All the best cycling innovation and technology starts at the top with the pros, eventually trickling down to the serious local riders and the hobby cyclists as time goes by. Not all advancements make it down the ladder because of cost or practicalities. However, in the last few years the technology coming from the professionals to the everyday cyclist is getting better and better, as well as being more affordable.

Thanks to this pathway from pros to hobbyists, everyday cyclists have access to some amazing gear. With that in mind, let’s cycle through some of the top bike accessories you can use to improve your cycling game.

12-SPEED GROUPSET

As bike manufacturers have looked for an extra edge over the years, the number of sprockets on a cassette has increased from 6- through to the 11- and now 12-speed groupsets that are commonly on offer. The simple advantage of this is that you can have a wider selection of gears, with less shifting on the front chainring and a smoother change. While this may have the disadvantage of increasing weight, it can create further mechanical inefficiencies with the front chainring.

Many brands have countered this by using a simplified 1x12 speed drivetrain and ridding themselves of the mechanically inefficient front chainring, particularly on mountain bikes. The only other disadvantage is the inability to upgrade easily, as you need 12-speed specific components. Although, happily, these are already becoming cheaper and far more common.

If you want to get your hands on a bike equipped with a 12-speed groupset, take a look at the BMC Team Machine SLR One Road Race Bike

ELECTRONIC SHIFTING

Electronic shifting is starting to gain traction in pro ranks, with groupsets like the Shimano Di2 and Campagnolo EPS making their mark on road scene. Meanwhile, the SRAM AXS is setting the standard in World-Cup-level mountain biking. Electronic shifting offers an increased level of precision as the front mech acts differently depending on the sprocket you’re in, whereas mechanical shifting acts the same every single time. Electronic shifting also gives you quicker shifting as you can shift from one side of the cassette to the other when you hold in the lever. Electronic shifting also prevents chain rub, minimising regular maintenance so that you can spend more time riding your bike.

You can upgrade from mechanical to electronic shifting by changing as few as four parts. You’ll be updating the shifters and derailleurs as well as adding the wiring harness and battery if you already have an 11-speed drivetrain.

MULTI-DIRECTIONAL IMPACT PROTECTION SYSTEMS (MIPS)

Improved safety and technology have trickled down from pro-level bike helmets to the everyday rider, as aerodynamics and safety improve with every passing year. The Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) was designed by a Swedish Neurosurgeon to offer the best helmet protection against rotational forces without significantly impacting helmet weight or aerodynamics.

This technology is prominent among pro teams, with Australians Richie Porte and Simon Gerrans sporting the innovative GIRO Aether MIPS in recent tours. Professionals are often pushing their limits on dangerous descents and crowded pelotons, so it makes sense that this technology would be utilised by them.

TUBELESS TYRES

Tubeless tyres have a range of benefits, including improved speed, comfort, grip, and puncture protection. Tour teams have long recognised that they are faster, with less rolling resistance for an overall improved performance.

While there are a lot of benefits, there are also a couple of drawbacks, such as being harder to fit onto the bike. In addition, compatibility issues between rim and tyre brands can affect the quality and reliability of the tubeless tyre. Tour level riders make use of tubeless tyres in time trial stages when speed is everything and every second matters.

DISC BRAKES

While it was once uncommon to see disc brakes on bikes in the Tour De France, now we’re seeing bikes with disc brakes winning mountain stages. Despite the slight increase in weight, many believe that the superior braking power of disc brakes adds that edge when you need more control.

Whether it be on race day or your local ride, disc brakes will give you confidence and control that is much better than rim brakes, while also performing much better in the wet, so they not only improve performance but also safety. Merida clearly believe that disc brakes are the way of the future, as their high-performance aero Reacto is only available with disc brakes, a clear sign of the times.

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