Professional bikes are undeniably impressive, and we love seeing the best riders push their limits on the biggest stages.
However, some of their setup choices could wreak havoc on the average rider’s experience.
I’ve tested a few of these so-called pro hacks myself and, let’s just say, the results weren’t always ideal. Here are some trends that are best left to the pros.
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Overextended reach and forward saddle
A towering saddle paired with a super-long reach may look fast, but it’s not practical for most of us.
Pros have exceptionally light upper bodies, reducing pressure on their shoulders and hands. When I was 58kg and racing, this setup worked. Now, at 31 and a good 10kg heavier, I’ve learned my lesson.
Stick to a position that’s comfortable and sustainable. You’ll enjoy your ride and hopefully stay injury-free in the long run.
Excessively long stems
Some pro bikes have stems so long they resemble scaffolding.
This trend arose as brands adapted geometries for everyday riders, making head tubes taller. The pros countered by using smaller frames and longer stems, but this can ruin a bike’s handling.
I tried it at 19 and my back tolerated it. Now? Not a chance. Choose a frame that fits and a stem that won’t leave you in agony.
Deep-section wheels
Few things enhance a race bike’s look as much as deep carbon wheels. However, be cautious – strong crosswinds can make handling unpredictable.
My 60mm-deep wheels? Terrifying in gusty conditions. A 40–50mm depth strikes a better balance between speed and stability, making for a safer, more versatile ride.
They still look cool, too.
Ultra-narrow bars
Narrow bars can be aerodynamically beneficial, but there’s a limit. The UCI now mandates a minimum width of 35cm to ensure proper control.
While narrower bars can make you faster, handling and comfort should always come first.
Massive chainrings
Pros regularly use 54-tooth chainrings or larger for efficiency gains. But, for everyday riding, oversized rings can do more harm than good.
My 52-tooth ring is plenty for group rides, and SRAM’s latest designs lean towards 48T paired with a 10-tooth smallest sprocket. You can spend more time in the big ring and there are fewer front shifts.
Save your knees – there’s no need for pro-level gearing.
Fixed cleats
If your bike fit isn’t perfect, fixed cleats can be a fast track to knee pain. The pros may prefer a locked-in feel, but for most riders, a bit of float is essential.
If you’re set on fixed cleats, get a professional fit. Otherwise, opt for cleats with some movement to prevent injury.
Waxed chains
Waxing your chain can improve efficiency and longevity, but only if done correctly.
Stripping a brand-new chain back to bare metal before waxing is a time-consuming and pricey process. If you’re not willing to commit to the full routine, a quality chain lube is a far simpler alternative.
One-piece cockpits
Integrated carbon cockpits look slick, but the pros get custom-fit setups, which aren’t always available to the public.
Prioritise comfort and adjustability over aesthetics – a two-piece system allows for proper bike fit adjustments, ensuring a better ride experience. The price tag for a one-piece carbon cockpit replacement if you need to change the stem length or bar width is scary.
Overloading on carbs
Pros burn through an incredible amount of energy, often consuming 120g of carbs per hour.
Trying to match that intake without gradually adapting can lead to serious digestive distress. If you want to increase fuelling, do so incrementally to avoid any unwanted ‘explosive’ consequences.
Shaved legs
Shaving makes sense for pros who get daily massages and deal with frequent crashes.
For the rest of us, it makes less sense. I do it, but mostly out of habit. If you’re wondering whether to bother, the only real answer is: it’s entirely up to you.
Aero socks and skinsuits
These aero-optimised garments are commonplace in racing, but do we really need them on Sunday club rides? They offer minor gains, but preserving some of cycling’s traditional aesthetics might be worth more than a marginal watt-saving.
TT tyres
Time trial tyres are incredibly fast but come with zero puncture protection.
Pros use them in races, but for everyday riding, they’ll wear out in no time. Stick to tyres that offer a balance of speed, durability and reliability.
Some pro trends are tempting to copy, but not all translate well to everyday riding. Prioritise comfort, control and longevity over marginal gains, and you’ll enjoy a far better experience on the bike.
Check out our list of 11 affordable upgrades for some more smart ways to avoid wasting money.
