I have read several posts recently with gift suggestions for cyclists. They have been interesting, even helpful, but I do something a little different.
I love getting cycling stuff for Christmas. Unfortunately, most of my family have no idea what I may need, or like. And, I don’t want them spending a lot of money. Cycling stuff is expensive, if you haven’t figured that out already.
I have some preferences. The Louis Garneau apparel fits me really well, better than other brands, and it’s a Canadian company. Eh! And ProBikeKit (a candy store for roadies) sells all of the consumables I need – chains, cassettes, brake pads, tires, wheels, cranks … Every year, at the start of December, both of these retailers have an on-line sale. A real sale. Selected items are discounted 50-60%. Really! Some may be last year’s stock, but who cares. So, I go shopping, and purchase items I need (or want).
This year, I bought a pair of bibs that match the Team Europcar jersey I purchased last year at this time, an Ultegra 6700 chain and cassette for the Roberts, Vittoria 28mm training tires for my winter wheels, neoprene booties, another road helmet (I try to turn them over every few years as recommended), and waterproof gloves. Then I put these items in a big plastic bag, unopened of course, and tell my family if they (or Santa) needs a present for me, all they have to do is rummage through the bag in my cupboard. I never look in the bag again until after Christmas, so I still have a modicum of surprise. If there are items left, I gift them to myself for the New Year.
I get what I need, still have surprises, and save everyone money. In case you are worried, I do get other presents.
Happy shopping 🙂
PedalWORKS 
yeah non cyclists don’t know how expensive and specific the gear we use is, thinking about doing a stocking stuffer post, $40 and under products, to go along with the gift guide i put up
Good idea. I put cleansing wipes in everyones stockings last year. They are easy to pack, cheap, and help to clean up oily, grimy hands after a chain problem. Looking forward to your post …
Definitely doing this next year. I’m in the same boat-my family have absolutely no idea what to get me but I know that I’m getting some cycling related kit on Christmas day because of the gap in my online wish list. Some of my best presents have been cycling related, the best was a back seat for Fathers day so that I could take my boys to pre school on the bike. Happy days..
Nice. I remember those days. Now I’m the one left behind as they sprint up the hills 🙂
I do exactly the same – I buy my own presents before I get others, so nothing can dissappoint me 😄
I never thought of it that way but you are right. I have been more concerned about them stewing over what to get me. Well, we have something in common 🙂
Part of the fun is the surprise which is lost if you buy all your own presents. Can’t you drop a few hints instead?
These are not the only gifts I receive. And my one son has treated me to several expensive items I wouldn’t buy for myself. And I don’t just like cycle stuff and they are all surprises. I agree with. Surprises make it fun.
The problem with that is that I would have to be so specific with my hints that I would know exactly what I’m getting anyway so it’s never a surprise…
That’s the problem. In the early days it wouldn’t have mattered. I didn’t know any better and I had very little. But as we evolve we have very specific preferences and needs that few understand.
I think that’s a great idea! There’s still a surprise in seeing who gives you what.
A win-win all round! 🙂
🙂
Now I know whose cuboard to burgle….. I could do with a new 6700 cassette. 🙂
Oh, Oh. And you know where I live 🙂
And that you have a bag of nice cycling goodies! Don’t worry, you can keep the clothes though – no skirts 😉
One day you’ll have to explain this skirt thing to me. I can’t imagine a skirt is comfortable on a bike for any length of time.
One day I’ll send you one to try. It’s the only way* 🙂 (*padded shorts still required)
Ha! Ha! That’s the thing. You still have shorts (or bibs) on, so the skirt doesn’t seem necessary. Maybe it’s a women thing. When you are not on a bike do you wear skirts, or jeans?
The skirt’s just a bit of silliness though an extra layer of warmth right now! Off the bike, equally eclectic, but less lycra!
LOL