From the Archives: My New Year’s cycling resolution is to get more immersed in cycling culture

This article was originally published in December, 2013.

As we count the days to 2014, Canadian Cycling Magazine presents our guide to New Year’s resolutions for cyclists. Sometimes it’s not about the ride, but après-ride. From the Eddy Merckx poster in the garage to your bike-theme wallet, you keep your passion close.

Nalini Settanta Wool Jersey

$240
When you put on Nalini’s Settanta jersey, you practically climb into a grainy photograph from cycling’s golden age. Look out Merckx! Nalini has been around for more than 40 years, making kit for the pros, so it was there before it was retro. With the Settanta, Nalini has gone back to the wool. The jersey has some nice contemporary touches, such as synthetic fibres to help with wicking and silicon grippers at the lower hem and cuffs. One of the three pockets at the back will hold your smartphone, even though that gadget will take away from the look. (nalini.com)

Campagnolo 80th Anniversary Kit

$3,875
Few companies are as closely connected to a sport as Campagnolo is to cycling. Not only has the company been involved with important component innovations (such as quick-release skewers and arguably the first parallelogram rear derailleur), but they have also remained focused on cycling for 80 years. To celebrate that milestone, Campy has released a limited edition Super Record gruppo that is sure to become a collector’s item. All the components receive finishing and mechanical updates that exceed the already ridiculously high standards found in the regular Super Record group. While there’s no doubt that some folks will purchase and use these components (after all, they are as functional as what is found in the conventional Super Record set), most cyclists will be content to simply display the parts and marvel at Campy’s ability to continue to merge technology, function and esthetics while always remaining true to cycling’s unique racing culture. (anniversary.campagnolo.com)

The Bike-Friendly Café

For a shot of espresso before the weekly hammerfest or for some tasty carbs mid-ride, the café has you covered. Some establishments in Canada cater to enthusiasts of the two-wheeled machine, and you should support them. In Vancouver, there’s the Musette Caffè, where you can watch European races at the ungodly local times (5:30 a.m.!). Southern Ontario cycling hub the Domestique Café not only has events at its Dundas, Ont., location, but goes to many cyclo-centric dos in the province. If you find yourself in Tantallon, N.S., without a bike, you can rent one at the Train Station Bike & Bean, and then grab a panini after you return the wheels. Let’s not forget the café at la Maison des cyclistes in Montreal, the Bike Shop Café and Catering Co. in Kelowna B.C. and Da Capo Lifestyle Caffe in Edmonton.

Assos loungePantofel Slippers

$19
Assos has always been known for producing some of the highest quality competitive cycling clothing. Yet the Swiss company realizes that not every moment can be spent on the bike. So for those times when recovery and relaxation are on the “training” schedule, consider lounging about in a pair of lounge- Pantofel slippers. These comfy slippers are perfect for shuffling to the fridge for another hop-infused recovery drink or for sitting on the couch and watching Breaking Away. Go Cutters! (assos.com)