On my ride yesterday I was thinking about bikes and how they have changed and not changed since I began riding. And also through the decades going a long way back. Occasionally, I have people ask me my opinions about the best bike for one of our events.

I’m going to coin a phrase, “Your bike is faster than you.” Or, as I say about ALL of my bikes, “this bike is faster than me.” What I mean by this is for the vast majority of riders, their bike is probably not slowing them down. Instead of lusting after the latest carbon super bike, I have drifted the other way into vintage land. To each their own, though. And yes, there are a few riders where probably every gram and aero edge might make the difference between 1st and 2nd. Think pro level racing.

The biggest improvements in speed for any rider will most likely come from non-bike factors: good sleep, good food, proper training, and improved power to weight ratios. Then there is a proper fitting bike. Nothing will zap power, comfort, enjoyment and, in the end, speed, like an ill fitting rig. It is probably the single biggest improvement that any person could strive for with whatever bike they are riding.

And if you are still itching to buy something for your bike, think tires and wheels. I love HED Cycling wheels for the simple fact that they are the best in the business and Minnesota made. And they make crepes on course at our events. Crepes. I have unabashedly drank the Kool Aid from Rene Herse and Jan Heine. We are in no way sponsored by them…just a devotee. Here is a good place to start. But I warned you. You are officially really nerdy and your children will mock you.

If you have to buy a new bike, good. It’s fun and money well spent. There has probably never been a better time to find just the right bike for the type of riding you want to do. Buy local. Try a lot of them. Get a color you like. And make sure it fits like a glove!