Whether you’re a long-distance cyclist or more of a short-hop, commuter-type, there are several bike essentials you should always have with you when out on a ride.
It doesn’t matter if you’re up on the mountain trails or simply nipping to the shops, accidents can happen, and your bike can fault at any time, so you need to be prepared for all possibilities.
So saddle up; we’re off for a ride (bike essentials packed, of course)…
7 bike essentials for any distance ride
1. Spare inner tubes
As a cyclist, there aren’t many things more annoying than a punctured tyre. However, providing you’ve got the right gear with you, a puncture needn’t keep you off the road for too long.
A spare inner tube is one of the most important bike essentials—you should aim to carry at least two spares wherever you go. Changing the inner tube is much quicker and easier than fiddling around with a puncture repair kit, for example, so you can be back riding in no time.
2. Bike multi-tool
Bike multi-tools are designed to allow cyclists to make quick, basic bike repairs while out and about. There are several different types of bike multi-tools available, ranging from spoke wrench tools to chain tools—the latter of which is essential for fixing snapped chains.
A decent multi-tool will provide everything you need to make roadside repairs but consider the types of repairs you might have to make before choosing a tool.
After all, no one knows your bike quite like you do!
Related: Best bike multi-tools 2023
3. Tyre pump
Regardless of how far you’re travelling, having good tyre pressure and inflation is crucial for ensuring a smooth ride, so carrying a pump is essential.
A flat tyre can really slow you down, but there are plenty of small, lightweight pumps on the market that will do the job—you don’t have to lug around a heavy, full-sized pump.
Related: Best cycling mini pumps 2023
4. Tyre levers
Tyre levers are a lifesaver if you ever need to quickly change a tyre mid-ride—that’s why they’re one of our top bike essentials to carry. On colder days, particularly when your fingers are numb, trying to release a tyre from the wheel without the help of an appropriate tool is hard work.
That’s where tyre levers come in—small they may be, but you wouldn’t want to be without one.
Related: Best tyre levers reviewed and rated
5. Your mobile phone
Your phone is likely your only point of contact when out on the road, especially if you’re cycling in remote areas or up high in the hills with no one around.
Let’s say you get caught in a storm and need assistance, or you’re involved in an accident and need to get to a hospital quickly, your phone will be your lifeline.
Never go out on your bike without your phone—you never know when you might need it.
6. Cash
Cash might not necessarily be the first thing that comes to mind when talking about bike essentials, but it’s always a good idea to have some to hand should you need it.
Whether it’s a quick coffee at a café or money for an emergency taxi should your bike be damaged beyond immediate repair, cash can come to the rescue in more ways than one—it’s most certainly a bike essential.
7. Your ID
All fun aside, cycling can also be very dangerous if you aren’t careful. In the unfortunate event that you fall off your bike and are knocked unconscious as a result, it’s essential that anyone who may find you will be able to identify you and access emergency contact details.
Companies such as ICE ID sell cycling ID bracelets and tags which can be personalised to contain all the relevant personal information and contact details in the event of an accident.
Specialist cycling insurance through Cycleplan
Stocking up on bike essentials is one thing, but if you’re serious about cycling, you may also want to consider more long-term protection for yourself and your bike equipment in the form of specialist cycling insurance. After all, your bike and its equipment are your pride and joy.
Cover through Cycleplan protects your bike against theft, damage and loss, both in and out of the home. We also provide up to £1,000 worth of bike accessories cover for your essential items.
Learn more about specialist cycling insurance through Cycleplan and get an online quote today.
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