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Last minute gifts for your cyclist

Running out of time to find the perfect something for the cyclists in your life?  Here are a few gifts guaranteed to warm their hearts and body parts.

#1 Socks

Wools socks.  Compression socks.  Ankle socks.  Three-quarter length.  There are socks for every taste to keep toes warm.  Suggested brands: Defeet, Smartwool, and 

#2 Tubes

Even if your cyclist runs tubular tires, chances are s/he has a set of clinchers for training.  A few extra tubes on hand can save the day.  Make sure you know what size to get. Standard sizes are either 26" or 29" for mountain bike wheels and 700x23-28 for road wheels.  Suggested brands: Specialized

#3 Multi Tool

A multi tool is a handy gadget that contains several different mini tools for on-the-road repairs. Allen keys, screwdriver, and chain tools and other useful items can remedy a mechanical and get you back on the road. Suggested brands:  Park, Crank Brothers, Topeak

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#4 Road Treats

This can be tricky because some cyclists are particular about what they consume during rides.  Most bike shops carry a variety of nutritional supplements for replenishing energy during rides.  Perhaps a  smorgasbord  of samples for your cyclist?  Suggested brands: CLIF makes shot blocks and bars.  Try both!

#5 Water Bottles

Once you collect your odds and ends, stuff them into a water bottle for an instant gift box. Suggested brands: Camelback makes an insulated bottle that keeps liquids cold in the summer and warm in the winter.  

Links to Philadelphia Bike Shops:

Bicycle Therapy (Center City)

Breakaway Bikes (Center City)

Human Zoom (Manayunk, Ardmore)

Keswick Cycle (University City, Glenside, Cherry Hill)

, Philadelphia Cycling Examiner

Anne Rock lives in Philadelphia and started mountain biking before suspension forks and clipless pedals existed. She races for Baltimore's C3 Athletes Serving Athletes and chronicles her cyclocross, road and mountain biking escapades in www.dirtygirlcycling.com. You may contact Anne with your...

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