Accessories Increase Your Riding Fun!
One of the great things about cycling is that you'll find an almost unlimited selection of add-ons to customize your bicycle and help you enjoy riding. But what accessories do you really need?
We've put together this list to help, and grouped things into two categories: Essential Accessories, which are those items you shouldn't leave home without; and Other Goodies, which are things many cyclists also enjoy having.
You can even print this out as a shopping list to cross off stuff you already have and to remember those products you'd like to get later. Have a birthday coming up? Leave your wish list where family and friends will see it.
Essential Accessories for Road and Off-Road Biking
| What it is: | Why you need it: |
Helmet | A lifesaver in an accident |
Good lock and holder | A bike saver |
Pump that fits your frame | Use to fix flats |
Spare tube | To replace punctured tubes |
Tire levers | Eases tire removal |
Water bottle and cage | Makes it easy to stay hydrated |
Patch kit | For patching popped tubes |
Gloves | Adds comfort and protects hands |
Mini all-in-one tool | Just in case an adjustment is needed |
Seat bag | A way to carry all this stuff |
Eyewear | Protection from airborne debris |
Cycling shorts | They’re padded for comfort |
Energy bars | Calories in case you tire |
Sun block | Prevents sunburn |
Other Goodies
| What it is: | Why you'll want it: |
Dress for Success | |
cycling shoes & socks | increase comfort & efficiency |
cycling jersey (short & long sleeve) | comfy with rear pockets for gear |
cycling tops (for women) | comfy, pockets, high visibility |
tights | keep knees & legs warm |
windbreaker | protection from wind & rain |
leg & arm warmers | easy on/off; fit in pocket |
rain jacket | keeps you dry and warm |
booties (shoe covers) | protects toes from cold & wet |
long-finger gloves | warm & protect hands and fingers |
Get all the Right Gear | |
front light or lighting system | be safe at night & expand your ride time |
flasher taillight | be seen after dark |
bell | friendly warning device |
hydration system | carry your favorite sports drink |
hydration system cleaning kit | kills nasty germs |
cyclecomputer | shows/records speed, pace & distance |
rear rack | carry more stuff |
aero handlebars | for a stretched-out, streamlined position |
Be Fit for Life | |
heart-rate monitor | a tachometer for your heart |
indoor trainer | bike in front of the TV |
computerized indoor trainer | a virtual-reality cycling station |
home gym | build strength without the club |
Bike Repair is Fun | |
floor pump | has air to spare |
maintenance book | learn how to fix your bike |
bike repair stand | supports the bike so you don't have to |
wheel-truing stand | helpful for fixing wobbly wheels |
bicycle tool kit | cool tools for fixing your ride |
Hit the Road & Trail | |
panniers (saddlebags) | bring the kitchen sink |
trailer for kids or gear | hooks to the bike & pulls easily |
car rack | carry your bike on the car |
bike case for airline travel | protection from the baggage goons |
Be the Sport | |
membership in cycling organization | meet other cyclists |
Lance Armstrong book | gives you goosebumps |
cycling videos | watch for fun & motivation |