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Experienced cyclists have a few simple ideas about equipment that make biking a lot safer—and easier. Here’s what they recommend.
Helmet
A must for cycling!
Flat Fixer
To
prevent flats: Keep your tires at maximum air pressure; they lose a little
air every day. Skinnier tires lose air more quickly. Many cyclists use puncture-proof
tire liners (like Mr. Tuffy), Kevlar-belted tires, thorn-resistant tubes,
or tube sealants. Heavy-set or rough-surface riders should try wider tires.
To fix flats: Always carry a spare inner tube or a patch kit, and tools to
get your tube out. Use tire levers (best) or a screwdriver (not as good);
a wrench if you don’t have quick-release hubs; an old sock or rag to
cover your hand when you grab your chain; and a hand pump or a quarter to
pay for a gas-station pump. (Beware: high-pressure pumps can explode your
tire!)
Carrying Rack
Make
your bike carry your things! Use bungee cords to tie things to your carrying
rack. Attach a milk crate as a carrying case. If you carry things often you
should invest in panniers, or the many varieties of bike bags available.
Instead of a rear rack or front basket, you can use a backpack. However,
a backpack can strain your shoulders and make balancing harder. And carrying
stuff in your arm is unsafe; it’s harder to steer and brake.
Toe Clips
Toe clips give your pedaling more power. But if they’re not adjusted right, the clips can lock your feet to your pedals so you can’t put a foot down when you lose your balance. When using toe clips, make sure you can get your feet out of them fast.
Ankle
Strap
Getting your pants caught in your chain can make you lose control and ruin your pants. If your bike doesn’t have a chain guard, use a clip or Velcro strap around your pants cuff to keep it from hitting your chain and frame.
Sunglasses or Goggles
To protect your eyes from bugs and airborne debris, wear sunglasses or clear goggles, especially with contact lenses. Wrap-around glasses are best. If your glasses steam up in cold weather, apply an anti-fogger. (Some cyclists use a light coating of gel toothpaste.)
Night and Foul Weather Gear
If you ride at night or in bad weather you need lights, reflectors, and more.