The fifteen best songs to boost your ride

Sometimes you just want to go out on your bike alone, at your own pace, on your own time, and without the need for conversation. Just pop in your earbuds and go. However, keep in mind that riding with headphones is not allowed in some countries, like Spain and France. But don’t worry—this list is perfect for your indoor cycling sessions too! Here are the fifteen songs guaranteed to make you pedal harder.

1. Search and Destroy by Iggy Pop and The Stooges, one of the most electrifying tracks by the Godfather of Punk. Especially during the chorus, "And honey, I am the world’s forgotten boy, the one who’s searching only to destroy," you’ll feel the urge to push even harder. And if someone complains about your lack of a bell? You won’t hear it anyway. Out of the way, everyone!
2. Baker Street by Gerry Rafferty. There’s nothing like the melancholic sounds of a life gone astray to make you appreciate your own vitality as you power through.
3. Feel by Robbie Williams. Pure euphoria on the bike. With this track on repeat, the miles will just fly by.
4. Radar Love by Golden Earring. A little national pride never hurts—especially with this irresistible track by one of the greatest Dutch rock bands ever. It’s an ego boost and an energy boost rolled into one.
5. Life’s What You Make It by Talk Talk. A bit of self-reflection never hurts, and singer Mark Hollis delivers just that: “Baby, life’s what you make it, celebrate it, (…) yesterday’s faded, nothing can change it.”
6. Believe by Cher. This unapologetic disco anthem is perfect for high-cadence rides.
7. Alive by Pearl Jam. Pro tip: sing it out loud during the final kilometers of a tough ride or on the third descent of the Cinglés du Mont Ventoux.

8. Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan. On the bike, you’re vulnerable, so it doesn’t hurt to be reminded of life’s fragility by His Bobness, especially when he hints at the possibility of an afterlife.
9. Tainted Love by Soft Cell. Need to blow off some steam? This song will wash away all your troubles.
10. Just Like Heaven by The Cure. Listen carefully to the first four lines of this love song—they’re sure to put a smile on your face.
11. Black Hole Sun by Soundgarden. Doubting whether to turn back because of ominous storm clouds? This song will help you brave the most apocalyptic conditions and keep you going.
12. Riders On The Storm by The Doors. Best enjoyed with gale-force winds and the volume cranked up to ten.
13. White Rabbit by Jefferson Airplane. Take a nostalgic trip on your bike after a sleepless night (“Remember what the doormouse said: Feed your head”). Thanks to its steady rhythm, this psychedelic classic still lets you maintain a strong pace.
14. New Gold Dream by Simple Minds. Perfect for New Wave fans who’ve taken up cycling later in life and still have serious podium ambitions in their age category.
15. Starman by David Bowie. Any Bowie song could’ve made this list, but the music from his Ziggy Stardust era is truly unmatched.

Click here for all these tracks + bonus material in a Spotify playlist.

Do you have any songs that make you pedal faster? Let us know!