Cycling Water Bottles

The importance of hydration when cycling goes without saying. The longer the ride, the more critical this becomes. While water bottles are mostly all the same, there are a few things to consider when picking up a new one.

1. Is the size adequate? Small 12 once bottles might do well for a short 1 hour ride, but will quickly run out beyond that and leave the cyclist without option. The 16-20 once sizes are more practicle and will last longer and you won’t care if you don’t use it all on a shorter ride.

2. One or two bottles on the bike? Again, it is all about distance. If you are usually riding criteriums and not 3-5 hours tours, then one bottle makes sense. The main issue with 2 bottles on the bike is weight and aerodynamics. Most of us have the option of adding a second bottle for longer rides and taking it off for shorter ones.

3. How about a hydration pack? Well, most road cyclists don’t like these. They are bulky, heavy, non-aerodynamic, and trap heat along the back. That said, there is a place for these on long tours or overnight rides (supported or not). For regular training and recreation rides however, we recommend leaving it at home.

4. Is there really a difference in water bottle cages? For most of us the answer is no.   For those serious cyclists that want to shave ounces off of their overall bike weight the answere is yes.  Carbon fiber is lightest, then alluminum, then steel and plastic.  The most important fact really is the ease with which one can remove the bottle and return it during riding.

A note on bacteria: Water bottles are notorious for developing a ‘funky’ odor after 3-6 months of use. This is usually the result of a build up of bacteria and sometimes fungus. Washing the bottle with hot water and soap can help, but ultimately replacment is recommended at regular intervals. Let’s face it, bottles are inexpensive, illness is not. So get some new ones already.