Choosing the right cycling bottle is key to staying hydrated and performing well on your rides. With so many options available, deciding which one is right for you can be tricky.
In this article, we’ll break down the factors to consider when picking a cycling bottle, review Elite’s lineup of bottles, and help you choose the best one for your needs.
How to Pick the Best Cycling Bottle for Your Ride?
Selecting the right bike bottle involves more than just picking a color. Here are some crucial factors to consider:
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Capacity
When it comes to capacity, think about how much water you’ll need. For those long rides where you need a lot of hydration, go for bottles that hold between 750 milliliters to 1 liter. This way, you won’t run out of water mid-ride. If your rides are shorter or you just need a bit of water, smaller bottles are easier to manage and lighter to carry.
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Material
The material of your bottle affects both weight and insulation. Plastic bottles are a popular choice because they’re lightweight and durable, great for everyday use. If you want your water to stay cool, metal bottles like stainless steel are a solid option, though they are heavier. Glass bottles look stylish and are eco-friendly, but they’re more prone to breaking, so they’re best for smoother rides.
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Mouth Opening and Lid Design
A bottle with a larger mouth opening makes it easier to refill and clean. Plus, it’s more convenient for drinking while on the move. Ensure the lid seals tightly to avoid leaks and look for bottles with anti-drip designs to prevent spills. You don’t want to be dealing with water all over your bike or yourself!
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Portability and Mounting
You want a lightweight bottle that fits securely in your bike’s bottle cage. Some bottles also come with hooks or ropes, making them easy to attach to your backpack or other bike spots. This added convenience means you can carry your bottle without hassle.
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Cleaning and Hygiene
Keeping your bottle clean is crucial. Choose one that’s easy to disassemble for a thorough wash. Some bottles even have antibacterial coatings or filters to keep your water fresh and clean. This ensures you stay hydrated without any unwanted bacteria.
Elite Cycling Bottles: Sport, Thermal, and Lifestyle
Sport Bottles
1. Fly Tex Elite
The Elite Fly Tex is a top pick for cyclists due to its incredible lightness, making it a favorite among WorldTour riders. This bottle is 30% lighter than standard bottles and features an ergonomic grip for easy handling.
Constructed from innovative, odorless plastic, it boasts a 20% wider mouth for easy refilling and cleaning. Plus, it’s easy to disassemble to prevent mold growth. Available in 550ml and 750ml, it fits well in bottle cages of various bike types, including road, gravel, and mountain bikes. It comes in multiple colors to match your bike and bottle cage.
2. Fly Tex MTB
Designed specifically for mountain biking, the Fly Tex MTB includes a protective cap to keep dirt and grime out during rugged rides. It’s lightweight, at 30% lighter than standard bottles, and has a compact shape that fits well with smaller, sloping bike frames. The wider mouth aids in hydration and cleaning, and it’s available in 550ml and 750ml sizes. This bottle ensures high liquid flow and is compatible with most bottle cages.
3. Fly Team
The Fly Team bottle is the lightest sports bottle available, favored by top racing teams. It combines style with functionality, offering a high liquid flow rate and a compact shape suitable for smaller bike frames. Made from the same advanced plastic as other Fly bottles, it features a wider mouth for easy cleaning. Available in 550ml and 750ml, it complements the design preferences of professional cycling teams.
4. Fly Tour De France
This limited-edition bottle celebrates the Tour de France with a design created by French designer Joel Guenoun. It maintains the lightweight and easy-to-clean features of the Fly series and is ideal for fans and cyclists. With a capacity of 550ml and a high liquid flow rate, it’s a great collectible as well as a functional bottle.
5. Jet Green
The Jet Green bottle is an eco-friendly choice, made from over 94% bioplastic derived from sugar cane. It offers a quick liquid flow with a practical push-pull nozzle and is lightweight and squeezable. Available in 550ml and 750ml, it comes in clear and dark green, making it both practical and stylish.
6. Crono CX
The Crono CX bottle is engineered for time trials and triathlons, offering aerodynamic properties and stability at high speeds. It features a monocoque structure for durability and a high liquid flow rate. Available in 500ml and black with a speed-effect finish, it’s designed to meet the needs of competitive cyclists.
Thermal Bottles
1. Ice Fly
The Ice Fly is an insulated bottle that keeps your liquids cold while remaining lightweight. It features a shock-resistant cap that protects against dust and dirt and is easy to open with one hand. Available in 500ml and 650ml, it comes in colors like blue, smoke (grey), clear, and green, providing both functionality and style.
2. MIA Thermo
Made from stainless steel, the MIA Thermo bottle keeps drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold for 24 hours. It’s eco-friendly and stylish, with a steel wire handle for easy carrying and a screw cap for airtightness. Available in 550ml and black/silver, it’s perfect for both sports and everyday use.
Lifestyle Bottles
1. MIA
The MIA lifestyle bottle is also made from stainless steel, ideal for both sports and daily activities. It features a practical steel cap and handle, making it easy to carry. Available in 650ml, it comes in black/silver and beige/silver, offering a blend of practicality and style
Which Bottle to Get?
Based on various reviews, the Elite Fly bottle stands out as a top choice due to its lightweight design and exceptional liquid flow. However, it might not be the most durable for rough conditions. The Elite Fly Tex offers a balance between robustness and high liquid flow but may not fit all bottle cages securely.
Experts, including Tobias from the Rides of Japan YouTube channel, highlight the Elite Fly for its impressive performance when paired with Elite’s bottle cages. For eco-conscious riders, the Elite Jet bottle, made from biodegradable materials, is a commendable option if you often use disposable bottles.
Consider factors like aerodynamics, liquid flow, and environmental impact when selecting a bike bottle. The Elite Fly and Fly Tex are highly recommended for their performance, while the Elite Jet offers benefits for those focused on sustainability.
How to Set Up Your Bottle
To ensure you have easy access to your bottle during rides, consider the following setup options:
Bottle Cage: Position your bottle securely in your bike’s bottle cage for convenient access while riding. Ensure the cage fits your bottle to prevent it from slipping out. For more information on selecting the perfect bottle cage, check out our article; Elite Bottle Cages Unveiled: How to Make the Perfect Selection? or check out our detailed guide on bottle cages here.
Jersey Pocket: Use your jersey pocket to carry a bottle. Choose a jersey, like the Bellwether jersey, with pockets designed to securely hold your bottle, making it easily accessible during your ride.
By considering these factors and selecting the right bottle setup, you can enhance your cycling experience and stay hydrated on every ride.
