There is a wide variety of bicycle parts and accessories in the market today. Each is designed to make a cyclist’s ride more efficient and secure. These different bicycle parts and accessories are designed to serve a specific need.
Before you make any purchase, always consider why you are buying it in the first place. What purpose will it serve? Below are some must-have bicycle parts and accessories:
1. Bicycle Helmet
Apart from the bike itself, a helmet is one of those pieces of equipment a rider cannot go without. Statistics show that, as a group, cyclists incur more head injuries compared to people who participate in other recreational activities or popular sports, such as basketball, softball, baseball and football. Riding without a helmet is taking an unnecessarily huge risk.
When it comes to purchasing a helmet, you have a wide variety of options to choose from, and prices range between $50 and $150. Although an expensive helmet does not always translate into better protection, the more costly models tend to be lighter and better ventilated. Road bike helmets are the most aerodynamic, and also the lightest.
Mountain bike helmets come equipped with sun visors, which accommodate the upright riding position. Besides, they provide better head coverage.
2. Eye Protection
In life, we only get to have one set of eyes, so it is important to protect them at all costs. Eye protection is important to cyclists because they help keep debris from entering your eye and affecting your eyesight. The price of this accessory ranges from $10 – $200+.
Marketing of most premium label eyewear is targeted towards cyclists, but a cheap pair from your local pharmacy will still do the job. When purchasing this accessory, make sure the lenses block 100% to 99% of both UVB and UVA radiation since they can damage your eyes permanently if left unchecked.
3. Bicycle Lights
If you frequently ride at night, or you generally bike long distances, it is advisable to maximize your visibility by equipping your bike with front and rear lights. Bicycle lights range from $40 – $200+.
When purchasing this accessory, do not feel the need to buy the most expensive if you do not really need it. This is because, as you become more adept at cycling, you will find yourself needing an upgrade to suit your enhanced riding capabilities.
For example, when you start cycling for longer distances, you will require a light with batteries that last longer. Before you get to that point, however, lower-priced options will get the job done.
4. Alerting Devices
When cycling, you not only want to be seen, you also want other road users to hear you. This is important, especially when overtaking other cyclists or passing pedestrians. A good example of an alerting device is a bell. However, even with such a device, it is always good to verbally shout the instructions to minimize the chances of an accident occurring.
Generally, the cost of alerting devices ranges from between $20 – $60. While you might be attracted to the more sophisticated alerting devices, a simple bell also gets the job done.
5. Bike Lock
Whether you keep your bicycle attached to a sign on the sidewalk, in your basement, your garage, or a shed, the truth is, none of these options are 100% foolproof. In other words, if a person has enough motivation to steal your bike, and they have enough time, you can’t stop them.
If you frequently go for rides in urban areas, or you usually park your bike outside whenever you are not using it, you need to have a way of locking it down. Some of the most commonly used bike locks are chain locks, cable locks and u-locks.
Bike lock costs between $15 and $100+. Although this accessory can cost you a pretty penny, remember its job is to protect your bicycle, which is an even bigger investment. The good thing about a bike lock is that it is a long-term investment, especially if not used frequently.
Although a bike lock is not a guarantee your bike won’t get stolen, it at least gives a potential thief a hard time, which increases the chances of you or someone catching them in the act and stopping them.
6. Bicycle Pumps
Bike pumps are one of the most essential bicycle parts and accessories. Bicycle tires tend to lose pressure over time and therefore need to be pumped frequently. This helps to maintain the tire pressure at the recommended level, which in turn helps you avoid punctures. Bicycle pumps come in a variety of sizes. Choose the one that best suits your needs.
7. All-In-One Bike Tool
One of the many benefits that come with riding a bicycle instead of driving a car is the low maintenance costs. If you have an all-in-one bike tool, you can remove, loosen, tighten and adjust almost any of your bike’s parts. Whether you have an e-bike or a mountain bike, these tools are versatile and effective on all types of bikes.
