This is the second article of “Getting into cycling series.” You can read our first article here.
The article will be shedding some light onto the essential and recommended cycling gear you need in order to get going.
1. Cycling Helmets
Safety first! It is always best to be expect the unexpected. Life is not a simple equation, despite all your efforts one of the numerous variables can have significant impact on the outcome. Just because you are cautious riding your cycles, does not mean that everyone else is. Therefore, helmets are a must cycling gear. They comes in all shapes and sizes, pick the one that you find the most comfortable. Riding a bike the helmet on definitely makes you look cool.
2. Eye Protection
Second most important item on the list is getting yourself a pair of cycling glasses. It is not just the sunlight you are protecting your eyes from, all sorts of dust particles and flying insects can accidentally make contact with your eyes. Trust me, it is nasty when it happens, in extreme cases can even land you in a dangerous situation. Your need your vision to be able to ride comfortably. There are all sorts of eye protections that are designed specifically for cyclists. You can even find helmets that come with one.
3. Water Bottles/Hydration Pack
Keeping yourself hydrated on long bike rides is essential. First thing you should do is getting a bottle with cage or a Hydration Pack. Trust me, you don’t want to end up in a situation where you have to cut your ride short due to dehydration. Staying hydrated is a must for cyclists.
4. Tools to track your activity
While you can do cycling without any tool tracking your activity. It is strongly recommended that you get a bicycle computer, fitness tracker or a smart watch to keep track of your activity. You can even use a smartphone. You can even maintain an online record of your activities by getting on platforms like Strava and Komoot etc
5. Bicycle Lights
This is important especially if you are going to be cycling during the evenings. You would need a frond light and a backlight to make sure your bicycle is visible.
6. Mini Bicycle Bump & Spare Tube
Last but not the least essentials that is a must for any cyclist is a mini bicycle pump and a spare tube. Flat tyres are a reality, nobody likes getting a flat tyre in middle of ride. Getting these two things is essential if you run into some bad luck.
Best of luck on getting started with a new hobby.