Bars vs Gels, which is better?

Energy bars and gels for cycling: differences, uses, and which to choose

Nutrition is one of the pillars of cycling performance, whether you practice road cycling or mountain biking. In this context, energy bars and gels have become common allies to maintain energy levels during training and long rides. But are they the same? Which is better? Does the type of cycling you do matter?

In this article, we answer all those questions from a practical and realistic perspective.

What are energy bars and gels in cycling

Both bars and energy gels are supplements designed to provide fast or medium-absorption carbohydrates during exertion. Their main goal is to delay fatigue, maintain performance, and avoid the dreaded “bonk.”

The difference lies in the format, digestion, and timing of use, not so much in their basic function.

Characteristics and benefits

Energy bars for cycling usually have a solid or semi-solid texture and combine carbohydrates with small amounts of fat and protein.

Advantages of bars on long rides

• Greater feeling of fullness

• More sustained energy release

• More pleasant during moderate efforts

• Ideal for stops or easy sections

When is it best to use bars on the bike

• Long endurance rides

• Mountain bike rides or gravel

• Low or medium intensity training

• Before exertion or in the early hours

Energy gels for cyclists: what they provide and when to take them

Cyclist gels are designed for rapid absorption, providing almost immediate energy.

Advantages of energy gels

• Rapid glucose availability

• Easy to consume without chewing

• Very effective in critical moments

• Take up little space

Risks and common mistakes with gels

• Taking them without water

• Overusing them during long efforts

• Gastrointestinal problems

• Energy spikes and crashes

Key differences between gels and bars for cycling

It's not about choosing one or the other, but about knowing how to combine them correctly.

Does the type of cycling matter? Road, mountain, and gravel

Gels and bars in road cycling

On a road bike, where the pace is usually steady and high:

• Gels on climbs, attacks, or finishes

• Bars on flat sections or in the first hours

Nutrition in MTB: XC, trail and long rides

On mountain bikes:

• Bars on long and technical rides

• Gels on demanding climbs or XC races

• Greater importance of digestion and practicality

Prices and formats: how much do gels and bars cost

Typical price ranges

• Gels: €1.5 – €3 per unit

• Bars: €1.2 – €2.5 per unit

Is it worth paying more?

Not always. The important thing is:

• Good digestive tolerance

• Amount of carbohydrates

• Simple ingredients

• Adaptation to your effort

Most popular brands of gels and bars for cycling

Among the most used by cyclists:

• PowerBar

• SIS

• Maurten

• 226ERS

• High5

• Crown Sport Nutrition

• Enervit

The best brand will be the one that your body tolerates best, not the most expensive.

Practical tips for choosing your on-route nutrition

• Always test during training

• Don't experiment during competitions

• Combine formats

• Adjust according to climate and intensity

• Always drink water with gels

Nutrition, performance and cycling

A good nutritional strategy is as important as a well-adjusted bicycle. At Tuvalum we know this well: whether you ride a road bike, MTB or gravel, performance is the sum of training, equipment, and nutrition.

Choosing the right gels and bars will help you enjoy every ride more and get the most out of your bike, whatever your discipline.