Biking accessories: Never leave your home without your essential accessories! The most important Bike accessories are: Helmet: A helmet will not prevent accidents from happening but can provide protection if you do fall off your bike. they are particularly recommended for young children. Ultimately, wearing a helmet is a question of individual choice and parents need to make that choice for their children. |
Always buy a new helmet which conforms to one recognized safety standards such as BS or CE, fits correctly, and is comfortable.
Follow the fitting instructions or ask your local bike shop to help you choose a correctly fitting helmet.
check your helmet regularly and, if it takes a bash, always replace it as it will not offer the same protection.
Bell:
A bell is a must for any considerate cyclist. A friendly tinkle will let people know you are approaching, but never assume they can hear you.
The Pannier:
rucksacks are fine for carrying light loads but can make you hot, for hevier loads,
longer or more regular journeys, panniers are recommended.If you do not want to invest in panniers, strap your rucksack to a bike rack, or put a backet on the front.
If you want to carry really heavy loads use a bike trailer.
Lights:
See and be seen! when cycling in the dark, you are required by law to have a white light on the front and a red light on the rear. These can clip onto your bike, backpack or your clothes.
Mudguards:
A lot of bikes are still sold without mudguards, so you will need to get a pair fitted if you want to avoid mud or dirty water being sprayed up your back in wet weather.
Pump:
It is a good idea to have your own punp so you will always be able to sort out a flat tyre. If you are out in town and have left your pump at home, a friendly cyclist is sure to come to your aid soon enough. or, walk to the nearest bike shop. It is surprising how many there are once you start looking!
Tip: There are a couple of types of bike valves. Most pumps will adjust to fit both or you can buy an adaptor.
What to wear?
For the majority of short local cycling trips there is generally no need to wear special clothing, any more than you would for a walk to the shops. In fact, it is possible to cycle in smart clothes, provided they give you enough freedom to pedal.
Does the shoe fit?
Shoes that are suitable for walking are also great for cycling.
Glow in the dark:
If you ride at night or in heavy traffic, it is important to make yourself as visible as possible to other users. A reflective vest or jacket is ideal. Vests are a cheap solution and easy to stow in your bag; and reflective bands for ankles and sleeves are also goo to get you seen.
Extremely cold extremities?
Wear gloves to keep the cold away, and ear muffs can be handy.
Do not let a little rain hold you back!
Once people start riding, they generally do not want to stop!
People even enjoy riding in the rain, honestly! All you need is a waterproof jacket and trausers plus some reflective gear.