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Guy On A Bike: Last-Minute Gifts For The Cyclist In Your Life

Hanukkah begins tonight and Christmas is right around the corner. That means a number of us are feverishly searching for the perfect gifts for loved ones. If you've got a cyclist in your life and just don't know what to get him or her, here are a few nearly fail-safe ideas:

Pogies: On those bitterly cold days it can be difficult for a cyclist to find the perfect balance between warm hands and the dexterity needed to shift gears and operate brakes. Gloves often lack some needed insulation, while mittens can be bulky and difficult to manipulate. Pogies, like the Cobrafist, made by Minnesota company 45NRTH, attach to the handlebars and wrap your hands in a blanket of warmth, while still allowing you to freely operate gears and such. A pair of pogies will set you back $60-$150, although a handy person can find DIY alternatives online.

U-Lock: Bikes are a big investment, not to mention an attractive target for thieves. If the biker in your life has been using an easily-cut cable lock, get them an upgrade. A U-Lock can be much more difficult to compromise, and some manufacturers even insure your bicycle against theft. Prices for a quality U-lock range from $35-$115. If you're going to get someone the gift of security, don't skimp.

Portable Speaker: Few things irk me more than seeing a cyclist ride past me with earbuds, and it's not because I'm a hater of music. In fact, if you've ever seen someone ride by with Russian pop music blaring from a little white circle on his messenger bag, chances are it was me. A speaker gives me the opportunity to jam out to my tunes while still being able to hear traffic, screeching brakes, or the occasional motorist telling me to get out of the road. You can get one of these for under $50, unless you want a Bluetooth option, which may cost a few extra bucks.

Upcycled Bicycle Jewelry/Accessories: Buying bicycle accessories can be tricky. Perhaps, instead you can accessorize the cyclist with some upcycled bicycle gear. A handful of artists have found a niche making jewelry, belts and other things out of old bicycle inner tubes. Minneapolis resident Emily Floyd offers some beautiful earrings, while Tired Ol' Belts offers (you guessed it) belts, key chains and yoga mat straps out of old tubes. Both can be found at Twin Cities area retailers.

Socks: A good pair of socks can be the difference between a day of joy or misery in the saddle. If possible, don't guess on this one. Sneak into your special someone's sock drawer and see what type of performance socks (s)he prefers. If that's not an option get advice from a local bike shop. From wool to synthetics, knee-high compression to short cuff, there are lots of options out there.

Bicycle Bell: An inexpensive stocking stuffer that is a fun accessory and a much more pleasant way to let pedestrians and other cyclists know your gift recipient is "on the left."

Don't: Don't buy custom accessories, such as handlebar grips or saddles, unless specifically requested. A bicycle is a very personal thing and trying to accessorize someone else's is just a bad idea. It's best to avoid items such as these and, with them, any potential for hurt feelings.

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