10 Cycling Essentials For Fall Rides

Knowing where you're going is helpful, whether you're riding for fun or training towards a goal. Almost any cycling GPS can track your ride or provide guidance on turns and climbs. Despite this oversaturated market, one cycling GPS stands higher than most—the Coros DURA. What makes the DURA  different? It boasts a 120-hour battery life. Yes, you read that right:  120 hours. We tested the DURA on a 6.5-hour weekend century, four  60—90-minute training rides, and an extensive software update. After all this time, the Dura still had 85% battery life.

Pros:

• Solar charging 
• Very high screen resolution
• Easy-to-use screen controls
• Touchscreen works well even in the rain
• Supports Garmin, Bryton, Maijin, and IGPS radars

Cons:

• Navigation cue volume not adjustable

Price: $249

Heart Rate Monitor

2. WAHOO TRACKR 

One of the leaders in heart rate monitors for - cyclists and runners, the  TRACKR, the third iteration in Wahoo's HRM line—preceded by the Tickr and Tickr X—this upgraded HRM is unlike its predecessors. After testing the TRACKR for over 30 hours, the following features stood out—larger electrodes improve device connectivity with GPS devices and indoor trainers. The TRACKR's chest strap—revised from previous iterations—hooks on the side instead of the center. This significantly improved the comfort, especially on longer rides.

Pros:

• Rechargeable battery with over 100 hours of active battery life
• Battery can be charged over 500 times before the capacity drops below 20%
• Pairs quickly and syncs seamlessly with other Wahoo products
• ANT+ and multi-Bluetooth connectivity

Cons:

• Expands only to 50" (127cm)

Price: $89.99

3. Garmin HRM-Fit

For female athletes who loathe traditional heart rate monitors because of chafing or tightness with chest straps,  Garmin has the answer. The Garmin HRM-Fit does not have a chest strap. Yes, you read that right. Garmin revolutionized the heart rate monitor by equipping the HRM Fit with clips—three to be specific. The clips attach securely to the chest band of any medium to high-support sports bra. "The [Garmin] HRM-fit only sticks to your skin, rather than constricting your ribcage!" explained one user.

Pros: 

• Clips directly onto sports bra
• Eliminates constriction from chest strap HRM
• Weighs only 54 grams
•  Connects to both ANT+ & Bluetooth 

Cons: 

• May not work with front closure sports bras
• Clips may bulge under closer fitting shirts

Price: $149.99

Bikes Essentials

4. Trek CarBack Radar Rear Bike Light

Approximately 1,000 cyclists are killed by cars annually. CarBack, designed to alert cyclists of approaching vehicles, can detect cars from up to 240 meters.

Pros: 

• Provides audio and visual alerts
• Lights can be controlled from bike computer
• Compatible with most bike GPS units
• Visible charge gauge

Cons:

• Larger than other bike radar

Price: $199.99

5. Garmin Varia

The Varia, the first cycling radar, detects approaching vehicles. Some versions serve double duty as tail lights to enhance rider visibility. The flagship model can also record what's happening behind your bike as you ride.

 Pros:

• Notifies cyclist of approaching vehicle up to 153 yards away
  
• Tail light increases ride visibility by up to 1 mile
• Pairs with a wide range of GPS devices
• Audible and visual alerts of single or multiple cars

Cons:

• Cost

Price: $149.99-$299.99

6. Trek Commuter Pro RT

With 1,000 lumens, the Commuter Pro RT is equipped with wireless capability to ensure you're visible to traffic. 

Pros:

• Fuel gauge shows available battery life
• Chargeback capability-can charge your phone or cycling computer
• Three light modes-flash, focus, and range

Cons:

• Extended charge time
• Weighs 217 grams

  Price: $129.97

7. Orange Seal Tubeless Bike Tire Sealant

If you've shifted to tubeless, there's a good chance you've heard of  Orange Seal, and for good reason. With a range of sealants for gravel,  road, and mountain biking tires there's an option for you. The Endurance tire sealant can seal punctures up to 1/4". 

Pros: 

• Enables riders to run lower tire pressure
• Can seal punctures at higher altitude and in cooler temperatures
• Subzero option rated to seal punctures down to -20°F

Cons:

• Shorter longevity compared to some competitors

Price: Varies 

Sealant Enhancers

Sealant additives like Vitamina CL from Effetto Mariposa and Highland Dust made by Hold Fast are intended to be added to your existing sealant to extend the product's shelf life and seal larger punctures.

8. Dynaplug Micro Racer

Dynaplugs are a rider's best friend when punctures exceed sealant capacity. The Micro Racer, one of the lightest and smallest plugging solutions on the market, weighs only 15 grams and can get you rolling in no time.

Pros:

• Stores two pre-loaded plugs
• Ones of the fastest options for plugging tubless tires

Cons:

• Pricier than some competitors

Price: $49.99

Nutrition Options

9. Skratch Labs Hydration Drink Mix

It's easier to forget about hydrating when the temperature drops. This hydration drink mix provides a hydration option for athletes who need more electrolytes—sodium 400mg, calcium 50mg, magnesium 50mg, potassium 100mg—but not sugar.

Pros:

• Can add to other hydration mixes to boost electrolytes
• No sweeteners or artificial flavors

Cons:

• May alter taste when combined with other hydration mixes

Price: $1.65-$22.95

10. The Rider Box

The off-season is the best time to try new nutrition options. With so many to choose from, it's hard to pick just one and commit to a bulk serving option. The Rider Box, sister to The Runner Box, curates a wide selection of newly released endurance-focused products, including on-the-bike nutrition, supplements, recovery essentials, and more.

Pros:

• Each box contains 10-12 items
• Build your own box or leave the selection to Rider Box
• Practical items that you may not try otherwise
• On-staff nutritionist
• Option to try a singular box

Cons:

• Subscription-based

Price: $32-$40