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I should probably start this post with a disclaimer, one that may greatly offend and possibly upset the cycling community.
Okay, here it goes… I don’t like coffee. In truth, I’m not really bothered about any hot drinks. They don’t do it for me. I’ll have the occasional cup of tea or hot chocolate, but coffee… blah!
On the whole, though, cyclists tend to bloody love coffee. Like, really love it. But, why? Is there a special connection, or is it just a coincidence?
1. Coffee Is a Performance-Enhancing Drug
Caffeine is – and I’ll happily admit the following words aren’t my own – a ‘crystalline xantine alkaloid’. That sounds either scary or impressive. And, fortunately, it’s the latter. It basically means caffeine is a go-longer stimulant. Perfect if you’re on a long ride.
2. Cycling and Coffee Have a History
Cycling and coffee is by no means a new phenomenon. Indeed, in the 1960s, Italian espresso machine manufacturer, Faema, sponsored a pro cycling team to promote its machines.
3. The Social Scene
Coffee and a cake, the perfect way to end a group ride. Relax, maybe warm up, have a chat and – as you’ll see in #5 – is actually a great idea scientifically.
4. A Love of Stuff
Cyclists love their gear. Whether it’s the weight of the frame, your new tyres or the length of your crank, cyclists love a good discussion or debate about their rides. This can also cross over into coffee, with machines, exotic beans and more, all up for debate.
5. Coffee Aids Recovery
A study by a team of Australian researchers showed that having a few cups of coffee, combined with a high-carb meal, will help your body refuel faster after a ride.
6. Warm Up
Cold winter ride? Icy hands? Get your mitts around a nice warm cup and feel yourself come back to life.
7. The Feel-Good Factor
Like cycling, coffee kicks your positive hormones into overdrive.
Cycling sorts you out with vitamin-D, aids muscle tone and improves sleep quality.
Coffee provides the ‘happy hormone’ dopamine, boosts metabolism and is a handy ergogenic aid.
Not a bad team.
