Top 10 Cycling Upgrades to Go Faster on the Bike
If you're a competitive cyclist, then you know that micro changes to your bike and gear can make a big huge difference in your aerodynamic efficiency and overall performance. Upgrading your bike components and wearables can help you go faster, and the good news is that you don't have to break the bank to do it.
To help you prioritize where to invest your next bike-related purchases for performance, here are ten of the top cycling upgrades to go faster on the bike.
1. Carbon Wheels
One of the best upgrades you can make to your bike is to switch to carbon wheels. Carbon wheels are lighter, stiffer, and more aerodynamic than traditional aluminum wheels. This means you can go faster with less effort. Carbon wheels can also provide a smoother ride and improve your bike handling.
2. Aero Helmet
An aero helmet is designed to reduce wind resistance and improve airflow around your head. This can help you go faster, especially when you're riding at high speeds. When you invest in a high-quality aero bike helmet, you’ll also enjoy more comfort than traditional helmets which can help keep your head cool on hot days.
3. Skin Suit
A skin suit is a one-piece cycling suit that's designed to fit snugly against your body. Skin suits are made from stretchy, breathable materials that can help reduce wind resistance and improve aerodynamics. They're also more comfortable than traditional cycling jerseys and shorts, and they can help keep you cool and dry during long rides.
4. Aero Socks
Aero socks are designed to reduce wind resistance around your feet and ankles. They're made from thin, stretchy materials that fit snugly against your skin. The textile design of aero socks can help save watts by improving your aerodynamics and reducing drag, which can help you go faster on the bike.
5. Electronic Shifting
Electronic shifting is a system that uses electronic signals to shift gears on your bike. This can help you shift more quickly and with greater precision than traditional mechanical shifting. Electronic shifting, like SRAM AXS Red eTap, is also more reliable and requires less maintenance than traditional shifting systems.
6. Aero Handlebars
Aero handlebars are designed to reduce wind resistance and improve aerodynamics. They're often wider and flatter than traditional handlebars, which can help you get into a more aerodynamic position on the bike. Aero handlebars can also provide a more comfortable grip and improve your bike handling.
7. Chain Wax
Instead of traditional chain lube, using chain wax can help reduce friction and improve the efficiency of your bike's drivetrain. Chain wax can also help keep your chain clean and prevent rust and corrosion. A clean, well-lubricated chain can help you go faster and ride more smoothly.
8. Ceramic Bottom Bracket
A ceramic bottom bracket can help reduce friction and improve the efficiency of your bike's drivetrain. Ceramic bearings are smoother and more durable than traditional steel bearings, which can help you go faster and ride more smoothly.
9. Carbon Hubs
Carbon hubs are lighter and stiffer than traditional aluminum hubs, which can help reduce the weight of your bike and improve your acceleration. Carbon wheel hubs can also provide a smoother ride and improve your bike handling.
10. Aero Disc Brake Rotors
Aero disc brake rotors are designed to reduce wind resistance and improve aerodynamics. They're often thinner and lighter than traditional rotors, which can help reduce the weight of your bike and improve your acceleration. Aero disc brake rotors can also provide better braking performance in wet conditions.
In conclusion, if you're looking to go faster on the bike, there are several upgrades you can invest in. Carbon wheels, an aero helmet, a skin suit, aerodynamic handlebars, and other forms of gear are all excellent upgrades that can help improve your performance. Remember, every small change can make a big difference in your speed and efficiency, so choose the upgrades that work best for you and your bike.
