Gear up for prime cycling season with these expert-approved biking essentials

When you make a purchase through the links in this article, we may earn a small commission. Our journalism is independent and not influenced by advertising. Learn more

Cycling has become so popular during the pandemic, local bike shops can hardly keep up with demand. Whether you’re a new or seasoned rider, finding the right gear can be tricky given all the technical specs. Here, Nick Di Cristofaro, service manager at GTA bike repair shop Forza Performance, breaks down his recommendations.

The sleek ride

For a mix of city and light trail riding, Di Cristofaro says a hybrid bike is the way to go. A cross between road and mountain bikes, hybrids have a less aggressive suspension and typically feature flat handlebars for comfortable all-day riding. “They’re perfect for the general enthusiast,” he explains. For serious riders willing to splurge, Di Cristofaro suggests a gravel bike like the versatile Bianchi Arcadex. It’s similar to a road bike, but equipped with bigger tires and disc brakes that will handle different terrain better.

2021 Bianchi Arcadex gravel bike, $5,000, labicicletta.com

The essential safeguard

It bears repeating: “When you’re out on a bike, wear a helmet no matter what,” Di Cristofaro says. While it’s ideal to try before you buy to ensure a comfortable fit, he generally favours Giro road helmets for their wide selection and more accessible price points. He suggests opting for something that breathes well and features a visor to block out glaring sun beams.

Giro Verce MIPS women’s bike helmet, $90, sportchek.ca

The fitting footwear

If you’ll be on your bike a lot, consider specialized cycling shoes. Di Cristofaro points to Japanese brand Shimano, which has a design that will secure you to your bike but make it easy to walk around and, say, grab a cup of coffee. The RC1 unisex style is made with breathable synthetic leather, provides extra comfort with its padded feel and works with detachable three-hole cleats (sold separately).

Shimano RC1 cycling shoes, $129.95, mec.ca

The handy tool

Certain essential repair tools — flat-tire kits, for example — will vary depending on the specs of your bike. And you can always outsource regular, more technical tune-ups to a pro like Di Cristofaro at Forza Performance if you don’t want to DIY. But for more minor fine-tuning while on the go, he recommends a pocket-sized multi-tool. Like a Swiss Army knife but for your bike, the easy-to-use gadget combines several tools, like a mini screwdriver or Allen key, so you can adjust your seat, tires and other parts.

Park Tool MT-30 mini-tool, $51.35, mec.ca

The bright idea

“If you’re going to be riding at dusk or dawn — or even when it’s cloudy — having lights is paramount for safety,” Di Cristofaro says. While equipping your bike with both front and rear lights is ideal, if you’re on budget, prioritize the back side to ensure you’re always visible to cars behind you. These Lezyne strip lights are easy to install, water-resistant, super bright and chargeable through a USB.

Lezyne Strip Drive bicycle lights, $105, altitude-sports.com