Buying Guides and Advice
Buying Guides and Advice
How To Buy A Bike During Lockdown
If you're stuck in lockdown and looking to buy a new bike but not sure how to go about it, this article is for you! Getting some daily exercise is important for both your physical and mental health. It's a great way to break up the day and keep some semblance of a routine. There are a few ways that you are able to get a new bike from our stores during lockdown. This easy step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of choosing your bike, checking stock, ordering online and how you can collect your bike depending on your state's lockdown restrictions. Before visiting any of our stores during lockdown or where restrictions are in place, please check our help centre for up to date information for your store Step 1: Find The Perfect Bike And Select Your Size And Then Click On Check Store Stock Step 2: Type In The Postcode For Your Nearest Store And Click Search If your ideal store doesn't have stock, but a nearby store does, don't be too concerned. In the next step you will be able to see if the bike is still available at your ideal store (it may just be a longer wait period to pick it up) Step 3: Choose Click & Collect Delivery, Enter Your Postcode And Click Search Step 4: Click On Your Preferred Store You can see below that if your nearest store was Brisbane CBD, you can still select this store and the bike will be ready to collect at a later date. Step 5: Your Page Should Now Have Your Desired Store Loaded On The Product Page Stage 6: Check Out! Congrats on your new bike purchase! Your store will be in contact with you within 24 hours to let you know when you can collect your bike. If you would like to speak with one of our expert team members to help you with any step of the process, advice on choosing a bike, or to buy your bike over the phone, visit the link below to find your nearest store and contact details. Please note, our stores are experiencing higher levels of calls at this time, we appreciate your patience. Store Locator Bike Delivery Now Available In Sydney Can't make it into your local Sydney store to buy a bike? No worries! We're currently offering FREE* delivery from our Sydney stores. (Free up to 15km and then only $1 per extra km) Start Searching For Your Perfect Bike Now! E-Bikes Mountain Bikes Commuter and Recreation Bikes Kids Bikes *Bike Delivery offer available for a limited time. Free delivery offer may be withdrawn at the discretion of 99 Bikes.
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Bike Storage Buying Guide
If you're travelling with your bike as cargo, then a good quality bike bag is a must have. Bike bags are specially made cases that protect your bike and its components from incidental damage when being transported. Many models feature foam padding and hard panels to reduce movement and protect delicate parts (such as rims). Bike Bags Weight is also an important factor to consider when purchasing a bike bag as this will help you save on additional luggage costs when flying with your bike. A lighter bag will also make your life easier when transporting it to and from the airport. Although, it is important to keep in mind that lighter models tend to offer less protection than their heavier counterparts so look for something around the 5-10kg mark to find the right balance between protection and weight. Other features to look out for when buying a bike bag include; integrated wheel compartments, waterproofing, casters and other storage pockets which come in handy for stashing pedals, computers and other accessories. See All Bike Storage Browse through our wide range of bicycle storage options, perfect for keeping your bike protected and in good working order. Most cycling storage products are suitable for use within the home or garage and are easy to install. Whether you are looking for a permanent fixture or something that can be easily moved, you'll find the perfect storage option in our range of products. Many storage options are designed to suit all styles of bicycles, from Mountain bikes and road bikes to BMXs. Both floor stands and wall mounted storage hooks are available for purchase, providing a varied range of options for your storage needs.
Armwarmers Buying Guide
Hey, you know those things hanging out of your sleeves? They're called your arms, and chances are if you're riding in Australia you'll need to protect them from a wide variety of elements. A pair of arm warmers is a good place to start. Despite being compact and lightweight, arm warmers will help keep your arms warm and dry on freezing rides. Arm warmers Arm warmers are commonly made of Lycra, but sometimes have a fleece backing. They are best worn with a short sleeve jersey for provide coverage from the wrist to just below the shoulder. The sleeve of the jersey should be worn over the arm warmer to help keep it in place. Some warmers will include silicone grippers at the upper arm opening for stability and to prevent slippage. See All Arm Warmers What happens some days (particularly on longer riders) is that you start out very cold, but as both you and the day around you warm up, you no longer require all the layers you did when you set out. Enter warmers, which are most commonly worn on the arms and knees, and simply slide on and off the exposed skin when required. This allows you to stay warm early on, then as the sun comes out you simply pull off said warmers on the go, without needing to stop the bike. They're then small enough to easily tuck away into your jersey pockets for the rest of the ride.
Cycling Gloves Buying Guide
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Cycling Gloves Gloves are far more than a fashion accessory; they are a critical piece of any cyclist's kit. Whether you're navigating technical singletrack, logging long miles on the road, or simply commuting to work, the right pair of gloves enhances comfort, improves control, and provides crucial protection. They are your primary interface with the bike, and choosing the right pair can transform your riding experience. When purchasing gloves, think about your primary riding style, the conditions you ride in, and your personal comfort preferences. Let's break down the key factors to consider. 1. Riding Style: The First Big Decision Your discipline of cycling is the best starting point for narrowing down your options. Road Cycling & Commuting Most road riders and many commuters opt for short-fingered (fingerless) gloves. The primary reasons are: Ventilation: Cut-off fingers provide maximum airflow, keeping your hands cool and dry, especially during intense efforts or on hot days. Dexterity: You have a direct, tactile feel on your brake levers and shifters, which many riders prefer for precise control. Comfort: These gloves almost always feature padding on the palm to absorb road vibrations and reduce pressure on the nerves in your hand, preventing numbness on longer rides. Mountain Biking (MTB) & Gravel Gloves Mountain bikers and many gravel riders almost exclusively use full-fingered gloves, even in warm weather. The focus here shifts from ventilation to protection and grip. Crash Protection: In the event of a crash—which is more common on unpredictable trails—full-fingered gloves protect your entire hand from scrapes, cuts, and impacts. Debris Shielding: They shield your hands from whipping branches, thorns, and rocks kicked up on the trail. Enhanced Grip: A full-fingered glove provides a more secure and consistent grip on the handlebars and brake levers, especially in wet, muddy, or dusty conditions. 2. Padding: Gel vs. Foam vs. None The padding in a glove's palm is designed to dampen vibration and reduce pressure on the ulnar nerve, which, when compressed, can lead to the all-too-common hand numbness and tingling. Gel Padding Gel padding is excellent at absorbing shock and high-frequency road buzz. It has a softer, more pliable feel that conforms to your hand shape. Best For: Long-distance road cyclists, tourers, and riders who are particularly susceptible to hand numbness. Downside: Some riders find thick gel padding can feel "squishy" or create a disconnect from the handlebars, reducing bar feel. Foam Padding Foam is a more traditional padding material. It tends to be firmer than gel and can be strategically placed in different densities to target key pressure points on the palm. Best For: Racers, commuters, and riders who want a good balance of comfort and a more direct connection to the bike. Downside: Over time and with many washes, foam can compress and lose some of its cushioning properties. No Padding (Minimalist Gloves) Many performance-oriented mountain bikers and some road racers prefer gloves with no padding at all. Best For: Riders who prioritize maximum bar feel and control above all else. A thin, single-layer synthetic leather palm offers incredible grip and a direct connection to the bike, allowing for minute adjustments on technical terrain. Downside: Offers no vibration damping, which can lead to fatigue on long or particularly rough rides. 3. Sizing and Fit This cannot be overstated: a well-fitting glove is essential. Too Loose: Excess material will bunch up in your palm. This not only feels uncomfortable but can lead to friction, causing painful hotspots and blisters. Too Tight: A glove that's too snug can restrict blood flow, ironically causing the very numbness you're trying to prevent. A glove should fit like a second skin—snug across the palm and fingers with no baggy areas, but not so tight that it restricts your hand's movement when you make a fist. Always check the manufacturer's sizing chart. 4. Gearing Up for the Weather: Seasonal Gloves Your summer gloves won't cut it when the temperature drops. Having a selection of gloves for different seasons is key to comfortable year-round riding. Summer Gloves These are your standard road or MTB gloves designed for warm weather. They prioritize breathability, using lightweight mesh or Lycra on the back of the hand and often featuring a perforated palm. Shoulder Season (Autumn/Spring) Gloves For cool, but not freezing, days, these gloves are perfect. They are typically full-fingered and feature: A wind-resistant panel on the back of the hand. Light insulation (often a thin fleece lining). Good dexterity for shifting and braking. Winter Gloves When it gets properly cold, you need dedicated winter gloves. Look for these features: Insulation: Materials like Thinsulate or PrimaLoft provide warmth without excessive bulk. Windproof & Water-Resistant/Waterproof Shell: A membrane like GORE-TEX® or a similar proprietary fabric is crucial for blocking wind chill and keeping your hands dry from rain or snow. Long Cuff (Gauntlet): A longer, adjustable cuff creates a seal with your jacket sleeve, preventing cold air and moisture from getting in. "Lobster" Style: For the coldest conditions, some gloves group fingers together (two sets of two, or one and three) to share warmth, like a mitten, while freeing the index finger and thumb for operating controls. 5. Other Features to Look For Nose Wipe: A patch of soft, absorbent terry cloth or microfleece on the thumb is a surprisingly useful feature for wiping away sweat or a runny nose. Closure System: Most gloves use a simple hook-and-loop (Velcro) strap for an adjustable fit. Some minimalist or racing gloves have a slip-on elasticated cuff for less bulk. Removal Aids: Many fingerless gloves have small loops on the fingers to make them easier to pull off, especially when your hands are sweaty. Touchscreen Compatibility: A must-have for modern full-finger gloves. Special material on the fingertips allows you to use your phone or GPS device without taking your gloves off. Silicone Grippers: Often found on the fingertips of MTB gloves, these small silicone patterns add extra grip on brake levers, especially in wet conditions. Reflective Details: A great safety feature for commuters and anyone riding in low-light conditions.
Fixie Bikes Buying Guide
Fixie and single speed bikes are beautifully simple bikes with only one gear. They're modelled on old school track bikes, and just have a single speed, with no shifters and derailleurs, which makes them little to no maintenance. A fixie has a fixed-hub, so your pedals always move with the wheels, while a single speed bike has a free-hub like a conventional bike. Fixed Gear Bikes Fixie bikes are great bikes for around town riding as they are cheap, durable, hassle free and look cool. Typically steel frame with no gears damage means they're perfect to chuck around at your leisure - drop them on their side, bang them getting into a lift - who cares? Perfect for rides to work, school, park or pub. See All Fixie Bikes Fixie bikes are great bikes for around town riding as they are cheap, durable, hassle free and look cool. Typically steel frame with no gears damage means they're perfect to chuck around at your leisure - drop them on their side, bang them getting into a lift perfect for rides to work, school, park or pub. A truly urban inspired bike taking some cues from BMX specs. An A-head stem on 1-1/8" fork steerer improves front end strength and stiffness for more confident handling. Solid resin BMX style pedals won't crack the first time you drop the bike, and dual pivot brakes give smooth, reliable stopping power. Tough, stylish, around town option with low maintenance drivetrain makes Messenger a perfect option for someone who can't maintain a bike and isn't interested in learning. An in-built chain tensioner also makes the task of removing/fitting the rear wheel significantly simpler, meaning the bike is less likely to be retired the first time you get a flat.
Energy Drinks Buying Guide
A large percentage of our body is made up of water, so dehydration can affect how well you perform both mentally and physically. As a cyclist you are often limited to the amount of fluid you can drink and carry and as a consequence don't drink enough. It's important to keep well hydrated by drinking water throughout the day and extra fluid after training. Performance minded cyclists will seek to replace not only the volume of fluids lost, but also the electrolytes lost in the process. Electrolytes lost in high concentrations through sweat include sodium and chloride, while electrolytes lost in low concentrations include potassium, magnesium and calcium. Essentially, when you taste sweat, it's salty, and that's the electrolytes you need to replace. Electrolytes are essential to normal function of cells and organs, so obviously in order to perform at a high level, you at least retain this balance your body requires by replacing what has been sweat out. When choosing a sports drink for rehydration, it is important to ensure the ingredients will be replacing the electrolytes you are losing. Additionally, some drinks include supplementary carbohydrates, sugar or caffeine to help you with some extra energy along the way. Popular rehydration formulas are produced by brands such as Endura and Skratch Labs. Fluids Develop a fluid plan that suits your needs, amount of training and the weather! Practice your plan in your training sessions. The longer the training sessions, or the warmer the weather, the greater your needs will be. During training, aim to drink the contents of your bottle every hour. If road training, plan to refill your bottle regularly (e.g. at parks), and use these stops as markers of fluid intake. Resist the temptation of not stopping for fear of interrupting your rhythm. Thirst is usually an indicator of dehydration. You may have already lost a lot of fluid before you even feel thirsty. Start checking the colour of your urine (pale=hydrated, dark=dehydrated). Cyclists can estimate their own fluid losses by weighing themselves before and after riding - Each kilogram of weight loss is equal to one litre of fluid. Plain water is effective, especially if you only exercise for a short time and at a "low intensity". Sports drinks provide carbohydrate, electrolytes and are lightly flavoured. They can be helpful to meet your fluid needs and help performance when exercising at a greater intensity and for a longer length of time or distance. For personalised advice on your fluid needs in training, see an Accredited Sports Dietician. See All Fluids During strenuous exercise such as cycling, your body is consuming its stored energy at a faster than normal rate. Your body only has a limited amount of storage space for this energy, therefore it can be beneficial to performance to top up these reserves on the go. Gels are a conveniently packaged, portable and easy to consume source of carbohydrates that you can use for a quick source of energy whilst exercising. Gels are formulated to be quickly delivered into the blood to deliver the energy and nutrients required to sustain performance. It can often be a little bit of trial and error in working out what your body responds best to, as this will differ somewhat between individuals and their exercise load. Some people will find certain brands have more impact, are easier to digest or purely just taste better. Some popular brands of gels are produced by brands such as Endura, Clif Bar, Bonk Breaker.
Five Must Haves For Beginner Cyclists
The feeling of liberation that exudes through your bones whilst cycling passionately across the open road, hearing nothing but your tyres slide smoothly on the ground as you breathe in new air; oh, how nothing compares. Once you've carefully selected your gear, cycling becomes a sport orhobby you can cherish individually or with a large group, producing a wholesome personal and physical experience. Nevertheless, purchasing the right set doesn't mean choosing the same equipment as the rest of your cycling comrades, it's about finding the right attire you feel comfortable and safe in. If you're about to begin your pedaling journey, I've come up with five Aomust-havesAo to accompany you and your new bike; feel content, experience the freedom, your AorideAo of passage soon awaits! Road or Mountain bike helmet We're all born with a uniquely-sculpted head and if we're lucky, luscious locks of hair, thus a helmet that's worthy of crowning our skull is imperative for protection and looking fashionable. A road or mountain bike helmet with an adjustable fit and a well-rounded hard shell ensures a comfortable and safe ride. Reliable brands to invest in are Lazer, Met and Limar, which you can try at your local 99 Bikes store. Whilst shopping for the perfect helmet, you want to make sure that the fit isn't so tight that your brain feels like it's about to combust from no blood circulation, or too loose that it can easily fall and cause potential danger. Carefully move the helmet front to back, side to side, noticing how much exposed skin is covering your brow area; this will guarantee whether or not you have the perfect helmet for your head. See All Helmets Two-piece road or mountain attire The gravel roads and sloped mountains are a cyclist's runway; we should always attain a high standard of style, but simultaneously include safety and protection to the criteria. When looking for the perfect two-piece attire i.e. cycling jersey and shorts, make sure you look for a comfortable-fitted design made from polyester or nylon. Additional features to include in the jersey criteria are front or back zippers, added pockets and an elastic waist hem for comfort. In regards to the bike shorts, essential details are reduced seams in the crotch area and extra padding to decrease chaffing and discomfort. Once you've found these two pieces, don't be afraid to explore and add colour to your palate; it'll make you stand out from your budding cyclists. Road or mountain bike shoes The next piece to complete your cycling ensemble are a pair of trustworthy road shoes. Do you only see cycling as a hobby? Mountain biking with a pair of reliable running shoes are ideal for a short ride, however, shoes specifically designed for road or mountain bike riding will ensure your balance and safety. Road shoes are classified by their remarkably solid soles, creating versatile power distribution when pedalling, but aren't designed for long walking periods due to its lack of grip and flexibility. Shoes used for mountain biking however, have a relatively stiff sole made from rubber, allowing effective traction for long periods of walking and going over rocky and hazardous trails. Cycling glasses Although it may appear as an optional accessory, cycling glasses are vital for its clear vision when facing the harsh sun, protection from the danger of flying gravel and small materials, insects and unpredictable weather conditions. It may take a while for a cyclist to be comfortable wearing glasses on the road, however, they are sure to guard you whilst riding and effectively prevent watery eyes. Cycling gloves Wearing cycling gloves is an essential accessory, preventing the start of nasty blisters and defends you from harsh falls and injuries. You want to look for gloves that are resilient, perfectly-fitted, and light enough that you're able to feel the handlebar. Highly commendable cycling glove brands include AXIOM, TLD and Dakine which are all easily accessible at your local 99 Bikes store. When trying to find the correct glove, find material that's easily washable, moisture-resistant and includes a double-padded or stitched feature in vital areas. All these aspects is imperative to the control and ease of your cycling journey. See All Clothing and Apparel
Announcing The Launch Of Our New Website
Monday, 19th March: We are currently experiencing a high level of password resets, and this has caused a slow to our system. We appreciate your patience and ask that you try again later. We have launched a new website and because we take security seriously, we couldn't bring your existing password with us. To access your account and reset your password simply visit use the Forgot Password feature. This will send you instructions on how to reset your password. We hope you enjoy the new shopping experience at 99 Bikes.
Baselayers Buying Guide
Base layers are thin shirts or pants that can be worn under a normal cycling jersey or some shorts. They are wonderful for keeping warmer in cooler temperatures but can also wick moisture away from you while riding in the heat. Base layers can have short or long sleeves and can be thick or thin. The right pair will depend on the riding conditions Base Layers Base layers can be worn layered to create thermal insulation, or worn separately to wick moisture from sweat. See All Base Layers
Easy Bike Maintenance Velo Academy
No matter how often you ride, it's well worth learning a few things about how to maintain and adjust your bike. 99 Bikes and Velo Academy have put together a series of videos to help you learn a few basic procedures to help you ride more comfortably, and possibly also get your out of a sticky situation (like failing brakes!) Adjust Seat and Handlebars In this video you'll learn how to adjust your bike seat and handlebars to make riding as comfortable as possible. For this, you'll need a torque wrench. Adjust Brakes In this one, you'll find out what to do if you notice your brakes aren't sitting quite right. You'll need an allen key or multi-tool. Clean and Lubricate a Chain In this video, you'll learn how to clean and re-lubricate your chain. You'll be needing citrus degreaser, chain cleaner, chain lubricant, water and a clean rag. Fix a Flat Tyre Finally, this video will show you how to change a flat tyre. For this, you'll need tyre levers, a new inner tubeC and a pump. See All Tools and Maintenance
Energy And Recovery Food Buying Guide
Nutrition is a critical part of any kind of physical training, regardless of your performance level. The choices you make every day about what and how much to eat are amplified when those choices directly impact sport performance, training, and recovery. Cycling is no exception. Those in training have huge energy demands and may need to eat up to 8 times throughout the day. Meal Planning Tips Cyclists in heavy training and young growing athletes may need to eat up to 68 times throughout the day to make sure their energy demands are met. A pattern of frequent meals and snacks can be useful to meeting extra energy and carbohydrate needs. It can hard to get your entire food requirement in only 3 meals per day. Planning and preparation is the key to success: Organise a weekly menu/shop online if time poor. Cook extra quantities and freeze extras into meal size portions that are ready to go. See All Energy & Recovery Foods
Get Fit For Summer
Try something new One of the best ways to get motivated is to try something new and exciting. Never hit the road in lycra? Never gotten dirty on the trails? Never ridden in to work? You can keep it simple by finding a few new loops to ride or people to ride with, or take it to another level by entering in a race you've never done. Multi-task There's a lot of the day that you could be using to get fitness. Swapping your car for a bike is easy for a lot of the short trips you do, particularly on the weekend. Riding down to the shops, park or pub is both great fun in the summer weather, as well as exercise you won't even notice you're doing. Products like Garmin Vivofit can also monitor the incidental exercise you do (or don't do), tracking all your movements on a stylish, discreet bracelet. Track your progress There's heaps of great products to help maximise your workout using technology. Quad Lock and Wahoo help harness your smartphone and free fitness apps to track, analyse and share your training. Sports watches and cycling computers can give you more detailed analysis on your performance, heart rate and other key metrics.
Cyclocross Bikes Buying Guide
Cyclocross bikes are designed specifically for cyclocross racing, a hybrid event that takes cues from both road cycling and mountain biking. Cyclocross bikes look similar to road bikes, with the main differences being the knobbed, off-road tyres; strong wheelsets; and braking systems that allow for better clearance of mud and debris. Cyclocross Bikes Cyclocross racers need to constantly dismount and carry their bikes in order to clear obstacles, so naturally bikes must be lightweight aluminium or carbon fibre to make this easier. They generally operate with cantilever brakes, have a wider set up allowing for mud to clear easily. Disc brakes have recently been permitted in pro racing, meaning some models are taking on their slightly heavier weight, in favour for the greater braking power they offer. See All Cyclocross Bikes Due to their robust nature, cyclocross bikes in Australia have risen to popularity with commuters, as they offer an efficient, all weather option for riding to work. The road bike style riding position makes the cyclocross bike fast and efficient for longer, on-road rides. The off-road tyres gives superior traction in poor weather, or varied surfaces such as loose gravel roads. Likewise, the addition of disc brakes improves stopping power on wet days. An emerging sub-genre of the cyclocross bike is the adventure road bike. These bikes take some cues from cyclocross, but are made for leisure riding rather than cyclocross racing. This means they typically have more relaxed riding positions, and start of with more entry level components. Adventure road bikes can hold their own on a dirt track just as well as they do on a sealed road, making them perfect for the rider that wants to do a bit of everything.
