Bike Gear

Before you go out for your ride you will need a few accessories. Whether you are riding around the neighborhood or going on a week long tour, having the right gear can make the ride safer and more enjoyable.

BAGS-A bag can go under the seat, on the handlebars or on a rack that is mounted over the rear wheel. A wedge shaped bag can carry your ID, spare inner tubes and patch kit, or tools. Larger bags, like the Topeak trunk bags, that mount to racks over the rear wheel are good for clothes or a picnic lunch.

 CAR CARRIERS-Transporting your bicycle to the trail can be a challenge. A car carrier can be mounted to just about any car. Car Carriers come in a variety of models able to carry any where from 2 to 5 bicycles. We recommend the Hollywood and Saris brands of car carriers. Both companies off recommendations for what type of rack will fit your car. Hollywood fit list. Saris fit list.

CYCLE COMPUTER-Knowing how far you have ridden and how fast you are going can be fun and informative, especially if you are training. Most cycle computers will show you your speed, distance, odometer, timer, and a clock.  

LIGHTS-There are two types of lights that can be used on bicycles. Lights to allow you to see and lights that allow you to be seen.

Lights that allow you to see are usually 5 watts or higher bulbs, like the Night-Rover by Cygo Lite, and use a rechargeable battery. Lights that allow you to be seen generally use L.E.D. bulb and operate off of AA and AAA batteries. Cat Eye  and Blackburn are just two of the companies that offer inexpensive lights that will give you 100s of hours of life.

LOCK-(MUST HAVE)-Protect your bike. If you leave it you could lose it. Locks come in a variety of styles. The most secure locks are the solid U shaped locks made by Kryptonite, OnGuard, and others. U- Locks are stronger then cable locks but are also heavier to carry. Cable locks are more flexible and easier to carry. But are easier to cut. Register your bicycle with an organization like the National Bike Registry to help recover it if your bike is stolen.

PATCH KIT-A patch kit is used in an emergency when you get a flat tire while on the ride and can't replace the inner tube. The kit includes vulcanizing patches, cement & a reusable tube scuffer.

PUMP-There are generally three types of pumps that can be used on a bicycle. The reservoir or floor pump which is mostly used at the home. The frame mounted mini pump which can be carried on the bicycle and CO2 cartridges. It is best to have a floor pump with a pressure gauge at home and a frame mounted pump or CO2 cartridges to carry with you on the bike. It is not recommended to use an air hose at a gas station. These usually put to much air in to fast and can cause the inner tube to explode.

TUBE-The inner tube holds the air that keeps the tires inflated. There are two types of valves. The first is the Presta valve. Presta valve tubes are commonly found on high pressure road style tires and higher end mountain bicycle tires. The second type is the Schrader valve. The Schrader valve is used on virtually all automobile tires and lower pressure bicycle tires. Keeping the tires inflated to their maximum pressure will help to prevent flats. Be sure to bring a spare with you on your ride.

WATER BOTTLE-(MUST HAVE) Dehydration not allowed. Riding can be hard work. Keeping hydrated is essential. Many bicycles have the ability to mount a water bottle holder (cage) to the frame of the bicycle that allows you to carry a water bottle. A water bottle cage can also be mounted to the handlebars on most bicycles.

RACKS-Rear racks for the bicycle can be used to carry bags. Racks can be permanently mounted to the bicycle or attached with a quick release that mounts to the seat post.

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SEATS and SEAT PADS-Just like shoes, gloves and the rest of the gear you depend, the seat should fit perfectly. It is one of the most personal contact points a rider has with the bike. At Laurel Bicycle we sell Body Geometry saddles by Specialized Gel saddles by Avenir and Schwinn exerciser saddles. We also stock gel pads that will go over existing saddles.

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Revised: February 26, 2008 .