Commuting with Your Bike: Essential Accessories for a Safe and Comfortable Ride

bike lamp
Source: Pexels

Those of you who love the idea of contributing to a better environment should start considering the idea of commuting with a bike. Instead of driving a car or using public transport, you can ride your bike everywhere you go. Riding a bike is way faster than walking so you’ll be able to get everywhere faster without polluting the air. As a bonus, you’ll improve your strength and well-being and will build muscles in your legs and core. However, you really cannot start commuting with a bike unless you are completely stocked with the most essential gear. This will make your ride more enjoyable for sure, but most importantly, it will contribute to having a safer ride.

Bike Light

bike lamp
Source: Pexels

Well, a bike lamp is an invaluable bicycle gear designed to illuminate your way in dark, low-light, rainy and snowy weather conditions. Having a rear and front bike lamp is essential in such conditions whether going on short or long distances. Speaking of front light, the law states that the front one should be bright and strong enough to illuminate everything ahead of you. Having a light of this kind can reduce the chances of becoming a risk in the traffic.

Generally speaking, you can choose from two types of bike lights available on the market:

High-Output System

These front lights offer maximum illumination. They are rechargeable and are one of the first things that will help you stay safe on the road. When in the search for the right one, make sure not to put price above all, instead, choose a brighter and pricier light if you have to because this will help you stay safe on the road.

Front, Side and Rear Safety Lights

This lighting combo will help you stay safe in both dim light and dark weather conditions, however, they are not as bright as the first one. The main difference between them is in the mounting options, the number of LEDs and the type of used batteries (disposable or rechargeable).

According to professional cyclists and those who commute by bike on a daily basis, it’s best to choose a front light with a narrow-focus beam. Those of you who ride bikes regularly on dark roads and trails should choose a light with a wide-focus beam for improved peripheral vision. In case you’re new to bikes, lights and everything in between, it would be better if you contact a professional or a seller specialist. According to your needs, they will provide you with the best possible lights that have just the needed runtime and battery life for your needs.

Helmet

The second most important thing that will help you stay safe on the road is the helmet. A bike helmet is an essential piece of gear that will help you stay safe. Its purpose is more than obvious, it is designed to protect your head in case of accidents and falls. Brain injuries and bruises are quite common when falling from bikes, so staying protected on the road daily is important for staying safe and sound. They are available in different types, styles, designs, colours and sizes which gives you the chance to pick just the right ones for your needs.

A bike helmet can also keep your head warm/cool and well-protected from the weather. So, whether riding your bike in summer when the sun is too hot or riding under rainy and cold conditions, your head will stay protected all the time.

Mudguard

bike lamp
Source: Pexels

Mudguards are essentials that most people neglect. The truth is that they are designed to keep your bike dry and prolong the life of its consumable parts. Plus, it will also keep your clothes clean and dry from mud and dirty water when raining. Having mudguards is a must especially when planning to commute with your bike on a daily basis.

Storage Space

It isn’t strange to see a cyclist with a backpack on his back, however, having an extra storage space for storing and carrying groceries is essential. While hanging them on the bike’s handlebar is possible, carrying them this way poses a risk of hurting yourself. So if you’re planning to invest in a new bike or you already have one but without a luggage system, make sure to buy it separately. The choice of these systems is huge and it gives you the chance to pick the most suitable one for you.

Tyre Repair Gear

Given the fact that you’ll use your bike for commuting and longer distances will be your daily routine, then you should certainly consider the idea of investing in a tyre repair kit. Learning how to change and repair a tube is always a good idea, so watching a video or two will help you stay safe on the road. Regarding the kit, you should consider the idea of investing in a kit that consists of a spare tube/tubes, a mini pump, tyre levers and a cycling multi-tool.

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