The Gear You Should Bring on Every Bike Ride

Setting out on a bike ride isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s about embracing the entire journey. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a casual rider, ensuring you’re equipped with the appropriate gear can significantly impact your experience, turning potential obstacles into smooth rides. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essential gear necessary for every bike excursion, whether it’s a leisurely spin around the block or an ambitious trek through rugged terrain. By arming yourself with the right equipment and tools, you can enhance your enjoyment, prioritize safety, and fully immerse yourself in the cycling experience. So, let’s prepare, gather our gear, and embark on our cycling adventure!

The Gear You Should Bring on Every Bike Ride: The Essentials

In my 30 years riding bikes, I’ve had lots of random things happen, from crashing, running out of food and water to name a few. Based on my experience, here’s the Gear You Should Bring on Every Bike Ride

1. Bring your cell phone.  For a million reasons, the least being to call for help. 
2. Water:  The rule of thumb is you need to drink one bottle of water per hour while riding. You want a cycling-specific water bottle. Click to link to the Camelback brand, the one I use and really like!
3. Food, AKA energy bar.  The rule of thumb is you eat at least 1 bar per hour. I really like Cliff Bars. Click this link to shop Cliff products.
4. A way to pump air into your tires if needed.  A mini pump, or a frame pump, or a CO2 inflator kit. My preference is to carry a c02 kit as they are more compact than a pump. Here is a link to a good C02 inflation kit.
5. Tire levers to get your tire off and back on. I prefer the Pedros brand. Click here to get yours!
6. An extra tube.  Ideally, you want to make sure you get the correct size tube but don’t worry if you don’t have the exact size, as you can mix and match on a temporary basis.
7. Depending on where you ride, a jacket or warm clothes in case the weather goes sideways on you. Click this link to my post on how to dress for cold-weather cycling.

Learning to change a flat bike tire can be a breeze if you’ve had practice, but it can feel daunting if you’re new to it. Getting stranded with a flat tire in the middle of nowhere is something you’d want to avoid at all costs. I highly suggest watching a tutorial video and then giving it a try by replacing the inner tube on your bike’s rear wheel, as it tends to be the trickiest. If you’re feeling unsure, don’t hesitate to visit your local bike shop; they’ll gladly walk you through it the first time.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to seek help from fellow cyclists. In my experience, most bikers are eager to lend a hand to their peers, some even overly so.

Lastly, it’s essential to accept that there may be occasions when you’ll need to call for assistance, whether it’s from a friend or a ride-sharing service like Uber. Mishaps occur, and sometimes they’re beyond our ability to fix. Embracing these moments as part of the adventure is all part of the cycling experience.

The Gear You Should Bring on Every Bike Ride: Final Thoughts

Mastering the art of changing a flat tire is a valuable skill that every cyclist should possess. By familiarizing yourself with the process and practicing beforehand, you can avoid potential frustrations and enjoy a smoother ride. Remember, seeking assistance from your local bike shop or fellow cyclists is always an option if you’re feeling unsure.

Moreover, embracing the occasional need for outside help or alternative transportation is simply part of the cycling journey. Rather than viewing it as a setback, consider it an opportunity to connect with others and add an element of unpredictability to your adventure. After all, it’s these unexpected moments that often make for the most memorable experiences on two wheels. So, ride on with confidence, knowing that you’re equipped to handle whatever the road may throw your way.

John