Road Cycling Shoes

Clipless vs. Flat Pedals 

• Clipless: Offers a high level of control while riding fast or technical moves like hopping up onto curbs or over logs. Despite the name, you do clip in and out of them with special cleated shoes.

• Flat (platform): Don’t require clipping in and out, so it's easier to bail in a crash. No special shoes required.

What kind of riding will you be doing? 

• Mountain biking: Flat pedals paired with grippy bike shoes allow easy dismounts; clipless options offer more pedal efficiency, control and power while climbing, and feature 2-hole cleats. 

• Road cycling: Clipless pedals offer the greatest power and efficiency; often feature cleats with a 3-hole design. 

• Recreational riding: Flat pedals or 2-hole cleats make it easier to walk, mount and dismount. 

• Bike commuting: Clipless pedals boost efficiency over long distances; flat pedals let you wear regular shoes instead of cleats. 

Types of bike helmets

• Mountain bike: Rear-head coverage for off-road trails; often includes added ventilation
• Road bike: Lightweight, aerodynamic; designed for maximum airflow
• Recreational cycling: Budget-friendly choice for casual riding

Fit tips 

• Measure the largest part of your head with a flexible measuring tape (or use string, then measure it)
• Check the brand's sizing chart
• Aim for a snug fit 
• Between sizes? Choose the smaller size 

Added protection 

Look for technologies that reduce rotational forces during a crash, like Mips, WaveCel or KinetiCore.

Features 

• Vents: More vents improve airflow and reduce weight
• Visor/brim: Keeps the sun out of your eyes
• Chin bars: Extra protection for downhill mountain biking

Where do you plan to ride?

Choose a gravel bike if you plan to ride a mix of terrain—dirt, pavement and other loose surfaces.

Bike power

Electric gravel bikes lets you ride farther, faster. Check e-bikes rules where you plan to ride.

Handlebar shape

Drop (curled) handlebars are most common; some models offer flat bars.

Frame material

• Aluminum: Smooth ride, more affordable
• Carbon: More vibration-absorbing ride; lightweight but higher cost

Tires

• Tires are treaded or knobby for durability and traction
• Wider tires are better for rougher terrain; narrower tires are ideal for smoother surfaces

Get the right fit

• Start with the brand's size chart
• For the best fit, try the bike in person

Some bags attach directly to a bike's frame, while others require a rack mounted over one of the wheels.

Different ways to haul gear on your bike

• Bike cargo rack: A stable frame mounted over one of the wheels; you can strap gear directly onto the rack or use bags designed to attach to them, such as panniers
• Panniers: Roomy bags popular among commuters; they're easy to detach from the bike rack so you can take your gear with you
• Frame bag: Fits in the main triangle of your bike frame; ideal for carrying smaller, heavier items
• Trunk bag: Secures to a bike rack; many have plastic sheets to reinforce the base area and retain a structured shape
• Handlebar bag: Keeps gear within easy reach; attaches to handlebars with straps or clamps
• Saddle pack: Fits under the bike seat for small items like a multi-tool or patch kit; larger versions designed for bikepacking carry more
• Bike basket: Great for taller or odd-shaped items like grocery bags since baskets don't have lids; front baskets attach to handlebars
• Bike trailer for cargo: Keeps weight off the bike frame and you lets pull heavier loads behind you