Flat and clipless bike pedals are two fundamentally different pedal systems that cyclists compare when deciding between control, efficiency, and riding style preferences across various disciplines such as mountain biking, road cycling, commuting, and touring. Flat pedals provide a platform-based design with no cleat attachment, allowing for quick foot adjustments, easy dismounts, and better maneuverability, […]
Bike Parts
Shimano SPD vs Shimano SPD SL pedals: definition, similarities and differences, pros and cons, compatibilities
Shimano SPD versus Shimano SPD-SL pedals are two of the most widely used clipless pedal systems, often compared by road cyclists, mountain bikers, commuters, and gravel riders who seek the best balance between power transfer, comfort, and versatility. Shimano SPD (Shimano Pedaling Dynamics) is a two-bolt cleat system, primarily designed for mountain biking, gravel, cyclocross, […]
Bike pedals: definition, materials, types, how to choose and use
Bike pedals are one of the most essential contact points between the rider and the bicycle, directly influencing power transfer, efficiency, and control. Evolving from simple flat platforms in the late 19th century to modern clipless systems, pedals come in various types such as flat, clipless, and hybrid, designed for different riding disciplines like road […]
Bike headset: definition, types, materials, dimensions and how to choose
The bike headset, the critical component connecting the bicycle frame and fork, plays a vital role in steering performance, ride quality, and overall bike durability. As a central interface between the head tube and steerer tube, it comes in various types (threaded, threadless, EC, ZS, IS), materials (aluminum, steel, carbon), and standards like the widely […]
Bike saddle: definition, types, materials, dimensions and how to choose
Bike saddles are essential components of a bicycle, providing support and comfort for the rider during cycling. Originating in the early days of bicycles, saddles have evolved to accommodate various riding styles and user preferences, making them a crucial aspect of bike performance and rider comfort. The most common saddle types, such as road, mountain, […]
Bike Seatpost: definition, types, materials, dimensions and how to choose
A bike seatpost is a crucial bicycle component that connects the saddle to the frame, allowing for height adjustments to suit the rider’s fit and comfort. Originating as a simple cylindrical piece of metal, the seatpost has evolved in design, materials, and function to accommodate different types of cycling and improve overall ride quality. Today, […]
Bike stem: definition, types, materials, dimensions, and how to choose
A bike stem is a key component of a bicycle that connects the handlebars to the steerer tube of the fork, playing a crucial role in controlling the bike’s steering and riding position. Stems have evolved from simple steel designs to lightweight, high-performance materials like aluminum and carbon fiber, offering different types, lengths, and angles […]
Bike handlebars: definition, types, materials, dimensions, and how to choose
Bike handlebars are the control center of a bicycle, allowing the rider to steer, balance, and control the bike effectively. They have evolved from simple straight bars to a wide variety of styles, shapes, and materials to suit different types of cycling, such as road, mountain, gravel, and touring. Handlebars play a crucial role in […]
Bike fork: definition, types, materials and how to choose
A bike fork is an essential bicycle component that connects the front wheel to the frame, enabling steering control and supporting the rider’s weight. It originated in the late 19th century, along with the development of modern bicycles, which were initially designed as rigid steel structures. Today, forks are available in various types, such as […]
Bike bearings: definition, materials, types, sizes and maintenance
Bicycle bearings are essential components that allow for smooth rotation in various bike parts, such as the headset, bottom bracket, hubs, pedals, and derailleur. They originated from the early development of cycling technology, where reducing friction between moving parts was key to improving efficiency and performance. Bearings ensure that a bike’s moving components operate with […]