Popular Bike Customizations
Popular Bike Customizations
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When it comes to cycling, your bike should feel like an extension of you—whether you're training for a triathlon, going on weekend group rides, or just cruising around. That's where customizations come in. By tailoring your bike to fit your style and performance goals, you can get more out of every ride. Here are some of the most common upgrades cyclists make to enhance their biking experience.
1. Groupset Upgrades: Moving to Electronic Shifting
If you’ve ever felt the frustration of missed gears or clunky shifting, upgrading your groupset to an electronic system might be worth considering. Electronic shifting, like Shimano Di2 or SRAM AXS, provides smoother, more precise gear changes with the push of a button. Not only does this take the guesswork out of shifting, but it also reduces the wear and tear on your drivetrain over time. For triathletes, it can even make transitions more seamless and efficient, allowing you to stay focused on the race. Depending on the groupset, upgrading to electronic shifting starts at about $1,500. If you'd like to get a quote for your bike - book our $0, online service to schedule a time to bring your bike in, and one of our expert mechanics can provide you a free quote. Note: not all bikes can be upgraded to electronic shifting.
2. Carbon Wheel Upgrades: Speed and Performance
Upgrading to carbon wheels is one of the most noticeable changes you can make to your bike. Carbon wheels are lighter and more aerodynamic than traditional alloy wheels, helping you maintain speed with less effort. Whether you're tackling hilly courses or aiming for fast flats, the right set of carbon wheels can make a huge difference in your overall performance. Plus, they just look sleek! (You can read more about Race Wheels Here)
3. Accessories: Garmin Bike Computers and Power Pedals
If you're serious about tracking your rides, a Garmin bike computer (like the Edge 1050) is a must-have. It’s like having a personal coach on your handlebars, providing real-time data like speed, distance, cadence, and even advanced metrics like VO2 max. Many cyclists use Garmin to follow pre-planned routes or analyze performance post-ride. Whether you're training for a big race or just curious about your numbers, a bike computer can give you the insights you need to improve.
4. Power Pedals: Measure Your Output
If you're looking to fine-tune your training, upgrading to power pedals is a game-changer. Power pedals, like those from Garmin or Wahoo, measure your actual output in watts, allowing you to see how hard you're working at any given moment. Knowing your power output is especially helpful for triathletes and endurance riders who want to maintain consistent effort over long distances. Plus, measuring your effort by power helps you spot areas for improvement and make training more efficient - and take into account incline, wind, or weather conditions.
Why Customization Matters
At the end of the day, the best upgrades are the ones that make you feel more connected to your bike and more confident in your rides. Whether it's the thrill of smoother shifting, faster speeds with carbon wheels, or the insight from high-tech accessories, customizations let you tailor your bike to your unique needs and riding style. If you’ve been thinking about making some changes to your setup, we’re always here to help guide you through the options and find the perfect fit for your goals.
Stop by Playtri Sarasota and let's talk about how we can take your ride to the next level!
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