You might also want to get a bike cover if your bike will be open to the elements whilst at work, school or elsewhere. A cover will protect your bike’s surface from wear and tear, helping to keep it in the best condition possible.

You might be a cycling newbie or a relative De-France competitor, but anyone can fall victim to the common buying mistakes when it comes to cycling gear. Unfortunately, while the internet makes shopping easier than ever before, it has also increased the difficulty for newcomers to discern the good from the bad. However, all of these cool features come with a weight penalty. The Endo is even heavier than the Osprey Syncro. Of course, this doesn’t mean buy the most expensive items, but it does mean to think about if the price tag has more to do with the bragging rights than the actual quality of the product. Zippered lower sleeping bag compartment with an internal, removable divider and sleeping bag straps

Side tension straps are linked to the hipbelt. By tightening these straps you can stabilise the load but reduce the hipbelt flexibility. Where balance is critical tightening them can help you feel more secure. However, if you are striding out over easy terrain it’s better to loosen these straps to allow full hip flexibility. The shoulder harness and hip belt are made with BioStretch materials, die-cut EVA foam and stretch fabrics so they flex and move with your body for unrestricted movement when scrambling, climbing and trekking. The company’s custom molding hip belt technology is one of its greatest achievements. It allows hip belts to fit perfectly around the hips, making it easier to carry heavy loads. Materials and Manufacture Whatever you might be buying for your cycling trips, it’s important to do your research. Afterall, cycling can be dangerous if improperly or inadequately equipped, so it’s vital that your gear is safe and high quality.

Sometimes we aren’t always able to store a bike in a warm, safe place. People living in shared accommodation, student housing, flats or other types of arrangements may not be allowed to keep their bicycle in communal areas (where space is usually the biggest). The Gregory Endo boasts an adjustable suspension system, a large 3-liter 3D-Hydro water bladder, and outstanding storage and organization. Moreover, I had a bit of a hard time removing, cleaning, and refilling the hydration bladder. It is more difficult to use than Osprey Sunyco’s hydration reservoir. I really like the well-designed shoulder straps. They are wide, nicely articulated, and ergonomically shaped.Even though it’s a lightweight model, the Optic comes with fully padded shoulder straps and waist belt. I like to evaluate how environmentally friendly the brand is when I research and review outdoor gear. I’d say that Osprey is one of the more sustainable and eco-conscious brands. You can use it to keep smelly clothing away from the rest of your gear or to store items that you want to keep easily accessible. I used it for my frying pan and flip-flops. It’s great for unusually shaped items.