Congratulations! You’ve made the decision to start cycling. There could be many reasons for this, fitness, weight loss, just for fun, or wanting to crush a century ride with your friends. The reason is personal, it’s just great that you’ve made that decision and will get out riding. You’ll need some essential cycling gear, we want to help you find the best stuff.
At a minimum you’ll need a bike and helmet. With that you can go for a short ride around the block, but if you want to go farther, faster and more comfortably, you need to be prepared. The items I talk about below are what I think are essential for any ride over about 30 minutes.
Embarking on the journey of road cycling is an exhilarating experience, but ensuring you have the right gear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable ride. In this blog post, we will explore the essential cycling gear that every new road cyclist should have, divided into three key categories: personal items, clothing, and a repair kit.
Personal Items that you need to have on every ride:
Identification –
Carrying identification while cycling is a safety measure that should not be overlooked. In case of an emergency, having your identification on hand can be vital for medical professionals or first responders. A simple identification card with your name, emergency contact information, and any relevant medical details can make a significant difference.
Emergency Contact –
Always have an emergency contact card or information easily accessible. This ensures that if anything happens during your ride, someone can be quickly notified. Include the name, phone number, and relationship of your emergency contact person.
Road ID –
This company has some great options for allowing athletes to have ID & Emergency contact info on them when training. They have options that allow you to have this essential information on your wrist, neck, shoe, or watch. This is a product that I enthusiastically endorse, I’ve been using their wrist ID & shoe ID for cycling and running for many years. The durability is great and the price is very reasonable.
Cell Phone –
A cell phone is a must-have item for road cyclists. In addition to being a means of communication, it can be used to call for assistance in case of a breakdown or emergency. Make sure your phone is fully charged before hitting the road. One question I get is where to carry my cell phone? If you are wearing a cycling jersey, the back pocket will usually work well. I will typically put my phone in a waterproof pouch, or the low-cost solution is a plastic baggie. Here’s a waterproof pouch I’ve used in the past that works really well and it’s pretty inexpensive:
Hydration –
Staying hydrated is crucial during any physical activity, and cycling is no exception. Carry a water bottle or a hydration pack to replenish fluids and maintain your energy levels throughout the ride. Dehydration can affect your performance and overall well-being, so always have water on hand. I typically like using water bottles vs a hydration pack for road cycling. Water bottles are just way less bulky than a hydration pack. I like these insulated bottles from Camelbak. They fit in most bottle holders and if you fill them with ice and water, will keep it cool on your longer rides.
Clothing items that will make your rides more enjoyable
Cycling Specific Gloves –
Cycling gloves provide comfort and protection. They offer padding to reduce pressure on your hands and absorb shock from the road. Additionally, gloves enhance your grip on the handlebars and protect your hands in case of a fall.
Padded Shorts –
Investing in padded cycling shorts is essential for long rides. The padding, often made of chamois, provides cushioning and reduces friction, preventing chafing and discomfort. Padded shorts contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable cycling experience. If you’re interested in more detail on why I recommend padded cycling shorts, please check out this article
Cycling Shoes –
Cycling shoes are designed with a stiff sole to optimize power transfer from your legs to the pedals. They often come with cleats that attach to the pedals, providing a secure connection. This enhances efficiency and control while cycling. I’ve also written a post about the Shimano SPD-SL Pedals that I’ve used for years and love, check it out!
Cycling Jersey –
A cycling jersey is more than just a stylish garment. It is designed with breathable materials to wick away sweat, keeping you cool and comfortable. Pockets in the back allow you to carry small items such as energy gels or your phone.
Repair Items – When things just need to be fixed on your ride
Seat Bag or Repair pouch for jersey pocket –
Having a seat bag on your bike allows you to carry these items with ease. Or you could buy a pouch for your jersey pocket that could fit many of the items.
Pump or CO2 Inflator –
Flat tires are a common occurrence in cycling. A portable pump or CO2 inflator is crucial for reinflating your tires on the go. Ensure you know how to use them before your first ride. My preference is for the CO2 inflator. You can carry a couple of extra cartridges and it makes airing up your tire much faster.
Spare Tubes –
Carry at least one spare inner tube that is compatible with your bike’s tire size. In case of a puncture, replacing the tube is a quicker solution than patching it on the spot. Make sure you know which size tube fits your bike and also how to change it before you have to do this on the side of the road.
Tire Levers or Quick Stick –
Tire levers help you remove the tire from the rim, making it easier to replace the tube. Quick sticks are compact alternatives for levering the tire off without damaging the rim. I’ve found the Crank Brothers Speedier Lever to be superior to other tire levers, once you’ve used it a couple of times it makes changing a tire easy.
Bike Multitool –
A bike multitool is a compact device that includes various tools for basic repairs and adjustments. It usually includes Allen wrenches, screwdrivers, and a chain breaker. A multitool can be a lifesaver when minor adjustments are needed during your ride. You’re most likely to use this for adjusting seat height, so make sure it has the right adapter to do that adjustment.
Conclusion:
Being prepared with the right gear is essential for a successful and enjoyable road cycling experience. Whether it’s personal items for safety, specialized clothing for comfort, or a repair kit for unforeseen issues, each piece of gear plays a crucial role. The benefit of being prepared is a smoother, more enjoyable ride, allowing you to focus on the thrill of cycling and explore new routes with confidence. So, gear up, stay safe, and pedal on!