Gifts For Cyclists - Ideas To Make Shopping Easier

Know Your Cyclist

Cyclists come in all shapes and sizes. They also have different likes and dislikes.

Here are some tips for buying gifts for cycliststhat could save time and money for you and possible disappointment for your cyclist.

1. Know what kind of cycling they are involved in.
Are they mountain bikers or road cyclists? Do they passionately cycle for hours or just go out to blow off some steam and have fun? Maybe they only use their bicycle to commute. Knowing this will help find a more personalized gift.

2. Ask them what they want.
Yes, it's obvious. But it will make shopping for them a snap if you know exactly what it is they need.

3. If you want it to be a surprise then get as much information about the type of cycling they do, a preferred brand of cycling equipment they use or just generally snoop around to get this information without them knowing. Take this information to a sports shop and ask the people there for their advice. Preferably you would go to a store that specializes in cycling, as the help you get will tend to be more focused. You could even go online to some cycling forums and ask the people there what they think.

Cycling Forums.com
Bike Forum
Cycling Forum

A Word About Your Budget

Since the road cyclist tends to take the sport more seriously than most, some equipment will be a bit more pricey. It doesn't have to be, but that is the trend, as with all serious sports.

If you are on a limited budget, just remember there are some things cyclists always use on a regular basis and have to keep buying or replacing if they break or get lost. These are pretty inexpensive and will still be appreciated since it will save them money in the future.

For example:

These are just suggestions of low priced items that every cyclist uses. If you're feeling creative, you could always make a gift basket out of them, to make it look a bit more festive. Or use them as stocking stuffers. These are great little gifts for cyclists.

Just to get your ideas flowing...

PERSONAL ITEMS:

Assos Cycling Chamois Cream for Synthetic and Natural Chamois
2500.2563.1

This is a must have for long
distance road cyclists.
Currently approx. $17+ on Amazon

Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel Colored Water Bottles with Poly Loop Cap

Stainless Steel water bottles that come in a variety of colors and sizes: 12oz, 18oz, 27oz and 40oz. Prices from $11 - $25 on Amazon.

Clif Builders Bar
12 Pack

Road cyclists need energy. Give them a 12 pack of these energy bars to keep them going on those long rides. Source of soy and nut proteins for muscle strength and energy. Remember to find out their favorite flavor. Prices from $16 - $30+ on Amazon.

Under Armour Men Heatgear Tech Long-sleeve Tee 1000377

Ultra lightweight under garment keeps you warm. Comes in 6 sizes and 6 colors. Price approx. $25 on Amazon.

Nashbar PolyPro Knee Warmers

Keeps legs warm by trapping warmth and allowing moisture to escape, resulting in a more comfortable ride. Comes in 3 sizes. Price approx. between $13-20 on Amazon.

Under Armour Skull Cap

Lightweight moisture-wicking skull cap that fits snugly on the head. Comes in 11 different colors. Currently approx. $14.99 on Amazon.

Nathan Reflective Shoe Pocket Plus

Waterproof. Attaches to shoe laces with Velcro. Great place to stash valuables such as keys, money, ID etc. More visible than non-reflective clothing. Price approx. $5-$9 on Amazon.

Reflective Heavy Duty Ankleband
(Cyclists-Joggers / Runners
Pedestrians)

Provides great night time visibility. For cyclists, it also protects the leg from bicycle chain. Price approx. $7.99 on Amazon.

Pearl Izumi Zilch Full-Finger Cycling Glove

Pearl Izumi is one brand that is favored by serious cyclists. These full-fingered gloves are in the top most wished for on Amazon. Great for winter cycling.

FOR THEIR BIKE:

Schwinn 17-Function Bike Computer

Attaches easily to handlbars to track speed, distance, time, calories burned and more. Price approx. $10 on Amazon.

Stop Flats 2 Bicycle Tire Liner / Tube Protector

Protects tires from road debris such as broken glass, thorns, which cause flats. Remember to get the correct size for your cyclist. Prices according to size from $11 - 20 on Amazon.

The Bicycling Guide to Complete Bicycle Maintenance and Repair:
For Road and Mountain Bikes
(Expanded and Revised 5th Edition)

Must have for both casual and serious cyclists. Previous version sold over 400,000 copies. Easy to understand step-by-step instructions, even newbies can follow.Currently $14+ on Amazon

Topeak Mini G MasterBlaster Bike Pump with Gauge

Lightweight pump for flats. Has a fold-down foot rest to provide leverage for floor pump. Currently approx. $15+ on Amazon

Topeak Hexus 16-Function Bicycle Tool

Highly rated tool comes with all major hex wrenches, Phillips and flathead screwdriver, universal chain tool, chain hook and more.Currently approx. $18 on Amazon

Cleaner Simichrome Polish 50 Gram/1.76 oz

Brings chrome to a brilliant shine. Also provides a thin layer to protect from tarnish.Currently approx. $9 on Amazon

Park Tool Cyclone Chain Cleaner

2 step process scrubs the chain then clears away residue. Gets chains really clean. Currently approx. $23 on Amazon

If you ask any cyclist what they would like, and they are politely restraining themselves, it will probably be something in the previous category.

However, you may want to splurge out a bit more. The following are some ideas in the higher price range.

Bear in mind, many aspects of choosing gifts for cyclists depends upon their personal taste in product, size (in apparel and helmets) and specific bicycle make. It is difficult to buy certain gifts if you don't have this information.

Remember, if it's a personal item just ask the size or brand name of preference.

Here are some ideas from the Bestseller and Most Wished For listings on Amazon:

If they don't already have it, the DVD:

Hell on Wheels

A must have DVD for all serious cyclists. This documentary covers all aspects of the 2003 edition of the Tour de France. Featuring Lance Armstrong, Eric Zabel, Jan Ullrich, Tyler Hamilton, et al.
Currently $26.99 on Amazon

Danalco #1014 Sealskinz All Season Socks Medium Black

Sealskinz, a cyclist favorite brand in apparel. These are waterproof and breathable. Currently $27+ on Amazon

Park Tool Chain Gang Chain Cleaning System

Easily and quickly cleans chain, freewheel cogs, and chainrings. Works on all derailleur bikes and many coaster brake and 3 speed bikes. Currently approx. $28+ on Amazon

Topeak Alien II 26-Function Bicycle Tool

Receiving rave reviews on Amazon. Users say this is an excellent tool which does everything it is supposed to do. The tools include 14g and 15g spoke wrenches, 2 integrated tire levers, a T25 Torx wrench, Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers, mini pedal wrench for field repairs, 8 sizes of Allen wrenches (2 through 10mm), six box wrenches (two 8, 9, and 10mm sizes), steel wire chain hook, stainless-steel knife, cast Cromoly steel chain tool and compartments for two chain pins.Currently $29+ on Amazon

CamelBak Rogue 70-Ounce Hydration Pack

Bike hydration system with 70 oz. OMEGA HydroTanium reservoir with easy, external access gives the right amount of hydration for 2-3 hours in the saddle. Secure storage for tubes, pumps and energy bars. Currently from $39-125 on Amazon

Under Armour Men's Coldgear Action Legging

Available in 8 sizes and 3 colors. Lightweight fabric wicks moisture from the skin and circulates body heat. Performs by keeping athletes warm without weighing them down. Remember to get the right size! Currently $39-$50 on Amazon depending on size

Super Fly

These lenses conveniently adjust to darken in the sun and lighten indoors. No need for switching eyewear. There is removable foam padding along the upper frame which not only adds comfort but filters dust, wind and other eye irritants.

Under Armour Men's Coldgear Longsleeve Crew

Available in 6 sizes and 5 colors. Moisture-wicking fabric draws sweat away, helping your cyclist stay cool and temperature regulated. Also an anti-microbial treatment prevents odor-causing microbes from developing. UA ColdGear keeps the core warm and traps warmth. ColdGear's moisture transport system makes sure perspiration moves away from the body, staying dry and comfortable. Currently $47-58 on Amazon

Cycling Plus

Positive reviews abound..."A magazine for anyone who appreciates the all-out effort of time-trialing, the freedom of touring, the cut-and-thrust of commuting, and the sheer joy of just being out on the road. It covers new developments in the world of UK cycling and reviews and tests products" also "The content is very well rounded covering racing, touring, commuting, recreational cycling, and mountain biking". A 5 star rating on Amazon. Currently $73+ per year on Amazon

Bell Motivator Mag Indoor Bicycle Trainer

Highly rated indoor bike training. Smooth, quiet magnetic resistance. Positive feedback from consumers is the key in knowing that this item is reliable and worth the $$$. Comes with 5 year manufacturer warranty. Currently $80 on Amazon

If you're feeling really generous, there are plenty of higher end items for your cycling enthusiast:

Spot Satellite Messenger with GPS Tracking

Gives peace of mind by providing rider with satellite messenger with GPS tracking while on long or risky excursions. A SpotChecking feature will alert friends and family of precise location. It also allows friends and family follow the cyclists progress in real time. In emergencies it will send GPS coordinates and distress messages to an emergency response center. Currently approx. $116 upwards on Amazon

Polar CS200cad Cycling Computer Heart Rate Monitor with Cadence
(2008 Model)

For the more hard core road cyclist, this is a handlebar-mounted cycling computer with heart rate monitor. It enables the rider to to predict calorie expenditure, analyze pedaling rate, speed (current, average and max); trip; distance and
wheel size settings for two bicycles, with a speed sensor installation for different fork shapes. Currently $170 on Amazon

Evil Eye Pro-S a127

One of the cyclist's most wished for eyewear on Amazon. Exceptional vision, protection, fit and design makes it the ultimate in biking eyewear. Features include lightweight and flexible SPX frame, double-snap nose bridge, Flex Zones, ventilation systems, quick-release hinges, and a quick-change lens system.Available in Black-Grey anti fog and Titanium-Red Black-Gray anti fog. Currently $178+ on Amazon






...and if you're feeling particularly flush...

CycleOps Fluid 2 Indoor Bicycle Trainer

The CycleOps Fluid 2 Trainer.Keep the legs in prime condition in the off season. Your cyclist friend can now train comfortably at home. Includes a training DVD to help keep them motivated during indoor exercise.

These are based on the The Most Wished For and Bestsellers on Amazon. Starting from the lower price range and going up, here are some ideas for cyclists who use their bicycle to commute.

Mirrycle Incredibell Big Brass Bicycle Bell in Chrome or Brass

Great old-fashioned solid brass bell. Available in brass or chrome. Currently $8+ on Amazon.

Bell StowAway Bicycle Seat Bag

Handy, weather resistant and easily mounted to most seat style and seatposts. Expandable, it can hold flat repair tools, keys, phone, and other essentials.Reflector tape at back. Not just for commuters, all cyclists will benefit from this convenient little bag. Currently $8+ on Amazon

Avenir Coil Combo Cable Locks
(10mm / 6 feet)

Great customer feedback on Amazon. Simple and easy to use bike thief retardant with combination lock. Well worth it for the low price. Currently $10+ on Amazon

Cycleaware Viewpoint Eyewear Mirror, Round

This is an adjustable rear view mirror that sticks to the inside of your sunglasses where no one else can see it. It can also be used on other eyewear, not just cycling glasses. Easy to use and great for a cyclist's safety in traffic.
Currently $11+ on Amazon.

The Bicycling Guide to Complete Bicycle Maintenance and Repair:
For Road and Mountain Bikes
(Expanded and Revised 5th Edition)

A hands-down favorite on Amazon. This book has everything a cyclist could need when it comes to repair and maintenance of their bike. Easy to understand and not overwhelming with too much information, just enough to get the job done. Newbies and seasoned cyclists love this book. Price $14+ on Amazon.

Mirrycle MTB Bar End Mirror , Round, Black 109519

You can never be too careful as a commuting cyclist. Customers give this great little rear view mirror positive reviews on Amazon. Also folds up easily for storage. Currently $16+ on Amazon

Topeak Aero Wedge Pack with Velcro
(Medium)

Customers comment on the amount of space this bag has and the amount of "stuff" you can fit inside. People were able to fit extra tubes, phone, wallet, tools. This bag fits snugly onto the bike without getting in the way while riding. Available in small, medium and large. Between $14+ - $25+ on Amazon

Sunlite Bar Tender 4 Handlebar Bicycle Bag

A 6 compartment touring bag which mounts on the handlebars (although one enterprising customer found a way to mount it on the rear of their bike). Waterproof and sturdy, it holds much more than you would think.Currently $28 on Amazonbr />

Wald 582 Folding Rear Bicycle Grocery Baskets
(Set of 2)

Mounts to the side of almost any rear rack. This basket can accommodate 1-2 bags of groceries and stay balanced. The base of the basket pivots up to let the side walls collapse when not in use. Everything can be folded up to 1inch thick with the help of a simple clamp.Currently $35 on Amazon

Topeak MTX Trunk Bag DXP

As one customer puts it "Perfect size bag for 2-3 day excursion." This large but stable trunk bag is extremely durable. Another customer calls it "practically indestructible". The good thing about this bag is that, unlike other bags, even if it is not full, it will not go off balance but remains stable. Currently $62+ on Amazon

Kenneth Cole Reaction Business and Luggage Full-Grain Leather Laptop Messenger Bag

A more stylish look for the commuter who needs to lug their laptop around with them. Made of full grain Nappa leather, it has a nice roomy, fully lined single gusset interior. Plenty of pockets for the business type for cards, cell phone, etc. The front flap has a magnetic closure for easy entry.Currently $95+ on Amazon

Since these cyclists like to live dangerously (much to many mothers' dismay), the gifts for cyclists category sidelines into mostly protective gear.Going from lower price upwards, gift ideas for your BMX friend:

EVS WS91 Wrist Stabilizer

Inexpensive but good quality wrist and thumb support. This wrist support has a wrap around design and can be used for right or left wrist. Currently $10 on Amazon

SixSixOne Comp Full Finger MTB & BMX Cycling Gloves
Red

Made of protective TPR rubber, embossed Airprene and vented Spandura mesh back for maximum protection and breathability. Great full finger glove for BMX or MTB cyclists. Full cuff closes with Velcro. Palm is lightly padded and has reinforced thumb area. Knuckle area is protected by combination flexible Airprene & TPR rubber. Currently $20+ on Amazon

Ride BMX
(1-year)

Filled with great articles and pictures, Ride BMX magazine covers various aspects of extreme freestyle BMX riding including dirt jumping, flatland, ramp, and street riding. Currently $14+ per year on Amazon

SixSixOne DJ Knee Guards

The SixSixOne brand is highly regarded by BMX'ers. These knee guards have adjustable hook-and-loop straps backed with Neopprene for non-slip, snug fit; thick injection-molded plastic knee cup and double layered, biofoam inner padding to ensure protection at a pretty decent price. Currently $26+ on Amazon

EVS BB1 Kidney Belt XL

Unfortunately, riding BMX could result in a back or kidney injury. Fortunately, there is protective gear just in case. EVS provides great sports protective gear, just in case. Currently $32 on Amazon

ProTec Ace Helmet for Bike / Skate
Chris Doyle

# SXP multi-impact technology. Provides light weight shell; generous venting; small shell includes liner for Youth/Kids sizes. Comes in Junior, Medium, Large and XLarge. Currently from $35+ to $38+ on Amazon

Troy Lee Designs GP Bike Jersey
Long-Sleeve
Men's

Troy Lee designs are big with BMX'ers. It's a safe bet that gifting your BMX'er with one of these shirts would be cool. Just make sure you get the size right. They come in Med, Large, X-Large and XX-Large. Currently $41+ - $44+ on Amazon

SixSixOne Adult Race Jacket Full

From SixSixOne, protection for the ribcage. This is ultra lightweight and ventilated front and back. Large arm openings maximize freedom of movement. Vented to keep you cool yet protected. Removable shoulder area creates even slimmer, lighter protection. Currently $52+ on Amazon

Bell Bellistic Bike Helmet

Full protection with a skate-inspired helmet with full-face design. Hand-laminated fiberglass shell. Allows cool air in and out with 15 vents. Comes in large, medium and small. CPSC bicycle safety standard certified and ASTM 1492 skate certified. Price $79 -$88+ on Amazon,






.

Crash Pads 2500 Pro-Pant Padded Shorts with Tail Shield

Crash Pads 2500 Padded Shorts are one of the most popular padded shorts. They mold to the body to make movement non-restrictive. With soft foam pad over the tailbone area, and a removable plastic shield sandwiched inside.
Currently $75 on Amazon

SixSixOne Pressure Suit

This is a protective suit with high impact plastic body armor and spine protector. Made from comfortable EVA foam and breathable mesh, it has
removable high impact articulated spine armor to save spine injuries. With a patented pressure formed impact-Zone it has protection areas for chest, shoulder, and upper arm. Comes in Youth Med., Youth Large, Adult Small, Medium, Large, XL and XX Large.
Priced from $115+ to $135+ on Amazon

Gifts for cyclists don't have to be for the bike. Cyclists do need to relax now and again, so how about a movie? Just to watch or maybe inspire, your cyclist may appreciate something to pass the time until the next ride.

Biography
Lance Armstrong:
Racing for His Life
(A&E DVD Archives)

The story of how Lance Armstrong returned to cycling after beating the odds and conquering cancer. He then went on to win the Tour de France - five times. His courage, stamina, and charisma made him an international celebrity and a symbol of hope to millions. Every cyclist will enjoy this true story about one of the most famous cyclists in our time. Candid interviews with Armstrong's family, coach, and closest friends display the incredible courage and drive of the man who triumphed, despite brain surgery and four punishing rounds of chemotherapy. Dramatic footage of Lance in action bears witness to his talent and charisma.

Hell on Wheels

Highly acclaimed classic documentary on the most famous of all cycling events - the Tour de France. Made in the year Lance Armstong had his fifth consecutive win in 2003. Not only for Lance fans, this film also features the other cyclists involved, their crews and the fans. All shot on a backdrop of the amazing landscape that is the Tour de France.

24 Solo

This documentary film follows the training involved to compete in the 24 Hours of Adrenalin event, by Chris Etough, who won every year from 2000 to 2005. The competition is basically 24 consecutive hours of mountain biking. Yikes. Featuring interviews with Etough's competitors, the film culminates with the actual race itself.

Dave Mirra's Trick Tips, Vol. 1
BMX Basics

This is great for beginners in BMX riding. Dave Mirra, together with with Ryan Nyquist and Mike Laird,show you essential BMX basics. Beginning with helping you buy a bike, Dave then goes on to riding, balancing, turning, braking, pedaling, etc. Continuing on, Dave and Mike cover the foundations of BMX on the street and progress by teaching you the Endo. Together, Dave and Ryan look at the mini ramp, going over Mini Ramp basics such as carving, dropping in and mini-airs. Approx. $17 on Amazon.

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