Looking good on a road bike takes more than just throwing on some spandex and hopping on the saddle.
Pro cyclists have mastered the art of style on two wheels with their coordinated kit, sleek sunglasses, and enviable physiques.
Follow these 5 essential tips for road bike accessories to elevate your cycling style game and look like you belong in the pro peloton.
Match Your Kit for a Put-Together Look
Coordinating your jersey, bibs, socks, helmet, gloves, and shoes creates a polished, professional aesthetic.
Stick to 2-3 bold colors that complement your skin tone. For maximum pro style points, ensure your kits feature minimal logos and branding.
Road bike accessories like sunglasses, caps, and shoe covers should coordinate with your kit colors too.
As a beginner, starting with just 1 high-quality jersey and bib is sufficient. Add pieces over time for more mix-and-match possibilities.
Pro tip: buy kits during end-of-season sales for major savings!
Invest in Performance-Enhancing Eyewear
Beyond UV protection, cycling-specific sunglasses enhance speed by improving aerodynamics.
Wrap-around lens shapes create a smooth surface for air to pass over. Opt for Photochromic (transition) lenses to adapt to lighting conditions. Mirrored coatings reduce glare.
Premium brands like Oakley and Rudy Project offer advanced technology for vision clarity and protection.
Expect to spend $100-200 for pro-level shades. For colder climates, interchangeable lenses allow switching from clear to tinted glass.
Get a Pro Bike Fit
Getting properly fitted for your bike is the best way to look like a seasoned cyclist.
A professional bike fit from your local bike shop will dial in the optimal saddle height, reach, and handlebar position for power and comfort.
A proper bike fit reduces strain on joints while allowing maximum power transfer through each pedal stroke.
Schedule an appointment with an expert bike fitter and bring the cycling shoes you plan to use. Expect to spend $100-300 for a comprehensive fit session and adjustments.
Adopt Pro Riding Form
Perfecting your riding form takes practice but results in added speed and style points. Keep these tips in mind:
Gaze forward, not down, with a neutral spine
Relax shoulders down and back
Light grip on the bars
Engage core to stabilize the upper body
Pedal with smooth, circular motions
Maintain proper saddle, knee, and foot alignment
Focus on one adjustment at a time until each technique becomes second nature. Recording yourself with a riding partner can help identify areas to refine.
Build Cyclist-Worthy Legs
Let's address the elephant in the room: pro cyclists have enviable muscular legs. While genetics plays a role, focused training develops the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles that power the pedal stroke.
Off the bike, mix in squats, lunges, and calf raises 2-3 days per week. Spinning classes are great for building leg endurance and cardio fitness.
Consistency is key - give your training at least 6-8 weeks to see noticeable improvements in leg definition.
Stay fueled with carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to support muscle growth and recovery. With time and commitment, you'll be rocking cycling shorts like the pros.
Ride with Style
Looking like an experienced road cyclist boosts confidence and performance. Follow these essential tips to develop a put-together aesthetic that turns heads on every ride.
Invest in quality cycling kit, gear, and bike fit for maximized comfort and style. Adopt proper form and commit to leg strength training when off the bike.
Soon you'll have the physique, poise, and prowess of a cycling pro. Now get out and ride in style!
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