Bike Accessories: 6 Gadgets for the Road

If there’s one thing that people like, it’s gadgets and especially bike accessories. They simplify our lives, making it easier to manage. When you ride a bike certain gadgets are necessary, while others are just plain fun.

Where do you ride your bike? Maybe you ride through hills and trails, experiencing nature for hours. If so, your accessories will differ slightly from someone who takes short rides through the neighborhood, or that goes to the park for a leisurely ride with the family.  Here are some must-have gadgets for any bike rider:

Bike rack

If you want to explore different locations you’ll need a way to transport your bike, especially if the distance is too far to ride. Your rack needs to be able to carry more than one bike, especially if you ride with your family or friends. If you are a competitor, you can bring a spare bike for practice or in case of problems. When looking for a good bike rack, make sure you find one that secures the bicycles without allowing the wheels and handlebars much wiggle room. If you choose a rack that sits on top of your car, remember the increased height when going under overpasses or through tunnels.

Bike computer

While some might argue how helpful a bike computer really is, if you like to track your progress it might be a useful tool for you. These computers track such things as mileage, trip time, clock time and speed. You can choose as simple or elaborate of a computer as you like, depending on what you want it to measure. See a great bike computer

Water bottle clip

Many bikes come standard with a water bottle clip, but if yours does not, you can always add one. While bicycling, just as with any other exercise, you need to make sure you stay hydrated. Having an easily accessible supply of water is important when taking long bike rides, and if you are ever in an accident water will come in handy.

Bike pedal clips

Bike clips keep your feet from slipping when you ride. Clips may seem daunting for a casual rider, as your reaction time increases when trying to stop. Make sure you slide your foot out of the clip before touching down, to prevent tripping. During a long ride, bike pedal clips can give tired feet a rest.

Bike Panniers

This bag or basket carries all your necessary items, right on your bike. Whether you are going on a long and rigorous ride or a ride with the entire family, this bag can be stocked with a first aid kit, took kit, snacks, jackets or a blanket, and your cell phone. Wearing a bag while you ride can knock off your balance and cause an accident, especially if it shifts around. Using this accessory frees you to move easily while giving you a place to store almost anything you need to carry.

Bike headlight

I am sure that you know that if you ride at night you need some type of lighting to see and for others to see you.  Some states and cities require you use lights at night. If you like to ride trails at night your needs for a bike light are going to be different than someone who primarily rides in the city streets. I like the flashing headlight as your visibility increases dramatically to oncoming traffic. 

Want to trick out your bike? Follow the above suggestions to find the right accessories for you. There are many accessories to choose from, anything from fun to convenient and most important, Bicycle Safety!