Go gadgets: Single-speed bicycles are stripped down for simplicity, speed and style. They're used by serious racers on the track, and in the city by couriers who appreciate that fewer moving parts make for a tougher, lighter ride.
Unless you’re Lance Armstrong, they’re not great for tackling steep hills, but thanks to an aluminium frame and carbon fork Specialized’s Langster could disappear down a Dublin pothole and emerge intact on the other side. (€585, Cycleways, Dublin 1, 01-8734748, cycleways.com).
* If youreally feel like doing something crazy at the weekend, such as drinking contaminated tap water, you could pack a set of Lifesystems' chlorine diox droplets and tablets (from €6.99, Outdoor Adventure Store, Dublin 1, 01-8725177, outdooradventurestore.ie). Chlorine dioxide is the accepted way of treating water for waterborne bacteria such as giardia and cryptosporidium now the EU has banned the use of iodine to purify water. Lifesystems' droplets will treat up to 60 litres of water; the tablets can purify 30 litres.
* Improveyour outlook with the Joby Gorillatorch, a small light mounted on three bendy legs that can be balanced on almost any surface, or wrapped around a pipe or pole while your hands are otherwise occupied with screwdrivers and wrenches. Three AA batteries power an adjustable LED light, and the flexible leg joints have rubber grips with magnetised feet. (€39.95, www.joby.com).