Fueling your cycling rides doesn’t have to break the bank. While commercial sports gels and bars are effective, they can also be costly. Let’s dive into the best options to keep you energized on your rides without stretching your budget with these bang for buck cycling foods.
Why Affordable Ride Foods Matter
With the rising cost of sports nutrition products, finding cost-effective alternatives is crucial for avid cyclists. Proper fueling is essential to maintain energy levels and performance, especially on long rides. Fortunately, these four options provide affordable and effective energy without sacrificing quality.
If you want to know how to make a cheap carbohydrate energy drink for your rides – read our DIY Carb Drink: Fuel your training on a budget blog. We also have blogs on What to Eat Before Cycling and What Foods to Avoid Before Cycling.
The bang for buck cycling foods:
1. Jelly Babies – Sweet and Simple
Jelly Babies are a classic choice for cyclists looking for a quick, cost-effective energy boost. Each Jelly Baby contains 5 grams of carbohydrates, making it easy to calculate how much you need to consume during a ride. A single bag is affordable, and their small size makes them easy to carry and consume on the go.
2. A Block of Icing – The Budget Champion
A block of icing might not be the first thing you think of for a ride snack, but it offers unbeatable value. A 500-gram block costs just £1.50 and provides 20 servings. Each 25-gram serving delivers 22 grams of carbohydrates, making it a highly economical choice.
Best Practices: Icing is ideal for colder months since it can melt in the heat. To protect your oral hygiene, it’s best to mix it with other ride foods to reduce sugar exposure.
3. Soreen Malt Loaf – A Balanced Option
Soreen Malt Loaf is a versatile and popular ride food. It comes in various forms, including individual Lunchbox Soreen loaves and larger loaves. The banana flavor, for instance, is both vegan-friendly and delicious. Each Lunchbox loaf provides 18 grams of carbohydrates, making it easy to track your intake.
Benefits: Soreen doesn’t melt in your pocket, and its chewy texture and range of flavors make it a favorite for many cyclists.
4. Bananas – The All-Natural Energy Boost
The humble banana is a timeless favorite among cyclists for a good reason. Each banana provides between 20–30 grams of carbohydrates, depending on size, and they’re packed with natural fructose for a quick energy lift. Bananas are organic, require no packaging, and are incredibly easy to eat mid-ride.
Practical Tips: While bananas are highly convenient, they can get squashed in your pocket. Consider carrying them in a protective case if you’re concerned about mess.
Comparing the Options: Which bang for buck cycling foods are Right for You?
Each of these options has its own benefits and ideal use cases:
- Jelly Babies are perfect for quick, consistent energy.
- Icing offers maximum value but is best for cooler weather.
- Soreen is versatile, tasty, and pocket-friendly.
- Bananas provide a natural and eco-friendly choice.
For optimal performance, mix and match these foods based on your ride length, weather conditions, and nutritional needs.
These four bang-for-buck ride foods are excellent for cyclists looking to fuel their rides without overspending. Whether you’re tackling long distances or a casual weekend route, these options will keep you energized and ready to ride.
