Buying Guides and Advice
Buying Guides and Advice
Effective Ways To Recover After A Ride
Have you just successfully completed gruelling bike race? One that's required you to put your body through the ringer with day-in-day out training for months on end? First of all, congratulations! Now, you're probably sitting within one of these two groups. I don't want to look at another bicycle again and sit on the couch for three days. or... I'm ready to get straight into the next round of training. Before you do either of these things, think! Have you adequately recovered from the race? After all, you've pushed your mind and body harder than ever before, it's only natural that now it would require a little TLC to keep it from completely burning out. Riders need to recuperate after strenuous activity to prevent further injury by refuelling their muscles, replenishing glycogen stores and filling up on nutrients that are all lost through sweat and development. Without sufficient time to repair, your body is likely to be unresponsive to further exercise and you will no longer be able to progress to the next level. Here are some tips to ensure you effectively recover from your last bike event. Nourish with Supplements Reloading your body with the necessary nutrients within thirty minutes is crucial to jumpstarting your recovery; your muscles accept glycogen swiftly during this period. Sip down a recovery formula like BSc Fuel Series to maximise recovery levels; other alternatives you could include are low fat chocolate milk. This contains everything you need from protein to carbohydrates and even enough sodium to replenish your electrolytes. See All Nutrition Energise with the Right Foods It's tempting to treat yourself to a big dirty burger from McDonalds after your ride, but we all know it isn't good for you on a normal day, it's going to be worse for you on race day. Consuming meals rich in protein, carbohydrates, antioxidants and fat will prompt the muscle tissue to begin repairing. Chow down on foods like vegetable soup, chicken, cereal, fruit smoothie, eggs, banana, whole wheat pasta or bagels. Stop Your Muscles from Tightening with Light Exercise You've tricked your body into thinking that rigorous training every day is the norm; once you stop, your body isn't entirely sure what's happening and it begins to stress out 'Ai not to mention how hard it will be to start training again for your next race. Getting back on the bike a day later for a low intensity ride will boost blood circulation and remove the lactic acid from your muscles to accelerate the recovery process. Stretch It Out Holding a static pose and stretching your limbs isn't just for geriatrics and yogis. Not only does it improve your range of motion for future rides, but it encourages blood flow to the muscles and helps avoid any spasms and cramps that may appear after exertion. You must remember that you should only stretch muscles that are already warmed up to prevent tears and damaged tissue. Therefore the perfect time for a stretch is while you're sipping on your recovery drink after your race. Pay extra attention to the gluteus, hamstrings, neck, shoulders, calves and quads. Stretch until you feel warmth in that area NOT burning. Take a Nap Everybody under the sun, including your own mother, can collectively agree that the key to repairing your body from mental and physical demands is a good night's sleep. When the sandman comes to your house and you finally shut your eyes, your body goes to work, releasing hormones and testosterone to repair muscles aiding weight loss and giving a boost to your immune system. Aim for seven or eight hours a night and head to bed at the same time for a more consistent sleep. If you feel as though you've over-done it in your race, don't fret, you can try quick fixes to assist the recovery process like Contrast Therapy (ice baths followed by a hot bath), applying muscle heat creams (Deep Heat), and swallowing a few painkillers if pain starts to persist.
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All You Need To Know About Commuting By Electric Bike
Why not switch out the car for a more convenient and eco-friendly transport option? Commuting to work by electric bike is a terrific alternative to the daily drive or train trip, and 99 Bikes has the low-down on everything you need to know. Why Commute by Electric Bike? Commuting to work by electric bike boasts many benefits. Firstly, you'll save time and frustration by not sitting in peak hour traffic jams. Plus, you can ride in your work clothes, arriving fresh and sweat-free, skipping the need to shower and change. It's also a simple way to incorporate daily exercise into your routine. While e-bikes have assistance, you still have to pedal but can choose different intensities for more of a workout. Another great advantage is the money you'll save. There are no ongoing fuel costs, ludicrous inner-city parking fees, tolls, registration, or expensive servicing fees. Finally, and perhaps best of all, is it's better for the planet. The European Cyclist's Federation (ECF) conducted a study to calculate the entire carbon footprint of various transport options. The results showed electric commuter bikes produce just 22 grams of CO2e per passenger kilometre travelled, compared to 271 grams for a car. What Makes a Commuter Bike? There are a few things that set a commuter bike apart from other styles. Generally, they're a mix between a hybrid bike and a road bike, incorporating elements of both, including lightweight components. Most provide an upright riding position with a flat bar, which is more conducive to carrying a backpack and better visibility. They're also often designed for a slightly more leisurely pace and easy gearing because it's not the Tour De France to get to the office. This means they're not only great for commuting but also excellent for casual weekend rides. While there are some common features, commuter bikes do come in all shapes and sizes, depending on your needs and where you're riding. You can opt for a foldable design for easy storage, a drop bar for faster speeds, a road bike for pavement only travel, or a mountain bike for more varied terrain. However, one of the best options is an electric commuter bike. Often they won't have top of the line specs and fancy extras but will have all the necessities, such as power and range, for a safe and comfortable commute. Plus, you can enjoy the ability to customise your bike, with mounting space for accessories such as storage and mudguards. This also means that they are better value for money. Electric or Pedal Power Electric commuter bikes are always a great option, but if you're still unsure about pedal versus power , here are some questions to consider. How long has it been since you've ridden? Electric bikes are brilliant if you're new to cycling, if it's been a while since you've ridden, or if you have physical limitations. They make it easier, but you can adjust your assistance levels as you get fitter and more confident. How far are you travelling? Electric commuter bikes are excellent for all distances, with a standard bike boasting a range of up to 100-180 kilometres. Even city commuters can travel up to 60 kilometres on a single charge. Can you shower at work? If not, then arrive sweat-free, thanks to pedal assistance on your e-bike. How intense is the journey going to be? If you've got a mix of terrain, lots of hills, or just a long distance, then an electric bike will make the journey effortless, so you're not worn out and ready for a nap by the time you arrive. What are your bike storage options and risk? Once you arrive at work, you will need to keep your bike stored safely and out of the way. Do you have access to lockers, either at the office or even the train station? Is a folding bike an option to keep under your desk? Of course, you'll also need to consider your storage solutions at home too. What's your budget? While electric bikes can be a significant upfront cost, they can save you cash in the long run, with no fuel, registration, or parking costs. However, 99 Bikes has various payment options available to ease the initial outlay, such as layby, ZipMoney and Afterpay. Riding Gear and Accessories Other than your bike, you might want some extra accessories for safety, comfort, and an even more enjoyable ride. The essentials are a well-fitting helmet and lights for safety. However, beyond those, there are plenty of other optional extras that you can consider once you get more acquainted with your bike and route. Additional safety features include a bell and high-vis or reflective clothing. If you want to listen to music or a podcast as you ride, the Aftershockz headphones are the best option, with an OpenFitTM design to ensure you maintain full situational awareness. Comfort extras can include a different saddle, bags, panniers, baskets, mudguards, water bottle holders, and locks for security. Another great thing about electric commuter bikes is that you can wear regular clothes; however, there is plenty of cycling apparel if you prefer. Finally, you'll need to consider maintenance tools, such as a puncture repair kit, tubes, lubes, a multitool, a pump, and a repair stand. If you're not sure what you're doing, or maintenance isn't your thing, then 99 Bikes has expert mechanics who can repair and service your bike, so it's running like new. Alternatively, you can also upskill by joining a local maintenance class. 99 Bikes Picks MTB Enthusiast Merida eOne Sixty 300 S A dual suspension e-bike loaded with technology so you can dominate the trails on the weekend plus make it to work comfortably. Folding Electric XDS E-City 20" A convenient electric commuter bike that folds in half for travel and simple storage. Women's Electric Norco Scene VLT Electric Bike - A modern design with a step-through frame makes mounting the saddle easier, especially in a skirt. Budget VelectriX Urban A simple, classic and stylish design made with quality components at an affordable price. Best Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro 400 Electric Mountain Bike Take the road less travelled with advanced technology and supreme performance. All-round Electric Merida eSpresso City 300 EQ A fantastic everyday solution that comes with everything you need to get on and go. Top Tips from Veteran Commuters Now that you've decided to start commuting to work by electric bike, here are some tips to keep in mind: While you may feel enthusiastic, start slowly by commuting one day a week or riding to the station. Easing into a new physical routine is the most sustainable approach, so you don't burn out too quickly (plus, it can some time to get used to a bike seat if you've not ridden in some time!) Have a backup plan to get to work in case of bad weather, injury, or you're just not in the mood. Pre-plan your route , so you know exactly where you're going and won't get lost. Go for a practice ride on the weekend so you have a more accurate idea of timing, route, and potential obstacles. Learn and follow the road rules to keep yourself safe and out of trouble. Remember to keep your eyes and ears open while you ride, maintaining good situational awareness. Learn how to look after your bike and change a tyre with a maintenance class. Track your rides with an app such as Strava to measure health and performance, and connect with others. Finally, learn to use your gearing correctly to get the most from your ride they're there for a reason, after all! Purchasing and Sizing There is a wide range of electric commuter bikes available both in-store and online at 99 Bikes. You can check out the sizing chart under each product when you shop online to ensure you pick the correct size. Plus, enjoy the convenience of Click & Collect or check for stock at your local shop find yours with the Store Locator. Not sure? Test ride an electric bike today at your local 99 Bikes store.
2020 Merida Eone Sxity 10K Everything You Need To Know
The top of the line Merida eONE-SIXTY 10K sets the bar incredibly high for long-travel electric mountain bikes. Building on the existing legacy of the flagship range of eONE-SIXTY e-MTB's, the 2020 10K model offers a natural mountain bike feel with a carbon front end and exceptional power from the integrated Shimano STePS motor and Shimano's first in-tube battery. The carbon/alloy frame and integrated e-bike components which are optimised and designed specifically for this bike give the ideal balance of snappy handling and control. Shop Merida eONE-SIXTY Range "Within 10 metres of heading down the trail, I'd forgotten I had a motor. In fact, the new bike has an even more natural feel to it than its predecessor, thanks in part to the increased precision offered by the 292.5 front tyre/wheel combo." - Flow Mountain Bike The new Shimano 12-speed XTR groupset with a 10-51t range matches the top of the line quality shown across the eONE-SIXTY components, offering smooth and crisp shifting you wouldn't expect from an e-MTB. Smooth-shifting is paired with powerful braking power from the Shimano XTR 4-Piston Hydraulic Disc Brakes w/203mm rotors. "A Refined top-end e-MTB that marries an excellent drive unit and carbon frame..." - Off-Road CC This bike is much quieter than earlier models and offers increased descending confidence thanks to a slacker head angle, 29" front wheel and a lower bottom bracket which really puts you in the bike. You'll still get the same playfulness and brilliance, willing to get air and go where most e-MTB's wouldn't dare. In the end, we think that the team at E-Mountain Bike summed up the Merida eONE-SIXTY 10K below. "The MERIDA is the perfect all-rounder from use as an SUV to thrashing it down the roughest trails, thanks to its balanced handling and the very central riding position, it can do it all. " - E-MOUNTAINBIKE This bike is much quieter than earlier models and offers increased descending confidence thanks to a slacker head angle, 29" front wheel and a lower bottom bracket which really puts you in the bike. You'll still get the same playfulness and brilliance, willing to get air and go where most e-MTB's wouldn't dare. In the end, we think that the team at E-Mountain Bike summed up the Merida eONE-SIXTY 10K below. Highlights Frame: CFA Carbon Fibre Mainframe & Alloy Swingarm, 150mm Travel Fork: Fox 36 Float, Factory Series, GRIP2 Damper, 51mm Offset, 160mm Travel Shock: Fox Float X2, Factory Series, 205x65mm Drive Unit: Shimano STEPS E8000, 70Nm Battery: Shimano E8035, 504Wh Drivetrain: Shimano XTR 112 w/Deore XT 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette Brakes: Shimano XTR 4-Piston w/203mm Rotors Shop In Store Or Online The Merida eONE-SIXTY 10K is available in store or online at 99 Bikes Find A Store Shop Merida eONE-SIXTY Range More Information E-MOUNTAINBIKE: Exclusive Review: Merida eONE-SIXTY 10K 2020 - the new benchmark in performance? Off-Roadd.cc: Merida eOne-Sixty 10K 2020 review Flow Mountain Bike: Merida bolsters electric mountain bike range for 2020 with 11 new models Flow Mountain Bike: Merida eONE-SIXTY 2020 - First Ride
Aldos Great Start On His Commuter Challenge
Written by Aldo, one of our four sponsored riders in the Commuter Challenge. "Being selected for the 99 Bikes Commuter Challenge could not have come at a better time" It has been an exciting two weeks into the 99 Bikes Commuter Challenge, which started off with me picking up my Lapierre Xelius SL 600 from 99 Bikes Fitzroy North. The team made sure that I chose a bike that I liked and suited my riding style. As I started my commutes to work, my Strava stats showed that I was beating my previous best times, reinforcing that the bike selection and bike fit was spot on. I am looking forward to seeing further improvements in my commuting time as my fitness levels improve throughout the Challenge. Lapierre Xelius SL 600 Being in my 40s, measuring 170cm in height, weighing 82kgs and having a waist circumference of 101cm – I have all the signs of the “middle-age spread”. Putting these figures into BMI calculators, I am told that I am overweight and have an increased risk of developing heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes and some Cancers – being selected for the 99 Bikes Commuter Challenge could not have come at a better time for me. I am hoping that the end of the three month challenge I will be able to report back with some more favourable statistics, to inspire others to ditch the car for the bike and live a healthier lifestyle. If you are interested in commuting to work here are some useful tips to get started: If you are in Victoria, Google “Travelsmart” and the name of the municipality you will be riding through and you will gain access to maps which show where bike paths are located. If you are not a confident rider look for routes which have dedicated paths for bikes. Do a trial run on a weekend to gauge how long it will take for the commute to work. If your workplace does not have shower facilities look at using your local pool/gym’s shower facilities. If you are travelling into the CBD see if your city has “end of trip” facilities such as: Cycle2city (King George Square Cycle Centre) in Brisbane Bike Pod or Bike Park in Melbourne I ended the fortnight of the Challenge by taking the advice of the team at 99 Bikes Fitzroy North to get involved in their Tuesday morning shop ride or the Ascot Vale store’s Saturday morning ride, I took their advice and joined the riders at 99 Bikes Ascot Vale. It was a great ride and I met some friendly staff and riders. – Aldo
Cycling For Weight Loss In 2020
Cycling is a fantastic way to start your weight loss journey, for many different reasons. If the thought of exercising is one that doesn't appeal to you, cycling is a low impact, and completely enjoyable activity. There are many ways and places to ride a bicycle to suit your physical ability, so read on to find out the advantages of cycling for weight loss. Great exercise for beginners Cycling is a great way to target weight loss in the legs and tummy area and fantastic for toning up leg muscles. Unlike running, cycling is a low impact sport, which is easy on the joints, meaning it's actually a great option for those who are overweight to start burning calories without putting excess pressure on the ankle, hip and knee joints. Injuries can easily occur in high impact sports, particularly if you haven't exercised in quite some time, but cycling can reduce the incidence of stress on the major joints making it a great place to start with some gentle physical exercise. Cycling is fun There is nothing more punishing than trying to lose weight and doing it with an activity that you don't enjoy. Cycling is something that most of us were lucky enough to do as kids, and is filled with childhood nostalgia. You can travel further distances on a bicycle than you can by foot, so the opportunity to explore new territory on your bike is a great reason to start riding for fitness. You can take in the beautiful scenery on a bicycle, which is the perfect distraction from the thought that you are exercising. If you can get enjoyment out of your exercise, you are more likely to stick to your new routine and make it a regular occurrence which will help you to achieve that weight loss goal quicker! It's easy to set new goals Cycling is such a popular sport; you can opt to ride on your own, or join a few friends and go cycling together. There are loads of amenities and support for cyclists now, including cycle ways, cycling events and cycling clubs and groups. You can challenge yourself by increasing your kilometres cycled per week until you build up to some really decent distances, or you can create a segment that you like to ride and push to beat your best time. Apps like Strava make it really easy to compete with other local cyclists in your area to see who the fastest cyclist is in a particular street try and get yourself on the leader board for cyclists in your area. The motivation to continue riding will remain high if you have some targets you're trying to achieve. Cycling is the gateway to other sports When you start to master cycling and you are craving the next level of fitness, you might also like to try another low impact sport such as swimming. Eventually if you segue into running, you'll find yourself training for a duathlon or a triathlon, two events that can be extremely rewarding for your weight loss goals, fitness goals and sense of personal achievement. Shop Cycling Essentials Getting started with cycling requires a few things to begin. Things such as helmets and lights are essential for safety, see below essential items required: Shop Bikes Shop Helmets Shop Lights Shop Water Bottles & Cages Shop Gloves Shop Locks
Cycle Challenge How To Ride 12 000Km In 12 Months
Two wheels and the open road is a cycling challenge calling you? There's no question that cycling is an incredible way to get outdoors and stay fit. But if you're thinking of taking your daily cycle habit to the next level, there are a number of things to consider first. Read on to discover how best to prepare for a 12,000km cycle challenge! Equipment you'll need When you are kicking your cycling game up a notch, having a few items on hand will help to improve your performance. A lightweight road bike The sky's the limit when it comes to how elite you want your road bike to be. Bikes can range from $500 up to $10,000. For a more in-depth assessment of which bicycle is right for you come into 99 Bikes and speak with our friendly staff. Helmet There is a difference between a basic helmet and a road bike helmet. Helmets can be designed for better performance, and a good helmet should be light weight and breathable to keep you cool when you're working your hardest. Accessory kit Don't leave home without this particularly on a long ride! You'll be ready for punctures with all the necessary tools packed into a compact kit . Clothing and kits A professional cycling kit will help with comfort and performance. Don't underestimate how important it is to have gloves for colder climates, and cycling eyewear as opposed to your regular every day sunglasses. Planning your trip Planning your trip is key to success in your training. If you head out without thinking about where you're going or how far you want to ride, you've not set yourself up for targeted success. To reach your quota, think about how many rides you need to do in the month to reach 1000km. Will you do a few short early morning rides and one long ride on the weekend? And how many kms do you need to cover to take you a step closer to your goal? Create an itinerary for your weekly and monthly training to reach your distance goal and to mix your cycling up and keep it interesting. Great Aussie bike rides If you want to change things up and go on a ride that offers you spectacular scenery there are some great Australian bike rides that can help you on your way to achieving that 12,000km cycle challenge. Head to Victoria for the stunning Queen Victoria Loop, a 250km loop a ride that isn't for the faint hearted and one to do towards the end of your training to get your fitness levels up. The Great Ocean Road is a picturesque and iconic ride the most popular section is from Lorne to Apollo Bay. In NSW, try the Akuna Bay and West Head loop in Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park for a nice 40km route. Or for something totally different, try a trail ride in Tasmania such as the Darlington to Haunted Bay trail in the National Park. Or if you want to smash your monthly goal take a ride from Cairns to Cape York, a tropical, coastal ride that in its entirety stretches out to 1600km. Tracking apps There are loads of great apps out there to keep you tracking along with your kilometres. Some of our favourites include Strava , where you can follow other local riders and compete for the title of KOM (King of the Mountain) in segments near and far, and also keep track of your weekly progress. We also like Garmin Connect an app created by Garmin where you can share your stats and photos of your rides, as well as discover maps and new routes to tackle. This app gives you access to Garmin Coach where you can receive personalised advice, articles, videos and more! You can connect with friends and compete in challenges, allowing you to earn badges and cheer on friends. Support a charity Why not pick a charity that's close to your heart to push you that extra bit harder? Once you commit to doing some riding in order to raise funds and awareness for a charity, you have more than one reason to get out there and get some pedalling done. If you want to join in with some other like-minded cyclists, there's plenty of cycling charity rides happening throughout the year. Some of the rides include the Great Cycle Challenge Australia , Tour de Cure Can4Cancer, the Bowral Classic and the Ride for Relief. Visit 99 Bikes in store and online for the best gear to support you on your cycle challenge.
Aerobars Buying Guide
If you're competing in triathlons or racing the clock in time trials then you should consider investing in a set of aerobars. As the name suggests, Aerobars allow the rider to achieve a more aerodynamic position on the bike which reduces wind resistance and therefore increases speed. Aerobars The best quality aerobars are constructed of carbon fiber which reduces weight and provides responsive steering. Many models feature adjustable extensions which allows you to customise the riding position to find the perfect balance between speed and comfort. When adjusting your Aerobars, the inner angle between your forearm and upper arm should be between 90 to 110 degrees - anything greater than this means that you're having to reach too far forward to reach them and this can lead to back problems. Anything less than 90 degrees means that you're sitting too close which will also produce an uncomfortable riding position. See All Aerobars
Accessory Kits Buying Guide
It doesn't matter whether you're a roadie, a trail warrior or a daily commuter, every rider should have a well stocked accessory kit. The best bike accessory kits will include everything you need to get you out of trouble including a pump, patch kit and tyre levers which can be conveniently carried in a durable saddle bag. See All Accessory Kits
Ebikes You Need To Try 2018 2019
Making cycling accessible to everyone, e-Bikes, or electric bikes, have come a long way in recent years. With an e-Bike, you can get to work without breaking a sweat, keep riding no matter what your age, and climb the trails like never before. We've rounded up some top picks across the two most popular categories of electric bikes: e-MTB, or electric mountain bikes, and electric hybrid bike models, which are favourites among commuters. Want a great price and classic look? Let us introduce you to the Velectrix Urban 2.0 range. Get so much more for less with the Velectrix Urban 2.0 Range. Available in two frame styles to suit a range of riders, the Urban 2.0 offers astounding value for money, perfect for the casual rider or commuter. Featuring a super quiet 250 watt rear-hub motor, with 11ah Panasonic battery, you'll be able to climb hills and scale the concrete jungle or sidewalks with ease. These bikes come fitted out with components you wouldn't usually expect at this price point, and are finished with super classic silhouette that you will love riding around town. Velectrix Urban 2.0 Mens Velectrix Urban 2.0 Unisex Want comfort and some extra confidence out on the bike path? Look no further than the Merida eSpresso 300. With a supernatural pedal assist system thanks to the Shimano STEPS E6000 mid-drive motor, you'll love going further on the Merida eSpresso 300. This bike is a great option for the recreational rider or commuter thanks to a range of great features like the hydraulic disc brakes, suspension forks and great battery power. Merida eSpresso 300 Want great looks and specs to match? Hit up the Cube Reaction Hybrid SL 500. Look great out on the trails with the all-new Cube Reaction Hybrid SL 500 thanks to the inbuilt motor, which can be charged without removing from the frame. This model scream's European design, with a low centre of gravity making for great handling capability, and high quality components to ensure you get the most out of your ride - wherever you take it! Cube Reaction Hybrid SL 500 Want to tackle the biggest hills and trails? You're going to love the Merida eOne Sixty 900! Where do we start with this beast? Featuring killer looks, premium components, supreme frame design offering optimum stiffness-to-weight ratio, and one of the best in market electric motors, the Merida eOne Sixty 900 is hard to go past for a fantastic e-MTB dual suspension bike. Put this electric mountain bike to the test on the trail, and you will find climbing almost more fun than going downhill. We love the incredible look of this frame and the superior handling out on the trails, and know you will too! Merida eOne Sixty 900 Merida eOne Twenty 500 Whether you a looking for a great commuter option in a hybrid e-Bike, or want to hit those trails and climb higher on an e-MTB, you can now explore further with confidence the of getting home on a new electric bike today. Test ride these models and more in-store today at any 99 Bikes shop. Now lets ride! All E-Bikes Find a Store
Aldos Top 3 Bike Commuter Tips
This article was written by Aldo, one of our four sponsored riders in the Commuter Challenge. Aldo has been leading the way in Commuter Challenge, turning his 24.5km journey from home to work into a bike ride on most days. Admitting he would love to drop a few extra kilos, we were pumped to hear Aldo has already lost 3kg since he started Commuter Challenge! Riding to work is a great option for Aldo, who saves on average 15 mins each way by trading in the congested Melbourne roads, for purpose-built, traffic-free bike ways. This means Aldo is currently saving around 2 hours a week worth of time by leaving his car at home. This is not to mention that he is also getting his exercise done at the same time, so is not having to add that on before or after his commute. Three Bike Commuter Tips from Aldo: Plan the week and check the weather forecasts so you choose the best days to ride. Most rides home at this time of year will be in the dark. Good quality lights are very important to see and be seen. Download an app called ' Snap Send Solve ' which let's you quickly and easily report incidents to council. You can take a photo of a pothole for example and the app uses your geo-location to direct it to the right local authority.
Best Electric Bike For Every City In Australia
Electric bikes are the fastest growing category in the bike world and our customers love them right across the country. They make riding easier and more fun, whether you want to travel longer with less effort on your commute or get to the top of the trails with ease - there is an e-bike for you and your city. Brisbane It may be known as the river city but Brisbane is full of quality trails from Bunyaville in the north, Mt Coot-Tha to the west and Daisy Hill to the south, ensuring that you have a range of options close to home. The Merida eOne Sixty Electric Mountain Bike will be right at home on trails whether you're a beginner or an expert. It packs 160mm of trail eating travel on the front and back, equipped with advanced Shimano STePS e-bike technology to do all of the hard work so that you can enjoy the fun parts of mountain biking. Mt Coot-tha Mt Coot-tha has an extensive range of trails just 15 minutes drive from the CBD. All up there are 31km of multi purpose trails and 23.5km of mountain bike trails, perfect for a quick session after work. Trails vary in difficulty from the 2.2km Rocket Frog Trail which is best for beginners to the Pipeline trails which is best for experienced riders with its 180 degree wall-ride berm, log rollovers and large drop-offs. Bunyaville Located in Albany Creek, just north of the city, Bunyaville has a 22km network of trails. Most people park at the Jinker Track and head off into the trails which are best suited to intermediate or advanced riders as there is some challenging terrain. Some standout trails include Wayne's World and Creek Track for the riders that really want to enjoy the best mountain biking has to offer Sydney Sydney is developing its expansive bikeway network to meet the needs of the commuter with a host of long bike paths adjacent to highways such as the Westlink M7 and M5. These bike paths may not be the most scenic, but when you're beating rush hour you'll love these long stretches of uninterrupted bike path for the simple and easy speed. You'll want to hit these flat and smooth paths with some serious speed on a bike like the VelectriX Urban Electric Hybrid Bike which is built to thrive in the urban environments with its balance of speed and comfort. The 250W rear hub motor will give you all of the power you need with a range of up to 50km and a recharge time of only 3-4 hours. Adelaide Home of the Tour Down Under, Adelaide has come along in leaps and bounds as a cycling hotspot, with everything from trails to pristine bike paths for commuting. With such good infrastructure and a host of adventures at your fingertips in the Adelaide Hills, a touring electric bike is at home. Given the German history in the city of churches it makes sense to look no further than the German designed Cube Touring Electric Hybrid Bike which fuses capability with a comfortable design and a range of racks,mounts and guards included which means that these bikes are ready to go from day dot. Melbourne Just like Sydney, you'll want to beat the traffic on an electric bike as you trek in from the outer suburbs and what could be more Melbourne than the Merida eSpresso Electric Hybrid Bike. From cruising along the Yarra on the Capital City Trail, to riding along the Kororoit Creek Trail or Merri Creek Trail as you go from A to B, the Merida eSpresso e-bike will have you covered. Combining comfortable geometry with the option for a step through frame, the eSpresso matches Shimano STePS E-Bike components and comfortable wide tyres with a capable design for the city minded rider. With a range of models suited to the city or those that might head slightly off-road, there is an option in the eSpresso range for every ride. Gold Coast With bike paths stretched along the coast it's hard to go past a beachside cruise on the Gold Coast. With over 2400km of dedicated bike paths you'll easily be able to make your way to the beach and ride along the picturesque setting from Runaway Bay south to Burleigh Heads and all the way down to Coolangatta or Tweed Heads. There are a combination of side streets, footpaths and bike paths along the beach so you'll want a relaxed ride and an electric cruiser bike is the perfect option. The XDS E-Conic combines that chilled out Gold Coast style with a reliable e-bike drive unit so that you can coast along in comfort. It even comes with a basket and a handy walk assist mode which helps take some of the weight off if you need to walk your bike home. The E-Conic is one of our best selling e-bikes and for good reason, it is just so practical, comfortable and cool - perfect for the coast. Perth Another city famed for its beaches from Scarborough to Cottesloe you'll want a chilled out ride to take you around this city with its relaxed vibe. The Norco Scene VLT is a chilled out e-bike which is big on style and comfort for someone that wants a quality bike. With its lightweight alloy frame, wider bars, upright geometry and clever use of a dropper post so that you can put your feet on the ground in an instant, this is a serious bike built to be relaxed in the modern world. If beaches aren't your thing this bike is also a great commuter and especially comfortable if you're cruising arounds Kings Park or along the Swan River.
5 Benefits Of Road Bikes Vs Exercise Bikes
The age old argument of a road bike versus an exercise bike is still a conundrum most people encounter when they decide they want to get fit and lose some weight. So which option is better for weight loss? And which one is best suited to the beginner cyclist? Here's our top 5 reasons to choose a road bicycle over a stationary exercise bike for weight loss. 1) Avoid boredom and burnout A stationary bike (or exercise bike) is usually something that you keep in the garage and eventually, it ends up collecting dust. You might put it in the lounge room so you can watch TV while you ride, but let's face it sitting on an exercise bike, pedalling your heart out and going nowhere just doesn't compare to the great outdoors and the beautiful scenery you can take in on a road bicycle . You can change your route on a bicycle to keep your rides interesting, and you've got the benefit of being outside in the fresh air, which can help you to stay on the bike for longer periods than if you are indoors and overheating. If you are truly looking to achieve long term, steady weight loss, the more interesting you can keep the exercise, the better chance you have of sticking with your goals. 2) The weather One of the biggest reasons people opt for an exercise bike is because they might want to avoid particular weather situations, but if you are training for an event as part of your weight loss goal, the truth is you are better training in all weather conditions. You can never predict what the weather will be like on race day, but if you are conditioned to all of the fun that incremental weather can throw your way, the better chance you have of completing your goal. Outdoors exercise isn't just about the distance, but the environment and the terrain. The best way to train for outdoors rides is by riding outdoors. 3) The cost The cost will be a big factor in your decision, and if you are completely new to cycling, it can be far more cost-effective to opt for a standard road bicycle to get you started. Eventually, you may want to purchase a bike that is built for high performance, but to begin with, a couple of hundred dollars will get you a fantastic bicycle to get you started. Exercise bikes can be a costly piece of equipment, particularly if you want to buy one that can be adjusted to emulate outdoors riding, with steep inclines and heart rate monitors to keep track of your goals. But with the range of fitness watches and bike GPS computers available on the market, you can track your outdoors cycling activities just as easily, whilst saving some dollars on the bike itself. 4) Overall workout A road bike or a mountain bike can offer a more intense, full-body work out as opposed to the stationary exercise bike, which targets legs and buttocks. Road bikes and mountain bikes require a strong core to control the bike and keep you balanced on uneven terrain, meaning it also hones in on your stomach muscles and even your upper body can get quite a workout, depending on the type of riding you're doing. Legs still get the biggest overall workout on a road bicycle, but you also get a mental workout because you need to remain alert and navigate the course while you're outdoors on your bicycle. 5) Seats Seats or Saddles might seem insignificant in this argument, but in fact, there is an important reason to consider the benefits of a road bike versus an exercise bike. Exercise bikes come with one seat and don't usually have interchangeable parts. The seat is usually small, and the posture of the exercise bike isn't something you can easily change. A road bike can be adjusted to your frame and size. You can change everything from seats to handlebar positioning and pedals . Why is this important you might ask? Because you will get longevity out of a road bike that is customised to suit your frame, and avoid lower back injury and discomfort if the bicycle has been set up for you to ride. If you purchase a bike in-store at 99 Bikes , you can get one of our friendly technicians to help you adjust your bike and change any parts you like to make your ride more comfortable for you. Bonus Tip: If you love your road bike that much, but really want to stay inside and avoid the weather or just watch some Netflix while you ride, try an indoor trainer and combine the two to get the best of both worlds. You can ride on Zwift and get that realistic road experience that tests your limits, or just enjoy the comforts of your roadie without leaving the lounge room. If you need some more information on indoor trainers we have a helpful Indoor Trainers Buying Guide . Shop Road Cycling Essentials Getting started with road cycling requires a few things to begin. Things such as helmets and lights are essential for safety, see below some essential items required: Shop Road Bikes Shop Road Helmets Shop Lights Shop Water Bottles & Cages Shop Gloves Shop Locks Shop Computers
Kids At Home Keep Them Busy And Healthy
Isolation, social distancing and homeschooling are only some of the things that weren't so common to us not long ago, but are currently part of our daily routine. Kids' lives have been impacted greatly by the coronavirus crisis, and parents are busily searching for activities that help kids stay busy, active and healthy. It's the perfect time for kids to learn to ride a bike, master a mountain bike with gears or learn cool scooter tricks to impress their friends when social distancing ends. New bike, New Life Riding a new type of bike or upgrading to a more serious ride will be a completely different experience for your kid. The skills required to ride a BMX differ greatly to a mountain bike or a road bike . Kids BMX Bike A BMX is the perfect choice to turn a normal bike ride into an exhilarating blast of fun! BMX bikes have durable, compact Hi-Ten steel frames and smaller tyres, which makes them great for kids. Kids love learning tricks on a BMX bike and practising them a hundred times. They're also great for riding through puddles or jumping off dirt ramps that you can build yourself in the garden or the driveway. Shop BMX Bikes Kids Mountain Bikes Mountain bikes are versatile and a great option for your kids to upgrade to from smaller bikes. They have lightweight alloy frames , multiple gears for easier riding on different gradients, reliable v-brakes or disc brakes, fatter tyres and suspension to handle all terrains. Best of all? They're easy to ride for short and long distances and they're long-lasting. Shop Kids Mountain Bikes Upgrading The First Bike As beginner riders grow their confidence, they can improve their riding skills and further their enjoyment by upgrading from the bike they learnt to ride on. Offer them a bike that's faster and bigger, but still easy to ride and handle. The best kids entry-level bikes are similar to mountain bikes but don't have the suspension, the gears or the chunky tyres of a mountain bike. These are great value for money. Shop 20" Mountain Bikes Learn To Ride A Bike Isolation and holidays at home could just be the perfect time to learn to ride a bike. A balance bike is a great introduction to getting on two wheels for kids up to 2 years old. They come with 12" wheels and have no pedals, so kids can develop their balance without the worry of pedalling. The next level up is a 12" wheel bike with pedals and training wheels . You can add a guidance bar, to give your child that extra bit of help. Shop Balance Bikes Scooters, More To Them Than You tHINK Scooters are fun, easy to ride and always a popular choice! But there's more to scooters than just a fast ride. They come in a wide variety of styles and can give a whole new riding experience to your kid. Kids Convertible Scooter Try a convertible kids scooter , a multi-purpose ride that kids can ride on as a normal scooter or sit on like a balance bike. If they're younger they can even be pushed along. Hours of fun guaranteed! Shop Convertible Scooters Kids Freestyle Scooter Unlock a world of fun with a freestyle scooter. They allow kids to master cool tricks and stunts, which will keep them entertained for much longer. Shop Kids Scooters Kids Electric Scooter An ultramodern ride not just for adults. Some electric scooters come with an adjustable height steering column and comfortable handgrips, perfect for kids. Shop Electric Scooters Accessories Make Everything More Fun! Pump up the fun of your kids' ride with our wide range of bike accessories. Try a bike bell or horn, a colourful bike helmet, a bike basket, handlebar streamers, cool lights, and even a seat for their favourite doll! Shop Kids Accessories
