Spinning your wheels - cycling accessories, includes related article

American Fitness, July-August, 1992 by Joan P. Hunt, Jeanette Dvorak

Rack up those skis, haul out those bikes - cycling season is here. Summer months are truly a time to gear up for the scenic outdoor sport of cycling. But before you head out, make sure you accessorize accordingly.

Helmets

Taking it from the top of the head-to-tire overhaul, the helmet is a revolutionized essential for all cyclists, a sign of our safety-conscious times. "Microshell" helmets ($60-$190)are made of lightweight plastic fitted over a dense Styrofoam inset. Durable, aerodynamic and designed in an array of funky or tame colors, they provide ventilation crucial to the comfort of the rider. Removable polypropolene padding inside quality helmets allows easy cleaning and helps wick away sweat to prevent chafing on the forehead. Scientifically proven protection against impact remains the most important helmet design factor. Despite skeptics of the fact that something so light could provide sufficient protection, riders and retailers agree, micro-shells work.

Beverley Goldman, avid cyclist and co-owner of the cycle shop Velotique, recommends a revolutionary model from Louis Cameau featuring a tough, inner plastic form sandwiched between foam layers for reinforced shock-absorption.

Shorts and Chamois

Lycra, Coolmax and fieldsensor wicking fabrics provide for the most comfort in cycling shorts, distinctive from the now popular bike short fitnesswear styles by their padding. Of note this season is the disappearance of chamois lining incorporated into the padding of the short. Appealing to the demand for practicality, manufacturers have switched to more affordable, ultrasuede synthetic padding.

Also practical, preferred by women, "and the choice of more and more men," says Goldman, is two-seam construction in shorts instead of a center seam to eliminate chaffing irritation. Micro-cotton panels and polypropolene that absorb the perspiration around the seat area also cut down on discomfort and possible infections. Cushioned comfort from gel padding in shorts and bike seats helps distribute pressure evenly, further relieving the cyclist of soreness.

Different types of cycling - racing, touring and mountain biking - have evolved varied styles in cycling shorts. Second-skin stretch shorts and full-length tights ($50-$100) are favored by long-distance and high-speed riders. Gaining popularity this year are looser boxer-style cycling shorts ($30 and up) for mountain biking and casual riders. Made of airy, cotton and nylon blends, the looser shorts also incorporate the all-important seat padding into their design. And the trendiest design of the year is denim - cycling shorts and tights that look like jeans or cut-offs. As for color trends, Goldman says neons have lost their glow in the limelight, the trend going toward darker jewel-tones and black, of course, for pedaling purists.

Jerseys, Gloves, Shoes and "Booties"

Bright and aerodynamically skin-tight, jerseys aren't just worn by serious team riders. Their stretch fit, wicking fabric and functional rear pockets enhance comfort as well as performance. If performance isn't a factor, the selection of t-shirts is endless and a matter of personal preference.

Gloves are becoming popular for recreational as well as performance riders. Relatively new to gloves is a gel-inset that distributes pressure evenly over the palm of the hand and lessens any numbness that can occur during long rides. Terry cloth brow pads on the back of gloves for wiping sweat are a benefit.

And finally, a biking shoe you can walk in too. New recessed cleats allow you to walk comfortably instead of balancing on your heels. "Bike and hike" shoes ($60-$100) are a definite step forward for semi-serious cyclists who enjoy a break from pedalling. Shimano has introduced an extensive line of cycling shoes called SPD (for entry-level to expert) featuring removeable recessed cleats, for use with or without cleated pedals.

For rain or shine cyclists, booties are the vital accessory. Made from entrant fabric, booties ($20) are waterproof, breathable overshoes to protect biking shoes and feet from wet or cold elements.

Hardware

The search continues for stronger, lighter materials to make durable yet aerodynamic bikes. Mountain and hybrid bikes (bikes that combine mountain bike and road bike features) will account for 80% of sales. Hybrids, or city-style mountain bikes, feature new handlebar designs which move away from the straight, horizontal bars that allow for only one hand position. "The importance of different hand-holding positions is to alleviate stress on the neck and arms," says Goldman. New add-on bar ends ($20-$60) provide cyclists different hand-hold options for different riding styles.

Cross-over tires-smooth on the bottom for paved riding and rugged on the sides for trails - also accommodate multi-purpose needs. Of special note in '92 is a self-sealing inner tube from Specialized that win close punctures immediately, allowing only minimal loss of air.

Some new technologies are strictly for mountain biking devotees. Front fork shock absorbers much like those found on motorcycles and full rear suspension systems offer improved protection on rough terrain. You can expect, however, that the best shock absorption won't come cheap. Highly equipped mountain bikes retail from $900.