravel bikes is VittoriaTerreno Mix Gravel Road tires. They provide enhanced durability that is unrivaled by many comparable tires on the market. It is resilient to punctures and is wear-resistant. Such features offer a tire that is remarkably successful in defying jagged rocks, stones and other elements that can perforate them.

In regards to handling corners, these tires offer cyclists a smooth ride continuously despite the different types of terrain that are faced. For sharp corners, they grip the ground competently and ensure that the rider is safe. They easily adapt to changing speeds and paths.

Low rolling resistance is a commendable feature of this tire. It guarantees security when cyclists are prepared to hit the ground hard with speed. Also, due to its Terreno Mix features and Vittoria's exclusive 3C compound with Graphene G+ ISOtech technology, it delivers a fast rolling center-ridge coupled with open shoulder lugs. These advantages enable cyclists to ride off-camber with ease. So, if you are faced with a path that is slightly shifted and uneven, you can anticipate for your bicycle to provide optimal traction with these tires.

They are tubeless tires and are available in 700x38c. For people seeking tires that encourage speed, but deliver critical grip and durability, these should be your choice. They operate exceptionally well in severe weather conditions and on a variety of surfaces.

Panaracer Gravel King SK Folding Tire

Panaracer Gravel King SK Folding Tire is another excellent tire that many cyclists have praised. It delivers incredible performance. It truly lives up to its name, as it really is the gravel king.

Features such as its aggressive knobs, ZSG natural rubber compound, resilience to punctures, and its low rolling resistance, all support its extraordinary performance. Gravel king can virtually go anywhere and this is because of its unique structure.

Cyclists can easily enjoy the thrill of riding on gravel or regular sidewalk. Gravel King offers a luxurious ride and they roll quietly and efficiently over tarmac and gravel.

These tires provide all-day comfort and ensure that each rider is safe regardless of where they cycle. They are wide, tubeless, compatible up to 60 pounds per square inch, and appropriate for almost any gravel road bike.

Riders consider these tires to be the perfect all-purpose tire due to their persistent traction and reliability. Any cyclist who purchases these tires is sure to commend it for it for the assurance and stability it offers its riders.

Maxxis Rambler EXO TR Tire

Maxxis Rambler EXO TR Tire is the first tire designed by this brand exclusively for gravel. It provides a lush ride due to the size and bulk it offers. This feature ensures that each cyclist is given the comfort they need.

It responds well to speed because of its robust center knobs. The tread pattern that is visible on each tire is intended for riding on varied types of terrain. Its evenly spaced external knobs provide significant control around corners. Jagged or uneven road surfaces are no match for this gravel-specific tire.

This tire is tubeless, compatible, and is available in 700x38c. Due to its design, riders have upheld it for being able to deliver exceptional performance every time. They grip corners extremely well and never let you down. Where other comparable tires have fallen short, Maxxis Rambler EXO TR Tires remain consistent.

These tires are optimized for great performance and longevity, thanks to its dual-compound build. This composite offers low rolling resistance and impeccable corner gripping. They are resistant to punctures but should it ever encounter a flat, remains connected to the wheel. Expert riders that find excitement in tackling off-camber trails will undoubtedly find it advantageous to use these tires.

Overall, these fantastic tires are the perfect finishing touch to any great performing gravel bicycle. If you are seeking tires that are durable, robust, and incredibly safe, these tires should be considered. They tackle almost any different type of terrain and hardback roads that many other tires are simply unable to conquer.

Clement Cycling X’PLOR MSO Clincher 60 TPI Tire, Size: 700cm x 32mm

Afterword

Gravel, or adventure bikes as they are referred to interchangeably, encourage cyclists to engage in excitement as they voyage through different paths, mixed terrain, and woodlands. The advantage to these bicycles that is they are flexible, and wherever you choose to go, they quickly adapt.

For bicycles of this caliber, you must ensure that you have tires that adapt just the same. If not, you risk a bumpy and unsound ride. Also, your bicycle will likely suffer damage if not fit with the right tires.

Overall, equipping your bicycle with the right tires is essential.  It optimizes the bike’s performance and ensures a better ride. The gravel tires listed in this review are the most popular and well-liked tires by consumers. They offer smooth trips and consistent endurance that will make any cyclist happy with the overall performance. 

Should you be looking for gravel tires that grip the road the way they are intended, consider the ones listed. You can be confident of their strength, durability, and overall excellent performance.

Challenge Gravel Grinder Plus Tire – Clincher Black, 60 Tpi, 700x38c
WTB Riddler TCS Light Gravel Grinder Monstercross Black Bicycle Bike Tire 700 X 37C
Panaracer Gravel King 700 x 28C Folding Tire

Best Specialized Road Bikes in 2018

GMC Denali Road Bike

A road bike is typically used for paved roads. It is not designed necessarily for courses with less than stellar conditions. Uneven terrain and rough paths are not typically traveled on with road bikes.

These bikes are used on tarmac or smooth sidewalks and are quite exceptional for competitive cycling. They are designed to travel at high speeds and can take riders great distances as long as their limbs allow them to do so.

However, despite the limiting nature of traditional road bikes, there are road bikes that are specially designed. Some of these road bikes offer enhanced features such as disc brakes, carbon fiber frames and carbon forks, hybrid components, and other characteristics that riders find appealing. These enhanced features provide cyclists an enriched experience. Below is a list of the best specialized road bikes in 2018.

AFTERPARTZ NV-5 G3/ HS1 Bike Disc Brake Kit Front and Rear

Road Bike with Disc Brakes

When road bikes were first manufactured, these were designed with rim brakes. As technology improves, the design and performance of these bikes have also done the same. These types of brakes did not provide immediate stopping. The technology used, opted for pads that relied on applying friction to the rim of the rotating wheel. This form of technology did not provide a complete stop. Instead, it delivered a much slower or gradual cessation leaving cyclists to apply pressure to their brakes sooner in the hope of stopping in time. Another disadvantage of these restraints was their tendency to wear down quickly. As this occurred, it became more of a problem to stop.

Today, the market is seeing an increase in road bikes that are being made with disc brakes as they impart improved technology and faster stopping. TommasoSentiero Tourney Adventure Road Bike with Disc Brakes for 2018 is an ultimate example of this advancement. It reveals the same performance and speed as an adventure bike due to its 3×7 Shimano Tourney Groupset that features 30/39/50T Claris crankset and 12x28T Tourney cassette. However, TektroLyra disc brakes deliver a more improved stopping power, especially during harsh and extreme weather conditions.

Along with its robust disc brakes, this road bike is built with steel for superior durability and strength. It also offers Tommaso TC-20D rims and stability of 28 spoke rim which is equipped to handle a variety of road conditions.

2018 Tommaso Sentiero Tourney Adventure Road Bike with Disc Brakes

Adventure Touring Road Bike 

Adventure touring road bikes are made for individuals that seek versatility because they are so adaptable. For this very reason, many individuals love this type of bicycle.

They are perfect for various terrain including forest pathways and gravel. These bikes also perform well on smooth sidewalks. Adventure touring road bikes operate efficiently and they are optimized to deliver exceptional power. Regardless of where you wish to travel with them, they deliver every time.

What makes them specialized is their relaxed configuration. Adventure touring bikes offer a shorter reach and their wide tires accompanied by solid wheels illustrates their ability to manage long rides and rigorous roads. Also, they provide their riders with racks so that they can bring items along for their journey.

Mongoose Men’s Elroy Adventure Bike 700C Wheel Bicycle identifies as an adventure touring bicycle as it is in accordance with the geometry of an adventure bicycle. It features an alloy frame and steel forks, which provide excellent strength and durability.

Its design is comprised of a 2×7 drivetrain with Shimano Tourney derailleurs, an integrated Micro shift shifters/brake lever combo. It also features mechanical disc brakes, which are adequate in maintaining a relaxed and safe ride.

For the comfort of its riders, there is a frame bag that has been incorporated into the design. This bike provides an extensive front rack for panniers and mud racks as well. It also features a bottle opener. This bicycle enables its riders to pack suitably and securely for their voyage. Cable routing for three single water bottle cage mounts along with two additional on the steel forks ensure cyclists remain hydrated and equipped for the road.

This adventure or touring bicycle is ideal for individuals that enjoy getting out and exploring what is available to them on different terrain. It provides the best cycling experience and assures that they will be prepared for a smooth and efficient ride.

Hybrid Mountain Bike 

A hybrid mountain bike incorporates a bicycle that is ideal for everyday riding but is also able to tackle almost any kind of terrain. To put it plainly, it is a mix of a road and mountain bike, and it is preferred among riders for its commuting purposes. It is a very flexible bicycle, and it is a favorite for this reason.

ORKAN 27.5″ Mountain Bike Hybrid Bike is the quintessential illustration of this type of bicycle. It is made with a steel frame and reliable suspension forks and weighs only 35 lbs. These fantastic features guarantee that riders are cushioned from bumps and vibrations in the road. Such an element offers cyclists a smooth and secure ride.

It also provides an eye-catching design. This hybrid bicycle also extends 21 speeds along with a Shimano rear derailleur shift for switching gears effortlessly. It delivers an adjustable seat that riders can easily maneuver to suit their frames. Overall, the features exhibited by this hybrid mountain bike demonstrate the flexibility and versatility of crossbreed bicycles.

Afterword

Specialized road bikes provide versatility and they are loved for the additional benefits they afford. They offer cyclists improved rides founded on durability, adaptability, and advanced features. These bikes ensure that riders who traditionally enjoy commuting on standard roads can seek adventure whenever. They are not limited to the typical characteristics that road bikes frequently provide.

The bicycles mentioned in this article are top-rated bikes that answer to the requirements of each specific road bike category distinctly. They offer characteristics that are unique and fundamental to its designated rider.

Should you be looking for a road bike that is specially designed, consider the ones mentioned above. With the excellent features that each one offers, you are likely to find one that is suitable for your lifestyle and needs.

Mongoose Men’s Elroy Adventure Bike 700C Wheel Bicycle, Blue
ORKAN 27.5″ MTB Shimano Hybrid 21 Speed Mountain Bike Mountain Bike Grey & Orange
Basecamp Specialized Bike Helmet with Detachable Magnetic Visor Sunglasses Goggles

Best Fixie Bike Parts to Upgrade Your Fixed Gear Bike

Fixed gear bikes, or fixies, are simple single-speed bicycles, but there are many ways they can be customized and upgraded. Often, beginners will purchase cheap fixies to start off with but as they advance in their skills and learn their preferences they will start upgrading. Modifications can range in price and difficulty but there are plenty of options out there for everyone. Flip-flop hubs, improved pedal turning ratios, better disc brakes and chain tensioners, and rear hubs are just some of the ways you can transform cheap fixie bikes.

Pedals

Pedals are an easy place to start if you want to modify the functionality of your bike without messing with any of the major mechanics. For added performance in BMX and mountain bikes, EagleRiding makes an affordable set of pedals that are non-slip and as dependable as notable brands that sell for twice as much. They also come in several colors to compliment or accent your current color scheme. Depending on the situation, one may desire some extra security to keep feet on the pedals.

Though there are plenty of cheap straps that can be added to existing pedals, these can slip and become unattached. A set of pedals with a built-in strap like the Retrospec Bicycles BMX-Style platform pedal is a preferable option that does not cost much more than retrofitted straps. The Velcro is heavy duty enough to withstand any amount of force the rider might put on it but does not trap the foot, making it a safe option for any environment.

Saddles

Comfort is often a concern for bike riders, whether they are newbies or have been doing it for years. Often the stock saddle that comes with a bike is not the most comfortable or it becomes less so over time due to wear. As you ride more often and longer your sitting style may even change. Therefore, it is important to have a saddle that you are comfortable with. For beginners or those with more sensitive backsides, try the ProVelo Most Comfortable Bike Seat. This is a heavily padded seat with memory foam that is covered by leather for breathability. There are also shock absorbers to further reduce the impact to one’s backside. The wide seat accommodates riders of all sizes and ensures maximum comfort. There is even a battery-powered taillight in the back for riding at dusk and in the evenings.

If you are looking for something flashy that will accent your color scheme,  Retrospec Bicycles Urban/Fixed Gear Saddle comes in many bright accent colors. This particular saddle is reviewed well for its comfort, though it is not overly padded so it is better for riders who are looking for support. The price point is also very agreeable so if you try it and do not like it you have not broken the bank to do so.

Experienced riders looking for a sleeker design might be more interested in the Origin8 Pro Uni-S Saddle. This is a more streamlined saddle in a classic road shape. There is enough gel foam material inside to provide decent padding and its stylish timeless look cannot be beaten. This particular seat is highly recommended for both its comfort and longevity. Since having a sore backside can be a major deterrence to riding, it is important to get a saddle on your bike that will remedy and prevent that condition.

Handlebars

The type of handlebar you use depends on both style and comfort. There are three main styles that are found on most fixie bikes, flat/riser, bullhorn, and drop bars, with pursuit bars being a modified version of the bullhorn. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages.

  • Riser: Allows for more of an upright position and better handling response, but only allows for one grip position. Origin8’s Urban-Pro Riser Handlebar comes in several color choices and is made of aluminum alloy in order to add minimal weight to your bike.
  • Bullhorn: Allows for multiple hand positions and extending one’s reach to have better leverage when climbing hills and sprinting, but not as wide as risers and brake configuration can be tricky. The Pure Fix 42 cm Alloy Bull Horn Handlebar is a great option for those who are interested in this style.
  • Drop: Greatest number of available hand and riding positions, decreased handling ability, and not good for off-road riding due to stress on wrists. Since another major benefit of using a drop bar is the inherent style, try one of the colorful options by Vilano.

There are a plethora of choices in grips and tape out there, and most are very low cost, so feel free to experiment to figure out what is most comfortable for you.

Wheels

If you are looking to swap out your wheels there are plenty of options out there ranging in cost and style. Pure Cycles makes dependable products at affordable price points, such as this Pure Fix 700C 40 mm Wheelset. These can easily be swapped onto most frames and you can choose either a standout accent color or something muted to let your frame shine. The double-walled aluminum is lightweight and the set comes with a flip-flop hub with pre-attached standard 16T fixed and freewheel cogs.

For a serious upgrade to your stock wheels consider the SunRise Bike Carbon Fixed Gear Bike Wheelset. These definitely make a statement in their styling but when you start riding with them you will quickly see their value. Since these are made of carbon fiber-Toray T700, a big step up from aluminum alloy, this wheelset is made for performance and efficiency. Though carbon fiber wheels are pricier than their aluminum alloy counterparts, these wheels are built to be stronger, more durable, aerodynamic, and lightweight as well. If you really want to upgrade your fixie look no further.

The ways in which you can customize and upgrade your fixed gear bike are limited only by your imagination and wallet. Even if cost is a factor, there are plenty of inexpensive upgrades that can massively improve the styling and performance of a Fixie. Feel free to experiment and play around with the options until you have created the bike of your dreams.

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