Cooped Up? Get Uncooped.

As a longtime mountain biker, I can vividly recall that some of my most memorable Christmases were the ones on which I got new mountain biking gear, clothes and accessories. Bike gifts are a great idea for anyone who spends close to as much time on two wheels as on two feet. Here's a list of interesting bike gifts minus the obvious and mundane (socks, jersies bike T's, etc.). Most items are practical, some are completely outlandish, but most any cyclist or mountain biker would love to find at least one of these under the tree.

Mavic EZ Ride Evolve Magnetic Bike Pedals

These pedals are the perfect solution for the mountain biker that refuses to go clipless but still wants a little bit of the safety and stability of a clipless system. Magnets make for a tighter, more secure interface between shoes and pedals. However, shoes can pop out smoothly whenever the rider chooses. Find the pedals at Bike Nashbar for around $63 (shoes sold separately $100).

Cy Fi Speakers

All the music without the danger of headphones, Cy Fi speakers were designed specifically for bikes. The wireless speakers allow cyclists to enjoy their iPods without eliminating important sonic queues from the outside world. Gone is the irritation of dangling wires. Handlebar mounting hardware is included. A Bluetooth version synchs with cell phones, MP3 players and other Bluetooth-A2DP devices. Find them for $159 at Cy Fi's website.

Joystick Maxx 2 LED Light (from Exposure Lights)

In a world of huge, clunky mountain bike light systems, the Maxx 2 is the slender, lightweight model that others envy. You won't find any large battery pack, bulky case or wires on this one, but you'll still get 240 lumens of torch and three to 24 hours of burn time, depending upon setting. The light is designed for helmet or handlebar mounting and weighs a scant 98 grams (about 3.5 oz.) with helmet mount. Its small size and weight make it the perfect helmet light. Find it for $220.

Camelbak VeloBak

The VeloBak is a three-pocket cycling jersey that includes a built-in hydration bladder sleeve holding 72 ounces of water. The design allows cyclists to carry plenty of water while eliminating the extra pack or bottle. It also makes for a more aerodynamic ride. This one is available for $130.

Bergmoench Backpack Bike

This one probably isn't a very practical gift for much of anyone, but it is definitely a fun, unique product. It's also pretty damn fun to say.

The Bergmoench Backpack Bike by Koga is the only bike we've ever heard of that folds up into backpack form. This bike is limited to downhill kamikazis because it doesn't have a drivetrain, meaning you can't pedal it forward. It's basically designed for hiking up a hill and biking back down--perfect for indulging the inner child on a Saturday afternoon. It's price tag of 1500 Euros makes it a bit impractical as a gift, as does the fact that it's only available in Europe. Still worth checking out.

Vetta Pathfinder

Why more bike computers don't integrate a light is, quite frankly, beyond me. Even cyclists that don't ride regularly at night have probably found themselves rushing home at dusk once or twice. The Vetta Pathfinder clears the handlebars by integrating a 3-LED light into the bike computer, making for a very simple but effective lighting solution that is great for commuters. You can find this one for under $30.

Garmin Edge 500

This recently released bike GPS gets a lighter, sleeker form factor from Edges of years past. It packs all the data computation that riders love--distance, speed, elevation, etc., and can also synch with heart rate monitors and speed/cadence sensors via ANT + technology. $250 on Amazon.

Park Tools Rescue Multi Tool MTB-3

Any multi-tool with Rescue in its name is off to a good start. The Park Tool packs 22 different tools for use on the trail and off. Bikers will benefit from hexes, spoke wrenches, chain tool and tire levers. After the big fix, a bottle opener pops the much needed microbrew. This one is just $25 at REI.

Topeak Micro Rocket CB

This pump is the premier choice for cyclist that looks to cut weight any way possible. The tiny, 55-gram pump sizes up somewhere between a regular mini pump and a tube of lipstick. It'll slide easily in a saddle bag or jersey pocket.  We're pretty sure the use of carbon doesn't shave that much noticeable weight off, but it sure helps give that light-as-humanly-possible look. The Micro Rocket also makes a great back-up pump. REI has it in stock for $44.

Comeback 2.0: Up Close and Personal by Lance Armstrong

If anyone can write an intriguing story of comeback, it's Lance Armstrong. His latest book details his reemergence onto the professional cycling scene during 2009. Read his inspiring journal-style entries throughout the hard road back and follow along with pictures that illustrate the times. This one promises to be interesting to anyone from hardcore cyclists to those that have never ridden a bike. Plus, it comes in under $20 at Amazon.

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