Here is a selection of the gear that I use and recommend. You can probably spot them in articles on this site or in videos on my YouTube channel.
Do bear in mind that I’m not a ‘proper’ reviewer. I haven’t tried out EVERY single product on the market. However, these are products that I use on a regular basis and recommend to my friends (including you, dear reader).
Bike Tech
My favourite mid-range bike computer. The V2 upgrade brings a bright colour display and full on-board navigation. The BOLT remains very easy to set up and use.
A powerful bike GPS with full on-board mapping. The touchscreen is responsive and works well, both in the map screen and for moving around the menus. Excellent training and safety features.
These bone conduction headphones allow me to listen to podcasts on a ride without blocking my ears - so I can hear cars behind me. They struggle in strong winds but otherwise work great.
As well as a good rear light, the Varia tracks vehicles approaching from behind and sends alerts to my bike GPS. My favourite piece of bike tech.
These are some of the most popular bike tech articles on the site:
- Garmin Edge 830 vs 1030 Plus: Do You NEED To Go Top Of The Range?
- Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT V2 vs Garmin Edge 530: Does The Updated BOLT Change The Picture?
- Garmin Edge 830 vs 530: Which Is Best (For You)?
Or you can check out the full bike tech article archive for even more gems (!).
Bicycle Tools
A good value torque wrench with a selection of different bits, for tightening jobs in the range 3-15Nm. I also like the robust plastic case that the set comes in.
A high quality "big" torque wrench for all your tightening needs (provided it's in the 10-60Nm range...). Not the cheapest option, but I love using this wrench.
A well-made set of hex keys that won't round out your bolt ends. A useful range of sizes for jobs both on and off the bike.
Great for releasing and re-securing quick links when removing and installing your bike chain.
Please to enjoy some of my musings (articles) on matters of bike tool importance:
- Best Chain Whip And Cassette Lockring Tools (And What They Do)
- Torque To The Hand (Best Bicycle Torque Wrench)
- The (Bike) Tools That I Use Most: 6 ‘Must Have’ Implements
Or click here for all my posts of a bike maintenance persuasion.
Clothing
My 'go to' choice for longer rides. Super comfy (pad and shorts material), hard-wearing (I've used mine loads) and good value for the quality.
My favourite 'foul weather' cycling jersey. The original and best.
Stretchy warm fabric and a fleecy liner make these my 'go to' winter gloves for all but the most extreme Arctic conditions. The optimal balance of warmth without being too bulky.
Lightweight and comfortable. The fit is slimline but flattering to my dadbod physique (as much as it can be). A great value base layer.
Here are some of my favourite articles on cycling clothing (how interesting…):
- Best Winter Jackets For Road Cyclists
- Best Shorts For Road Cycling: Protecting The Undercarriage
- Best Winter Cycling Tights For Road Cyclists
Or click here to check out the whole clothing section of the website.
Bike Equipment
Kask don't make my Vertigo helmet anymore but based on my experience with it (these last 6 years), I'll be buying a Kask next time as well.
These pedals solved my knee pain issues (along with getting a proper bike fit). I've used Speedplays for years and recommend them to anyone that will listen...
Nearly 10 years old, my Aero Wedge is still going strong. The medium size will fit a multi-tool, inner tube, tyre levers, a gel and even my Lezyne mini-pump. Sweeeeeet.
Every cyclist needs a track pump. This attractive stainless steel with a wooden handle one is a pleasure to use and easily inflates all road tyre pressures.
And some relevant articles in this section:
- Speedplay Zero Stainless Clipless Pedals: A Long-Term Review
- Kask Vertigo 2.0 Road Helmet Review: Putting A Lid On It
- Road Bike Hack: The Cycling Go Box
Indoor Cycling
Easy to set up, the KICKR has made my experience of Zwift really immersive. I'm finally able to train based on accurate (if embarrassing) power numbers.
Easy to assemble. Seems stable in use. I like the ability to plug in my fan and also charge a couple of USB devices at the same time. A good value alternative to 'branded' trainer tables.
I did look at the Wahoo mat but couldn't justify paying the higher price. The LifeLine mat is smart and does a super job of protecting my pain cave floor.
Here are some of my articles (and videos) on indoor cycling: