Accessories That Actually Matter

Started cycling with just the bike and a helmet. Gradually accumulated gear based on what I actually needed versus what the internet said I needed. There’s a difference. Here’s what ended up staying in regular use after the novelty wore off.

The Non-Negotiables

Helmet

This one’s obvious but some people still skip it. Get one that fits, has MIPS or similar rotation protection, and doesn’t make you overheat. Spend $80-150 for something good. Replace it after any crash or after five years.

Lights

Even daytime running lights increase visibility to drivers. For actual night riding, you need serious lumens — at least 500 for the front, 100+ for rear. USB rechargeable makes maintenance simple. Multiple mount options help when switching between bikes.

Lock

A cheap cable lock is basically a polite suggestion. U-locks and quality chain locks actually deter theft. Kryptonite and Abus make reliable options. Weight sucks but losing your bike sucks more.

Make-Life-Better Accessories

Bottle Cages and Bottles

Simple but essential. Cages that grip firmly but release easily. Bottles you can squeeze one-handed while riding. Insulated options keep drinks cold longer. I’m apparently a two-bottle person and run cages on the down tube and seat tube.

Saddle Bag

Tube, tire levers, multi-tool, CO2 inflator. Fits in a small bag under the saddle, always ready. The alternative is carrying this stuff in jersey pockets or not at all — neither great options.

Floor Pump

Keep one at home with a real pressure gauge. Proper inflation before every ride improves everything. Don’t rely on mini pumps for regular maintenance.

Multi-Tool

Hex wrenches in various sizes, screwdriver, chain tool. Fits in your saddle bag. Fixes most trailside mechanical issues. Some include tire levers. Get one with the specific sizes your bike uses.

Riding Gear That Matters

Padded Shorts

Makes rides longer than 30 minutes significantly more comfortable. Good chamois prevents chafing and numbness. You don’t need the most expensive option, but don’t buy the cheapest either.

Gloves

Absorb vibration, improve grip, protect palms in crashes. Summer gloves for warm weather, insulated gloves for cold. Some people skip these but my hands get numb without them.

Cycling Shoes

Stiffer soles transfer power better. Clipless options connect to pedals for more efficient pedaling. Takes practice to clip in and out. Not essential for casual riding but game-changing for longer efforts.

Nice-to-Haves

Bike Computer or GPS

Tracks speed, distance, and route. Navigation helps on unfamiliar roads. Syncs with training apps for progress tracking. Not essential but satisfying for data-minded riders. Garmin and Wahoo dominate this space.

Fenders

Keep road spray off your back and face. Essential for commuting in wet climates. Quick-release options work for occasional use. Permanently mounted ones protect better.

Phone Mount

Puts navigation in view without pulling phone from pocket. Useful for turn-by-turn directions. Make sure it’s secure — road vibration loosens cheap mounts. Quad Lock is the standard.

Stuff You Might Not Need

Cycling-specific jerseys before you know if you’ll stick with riding. Expensive gear tracking gadgets. Multiple sets of wheels. Components designed for professional racers. Start simple. Add gear as you identify actual needs rather than theoretical ones.

The Accumulation Effect

Three years in, I have more gear than I planned. Most of it gets used. Some of it was waste. The essentials emerged through trial rather than shopping lists. Your essentials might differ based on how and where you ride.