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Essentials for Bike Commuting


Traffic, high gas prices, and being healthier are just a few reasons we think you should ride your bike more. In fact, many small trips can actually be more feasible and even quicker on a bike compared to a car. Now that the weather is warm, we encourage you to ditch your car in favor of a bike, even if it's just for a short while. You may find that you like it and want to make it a habit. Many of our employees bike to work regularly, and we've got all the gear you need to make your bike trips just as easy as those in a car. Here's our list of essentials for the bike commuter:

All items available in-store only, please see store for details.  

da brim helmet visor

Da Brim Helmet Visor

If you’ve ever worn a floppy hat in the summer you know how essential it is to keep your neck and face shaded from the sun. So why not apply this same methodology to a bike helmet? The Da Brim Helmet visor attaches directly to any bike helmet without modifications or sticky adhesives. It may look goofy, but it’s lightweight, water-resistant, and will keep you shaded from the sun while you ride. Just ask our very own Ryan Evans about the Da Brim, he’s been using one for years!  

knog cobber

Knog Cobber front and rear lights 

Lights are an absolutely essential piece of equipment for any cyclist riding on the road with cars. Making sure you are visible and seen by approaching cars will ensure you have a safe ride, both during the day and at night. The Knog Cobber is the world's only bike light with a 330 degree beam angle, designed to demand attention from all angles. Available in multiple sizes, the Cobber is easily mounted onto the bike with a strap and activated with a simple push of a button. Grab a set of these so you can ride confidently. 

spurcycle original bell

Spurcycle Original Bell

Just as a car has a horn, a bike should have a bell. Making a clear, audible noise allows you to be heard by other cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians. The distinguished ring that a bell leaves in a person’s ear is effective at warning them of your presence. This sound is generally associated with a bicycle, and it lets them know you are approaching. In terms of bells for your bike, if you’re gonna get it then why not have one of the best on the market? Spurcycle makes a tried and true bicycle bell that’s sleek, compact, and most importantly loud. It may be tiny, but it rings for a whopping 14 seconds to ensure that you’ll be heard. 

fenders

Fenders

Getting wet sucks, especially when you’re riding your bike, so grab a pair of fenders. Fenders mount onto your bike’s frame and fork to protect you from any water and debris your tires may pick up while you ride. They make a tremendous difference when you are riding roads that are wet from drizzle, recent rain, or snowmelt. If you’re biking to work, they'll protect your nice clothes from being ruined on your ride. 

frame bag

Frame or Handlebar bag

Frame and bar bags are a great way to add storage directly onto your bike. These bags are mounted by straps directly onto your frame or handlebar, and are a great place to store valuables like a phone, keys, and wallet. Bar bags are great for quick access to items during a ride, and frame bags generally provide a more sizable storage compartment for larger items. Either way, you can't go wrong with some extra storage. 

bicycle rear rack

Rear Rack

Think of a bicycle rear rack like cross rails on the roof of a car - it provides a means of storage and a way to strap various accessories to your bike. A rear rack is the foundation of any good commuter bike setup, enabling you to increase your bike’s hauling capacity and stop you from wearing a backpack. Most rear racks can mount directly to a bike’s frame or seat post, and we’ve got a plethora of options in stock to choose from. Stop by with your bike to see if we have one that’s right for you. 

bicycle panniers

Panniers

If you use your bicycle for transport, it’s much easier to haul gear on your bike instead of on your back. The best option for this is usually a set of panniers, a bags that attach to your bike’s rear rack. Panniers come in various sizes so you can choose some that fit your needs. They also sit over the rear wheel providing a stable ride and easy steering. For commuting, you’ll probably want two to fit all of your gear. There are also plenty of waterproof options should you face any inclement weather on your ride. 

Giro Ethos MIPS Helmet

The Giro Ethos is hands down the best helmet for bike commuting. It features reflective webbing, integrated and rechargeable led lights, and even remote controlled turn signals. A good helmet is a must for riding in busy areas, and the Ethos is about as well thought out as you can get in a piece of protective equipment. There are lights all over this thing that have varying brightness settings and the lights also double up as indicators powered by a bar-mounted remote. Though it is pricey at $249.99 retail, you get a lot of tech for that price. Besides, you can’t really put a price on your personal safety. 

ethos helmet
ethos remote
flat repair kit

Flat Repair Kit

This is more of a kit rather than an individual item. If you ride your bike it’s essential to know how to repair a flat tire should one happen, and half that battle is having the right supplies to do it. The easiest way to accomplish this is by having the supplies right on your bike, preferably in a bag under your saddle or on the frame. A good flat repair kit consists of just a few items: a tube, an inflation device, and a tire lever. Make sure you have the right size tube for your bike; the size is usually listed on the side of the tire. A hand pump or Co2 cartridge works great for an inflation device, and both can be easily stored on the bike. Lastly a tire lever will allow you to pry the tire off/on of your rim so you can insert a new tube. If you’re unsure of how to change a flat tire just stop by and ask us to show you, we’re happy to help!

abus bordo folding lock

Abus Bordo Folding Lock

For those that need to be away from their bike at their destination, a lock will keep it secure and give you peace of mind that it won’t get stolen. We all know it’s important to lock your bike, but no one wants to carry around a bulky U-lock that’s heavy and takes up space. Fortunately, Abus has a solution with their Bordo locks. These locks fold up neatly into themselves and can even be mounted directly on a bike. They’re just as strong as a traditional U-lock and take up half the size. Prices start around $69.99 for the Bordo Lite Mini and get more expensive depending on size and features. There’s even a model that has a built-in alarm - the Bordo SmartX 6500.  

looney bin adjustable bottle cage

Looney Bin adjustable bottle cage

The looney bin is not your standard water bottle cage. This cage can expand and contract to accommodate almost any size bottle, eliminating the need to use a standard sized water bottle. It’s easily adjusted by the simple turn of a dial.