Berd has made a name for itself with its unique PolyLight spokes and lightweight, high-end wheelsets. Today, the brand introduces the new Sparrow50 Gold gravel wheelset, which it claims is the lightest production 50 mm gravel wheelset on the planet. With 30 mm-wide, 50 mm-deep carbon rims and Berds Polylight vibration-damping spokes, they also state that the Sparrow50 Gold is the fastest and smoothest gravel wheelset available today.Thats a bold claim, but the self-proclaimed bike nerds at Berd (Bike + Nerd = Berd) are backing it up with science, of all things. Not only are they launching the Sparrow50 Gold wheels today, but theyre also laying out the engineering framework in their white paper, including the equations, physics, and field data behind their claims. Along with that, Berd is also launching a free finish time calculator so riders can compare the effect of wheels and tire widths on their ride times.Sparrow50 Gold DetailsThe Sparrow50 Gold wheels are made with super aerodynamic 50 mm deep carbon fiber rims in 700c (29) or 32 diameters. The rims have a 30mm internal width, a hooked bead, and a 4mm-wide bead top to reduce the chances of pinch flats. The 30 mm width is compatible with tires from 40 mm to 60 mm wide, and has been tunnel-optimized at 45-55 mm with Schwlabe G-One RS Pro tires. According to Berd, the new Sparrow50 rim and wheelset is 14.3% more aerodynamic than the standard Sparrow in wind tunnel testing.Of the tires tested, Berd says that the 45mm Schwalbe G-One RS Pro had the lowest drag and was the fastest on smooth gravel. However, through their finish time modeling, they say that 55mm tires can be faster on rough gravel, despite having slightly worse aerodynamics.Wind tunnel tested to be 14.3% more aerodynamic than the standard Sparrow.Talon ESL-R HubsAt the center of the Sparrow50 Gold wheels are Berds Talon ESL-R hubs, which the brand calls its fastest gravel hub yet. These hubs use Berds patented hook flange design with Equal Spoke Length (ESL) technology. By varying the hook flange widths, every spoke, front and rear, is the same length to keep wheel building and maintenance simple.The Talon ESL-R rear hub uses a dual-sprung 36-tooth ratchet for quick engagement and a Tri-Coat aluminum freehub, which is available in SRAM XDR, Shimano Microspline or HG, and Campagnolo N3W. The front hub is convertible between 12 and 15 mm axles with tool-free end caps, and the wheels are available in standard gravel (12 x 100 mm / 12 x 142 mm) and Boost (12 x 110 mm / 12 x 148 mm) spacing with a centerlock brake rotor interface.The Talon ES-R hub and Polylight spokes.Berd SpokesTying those aerodynamic rims and hubs together are Berds unique Polylight spokes. Berd tells us that its spokes have earned two Olympic Gold Medals and more than 50 UCI World Cup cross country podiums over the last two seasons, making them the winningest XC mountain bike spokes in the world. According to the brand, the viscoelastic spokes damp vibration, reducing feedback and fatigue, but also smoothing the ride and enhancing efficiency.In fact, along with the more easily measurable variables of aerodynamic drag and mass, they believe the Berd Spokes dissipation of high-frequency vibration contributes to lower rolling resistance compared to metal spokes. You can learn more about it in Berds white paper, but they claim that independent third-party testing by John Karrasch showed a 5-watt savings at 30 km/h from vibration damping alone.Berd is based in Hopkins, MN, where each Sparrow50 Gold wheelset is hand-laced, then precision trued by TRUDI, the brands automated wheel truing system.WeightAccording to Berd, the 1,298-gram weight of the 700c (29) wheelset is the lightest production 50 mm gravel wheelset on the market. That weight goes up to 1,541 grams for the 32 size.WarrantyThe Berd Sparrow50 Gold wheels are covered by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. Additionally, they are backed with lifetime crash replacement if you damage your rim while riding, youre covered under our free crash replacement program.White Paper and Finish Time CalculatorAre you a bike nerd interested in all of the physics, equations, and data behind Berds spokes and performance claims of the new Sparrow50 Gold wheels? Berds white paper lays it all out for you to see. Check it out here.Berds finish time calculator is also live on the Sparrow50 page of the Berd website, down near the bottom of the page. According to Berd, The model accounts for aerodynamic drag, rolling resistance, and the vibration-induced losses that Berd spokes uniquely reduce. Results are intended for comparative purposes only the calculator uses simplified assumptions for rider aerodynamics and does not account for elevation, drafting, or variable pacing.Screenshot of the Finish Time CalculatorSparrow50 Gold SpecsWheelset Weight (w/out rim tape or valves):700c, 29: 1,298 g (600 g front, 698 g rear)32: 1,541 g (718 g front, 823 g rear)Internal Rim width: 30 mmExternal Rim Width: 38 mmRim Depth: 50 mmRim Material: Carbon FiberWheel Size: 700C (29) or 32Hubs: Berd Talon ESL-RFront Spacing: 12 x 100 mm, or 12 x 110 mm (convertible to 15 mm)Rear Spacing: 12 x 142mm, or 12 x 148 mmFreehub: SRAM XDR, Shimano Microspline, Shimano HG, or Campagnolo N3WBrake Rotor Interface: CenterlockSpokes: 24 Berd PolyLight spokesNipples: Sapim Aluminum Double Square LockTire Compatibility: 40 to 60 mm (1.50 to 2.35), tubeless-readyMax Tire Pressure: 60 psi (4.14 bar)Weight Limit: 280 lbs / 127 kgWarranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty and Free Crash ReplacementBerd Sparrow50 Gold: Pricing and AvailabilityIf youre interested in the fastest and smoothest gravel wheels available today, itll cost you. The 700c / 29 Sparrow50 Gold wheels retail for $2,395, and the 32 version goes for $2,495. The 700c wheels are in stock and ready to ship, and the first 50 orders get a set of Schwalbe G-One RS Pro 45mm tires. The 32 wheels are available for preorder with an estimated ship date of 9/21/2026. Head to the Berd website to learn more or pick up a set.berdspokes.com

We come off a week with stage races such as the Arctic Race of Norway, the Czech Tour, and a subdued Volta a Portugal, plus a WorldTour classic in the ADAC Cyclassics Hamburg. These events stirred the individual standings but barely shifted the UCI team rankings. The headline change sits near the...

Yesterday, we wrote that the supporting ecosystem around 32-inch wheels is beginning to catch up. Today, theres another fairly significant piece to add to the puzzle: an actual bike you can order.Mosaic has unveiled the GT i55 32, a handmade titanium gravel bike designed around 32-inch wheels. And the Boulder, Colorado, brand is making its intentions pretty clear: this is, in its words, "not a concept bike."Thirty-two-inch wheels are quickly becoming the bike industry's biggest new trend. We saw a host of bikes, wheels and tyres at Sea Otter, followed by perhaps the highest-profile example yet at Unbound Gravel, where defending champion Cam Jones and ultra-endurance racer Robin Gemperle raced Scotts RC Gravel 32-inch prototype. But Scott made it clear that its bike was a "pure prototype," stating that it "will never be released on the market."Mosaic, meanwhile, is going the other way. The GT i55 32 will debut at this weekends MADE bike show in Portland, Oregon.Mosaic isnt the first brand to move beyond the prototype stage, nor is it the only 32-inch bike headed for consumers. Stinner has already shown its Refugio 32 with pricing attached, BTCHN has been preparing its Bandito for production, and Salsa has said 32-inch Fargo framesets will go on sale this summer, with complete bikes to follow later in the year. Mosaic stands out in that its made-to-order platform is available from launch. A Batch Built option will be added later.x"The new GT i55 32 platform wasnt simply designed to generate conversation around a new wheel size. Its not a prototype destined to disappear after a trade show," Mosaic insists. "Instead, it represents Mosaics commitment to 32-inch wheels as a legitimate performance platform."More than simply squeezing bigger wheels into a gravel bike(Image credit: Mosaic Cycles)Larger wheels bring some compelling theoretical advantages. Compared with a 700c wheel running an equivalent-width tyre, the shallower angle of attack should help it roll over rocks, holes and generally rough terrain more easily, while the larger wheel size is also claimed to carry momentum more efficiently.But there are compromises. Bigger wheels increase stack and wheelbase, stretch chainstays and can create toe-overlap headaches particularly as frame sizes get smaller. Theyre concerns Cycling Weekly has looked at in depth in previous coverage. "...A new wheel standard only matters if its benefits arent limited to the tallest riders in the field," Mosaic states and tackled the aforementioned limitation as "an engineering problem rather than an unavoidable consequence of the wheel size."For starters, the brand's designers decided to design an entirely new platform from teh groun up rather than modifying one of its existing gravel bikes.The frame uses a bent seat tube and relatively compact 440-445mm chainstays to tuck the rear wheel beneath the rider. A 3D-printed titanium yoke creates clearance for tyres up to 55mm (2.2"), while still accommodating a standard gravel chainline and chainrings up to 46 teeth.The axle standards do move into mountain bike territory, with a 148x12mm rear and 110x15mm front.(Image credit: Mosaic Cycles)And then theres the forkMosaic says one of its biggest headaches was finding a fork that would allow the geometry it wanted without pushing the front of the bike too high.So it made its own.The result is a new 32-inch gravel fork under Mosaics new Zero Components name, with a 445mm axle-to-crown measurement and 60mm offset. The former is intended to keep the front end down, while the latter helps Mosaic achieve its desired steering geometry while creating more toe clearance.Mosaic says the combination of its shorter fork, increased offset, compact rear triangle and offset seat tube helps make the platform work across a wider range of rider sizes.And because these bikes are being offered through Mosaics custom programme, geometry can also be tailored to the individual rider.You can actually buy this one(Image credit: Mosaic Cycles)Mosaic is rolling out the GT-1 i55 32 in two initial versions:Fully integrated: The high-end option gets fully internal brake routing, a T47 bottom bracket and a choice of Mosaics standard paint layouts, with pricing starting at $8,250.Semi-integrated: The second option offers semi-integrated brake routing via Cane Creek HCR, a T68 bottom bracket and Mosaics Titanium Ghost finish, and starts at $5,000.Both come with rider-specific custom geometry.More information can be found at mosaiccycles.com.

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Wout Van Aert is a fan-favourite (not only) in Belgium for a variety of reasons. One of them is his close bond with fans which he built back in his days as cyclocrosser, and which has only blossomed since then. As Belgium's last world champion (three times), Van Aert is naturally held in high esteem...

I dont think I am unique as a cyclist when I say that I am always in search of the perfect cycling short or bib short. Nine times out of ten I will gravitate towards bib shorts because they just tend to be more comfortable, and I know I am not alone!In fact, when I wore the Pearl Izumi Attack Short on a group ride last week, and mentioned that they were indeed shorts, not bibs, a friend said that she will only wear bibs from now on, and is going to be giving away all of her cycling shorts.photo credit: Carrie CalviCycling shorts DO have some advantages over bib shorts. They are WAY easier to get on and off, and a lot easier for bathroom breaks. When you want to just do a quick ride around the neighborhood? Shorts are amazing. Lacking the motivation to ride at all and just dont want to pull anything up over your shoulders? Shorts are the answer.Though most days I tend to prefer bibs, especially for longer rides, every once in a while a cycling short comes along that I can really get behind. My very first cycling short love was the Terry Breakaway Short. I loved them so much that I endorsed AND reviewed them right here on Femme Cyclist!It can be tough though, to find a pair of cycling shorts that are comfortable and that dont roll down. I honestly didnt think I would ever really find a cycling short that was equal to the Terry Breakway Short at such a reasonable price point until I tried the Pearl Izumi Attack Short.photo credit: Carrie CalviI am, quite frankly, completely blown away by this short. I actually FORGOT that I had them on, and that is really saying something about a cycling short! When your ride in a cycling short is so great that you can just focus on the ride and dont have to worry about any kind of discomfort with bunching or rolling you know you have found an excellent short.Pearl Izumi is a leader in the US cycling apparel industry. They are known for making high quality, long-lasting cycling apparel and gear. Honestly, it was the first cycling apparel company I was ever really even aware of. Pearl Izumi products are a staple in US bike shops nationwide.So what, specifically, is it that makes the Pearl Izumi Attack Short so amazing? In a nutshell they are comfortable, reasonably priced, and they STAY UP! Read on for my complete review of the Pearl Izumi Attack Short.Review in a NutshellPros:Comfortable and well-made.Great value: price is very reasonable for a quality pair of cycling shorts.True to size and come in a nice range of sizes (x-small to xxx-large).Chamois is substantial for long rides, and is more substantial than other shorts at this price point that I have tried.The waistband stayed up and did not bunch for my outdoor ride.Leg band is comfortable, does not squeeze too tight, and does not roll up.Pearl Izumi has committed to making 90% of their line sustainable by 2022.Pearl Izumi is a major, world-wide cycling company that originated in Japan more than 50 years ago, and has been distributing in the US since 1981.Cons:The chamois is substantial and may be too much for someit does feel more like a diaper than some other chamois I have tried. This tends to be the case with many Pearl Izumi shorts and bib shorts.More seams/potential irritation points than their higher end shorts/bib shorts, but I did not find this to be a problem. If you have very sensitive skin this may be an issue for you.At this time the color selection is mostly limited to black. There is a Navy/Dark Denim Decco option which is AMAZING but appears to be mostly sold out.When I tried to wear these on indoor rides they did roll down a bit more than on my outdoor ride, and more than the Terry Breakaway Short. I am not sure why they only did this indoors, but I feel like its worth mentioning. They were otherwise so comfortable, though, that I didnt think it was a big deal!Price: $100 ListBuy at PearlIzumi.comBuy at Amazon.comThe Pearl Izumi Attack Short is Very ComfortableThe most important feature for many female cyclists in choosing a cycling short is comfort. Pearl Izumi Attack Shorts are incredibly comfortable.I require my cycling shorts to be comfortable both on and off the bike. A great chamois is wonderful, but if there is too much squeeze elsewhere, either in the leg band or in the waist, the short is just not going to cut it for me.Putting on the Pearl Izumi Attack Short is so easy. You can slide them right on without feeling like you are pulling up the universe just to get into your shorts. They are comfortable to walk in as well, though the substantial chamois is more noticeable off the bike than the chamois of other shorts I have tried.photo credit: Tracy LangevinIn regards to compression, the description of the shorts mentions compression, but I honestly did not feel compressed. Depending on your preference this may be a pro or a con. For me it is definitely a pro because I hate the squeezed sausage feel that I have received from some of my previous cycling short purchases.There are more seams on these shorts than on some of the more expensive Pearl Izumi shorts/bibs, but I do not find this to be a deterrent. The seams did not bother me at all, and seemed to really help the shorts stay comfortable and in place.The leg of the short has a little grippy material on the inside to keep it in place. This material was not irritating, and definitely did its job because the shorts did not roll up on my leg.Finally, Pearl Izumi Shorts tend to be very consistent and true to size across their different designs. This is extremely helpful when you are purchasing bib shorts online and cant try them on. I have several pairs of Pearl Izumi shorts and bib shorts, and they all fit me the same way.The Attack Short Has Been UpdatedAccording to the description of the Pearl Izumi Attack Short on the Pearl Izumi website, they have made some updates to the Attack Short.Most notably, they have actually removed some seams, and they have made sure that the waistband includes compression but isnt uncomfortable.Immediately, I noticed the interesting seams on the waistband, and appreciate that they seem to do their job in terms of keeping the shorts comfortably in place. I did experience some rolling of the waistband on an indoor ride, but that could have been the positioning of me on the bike. I did not experience any rolling at all on my outdoor rides, so I think these updates were a great addition!Pearl Izumi Shorts are DurableWe have worn a lot of Pearl Izumi shorts and bib shorts in our family, over the course of approximately five years, and each and every pair has held up. In fact, they all pretty much look and feel just as they did when they were brand new.Though I am new to this particular pair of shorts and cant speak to the durability of the current Pearl Izumi Attack short at this time, I can say that due to their solid construction I have high hopes that they will last just as well as our other Pearl Izumi shorts and bibs.This is more of a budget option than other shorts and bib shorts that Pearl Izumi offers, so its certainly possible that they are not quite as durable as some of their more expensive products.The Chamois of the Attack Short Bib Short is ThickNow, depending on your preference, you may see this as a pro or a con. Sometimes if a chamois is too thick, or is not placed properly, it can honestly feel more like a diaper than a short.I will say that the chamois in this short does feel a bit droopy in the back when I am walking around, but its not terrible considering that this is the same chamois that makes riding on the bike quite delightful and pain free.I have been riding more considerable distances than just around the neighborhood with these shorts, and I find that for a solid 25/30 mile ride they keep me and my butt very happy.Substantial Bang for Your Buck with the Pearl Izumi Attack ShortThe Pearl Izumi Attack short is their mid-range short, clocking in at around $80 as compared to their lower price option (around $50) and their PRO option (around $175).For $80, these shorts are a substantial value. The chamois is definitely different from the PRO chamois in terms of the lining material, but seems to offer a similar experience in terms of the amount of padding.The real feature that seems to set the Attack Short apart from the lower priced option is the attention to detail in the design and seams. The Attack Short has a unique waistband that likely increases the comfort of the short and keeps it from rolling down.Bottom-Line: Supreme Comfort And Quality At A Reasonable PriceAs a long-time customer of Pearl Izumi shorts, I can attest to their quality and continued commitment to developing womens cycling clothing.These shorts dont feel like mens shorts that are just sized for women, they feel like shorts that were designed specifically for women.photo credit: Tracy LangevinThe changes that have been made to this current generation of Attack Short shows that Pearl Izumi continues to commit to enhancing clothing options for female cyclists.The Pearl Izumi Attack Short offers supreme comfort and quality at a reasonable price. If you are a bib short enthusiast and want a cycling short that gets as close as possible to the comfort of bibs, this is an amazing option for you.Buy at PearlIzumi.comBuy at Amazon.comMore Bike Short HelpBest Padded Bike Shorts (Cycling Shorts) For WomenDont Wear Underwear With Bike Shorts & 5 Other Tips About How To Wear Bike ShortsHow to Wash Cycling ClothesAbout The ReviewerStacy Ann Smith is a New England-based cyclist who strives to stay upright on her bike. She is the founder of Sascy Cycling, and her mission is to encourage women to love their body and focus on what it can do, not what it looks like. When Stacys not cycling she is teaching high school history and eating pizza with her husband and son. For awesome womens cycling tips and to learn more about Stacy, visit Sascy Cycling atwww.sascy.com.The post Pearl Izumi Attack Bike Short Review appeared first on Femme Cyclist.

If youve been mountain biking for as long as I have, youve almost certainly owned Camelbak MULE at some point. This old standby was one of the original mountain bike hydration packs and much beloved by many.Now the Camelbak MULE has been completely redesigned and updated for modern mountain bikers. There are a couple of versions, but the top of the line pack is the MULE Pro 14 100 oz (reviewed here). So how does the new version compare to the old?There are several featureslike the full length stuff pocketthat are definite upgrades in the new design. But there are a few thingslike the not-so-easy to access tool pouchthat have us pining for the good old days.Still, if youre in need of a pack for all day epics and big backcountry rides, this is one of the bigger, better packs out there. Review In A NutshellPros:TONS of interior storageFull length stuff pocket fits a jacket easilyStraps for helmets and pads on the exteriorAmazing back ventilationCompatible with the CamelBak Impact Protector E-bike battery sleeveCons:Bite valve hit my armPocket for the hydration bladder is a little weirdTool pouch is hard to accessPrice: $176 ListBuy at Amazon.comBuy at Camelbak.comCamelbak Video ReviewTONS Of StorageOkay, lets get right to the real attraction of this pack: it can carry everything you might need for a LOOOONG day in the saddle. In addition to the 3L hydration bladder, theres space for a jacket, food, tools, cell phone, emergency blanket, and on and on and on.Front Stuff PocketMy favorite part of the pack was the full length stuff pocket on the front of the pack. My primary rationale for carrying a backpack-style hydration pack (as opposed to a hip pack or bottles) has always been to carry extra layers. And yet, alot of packs still make this ackward. On my much-loved Osprey pack for instance, I can stuff my rainjacket in most of the way, but a bit still sticks out. The same thing goes for the older version of the MULE.On the new Camelbak MULE the front stuff pocket is DEEP and you can get your jacket in fully. No more worrying that it might fall out.video-all-bodies-on-bikesInterior PocketsThe main zippered pocket has additional pockets to help separate and organize all your gear. There is a zippered pocket with two seperated areasone for your tool pouch, and one for whatever else.Theres also another large pocket, intended for an e-bike battery (more on that later), but for all of the rest of us not carrying a battery, its roomy enough for spare clothes, food, etc. On the front of the pack, there is another zippered pocket with a soft lining, ideal for sunglasses. Noticeably, there is NOT a clip for car keysone interesting omission.. Tool PouchLike the original Camelbak MULE, this pack comes with a handy tool pouch large to contain your smaller tools: a multi-tool, tire levers, tubeless repair kit, chain breaker, spare link, patches, spare bolts, etc, etc, etc. You can even take this out of the pack if you want to throw it in another pack for shorter rides, which we appreciate.Compared to the original MULE, however, access to the tool pouch isnt quite as handy. The pouch goes inside the main zippered compartment, so if you have it stuffed full, you may have to take things out (or have them fall out) in order to access the tools. Side Zippered Pocket Theres a good-size zippered pocket on the side of the pack. It was large enough to fit my oversized cell phone. This pocket could also work well for a wallet.I liked this separate access so I didnt have to open the main zippered compartment everytime I wanted my phone. Hip PocketsThere are small non-zippered pockets on both hip straps. These are just the right size for stashing a gel (or a gel wrapper). I did wish that they were zippered (like many packs are) so that you can be certain that nothing will fall out. And Theres Exterior Storage Too!As if you there wasnt enough space inside the pack, there are also straps on the outside for carrying both your helmet and pads. You could also use these straps to lash on pretty much anything else youd like as welli.e. a backpacking mug, Chacos, another jacket, you name it.video-all-bodies-on-bikesNext-Level Back VentilationIve tried a lot of packs, but Ive got to say, the Camelbak MULE has the best ventilation system Ive seen. The pack is suspended WAY far away from your back to help prevent the dreaded sweaty back.Does it entirely keep your back from getting sweaty? No. But it does a much better job than most and certainly helps keep you cooler. Hydration System Is Just So-SoIf youre buying the Camelbak MULE just for its hydration system, you might want to look elsewhere. Weve seen better.That said, the reason youre probably considering the Camlebak MULE is for the all-day storage, in which case the small complaints I have about they hydration system are probably east to overlook. For starters, the pocket that the bladder goes into is awkward. Its a side-zip pocket, so instead of dropping the bladder in from the top like you would with most hydration packs, you have to kind of wedge it in. Not bad, but awkwardat least at first.The reservoir itself has they typical screw-top Camelbak is known for. This may be a personal preference, but I far prefer the ziplock style bladders to the screw top. Ive just had way to many times I thought the cap was screwed on correctly, but it wasntand Ive ended up with it leaking everywhere. The fill hole is also more ackward to fill up, in my opinion, than the top-fill reservoirs.My final complaint is that once youre on the bike, the magnetic holder (which isnt that strong by the way) is positioned so that the bite valve hits your arm. Several times, I adjusted the magnetic clip so thered be less hose sticking out, and each time it eventually moved back so the hose would again be hitting my arm.The bite valve has good flow and has an on-off switch. Chest Strap and Hip Straps Are AdjustableThe chest strap can move up or down to accommodate your bust, and unlike your traditional buckle, the straps attach to one another via a magnet. The hip straps were also adjustable, and while Im not usually a fan of hip straps, theyre pretty much needed on a pack designed to carry this much gear.video-all-bodies-on-bikesComes In Both A Mens And Womens VersionThe only noticeable difference between the two packs are the straps. The womens version has s-shaped shoulder straps to better accommodate narrower shoulders and chests, and shorter hip straps for a smaller waist. Obviously, if youre petite, these differences will be appreciated. But if youre a woman with broader shoulders, a longer torso, or a wider waist, theres no reason you shouldnt buy the mens version of the pack.ExtrasThere are two features of the Camelbak MULE that I cant really comment on, but that are worth mentioning. The first is that you can use the CamelBak Impact Protector (sold separately) with the pack. This add-on helps protect your back in the event of a crash. Ive never used it, so cant speak to that.The other feature is an e-bike battery sleeve. If youre riding an e-mtb far into the backcountry, youll need a second battery and its possible to carry with this pack. Havent tried it, but seems cool.video-all-bodies-on-bikesWho Shouldnt Buy The MULEDont buy the Camelbak MULE if youre doing short rides close to home. All by itself, this pack weighs over a pound and once its loaded with water and jackets and tools, etc, its HEAVY.This extra weight can put a lot of strain on your back and shoulders and just isnt necessary if youre doing shorter rides. Personally, for anything under 3 hours, I use a hip pack instead. But if you ARE doing big rides, then getting a big pack like the MULE is a no brainer. Bottom-Line: A Great Pack For All Day RidesIf youre headed out into the backcountry and need to carry a bunch of water AND a bunch of stuff, the Camelbak MULE Pro 14 is a great choice. The back is well ventilated, theres tons of storage, and theres that fantastic stuff pocket. More Stuff You Might LikeHow To Build A Comprehensive On The Bike Tool Kit Best Womens Mountain Bike Hydration PacksBest Hydration Drink Mixes For CyclingAbout The ReviewerKristen Bonkoski is a USA cycling and NICA coach, bike educator, and founder of Femme Cyclist.Shes also the host of the Femme Cyclist podcast and runsRascal Rides, a website about biking with kids.Shes been riding bikes for more than two decades and is passionate about empowering women on the bike.IG:@femme_cyclistJoin Kristens Weekly Newsletter!The post Review: Camelbak MULE Pro 14 100 oz Hydration Pack appeared first on Femme Cyclist.

Guillermo Thomas Silva has only just made a debut in WorldTour this season. But the Uruguayan did not take long to get accustomed to the new environment, immediately setting in with no less than eight victories; including one stage at Giro d'Italia and overall triumphs at Tour of Hainan, and last we...

If you are a cyclist, there is a good chance you have heard of Pearl Izumi.Pearl Izumi is a leader in the US cycling apparel industry. They are known for making high quality, long-lasting cycling apparel and gear. Honestly, it was the first cycling apparel company I was ever really even aware of. Pearl Izumi products are a staple in US bike shops nationwide.I remember when I wanted to get my first pair of cycling bibs I asked my husband, Chris, who had been cycling for some time, which brand to look at. He suggested Pearl Izumi, and said that he enjoyed every pair of Pearl Izumi bibs he has owned.Now, I knew that what works for guys might not necessarily work for me, but I definitely trust his judgement and ordered a pair.This was 3 YEARS AGO, and these suckers have held up. I am telling you, they are like the day I bought them, and I couldnt possibly recommend Pearl Izumi bib shorts more. I have since purchased more pairs, and have had amazing results with all of my Pearl Izumi bibs.So what, specifically, is it that makes these bib shorts so amazing? In a nutshell they are flattering, comfortable, and durable. Intrigued? Keep scrolling for my in-depth review of Pearl Izumi Bib Shorts.Review in a NutshellPros:Material is high quality, durable, and comfortable.True to size and come in a nice range of sizes (x-small to xx-large).Very few seams/places for irritation.Virtually no leg cuff, but legs stay solidly in place.Chamois is substantial for long rides.Crossover straps in the back offer a drop tail for nature breaks.Pearl Izumi has committed to making 90% of their line sustainable Pearl Izumi is a major, world-wide cycling company that originated in Japan more than 50 years ago, and has been distributing in the US since 1981.Cons:The chamois is substantial and may be too much for someit does feel more like a diaper than some other chamois I have tried.Currently is only available in limited colors, so those who like a flashier kit may be disappointed.Though you certainly can drop the back of these bibs for nature breaks, I find it to be a bit of a struggle.Clocking in at $250, the PRO bib short is on the pricey side, though Pearl Izumi does carry less expensive bib-shorts that are also of great quality depending on your needs.Price: $250Buy at PearlIzumi.comBuy at Amazon.comWhy You Should Try BibsIn the age-old debate amongst female cyclists regarding which is better, cycling shorts or bib shorts, I have found that the vast majority of road cyclists I have encountered prefer bib shorts.Bibs are, in a word, great. There is no waistband to roll down, everything is smooth and seamless, and they look awesome under cycling jerseys. Bib shorts have shoulder straps to hold them up so that you dont have to deal with the waistband of a short. It simply doesnt exist! The level of comfort, truly, can be second to none when you find the right pair of bib shorts.I dont think I have to tell you, though, that bibs for women have their own set of challenges because we are simply built differently, and therefore the perfect bib short must be built differently too!The straps need to either go alongside our chest, or they need to kind of meet/clip in the middle, for one. Oh and HIPS! We have HIPS!!! Theres nothing worse than trying to pull on a pair of bibs that seem to completely forget that we ladies are curvy, not straight. As a result, finding the right bib shorts can be a struggle for women.Enter Pearl Izumi Bib Shorts.Pearl Izumi Bib Shorts are Comfortable, Stay in Place, And Are True To SizeTime and time again I find myself reaching for these bib shorts. They are comfortable, and they stay in place. The straps have a convenient, optional clip so that you can clip them together in the middle of your chest if, like me, you dont find it terribly comfortable to have your straps on either side. Alternatively if you like the straps on the sides you can just leave them unclipped.The fabric is very soft, and there are very few seams. These are not compression shorts, and they do not squeeze. There is no cuff around the leg which I love, because it prevents my legs from feeling like sausages and putting unwanted pressure on my knees. There is a grippy material inside the bottom of the leg to keep it in place, and it actually works!Finally, Pearl Izumi Bibs tend to be true to size, and tend to be consistent across their different designs. This is extremely helpful when you are purchasing bib shorts online and cant try them on.Pearl Izumi Bib Shorts Are VERY DurableI have put these shorts to the TEST.The first pair I bought was three years ago, and I wear them all of the time because they are my favorite pair. I can honestly say that I have easily worn these bibs 100+ times, and they are honestly like the day that I bought them.My other pairs of Pearl Izumi bibs, though I admittedly use them less because these are my favorites, have held up just as well.The seams are all still intact, the color has not faded, and there are zero holes or rips in these shorts despite the fact that I have fallen in them quite a bit. The chamois has held up too, and I find that they protect my sit bones just like they did when they were new!Also, it should be noted that I was wearing these shorts when I suffered my worst fall in cycling. I fell hard on one side, and my leg was VERY bruised underneath these shorts. I was absolutely shocked that a) the shorts didnt rip or tear or show any sign of wear and that b) my road rash where I fell wasnt far worse.There is a Drop Tail Feature for Nature Breaks.but I am telling you it is a stretch to say this, and I mean that literally! Yes, you can technically keep your jersey on, and the criss-cross design of the back of these shorts means that you can stretch them down enoughbut its not easy.I was honestly a little afraid I wouldnt even quite be able to clear the bib shorts. That would have been embarrassing.Now, maybe I was doing it wrong, I am not totally ruling our user error here, but I have used other bib shorts with a drop tail design and havent exactly had this problem.So yes, it is possiblebut definitely proceed with caution and give em a good stretch!The Chamois of the Pearl Izumi Bib Short is ThickNow, depending on your preference, you may see this as a pro or a con. Sometimes if a chamois is too thick, or is not placed properly, it can honestly feel more like a diaper than a short.I will say that the chamois in this short does feel a bit droopy when I am walking around, and for that reason its not my favorite for shorter rides around the neighborhood. I also wouldnt necessarily wear these for a ride where I will potentially be off the bike for a bit, getting ice cream/stopping for breakfast. These arent the best for that.But, if you are planning to ride a distance you cannot go wrong with this short. When you are spending most of your time in the saddle and want to be able to actually walk after your ride? These will be your go-to bib shorts.Like Many Bib Shorts, and Most Cycling Gear in General, You Get What You Pay ForI own multiple pairs of Pearl Izumi Bib Shorts, and my favorites were the highest end shorts they had at the time, and therefore were also the most expensive. All three pairs that I own are solid, have great chamois, and are very comfortable, but you can just tell these are truly the top of the line, and are constructed with the best materials, and have the best design.As a result, unless you get these on sale or clearance, you will likely be paying around $250. They have other shorts (like the Pearl Izumi Attack Air bib) that are definitely cheaper, but there is a reason why I keep coming back to these.Bottom-LinePearl Izumi is a long-time trusted staple in the cycling industry, and for good reason. It is clear that a lot of research and development has gone into developing a solid cycling short for women, and they certainly had women in mind when they created these shorts.Though some larger cycling companies may make womens apparel as an afterthought, and just make smaller mens items and call them womens, it is clear that Pearl Izumi does not do this. Honestly, with all of the wonderful womens cycling brands out there now like Machines For Freedom and Terry, they really cannot afford to.If you are looking for a solid bib-short that will be comfortable, durable, and go the distance with a substantial chamois, you really cant go wrong with a pair of Pearl Izumi Bib Shorts.More Help Keeping Your Bottom ComfyBest Womens Bike ShortsBest Chamois Creams for WomenHow to Heal (and Prevent) Saddle SoresBest Womens Bike SaddlesAbout The ReviewerStacy Ann Smithis a New England-based cyclist who strives to stay upright on her bike. She is the founder of Sascy Cycling, and her mission is to encourage women to love their body and focus on what it can do, not what it looks like. When Stacys not cycling she is teaching high school history and eating pizza with her husband and son. For awesome womens cycling tips and to learn more about Stacy, visit Sascy Cycling atwww.sascy.comor find her onInstagramandFacebook.The post Pearl Izumi Womens PRO Bib Short Review appeared first on Femme Cyclist.

Youve been ramping up your miles, training for a big event, or logging some epic rides. But now youre avoiding getting back in the saddle because youre in pain. Its not your quads that are screaming, or a dehydration headache, its a painful little saddle sore on your bum.Saddle sores (and other issues down there) are common among femalecyclists, and yet are seldom talked about. Well, Im here to talk about them! For the first decade that I rode bikes, I suffered pretty much constantly from saddle sores. (Yes, I suffered for TEN YEARS). Back then, there wasnt much information and I didnt realize that I didnt have to suffer.Finally, with time and lots of experimentation, I finally figured out how to deal with them. In this article, Ill share some tips on healing saddle sores, but more importantly, how to avoid getting them in the first place.But First, What Is A Saddle Sore And What Causes Them?A saddle sore is a (you guessed it) a small sore on your bum, crotch, or the insides of your thighs. Its usually raised and red, pink, or purple. It looks a bit like a pimple, and may or may not have a head.Saddle sores are caused by friction, pressure, and bacteria. In other words, some combination of your saddle and chamois are causing you major irritation. Its important to note that many women suffer from chafing on their bum or crotch. While this is an equally awful issue, its not what were talking about here. (Although much of the advice here can help with chafing as well).How To Prevent Saddle SoresHeres what you can do to keep saddle sores from forming in the first place.Change Out Of Your Shorts ASAPAs soon as your ride is done, even before youve popped that post-ride brew in the parking lot, take off your bike shorts and put on something dry. The moisture helps breed saddle sores as well as other nasty bacteria that can cause yeast infections. If its going to be a while before you can take a shower, wipe down with a couple of baby wipes as well.Try A New Saddle (Or Change Its Position)If you are getting persistent saddle sores, your saddle is the most likely culprit. Try a new saddleone thats the appropriate width for your sit bones and isnt too hard or too soft. For more help, read my article on picking a good saddle and measuring your sitbones.We see a lot of women who opt for one of those big padded saddles. While this might help initially with bruising, it can actually make matters worse. A saddle that is overly padded is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to saddle sores. If you ride A LOT and are putting in multiple big days in a row on the bike, you may also want to consider having two saddles you can swap between. This slight change to your pressure points and where the saddle makes contact can help relieve consistent chafing in the same spot. Finally, make sure that your saddle is positioned properly. If your saddle is too high, or tilted to far forward or backward, the angle could be causing the problem. In fact, when I measured pro bike fitter Natalie Collins, she said she sees more issues with incorrectly positioned saddles than with the wrong saddle. Experiment With Different ChamoisSimilarly, chronic saddle sores could be due to your chamois. If you are riding with a thick one, try a thinner chamois. Or vice versa. For really long rides and bikepacking, Ive actually quit wearing a chamois at all. I found I was better off without one than with one.Unfortunately, this requires a bit of trial and error since everybody is different, but dont be afraid to experiment! Here are some of our faves:Best Chamois for WomenBest Womens Bike ShortsMake Sure To Wash Your Shorts Between RidesThis may seem obvious, but if youre lazy about laundry (dont worry I am too), remember to wash your shorts between each ride. Otherwise, bacteria can build up in your shorts and cause infections, rashes, and yes, saddle sores.I like having as many pairs of shorts as I generally wear in a week. Yes, its expensive to do that, but Im never caught without a pair of clean shorts. Slather On The Chamois CreamChamois cream can help reduce the friction between your bum and the saddle. Use a peanut-size amount of cream, and make sure to target the areas where you are prone to saddle sores.Want to try some? Here are our favorite chamois creams for women.Healing Saddle SoresAlready have a saddle sore? Heres what to do next. Put On Some Calamine LotionOn the way home from your next ride, stop at Walgreens for a bottle of the pink stuff. Calamine lotion is always my go-to remedy for drying out saddle sores that just wont drain. Slather some on before bed, and chances are your sore will be doing significantly better in the morning.Take A BathDraw a hot bath and throw in cup of Epsom salts. Not only will the warm water and salt be good for your tired muscles, they will also help to heal your bottom side.Use A Warm CompressIf you have a saddle sore that seems like it needs to drain, try using a warm compress. Sleep In The BuffMake sure that you are giving your saddle sore plenty of air. This might mean chilling at home in the nude, or sleeping sans pajamas. Your significant other can thank us later.Take A Few Days Off The BikeAlthough its probably not what you want to hear, sometimes the best thing you can do for a saddle sore is to take a few days off of the bike. Use the time for recovery or for some cross-training like running or weights. If you absolutely cant afford the time of the bicycle, then swap out bikes or saddles so that the pressure points are different.Go To The DoctorIf you have a recurring sore, or it is getting infected, you might want to consider taking a trip to the doctor. You should always seek medical attention if the sore is accompanied by a fever, chills, or pus.More Help Keeping Your Bum Happy9 Best Womens Bike Saddles & How To Choose!Dont Wear Underwear With Bike Shorts & 5 Other Tips On How To Wear Bike Shorts9 Best Padded Bike Shorts (Cycling Shorts) For WomenAbout The AuthorKristen Bonkoski is a USA cycling and NICA coach, bike educator, and founder of Femme Cyclist.Shes also the host of the Femme Cyclist podcast and runsRascal Rides, a website about biking with kids.Shes been riding bikes for more than two decades and is passionate about empowering women on the bike.IG:@femme_cyclistJoin Kristens Weekly Newsletter!Are You Listening To The Femme Cyclist Podcast?!?A podcast for women who love bicycles! We we celebrate all forms of riding and all forms of women, so whether youre a road cyclist, mountain biker, or bike commuter, youll find your community here. Each week well week bring you interviews from inspiring women, and offer tips and tricks to help you thrive on the bike.The post How to Heal (and Prevent) Cycling Saddle Sores appeared first on Femme Cyclist.