TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
One of the hottest trends on TikTok over the past few months has been cycling. I’m a runner, and I noticed toward the beginning of the summer that many of the running accounts I follow on social media became cycle-curious all around the same time. It started with one, then another, and then a few more. Before I knew it, half of the running accounts I follow had suddenly started putting out hybrid running and cycling content, or had become full-on cycling accounts overnight. Instead of sharing info on their fitness trackers and running sneakers, they showed themselves shopping for new helmets and elbow pads. After doing a little research, I can see why so many people are jumping on the bandwagon, or the proverbial 10-speed. #BikeTok is real.
@saulcycles A quick ride to clear my head #cycling #cyclist #tiktokcycling #viral #fyp
As it probably is with most eras, many people feel that we’re in a period of upheaval and change. From the paradigm-shifting proliferation of AI to the rapidly increasing cost of living, we’re all a bit stressed. One of the best ways to relieve that tension, both physically and emotionally, is by working out. Some people enjoy lifting weights while others, like myself, opt for long-distance running. Organized sports are another outlet for many people. However, cycling seems to offer so many advantages that people are finding it hard not to take it up as a hobby for stress relief and relaxation.
If that sounds appealing, then you may want to start gearing up before the demand gets so high that cycling equipment prices start to rise with everything else. Walmart and Amazon are two of the best outlets for biking gear, and we think you should obviously start with the main ingredient, which is a proper road bike.
Neoriver 24-Speed Hybrid Road Bike
The Neoriver 24-Speed Hybrid Road Bike is a great option as your first foray into the cycling world. For starters, at just $180, it’s currently $120 off the regular price of $300. That said, there’s plenty more to love about this bike. As the name suggests, it has a full 24 speeds, so it can handle any elevation change or ride style you need. It has dual disc brakes for added safety on long rides as well. It’s intended for both speed and comfort, making it ideal as your first serious bicycle. The lightweight steel frame is durable and fast, which is exactly what you want when you’re first starting out.
@claudiia.alvarado But why is it that cycling is so expensive $$$$ ✨🌸 #hobbies #coolgirl #cycling #roadbike #springhobbies
Benefits of recreational cycling
As the algorithm has been reminding me, there are a lot of benefits to taking up cycling as a hobby. Three of the biggest advantages that this sport has over most others are related to joint protection, heart and mental health, and practical travel considerations. Cycling is a virtually no-impact sport. Unlike almost any other physical activity, cycling puts very little strain on your knees, ankles, elbows, and other joints. Any sport that involves running requires sustained impact on the knees and ankles, whereas biking does not. Even swimming requires less fluid joint motion than cycling, so the latter is a good way to keep your joints from becoming too fatigued over time.
As for heart and mental health, cycling can be a more relaxing endeavor than many other competitive sports. Not only does biking improve your circulation, which is a cardiovascular gold mine, but long-term, it statistically reduces your risk of heart disease. While the same could be said for most other fitness activities, biking is easier to maintain as a daily routine than many other sports because of its low-impact nature. Speaking of nature, the fact that you can enjoy fresh air and lovely views from your bike even enhances its stress-relief properties.
Finally, cycling is one of the most practical hobbies one can undertake. That’s because a road bike isn’t just a fitness tool, but a mode of transportation. Whether you want to start biking to work on a daily basis, or you take a ride to your friend’s house on the weekend, a good road bike can help save money on gas and help keep you healthy at the same time.
More cycling gear
In addition to a bike, you’ll likely need a few other essentials to get rolling on your first cycling adventure. Helmets, cycling clothes, and sunglasses are just a few of the items you’ll likely want in order to get started. We’ve compiled a list of some good deals below if you want to put together your own starter kit. If none of these tickle your fancy, then Walmart and Amazon are sure to have others that may suit you better. All you have to do is look, and we’re confident you’ll find what you need.
Bell 4Forty MIPS Adult Bike Helmet
Inbike Unisex Gel Cycling Gloves
Bodyprox Protective Cycling Knee Pads
Bikewa Men’s Padded Cycling Shorts
TheStreet Shopping is your guide for shopping insights and advice. We look beyond the price tag to find the best value in home, tech, and wellness gear based on product features and real-world use. Read more about our Editorial Standards and How We Choose Our Shopping Deals.
