Bargain Upgrades

Avoid wasting money with these smart spends that'll transform your riding

- Words Liam Cahill

Cycling can be an expensive hobby, but it doesn't have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly kit options that offer exceptional value and performance, and can prove transformative to your riding experience. From free training analysis and pro water bottles to aero upgrades, here are 10 affordable cycling products that are well worth considering.

01 Cheaper sunglasses From £14.99

There's no need to spend a fortune on the best cycling sunglasses. Brands such as Van Rysel offer stylish, high-quality options starting at £30. These shades often deliver the same UV protection as their pricier counterparts, minus the marketing buzzwords such as "unobtanium".

02 Deda Zero RHM handlebar From £36.99

If you're looking to upgrade your cockpit, Deda Elementi's RHM (Rapid Hand Movement) handlebars are highly regarded. Their shape makes it easy to switch hand positions for comfort, control and efficiency. Narrower options can even save watts, as our wind tunnel testing showed. For less than £40, the Zero1 model is a bargain performance upgrade.

03 Sweatbands From £5

Zwifters, take note - if sweat dripping into your eyes is a problem, a tennis-style sweatband might be the solution you didn't know you needed. Unlike thermal headbands, these stay dry for longer, keeping your vision clear during intense turbo sessions. But don't bother with the £24 official Zwift headband. A tennis headband for around £5 will do the job just as well. For extra style points, consider matching wristbands too!