Bontrager Tubeless Cycling

What size do you need?

• Check the sidewall of your current tire; the numbers indicate tire size (rim size and width)
• A tire size of 29 x 2.3 has a 29 in. rim size and a 2.3 in. width
• While the tire diameter must be an exact match with your rim size, you can opt for variations in tire widths though you should consider the min/max widths of the rim

Tire Type 

• Tubeless ready: These tires seal directly on rim of a bike and don’t require a separate inner tube
• Tubeless clincher: This common tire setup includes a tire and a separate inner tube
• Tubular: Less common, the inner tube is sewn inside the casing and glued or taped onto the rim

Bead type

• Wired: The bead—or the edge of the tire that fits into a rim—is made of steel wire so can’t be folded; generally cheaper and heavier
• Folding: These have a flexible Kevlar bead; they can be folded up, making storing and carrying easy

Do you want to see or be seen? (Or both?) 

• High-output lights (250 lumens and above): Help you see where you’re going in nearly all conditions. More expensive but much brighter than safety lights, usually rechargeable. 
• Safety lights (below 250 lumens): Headlights and rear lights help motorists see you in low light. The brightest ones improve your visibility in daytime. Can be rechargeable or battery powered. 

Where will you be riding? 

• For streets with streetlights: Choose a front light with a narrow-focus beam
• For darker roads or trails: Choose a wide-focus beam for better peripheral vision
• You can find beam patterns listed in online product descriptions or ask a sales specialist for help.

How to understand bike light specs 

• Most bike lights are LEDs, which are energy efficient, durable and available in a wide range of brightness levels.  
• Lumens describe the light intensity of each lighting unit. A higher price generally equals higher light output. 

Types of bike helmets

• Mountain bike: Rear-head coverage for off-road trails; often includes added ventilation
• Road bike: Lightweight, aerodynamic; designed for maximum airflow
• Recreational cycling: Budget-friendly choice for casual riding

Fit tips 

• Measure the largest part of your head with a flexible measuring tape (or use string, then measure it)
• Check the brand's sizing chart
• Aim for a snug fit 
• Between sizes? Choose the smaller size 

Added protection 

Look for technologies that reduce rotational forces during a crash, like Mips, WaveCel or KinetiCore.

Features 

• Vents: More vents improve airflow and reduce weight
• Visor/brim: Keeps the sun out of your eyes
• Chin bars: Extra protection for downhill mountain biking

Types of Shoes

• Mountain bike: added traction for rugged trails; options for clipless or flat pedals

• Road cycling: stiffest soles for efficient pedaling; cleats connect to clipless pedals for maximum pedaling efficiency.

• City biking: comfortable, everyday; good for recreational riding or commuting

Find the Right Fit

• Choose shoes that feel comfortable from the start.

• Make sure your toes have enough room to wiggle slightly.

• Your arches should feel snug and supported; your heel should stay in place. 

Shoe Closure

• Lace-up: most customizable fit, can get wet or dirty in bad weather

• Strap: quick to adjust and more likely to stay secure

• Dial lace: delivers an adjustable fit with a quick-release cable system

• Single-pull lace: easy on and off with a single lace toggle