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Summer Riding Essentials

Ready for the Sun

Summer is here in North Texas and let's face it - it's not getting any cooler here anytime soon! You want to get your miles in on your bike but also need to properly prepare for the hot temperatures. Don't let the heat prevent you from riding. At Bike Mart, we have all of your essentials to ensure you are hydrated and have the proper energy no matter the length of your ride. Follow these tips to beat the summer heat and get essentials to ride comfortably and safely in the heat. Stop by any of our convenient locations to get the right equipment to beat the heat on your next two-wheeled adventure.

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It’s hot! What clothes do I wear?

The right clothing can make a significant difference during your ride. Make sure to find clothing that has these features and you will appreciate how much more comfortable your rides are. 

  • UV protection – Clothing with UV protection will ensure you are protected from harmful ultraviolet rays. 

  • Moisture-wicking fabric – Move moisture and sweat away from your skin and to the outer surface where it can evaporate and help keep you cool.

  • Zippers – A jersey with a full-length zipper allows you to unzip and catch a nice breeze to cool off.

  • Light Colors -- Lighter colors deflect the sun better than black or darker-colored clothes.

  • Sunglasses -- Did you know your eyes can get sunburnt? To save future eye pain, we recommend wearing sunglasses or goggles.

  • Sunscreen -- Always, whenever in the sun, we believe that you should wear sunscreen while riding, even if you typically don't sunburn.


On and off the bike, hydration is key.

Water, water, and more water. Drink water before, during, and after your ride. Always carry plenty of fluids, even if you're only planning for a short ride. It is far better to finish a ride with water leftover than it is to run out during. 

  • Carry more water bottles -- we recommend using insulated water bottles and putting another bottle cage in that empty mount on your bike.

  • Hydration packs -- A hydration pack is a great choice to bring just a little bit more water on those long days in the saddle. We recommend using a hydration pack in conjunction with those water bottles.

  • Electrolyte mixes -- Electrolytes help replenish any fluid you have lost while riding. They also give you energy and reduce cramping, which happens a lot while riding in the summer heat.


Avoid bonks! Don't ride hungry.

Riding in the heat can take a lot out of you. You burn off the food you eat before the ride faster than normal. We recommend taking some food with you on the ride. Here is some of the food we offer:

  • Gels/Chews - Great for a quick energy source during your ride. Gels contain electrolytes and amino acids that give you a little bit of a boost.

  • Bars - Excellent meal replacement as well as long-lasting energy great for longer ride days. In addition to protein, bars contain sugars and carbohydrates to keep your muscles from pain and cramps.

  • Recovery - Replenish energy storage as well as assist in muscle recovery after a long or intense training ride. We recommend 

Shop Snacks & Nutrition

$1.50 - $38.40
$2.50 - $62.40
$2.79 - $57.49
$1.50 - $38.40

See & Be Seen

The best way to beat the heat is to ride when the sun is not out. That often means riding early in the morning or late in the evening when visibility is low for both you and anyone else who may be on the road or trail. Make sure you have the proper lights to see and be seen. 

  • Battery-powered lights - A great low-cost option to and enough light output to be seen. Minimum safety requirement.

  • Rechargeable lights - A higher light output (lumens) as well as longer run times. Great for commuting, off-road riding, and riding in remote areas. 

 
 

Plan Ahead

Always plan a route ahead of time. If you are riding with others, then make sure they know where you are going. Choose roads or paths with some shade as well as convenient places to stop for hydration. 

The Dallas / Fort Worth area is home to many fantastic bicycle paths and off-road mountain bike trails of varying distances and difficulties. We've put together a list of some of the best places to ride in Dallas / Fort Worth. We spend quite a bit of time on these trails, and we're happy to give you additional recommendations when you visit any Bike Mart location.