Whether you’re a long-time cyclist or a first-time rider, having the right equipment can mean the difference between a leisurely trip through the park and a disaster waiting to happen. If you want to be prepared on the road, here are five essential supplies for anyone with a bike.
1: Tail Light
A bright LED tail light will keep you visible to cars and pedestrians while you ride, especially at night or in foggy conditions, when visibility is low. Some models come with multiple settings that let you choose between flashing, chasing or steady lights.
2: Lube
When bike chains get rusty, squirt lube will be your best friend. Invest in a high-quality brand for optimal cleansing and longer lasting lubrication.
3: Lock
Don’t let thieves make away with your property! While U-locks are the most popular kind of bike locks, there are also cable locks and chain locks if you feel the classics don’t offer enough protection.
4: Air Pumps
Keep your tires in premium condition by investing in your own air pump. Cheaper models are simple machines that you can pump by hand, but retailers like LTRSports.com sell more sophisticated, high-pressure types.
5: Helmet
The most important accessory for any cyclist, a helmet will protect both your cranial matter and your livelihood in the event of a crash. It isn’t enough to simply throw one on, however; you need to make sure it fits correctly and is strong enough to withstand a collision. It just may save your life someday.