Essential Kit to Carry on the Bike

Cycling is a popular pursuit, great for cardiovascular exercise, enjoyment, and taking in the world around us. Many use their bikes for recreation or simply as an eco-friendly and healthy way to commute. It’s essential to have the proper equipment, even if you’re just a casual rider, and these items don’t need to be high-end or expensive.

However, it’s also important to keep things lightweight and make your journey less arduous and exhausting. Every rider needs a few basics, whether they’re experienced on two wheels or just starting out. Let’s look at the essential kit every rider needs, no matter the length of their journey. 

Inner tubes and patches

Whether you’re on an off-road adventure or riding on the road, the most common problem cyclists face is punctures. Riding on a punctured tyre will not only slow you down, but it will also damage the wheel of your bike, which can be a costly repair. To keep you on the go, it’s essential to carry a spare inner tube with you.

Patches are all well and good, but you don’t want to be sitting on the side of the road patching up your tyre. It’s far better just to have one to swap out if you encounter a puncture, and save the patching for when you’re home and dry. Make sure the valve type and length match your rims, and that the tube is the right diameter and width for your tyres. It’s still a good idea to carry some patches, however, in case you’re unlucky enough to get two punctures en route. 

Tyre levers

It’s useful to have tyre levers to help you in the event of a puncture, but make sure you buy sturdy plastic ones, rather than metal ones, which can damage your rims or pinch the tube. They should be stiff, easy to hook onto the spokes, and clip together to make changing the tube easier. However, it’s good practice to learn how to carefully bead the tyre back onto the wheel by hand, so you only need the levers to get it off. Doing it yourself can help reduce the risk of damaging the tube or rim. 

Pump/CO2 canister

Many cyclists use mini-pumps which can conveniently slip into a pocket, but these can be slow and tiring to use when dealing with a puncture. You may find it hard to pump the tyre back up to an adequate pressure, prematurely ending your ride and leaving you with a long trudge home. Mini-pumps that also accommodate a CO2 canister are much more effective; they can instantly pump your tyre up properly and fit easily in your saddle bag. They let you reinflate quickly after any puncture, and if you run out of CO2 because you’re unlucky enough to get more than one, you’ll still have the pump itself.  

Jerseys

Riding is a sweaty business, so it’s important to have a jersey that does more than look the part. It’s also where much of this kit ends up: the rear pockets need to be roomy and easy to reach, so your phone, snacks and spares stay secure. A well-chosen jersey can optimise performance and ensure maximum comfort on your rides, and knowing what to look for in fit, fabric and features makes the choice much easier. Remember, jerseys aren’t just meant to look good, they should be made from the correct materials, such as lightweight, quick-drying polyester, to keep you comfortable and well-ventilated on your two-wheeled adventures. On longer or more arduous rides, it’s also worth packing a lightweight gilet or rain jacket that folds into a pocket.

Multitool

Always carry a multitool with you when you set out for a ride; it serves multiple purposes and can come in handy in many situations. A regular multitool should contain a set of Allen keys, screwdrivers and Torx heads, which will allow you to make adjustments to all the nuts and bolts on your bicycle and get you out of potential sticky situations. Handlebars, stem, and seatpost clamps are the most likely candidates for minor tweaks and adjustments, and if not addressed, can seriously hinder your ride. Look for one that also includes a chain tool.

Quick release chain link

Multitools are useful for removing links from compromised chains, but can be a bit fiddly when it comes to rejoining them. A simple, often overlooked solution is a quick-release chain link, which can solve the problem instantly. Make sure it matches your chain’s speed, as links aren’t interchangeable. Some practice at home is probably a good idea though, until you get the hang of using this vital spare. 

SOS 

Carry items such as a mobile phone to dial for help if you can’t fix your bike or have an accident. Make sure it’s fully charged and protected from extreme weather conditions. Be aware that using a GPS system can drain the battery much faster than standard use. Always bring cash and a card. Not every taxi will take a bike, but cash and a card can get you a train ticket or a larger cab home, and let you buy food and water while you wait for help

Riding a bike is great fun and a good way to exercise, but you can easily run into problems on the road or the tracks you choose. Being prepared is a must, so make sure you have these items with you before you set out on two wheels.