When you bike, you may think that the only piece of equipment you need is the bike itself. You’re wrong. In order to stay safe while riding, there are other pieces of gear you need to make sure you have with you. Get yourself a pack you can wear on your back or strap to your bike rack and fill it up with the right equipment for your cycling.
The most important gear is a helmet. Regardless of where you ride or how fast you ride, accidents can happen. It only takes one tragic fall to cause major problems. The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute can help you determine what type of helmet is best for you and how to fit it properly. The Institute also recommends that you wear other protective gear, such as gloves, a mouth guard, and full body armor. A first aid kit, cell phone, and cash are also a good idea in case of emergencies.
When looking for safety gear for the bike, start with lights. Some lights come with a strobe effect that can make seeing you even easier. You’ll also want to carry a tire repair kit to repair your tire if you have a blowout. You should also carry a tire gauge to make sure your tires have enough air and a portable pump for when they don’t.
These are just some basic pieces of safety equipment you should include in your kit. You can find a full list on many bicycle safety websites.
