MYOG your way to the next trail ride or road race
Cycling is a great way to stay healthy and have fun, but buying gear can be expensive and time-consuming. MYOG (make your own gear) can help! MYOG means making your own equipment for cycling and other activities.
It has many benefits, like customizing the size and materials to fit your needs, improving comfort and performance. MYOG is often cheaper than buying gear from a store, and it’s better for the environment.
This article will explore some of the best MYOG projects for cyclists, like bike bags, cycling jerseys, bike lights, cycling caps, and bike repair stands. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, MYOG can be a fun and rewarding way to enhance your cycling experience.
Try making these MYOG projects for your next ride:
Bike Bags
Bike bags are perfect for carrying your gear and supplies while cycling, and making your bike bags can offer various benefits.
Creating your bike bags allows you to customize the size, shape, and materials to fit your specific needs. This means you can create a bag that perfectly fits your bike and the items you need to carry, making your cycling experience more comfortable and convenient.
Basic materials and tools needed to make your own bike bags:
- Ripstop nylon, canvas, and waterproof fabrics
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Zippers or closures for easy access
- Velcro or other materials to attach your bag to your frame
Pro-Tips:
When attaching your DIY bike bags to your bike, ensure they are securely fastened and won’t interfere with your cycling. Depending on the type of bag, you may need to use hooks, straps, or bungee cords to attach them to your bike. Distribute the weight of your gear evenly to avoid throwing off your balance while cycling.
| Type of Bike Bag | Description | Ideal for carrying |
|---|---|---|
| Panniers | Larger bags that attach to a rack on the back of your bike | Clothing, camping gear, larger items |
| Handlebar bags | Bags that attach to the handlebars of your bike | Smaller items, such as wallet or phone |
| Saddlebags | Bags that attach to the back of your bike seat | Tools, snacks |
Cycling Jerseys
Cycling jerseys are an essential part of any cyclist’s wardrobe. They’re designed to keep you cool and comfortable while cycling by wicking away sweat and allowing for better air circulation. Making your cycling jersey has many benefits, including customization, affordability, and the satisfaction of creating your unique piece of gear.
Basic materials and tools needed to make your own jerseys:
- Fabric: Choose a moisture-wicking fabric that’s comfortable and breathable. Polyester, bamboo, or a blend of the two are popular choices.
- Thread: Choose a robust and high-quality thread that matches your fabric.
- Pattern: You can find patterns online or create your own by tracing a well-fitting jersey, leaving room for a seam allowance.
- Sewing machine: A primary sewing machine will work for most jersey projects.
- Scissors: Sharp scissors for cutting fabric and thread.
- Pins: Pins to hold the fabric together while sewing.
Pro-Tips:
- When designing your cycling jersey, consider the colors and patterns you want to use. You can create a design that reflects your style or your team’s colors and logo. You can add text, such as your name or a motivational phrase.
- A well-fitting cycling jersey is essential for comfort and performance. When making your jersey, take accurate measurements and use a well-fitting jersey as a guide. Consider the cycling you’ll do and how you want the jersey to fit. A looser fit may be more comfortable for longer rides, while a tighter fit may be better for racing or high-intensity cycling.
Cycling Caps
Cycling caps are a classic accessory that can protect your head from the sun and rain while cycling. Making your cycling cap has several benefits:
Basic materials and tools needed:
- Lightweight, breathable fabric
- Matching thread
- Sewing machine or needle and thread
- Sharp scissors
- Measuring tape
Pro-Tips:
- Use a pattern or trace an existing cap to ensure a good fit.
- Experiment with different fabrics, such as moisture-wicking or warmer materials.
- Customize your cap with your favorite colors, patterns, logos, or embroidery.
- Measure your head before starting to ensure a good fit.
- A well-fitting cycling cap should be snug but not too tight.
- It should cover your forehead and ears for added protection.
Bike Repair Stand
If you’re a serious cyclist, you know the importance of keeping your bike in good working condition. A bike repair stand can make this task much easier, and making your stand can be rewarding and cost-effective.
Materials Needed:
- PVC pipes, wood, or metal
- Screws and bolts
- Clamps or holders
- Weights or anchoring materials (if you are going for a more mobile stand)
Pro-Tips:
- Ensure stability: add weights to the base, anchor the frame to the ground.
- Ensure adjustability: ensure clamps or holders are secure and can fit different types of bikes.
- Customize the stand to fit different bikes: make the stand height adjustable for comfortable working level.
Share your progress with us!
We hope that this guide has inspired you to try your hand at making your cycling gear. Whether you’re interested in bike bags, cycling jerseys, bike lights, cycling caps, or a bike repair stand, plenty of resources are available to help you get started.
If you have any MYOG projects you’re particularly proud of, we’d love to hear about them. Sharing your experiences and knowledge with the cycling community can help to inspire and encourage others to take up the MYOG challenge. Happy crafting!
More to enjoy
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