NEW GADGETS FOR OLD PROBLEMS.

Mar 17, 2025 by Paula Dyba

Three pieces of tech have our attention right now when it comes to making life on a bike safer, simpler, more gearful.

How to inflate a tire without even trying.

It's a mystery as to how this small device can inflate your tire with the press of a button, but it does and we are here for it. Simpler to operate than a CO2 cartridge, it lets you preset the desired psi and auto stops when it reaches it. Small enough to be carried in a bike bag or jersey pocket and equipped with a smarthead for presta or schrader valves. Coming soon to terrycycling.com.

For a video demo, check it out here >

Who's that sneaking up behind me?

There's nothing more disconcerting than not hearing or seeing what's happening behind you on a bike – even if it's a team car. In addition to being one of the brightest tail lights you can buy, the Garmin Varia Radar gives you eyes on the back of your head. It pairs up with your bike computer or smartphone and provides visual and audio alerts for vehicles approaching from behind up to 153 yards away. It's easy to install and use, integrates sleekly onto your seatpost and provides high visibility that can be seen up to 1 mile away. I thought I didn't need it until I rode behind someone who has one. It's a welcome beacon in every direction.

Stop, thief!

My favorite bike shop, recovering my stolen bike...one painful piece at a time

A sad reality, but each year it's estimated that tens of thousands of bikes are stolen, with a year over year increase in actual reported bikes stolen of 15% according to Bike Index. Nearly every cyclist has either experienced it personally or rides with someone who has. The best defense of course is to never leave your bike in a risky situation. Make sure you have your serial number safely documented (if you haven't done this, stop reading and do it NOW), along with photos and purchase receipt. Register it with Bike Index (they have the best track record in recoveries).

One additional tech step you can take is by adding an inconspicuous AirTag that can give you some bluetooth tracking. Several of the bottle cage makers have made it easy with under bottle cage mounts that hide the tag between cage and frame. Under saddle options also exist, though not as inconspicuous.