Image
(Inga Hendrickson)
2021 Summer Buyer’s Guide

The Best Bike Commute Gear of 2021

Cycle your way around town with these smart solutions

Image
Image

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.

Thule Yepp Nexxt Maxi Seat ($230)

(Courtesy Thule)

The Yepp Nexxt Maxi quick-mounting system straps easily to rear racks, so parents can seamlessly swap their kiddo’s seat between rigs. It’s made of a soft but durable foam that wipes clean, and two shoulder straps and a sturdy plastic buckle make it simple to secure your little one for safe transport.

Buy Now


Merrell Men’s Burnt Rock Travel Shoes ($100)

(Courtesy Merrell)

Merrell’s no-nonsense, stylish casual shoe can pedal you from the office to the trailhead and then provide the stability you need to hike to the summit. It’s stiff enough for good power transfer, and the light upper breathes well on warm days.

Buy Now


Hiplok DXF Lock ($100)

(Courtesy Hiplok)

The 2.6-pound DXF is one of the lightest Sold Secure Gold–rated U-locks out there. Two beefy plastic clips and a frame bracket make for convenient carrying, and a lifetime warranty ensures it’ll last for years.

Buy Now


Arc’teryx Women’s Phelix Pants ($99)

Transition straight from an office chair to a bike saddle wearing the Phelix. A gusseted crotch, articulated knees, and stretch-cotton twill let you move freely. The trim fit and minimalist design keep you looking sharp.

Buy Now


Fidlock Twist 590 Bottle and Base ($45)

(Courtesy Fidlock)

Magnets secure the Twist to a low-profile frame mount, so you can carry your water worry-free. Taking a drink is as easy as rotating the bottle 45 degrees to slide it off. But locked down, the mechanism stayed put, even on rocky trails that sent other bottles flying.

Buy Now


Tern GSD G2 Bike ($5,099 and up)

(Courtesy Tern)

A burly rear rack and a carrying capacity of 440 pounds make this e-bike a workhorse. Storage is easy: stand it on end indoors, and fold the handlebars flat to slide it into a trunk. Plus, the carbon belt drive (no lube required) and reliable internally geared drivetrain require little maintenance.

Buy Now


Chrome Industries Blckchrm 22x Lako 3-Way Tote ($105)

(Courtesy Chrome Industries)

Testers loved the Lako’s padded laptop sleeve and separate wet-dry compartments. The tough water-resistant shell fends off the elements.

Buy Now


Pearl Izumi Men’s Rove Barrier Jacket ($150)

(Courtesy Pearl Izumi)

This lightweight polyester-elastane shell offers great mobility in the cycling position and features a stowable neon tail flap for visibility. It cuts the wind, breathes well, and has a DWR treatment, but doesn’t look too techy.

Buy Now


Thousand Chapter MIPS Helmet ($135)

(Courtesy Thousand)

Highly protective yet sleek in design, the Chapter MIPS is ideal for style-conscious riders. It comes with a magnetic rear light, and has a hole hidden behind a pop-out logo, so you can lock your helmet with your bike.

Buy Now

From Summer 2021 Buyer’s Guide Lead Photo: Inga Hendrickson

When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.

sms