Has a friend or family member gotten you into cycling recently? Or maybe you have a long-time cycling buddy who is always there to join you on rides, fix flats, and talk gears. Whatever the case, you likely want to show your appreciation for the keen cyclist in your life. A thoughtful thank you gift is a great way to do that. Here are seven ideas to spark your search for the perfect thank you present.
1. A Thank You Card
A handwritten thank you card is a meaningful gesture on its own. Take some time to look through lists of thank you quotes to find just the right words to express your gratitude. Pick out a cycling-themed card with a bike image on the front if you can. Personalise the message inside with specifics about how this person has impacted your life. Add a gift card to their favourite cycling shop or restaurant as well. Thoughtful words of appreciation mean a lot, even if you also choose to give them one of the physical gifts below.
2. Tech Gifts
One of the first things many cyclists want to upgrade is their tech. This includes things like phones, cameras, and bike computers. Samsung phones with SD card slot offer ample storage for photos and music to accompany those long rides. A sturdy bike mount allows the recipient to easily use their phone for navigation, tracking miles, or just listening to tunes. GoPro and other action cameras also make fantastic gifts for capturing riding adventures. And a bike computer like a Garmin or Wahoo ELEMNT tracks all the metrics and provides navigation on the handlebars. Any of these tech gifts will get plenty of use out on the roads and trails.
3. Cycling Apparel
Quality apparel suited for cycling is another great gift idea. Check out what the cyclist already has to avoid getting duplicates. Some possibilities are cycling jerseys, bib shorts, jackets, vests, socks, gloves, hats, and more. Going with something like a jersey allows you to customise it with the recipient’s name or a fun cycling phrase. Apparel may seem like an overly simple thank you gift, but cyclists can never have too much gear suited for riding.
4. Bike Accessories
Along with bike upgrades, there are plenty of useful accessories you can gift. A saddle bag or handlebar bag provides convenient storage for spare tubes, tools, food, and other essentials. Bottle cages and bottles are always handy to have extras of. Consider a bike lock if they regularly leave their bike unattended. Or some new cycling books or magazines to give them something entertaining to read. Small trinkets like new bar end caps or valve stem caps add a touch of personalisation too. Whatever accessories you choose, they’re sure to enhance the recipient’s cycling adventures.
5. Maintenance Tools
Tools for bike maintenance make practical gifts that any cycling enthusiast will appreciate. A basic toolkit with various hex keys, screwdrivers, wrenches, chain tools, and other necessities is a great starter option. Or you could put together your own toolkit of their most needed items like tyre levers, a pump, and some lube. Advanced cyclists may also enjoy something like a bike stand or torque wrench for more involved repairs and upgrades. Proper tools make a difference in keeping a bike rolling smoothly for miles. So, your gift will really be valued and used.
6. A Bike Trip or Class
For a more experience-based cycling gift, consider signing up the recipient for a guided bike trip or skill-building class. Lots of shops and touring companies offer trips catered to all levels – ranging from weekends to multi-week adventures. Or look into classes where the cyclist can pick up maintenance skills, learn to navigate by bike, or train for events. Not only will they gain new abilities, but these experiences also include the memories of meeting other cyclists and visiting new destinations. It may cost more than a material item, but the chance to ride and learn will be treasured.
7. Something for Off the Bike
Let’s not forget that most cyclists spend some time off the bike too! Cosy bike-themed pyjamas or slippers are one way to bring cycling comfort into downtime. Cycling books and magazines also provide entertainment when not riding. Or treat them to some new recipes to fuel all those miles. Even bike-inspired art and décor like prints or sculptures make unique gift ideas. Don’t just focus on bike gear and accessories. Remember the person behind the cyclist as well with gifts to enjoy when off the saddle.
Finding the perfect gift to show your gratitude towards a fellow cycling enthusiast doesn’t have to be challenging. Any of these thoughtful ideas will be appreciated by the cyclist in your life.
