Ah! I didn't think of that....
Let us take the scenario of someone joining their first ten-mile bike ride. They gradually extend that to longer social rides and then to a three-day bike tour staying overnight in hotels or B&Bs. We can slowly build our list of accessories from this scenario.
In addition to the required items some specific suggestions are provided though do look at current product reviews.
The advice below suggests a rear rack and panniers as that covers all bases but there are other approaches.
The product and brand suggestions to tend to be more expensive; if you plan shorter rides in dry conditions then less expensive options will suffice.
Principle One
Try and consider how your cycling might develop and buy accessories that will meet future needs such as longer day rides or multi-day trips.
Principle Two
If keeping your bike light is important then build in lightweight accessories such as titanium bottle holders.
Principle Three
It's only worth carrying it if you know how to use it; bike pumps can be tricky to use so become familiar at home before heading out on a ride.
Principle Four
Accessories may not be compatible with your bike so if in doubt get your local bike shop to order and fit items.
Principle Five
Your local bike shop is a business and needs to make a profit; they are incredibly friendly and helpful but they do need some of your cash.
Compatibility
Remember that there are questions of compatibility with your bike
- There is limited space on handlebars for your light, cycle computer, bell, bag and bottle holder.
- Does your planned handlebar bag work with brake and gear cables and can you still access the bag while cycling?
- Your bike might not have the fixing points for bottle holders and racks though there will be solutions.
- Many bike rear lights attach to the seatpost but will that work if you add a saddle bag?
- Large saddle bags are popular but do you have enough clearance between saddle and rear wheel?
Your first 10-mile ride
As punctures do happen you need the kit to recover from a puncture - or multiple punctures - on a single ride. If in doubt, walk into your local bike shop with your bike. Storage might be large pockets or a small rucksack. You will need:
- One or two spare inner tubes of the correct size, valve length and valve type
- A puncture repair kit; essential if you run out of spare inner tubes
- A set of two or three strong tyre levers though with correct technique one may suffice
- An inflation device such as a bike pump with an attachment compatible with your valve type
Suggestions:
- Continental inner tubes
- Schwalbe inner tubes
- Zefal Puncture Repair Kit Road
- Lezyne Power Tyre Levers - Pair
- Lezyne Digital Pressure Drive (expensive)
- Lezyne Sport Drive HV (affordable)
Your first 20-mile ride
As you cycle for longer hydration becomes important as it would on a longer walk or gym session. Storage may be a rucksack but that runs the risk of leakage and a heavier rucksack on a bike is uncomfortable.
You will need:
- One or two water bottle holders attached to your bike
- One or two water bottles that fit in the holders without the risk of them bouncing out
Suggestions:
- King Cage have options. I use the steel classic with a bent top though a flat top is available.
- Camelbak have many options
Your first 30-mile ride
If we assume 10mph, a coffee stop and possibly time to get to the start of the ride then the weather will change and in winter that may means full waterproofs, a mid-layer and snacks so unless you are comfortable with a rucksack panniers are suggested as they will cover future needs such as touring.
You will need:
- A rear cycle rack
- A pair of rear panniers
Suggestions:
- Tubus racks, the Grand Tour model would meet future needs including longer tours. The second lower level attachment point allows smaller panniers to be fitted lowering centre of gravity.
- Topeak racks
- Ortlieb panniers; these hook on and off effortlessly
- Vaude panniers
Your first 30-mile ride (alternatives)
Racktop bags that sit on top of cycle racks are popular and some come with detachable panniers.
Saddle bags, handlebar bags and bento boxes are all good solutions and avoid the extra weight of a rear rack though consider how they work with other accessories.
Bike packing is very popular and various storage solutions have grown from that. Frame bags are popular but can limit access to bottles.
Conditions with poor visibility
Darkness is an obvious condition but low light, rain and mist might prompt the need for lights.
You will need:
- Front and rear lights
Suggestions:
- Cateye Ampp 200/Viz 100 Light Set
- Cateye AMPP 500S/VIZ 150 Light Set
Dealing with wet weather
Your cycle companions won't thank you if you spray them with water off your rear wheel do mudguards are helpful.
You will need:
- Front and rear mudguards
Suggestions:
An overnight stay
It is easy to overthink overnight stays where you carry your belongings. A good starting point is to consider what you take for a day ride then add any essentials.
You will need:
- Toiletries not provided by the accomodation
- Medication
- Underwear
- Clothes for the evening
Suggestions: