About Broke Cyclists
We’re the friend who reads the fine print, rides the sketchy shoulder, and tells you what gear is actually worth it. Safety-first picks, honest reviews, and commuter-tested upgrades—without the “bike tax.”
Why we exist
Cycling should feel freeing—not like a constant negotiation with traffic, weather, and questionable gear. Broke Cyclists curates safety and reliability upgrades that make everyday riding calmer, brighter, and more confident—whether you’re commuting, training, or hitting the trail.
Our approach
Real-world value beats spec-sheet hype
We look for gear that improves visibility, protection, and durability—then we ask the most important question: is it worth the money? If a smarter alternative exists, we’ll point you to it.
What we prioritize
Visibility, protection, and “keeps-you-riding” reliability
Expect extra attention on high-lumen tail lights, smart visibility upgrades, helmets and protective gear, bike radar systems, and maintenance tools that prevent expensive shop visits. If it helps you get home safe and keeps your bike dependable, it’s our kind of product.
The story
Built for riders who want safety without overspending
Broke Cyclists started with a simple frustration: the most important safety upgrades are often the hardest to shop for. Too many options. Too much marketing. Not enough straight talk.
So we built a place where the default is practical: gear that works in traffic, holds up in bad weather, and doesn’t fall apart after a few rides. We publish guides and comparisons, highlight deals, and stock a curated shop so you can upgrade smarter—one ride at a time.
“If it doesn’t make you safer, more visible, or more reliable on the road, it doesn’t make the cut.”
Broke Cyclists team
We’re not here to tell you to buy everything. We’re here to help you buy the right thing—and keep more money for the rides that matter.
Meet the crew
A small team of riders and gear nerds with one shared goal: make safety upgrades easier (and less expensive) to get right.
Alex
Gear Curator
Sam
Commuter Editor
Jordan
Trail & Tech Reviewer
Riley
Deals Scout
What riders tell us
A few notes from cyclists who like their gear practical and their rides safer.
★★★★★
“Finally—recommendations that don’t assume I’m made of money. The light guide was a game-changer for my commute.”
Maya P.
Daily commuter
★★★★★
“I appreciate the ‘worth it vs. skip it’ vibe. I upgraded my helmet and stopped overthinking every purchase.”
Chris L.
Weekend road rider
★★★★★
“The maintenance picks saved me a shop visit. More riding, less wrenching—exactly what I needed.”
Taylor R.
New MTB rider
FAQ
How we pick products, what we test for, and why value matters.
How do you choose what products to feature?
Not every product makes it onto Broke Cyclists. We prioritize gear and tools that improve real-world riding—especially in traffic and high-density roads. If it doesn’t boost safety, visibility, reliability, or durability, it doesn’t make the cut.
Do you test products in real riding conditions?
We take a real-world road-testing mindset to our recommendations. We focus on what actually helps on busy roads—visibility, reliability, and durability—rather than hype or spec-sheet claims.
Do you only recommend expensive gear?
No. We care about performance-to-price ratio. We ask whether a product is truly worth the price, if there’s a smarter alternative, and whether it meaningfully improves your ride.
What kinds of products do you prioritize most?
Safety comes first. We give extra weight to bike radar systems, high-lumen tail lights, smart visibility upgrades, crash detection tech, and maintenance tools that keep your bike reliable.
Why do you focus on long-term value?
The best tools and accessories save money over time. We prioritize items that prevent expensive shop repairs, improve efficiency, and last multiple seasons.
Ready to upgrade?
Make your next ride safer (and still on budget)
Browse our curated shop for lights, helmets, reflective apparel, and commuter-ready essentials—picked for real roads and real value.