The world of bike gear may be confusing and daunting if you’re new to riding bikes. The more you hear about ostensibly necessary bike accouterments, the more costly cycling appears to be.
The following is a list of “must-have” bike accessories. This gear is necessary for your personal safety as well as the bicycle’s lifetime. When you’re ready, you can start thinking about customizing your vehicle. However, if you have these nine goods, you’ll be well on your way.
1. Helmet
The following bike accessories are all necessary. This one, on the other hand, is unavoidably non-negotiable.
It is your obligation to protect your head, even if cycling without a helmet is permitted in your city. Wipeouts happen even to the most seasoned motorcyclists. Not to mention that you have no influence over the decisions made by automobiles, pedestrians, or animals you come across on your journey.
When choosing a bike helmet, make sure the helmet fits your head size and riding style. For casual bikers, recreational bike helmets might be a cost-effective solution. Mountain bike helmets provide excellent ventilation and rear head protection, keeping you safe in the event of a backward fall. For quick travel, road bike helmets are lightweight, aerodynamic, and highly ventilated.
2. Gloves for Cycling
Gloves are essential bike gear for a variety of reasons.
First and foremost, they provide protection for your hands in the case of an accident. Second, they keep blisters and friction at bay. In addition, men and women can choose from a variety of glove styles to suit their riding styles.
Cycling gloves also protect your ulnar nerve, which is a lesser-known advantage. The palm of your hand contains this nerve. When you push on the ulnar nerve repeatedly, you may have discomfort or numbness in your pinkie, ring finger, or entire hand. To avoid these problems, cycling gloves include cushioned palms.
3. Quality Riding Shorts
Consider investing in some excellent riding shorts if you’re renting a bike for a long day of riding. These shorts are made to move with you, so you won’t have to struggle with chafing and rubbing after miles of workout. Cycling shorts are also cushioned to provide additional padding between your backside and the saddle.
You’re not a “riding shorts type,” are you? Don’t worry about it. Cycling shorts are available in a range of styles for both men and women, so you don’t have to go all out if you’re not ready. You’ll find something to suit your style, from athletic bibs with built-in support to casual, loose-fitting riding shorts.
4. Hydration Pack or Water Bottle
Hydration gear, like helmets, is a must-have bike item just for the sake of remaining alive. Running out of water in the middle of a ride isn’t simply inconvenient. It’s a serious threat, especially when you’re seven kilometers into a mountain trek.
Take three huge gulps every twenty minutes at the very least, according to the traditional rule of thumb. The amount of water you’ll need may vary depending on how tough your ride is, but the key line is that you shouldn’t skimp. Have an insulated water bottle and a water bottle cage if you’re a casual rider. If you’re going mountain biking, bring a reservoir with you.
5. Bike Accessories with Multiple Functions
The road is an unexpected location for a bike, whether it’s a metropolitan street or a dirt trail and that is why it is crucial to have full quality bicycle parts. A bolt loosened by vibration can catch even the most observant bike owner off guard. A multi-tool should be on your list of must-have bike accessories because of this.
Multi-tools come in a variety of sizes, qualities, and functions. Some of the larger ones are intended for use at home. However, we recommend that you select one that is small enough to fit in your pocket or saddlebag. A portable cycling multi-tool is not only convenient to have along for the ride, but it also works well while renting a bike while on vacation.
6. Pumps for Bicycles
When it comes to unanticipated calamities, you’ll need a pump. Keep a track pump at home and use it at least once a week to maintain proper tire pressure. Punctures on the road are avoided by maintaining proper tire pressure.
It’s also a good idea to have a little pump with you on your rides. Long-term maintenance is difficult with a pocket-sized pump. However, if you suffer a flat tire while driving, a tiny pump will supply enough air to bring you home.
7. Chain Lubricant
With a good chain lubricant, you can show your bike some respect. A proper chain lubricant protects your safety as well as the chain’s lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
Knowing which sort of lubricant is ideal for your local environment and normal rides is the key to chain lube success.
Wet lube is oily and difficult to remove with water. This makes it an excellent choice for rainy days.
If you’re riding in a dry, dusty region, though, you may forgo the wet lubrication. The oily fluid retains dust and grit, resulting in a clogged chain. Dry lube is a better option. This lubricant should be applied wet and let dry before riding. In rainy conditions, it washes off quickly, but your chain will remain cleaner for some time.
8. A Bicycle Lock
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash
You invested a significant amount of money in your bicycle. When it comes to security, don’t be a loose cannon. A lock is a must-have bike item regardless of the type of ride you take.
The type of lock you select is determined by your level of worry about bicycle theft. Cable locks are convenient, but only in low-crime regions are they recommended. Try chain locks or U-locks for a more difficult break-in.
If you don’t own a bike but ride a lot of rental bikes, make sure you have a lock on hand to protect your ride as if it were your own. Many bike rental establishments include a lock with the bike. However, double-check ahead of time to avoid being faced with the purchase of a new bike.
9. Reflectors and lights
There are various methods to brighten your bicycle if you look up bike lights and bike reflectors.
Make sure you’re following local bike rules with any accessories you choose, from tire spoke reflectors to pedal strips to LED rear lights.
Then, don’t be scared to use more light and reflection than is required by law. You’re familiar with the feel of a normal night ride, including the balance of shadows and ambient light.
The gear world is huge and complicated. There are several bike accessories available to make your two-wheeled trips safer, simpler, and more enjoyable. These are the absolute necessities and you can consider getting additional accessories but do not exclude any of the above-mentioned ones.
