{"id":13365,"date":"2026-05-19T22:17:37","date_gmt":"2026-05-19T22:17:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/?p=13365"},"modified":"2026-05-19T22:17:37","modified_gmt":"2026-05-19T22:17:37","slug":"12-ways-to-upgrade-your-summer-of-biking","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/?p=13365","title":{"rendered":"12 Ways to Upgrade Your Summer of Biking"},"content":{"rendered":"


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Published May 19, 2026 03:51PM<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

If you\u2019re feeling the pull of two-wheeled adventure, this list is for you. Backcountry\u2019s robust inventory of mountain biking and gravel riding products has everything you need to start the season in the right gear, both figuratively and literally. Here are 12 standouts from the collection, pulled from different categories but sharing a common goal: to get you in the saddle, down the trail, and primed for your best season of riding.<\/p>\n

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Body-Hugging Vest<\/h2>\n

USWE Rush 8L Hydration Pack<\/a><\/h3>\n
USWE Rush 8L Hydration Pack<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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You know staying hydrated is important. But did you know it could be so comfortable? This hydration pack leverages a running vest-inspired design to stay snug to your body without bouncing around, no matter how burly the descent. A two-liter reservoir ensures you have plenty of liquid on board, while multiple compartments in the front and rear hold all your accessories.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Minimalist Hip Pack<\/h2>\n

Backcountry Slickrock 3L Hip Pack<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"Backcountry
Backcountry Slickrock 3L Hip Pack<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Sometimes less is more. The Slickrock 3L\u2019s minimalist design disappears on your hips during a ride. Two water bottle sleeves, multiple pockets, and internal organization (including a key ring) keep everything in its place and easily accessible, and the stretch-woven material and raised mesh back panel make for a comfy disappearing act.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Breathable Bucket<\/h2>\n

Smith Engage MIPS Helmet<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"Smith
Smith Engage MIPS Helmet<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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This helmet goes all in on protection while still remaining sleek and breathable. It features a MIPS liner to mitigate rotational forces as well as Smith\u2019s Koroyd material, which provides energy-absorbing crumple zones while permitting airflow. The Engage\u2019s 20 vents enhance cooling even more, while the AirVac design keeps your shades from fogging over. A dial adjustment system guarantees the perfect fit as well.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Versatile Downhill Helmet<\/h2>\n

Fox Racing Dropframe Pro Helmet<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"Fox
Fox Racing Dropframe Pro Helmet<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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If you\u2019re frequently dropping gnarly terrain but a full-face helmet seems like overkill, get the Dropframe Pro. Its extended coverage, MIPS liner, and dual-density foam combine to offer impressive noggin protection, but its breathability is more akin to that of a half-shell helmet. It\u2019s also super user-friendly, with a Boa fit system, a Fidlock magnetic buckle, and a three-position visor that will all help you fine-tune the fit.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Full-Face Protection<\/h2>\n

Leatt MTB Enduro 3.0 Helmet<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"Leatt
Leatt MTB Enduro 3.0 Helmet<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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This helmet can adapt to any terrain you ride, making it a one-stop shop for uncompromising protection. The MTB Enduro 3.0 shifts easily between full-face, hybrid, and half-shell configurations, so you can match the coverage level and airflow to the trail of the day. Its 360\u00b0 Turbine Technology reduces impacts, and 20 air vents boost breathability even in full-face mode.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Sleek, Stretchy Pants<\/h2>\n

Backcountry Slickrock Pants<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"Backcountry
Backcountry Slickrock Pants<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Comfort and confidence on the trail start from the bottom up with these pants. Four-way stretch fabric will mimic your every move while also providing breathability and protection from grabby brush. The Slickrock slides easily over pads thanks to articulated knees and ankle zippers, but the tapered legs give it a clean look so you won\u2019t be desperate to change before hitting the post-ride brewery.<\/p>\n

Shop Men\u2019s<\/span><\/a> Shop Women\u2019s<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Ultralight Saddle<\/h2>\n

SQ Labs 611 Ergowave Carbon Saddle<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"SQ
SQ Labs 611 Ergowave Carbon Saddle<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Going big doesn\u2019t mean you have to go bulky. Shave ounces without compromising on performance with this minimalist saddle, which has carbon rails and a carbon-reinforced shell to keep weight low. Rear raised supports and firm foam provide plenty of oomph, though, so you can ride as aggressively as you want.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Cushy Handlebar Grip<\/h2>\n

Race Face Chester Grip<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"Race
Race Face Chester Grip<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Legs get all the attention, but your hands matter, too. This grip\u2019s thick, patterned rubber will keep you comfortable whether or not you\u2019re wearing gloves, and its angled channels wick sweat to prevent chafing. Multiple colors to choose from ensure you and your bike will look good as well.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Versatile Gravel Fork<\/h2>\n

RockShox Rudy XL Ultimate Race Day 2 Fork \u2013 700c<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"RockShox
RockShox Rudy XL Ultimate Race Day 2 Fork \u2013 700c<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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The best gravel bike suspension forks are versatile and smooth, no matter the terrain, and the Rudy XL Ultimate has both of those qualities in spades. Built for racing on a variety of surfaces, it offers either 50 or 60 millimeters of travel while also locking out fully on road sections. The aluminum design is light, maneuverable, and ready for anything.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Efficient Pedal<\/h2>\n

Wolf Tooth Components DEL Gravel Clipless Pedal<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"Wolf
Wolf Tooth Components DEL Gravel Clipless Pedal<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Light yet mighty, the DEL Gravel Clipless Pedal is just the tool for maximizing power and efficiency on gravel rides. Its self-leveling, one-sided design makes clipping in easy, while the 611mm\u00b2 platform provides a solid base without weighing you down, thanks to a carbon-fiber and stainless steel build. An adjustable Q factor lets any rider dial in their desired position.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Burly Brake<\/h2>\n

Shimano XTR M9220 4-Piston Disc Brake<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"Shimano
Shimano XTR M9220 4-Piston Disc Brake<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Power and nuance aren\u2019t often paired together, but that\u2019s exactly what the XTR M9220 offers. The four-piston caliper offers a level of control and security that can handle even the rowdiest descents, and its lever design integrates smoothly with your hands even when you\u2019re gripped. Quiet, smooth, and reliable, this brake is a confidence-booster as well as a day-saver.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Stiff Gravel Shoe<\/h2>\n

Men\u2019s Shimano RX910 S-PHYRE Shoe<\/a><\/h3>\n
\"Men\u2019s
Men\u2019s Shimano RX910 S-PHYRE Shoe<\/span> (Photo: Backcountry.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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The RX910 S-PHYRE blends the stiffness of a road-racing shoe with the wearability of a gravel shoe. Its low-profile TPU outsole effortlessly transfers energy from you to your bike, and you can use the dual Boa dials to make sure the fit is exactly how you want it. Shimano\u2019s Pontoon Cleat System makes for a clean connection, and it\u2019s replaceable, so this shoe can last for seasons of epic rides.<\/p>\n

Shop Now<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Loyalty Perks for Every Ride<\/h2>\n

Want to get more out of every upgrade? With Summit Club+<\/a>, you earn 10% instant cash back on eligible purchases, including sale items, plus enjoy free 2\u2011day shipping on orders $150+ within the continental U.S. You\u2019ll also get a 20% off birthday reward, early access to select gear drops and promotions, exclusive member\u2011only offers, and a dedicated Gearhead\u00ae\ufe0f Expert to help you dial in your setup for the next big ride. Summit Club+ costs $49 per year (plus tax), while the free Summit Club tier still hooks you up with a 10% off birthday gift and early access to select product drops.<\/p>\n\n

Founded in 1996, <\/i>Backcountry<\/i><\/a> is a leading outdoor retailer offering premium gear from 800+ brands online and in stores nationwide. Its portfolio includes Competitive Cyclist, Steep & Cheap, Level Nine Sports, and BikeTiresDirect, strengthening its presence across cycling, snow sports, and outdoor adventure.<\/i><\/p>\n

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Published May 19, 2026 03:51PM If you\u2019re feeling the pull of two-wheeled adventure, this list is for you. Backcountry\u2019s robust inventory of mountain biking and gravel riding products has everything you need to start the season in the right gear, both figuratively and literally. Here are 12 standouts from the collection, pulled from different categories<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":13366,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[35],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-13365","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-wild-living"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13365","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=13365"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13365\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/13366"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=13365"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=13365"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=13365"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}