Cycling Sports Drinks

Shop sports drinks for cycling, from short training rides to long-distance sportives. Choose HEED for energy and hydration during rides up to 2–3 hours, or Perpetuem for longer endurance events.

Which drink should I choose?

By ride duration

Carbohydrate drink vs electrolyte-only

HEED and Perpetuem provide fuel and hydration in one bottle. Endurolytes Extreme Powder and Fizz replace electrolytes only — useful when you're getting calories from gels or food. Many cyclists run both: a carb drink in one bidon, electrolyte water in the other.

Mixing and carrying

Both HEED and Perpetuem mix cleanly in a standard 500–750ml bidon. For long rides, pre-mix a concentrated Perpetuem bottle and dilute at feed stations. Perpetuem sachets are ideal for carrying a pre-measured serving in a jersey pocket. In hot weather, increase fluid volume rather than adding extra scoops.

Sensitive stomach & citric-acid-free

HEED and Perpetuem are both formulated without citric acid and use complex carbohydrates rather than simple sugars — lower osmolality, less GI stress at race pace. Suitable for athletes who struggle with conventional high-sugar sports drinks.

FAQs

Can I use HEED and Perpetuem on the same ride?
Yes — start with HEED for the first couple of hours, then switch to Perpetuem as fatigue builds and you need the protein and fat component.

How many calories per hour on the bike?
Hammer's guideline is 120–180 cal/hr. One scoop of HEED is approximately 100 cal, so 1–1.5 scoops per hour is a reasonable starting point.

Is HEED suitable for turbo trainer sessions?
Yes. Use 1 scoop per 500ml and sip regularly. Sweat rate is high indoors so consistent hydration matters more than calorie loading.

Does Perpetuem work in cold weather?
Yes, though it can thicken slightly in very cold temperatures. Mix with slightly warm water before heading out, or use an insulated bottle.

Is HEED suitable for sportives with feed stations?
Yes — carry sachets and mix at feed stations. HEED is popular for sportives because it's easy to mix, not overly sweet, and provides consistent energy without sugar spikes.

Related: Cycling Nutrition | Running Sports Drinks | Cycling Hub | Best electrolytes for cyclists →