ROAD BIKES & ACCESSORIES

Cannondale Six 13

An unbelievable blend of carbon fiber and aluminum that takes the edge off road shock leaving the rider with a stiff, responsive, quick handling machine. $4,600 (top of the line). www.cannondale.com.

Specialized Ruby Women’s Bike

All carbon and light as a feather. The woman-specific geometry goes a long way to help those who struggle with handlebar and break reach. $2,800. www.specialized.com.

Specialized Allez Elite

­ A few years ago, the Allez Elite would have set you back as much as a used Honda. Today, you get the signature compact race geometry and quick handling for just over a grand. $1,200. www.specialized.com.

Bianchi San Lorenzo

Your favorite because it’s a workhorse. The Scandium frame makes it light and supple but maintains rigidity, and somehow seems to last longer than other Scandium frames. $3,499. www.bianchiusa.com.

Lazer Blade Helmet

At 300 grams, it’s weightless and less bulky than other helmets on the market. Plenty of air flow and a snap on visor for the fashion conscious. $149. www.lazerhelmets.com.

Six Six One SX1 Gloves

Tough-as-nails, full-finger glove for any conditions. Machine washable and they go both ways (cycling or mountain biking) $37. www.sixsixone.com.

Lake CX 305 Shoes

“The most comfortable cycling shoe I’ve ever worn,” says our expert. The kangaroo leather upper conforms to the foot, eliminating hot spots. The triple Velcro closure system keeps things snug. $189. www.lakecycling.com.

MOUNTAIN BIKES

Kona Blast

A lot of bike for the asking price. Shimano components, disc brakes, and most importantly, seven different sizes compared to most manufacturer’s standard four. More options means you’ll find the right size for you. $599. www.konaworld.com.

Cannondale Scalpel

“A cross country bike that needs to be raced,” our experts say. It’s as light as most hardtails (thanks lefty) and doesn’t suck power on climbs but still manages to turn rocky trails into butter. The lefty fork is cool, but poses some logistical problems: don’t get a fork mount bike rack. $4,900 (top of the line). www.cannondale.com.

Litespeed Sewanee

A full suspension bike weighing in at 4.4 pounds? No wonder you love it. The Sewanee climbs and accelerates like a hardtail but has enough rear travel to justify the extra cost for a full suspension. $2,995 (frame only). www.litespeed.com.

Sidi Dragon SRS Mesh Shoes

“They’re expensive, but the micro adjustment system and replacement soles slightly justify the cost,” says our expert. A perfect fit for sure, but it may be more shoe than the average rider needs. $299. www.sidiusa.com.

Nite Rider HID Moab Night Light

­ 12 hours of light and a quicker recharging time means the night time is the right time. But be ready to pay for the most advanced lighting technology out there. $600. www.niterider.com.

Topeak Alien DX Multi-Tool

Can a multi-tool be hot? The DX is. 27 different tools including wrenches and bits designed for disc brakes. If that’s not hot, then what is? $53. www.topeak.com.

GoLite Tailwind Pack

The tapered, streamline shape keeps things simple, and the pump tube and outer pouch are smart features every cyclist wants. $80. www.golite.com.