10 Cycling Supplies You Need Before a Long Ride
Imagine you’re about to embark on a long cycling adventure. You’ve packed your bags, made sure your bike is in good working order, and now it’s time to make sure you have all the supplies you need. Here are 10 essential cycling supplies you should never hit the road without.
- A spare tube: You never know when you’re going to get a flat tire, so it’s always good to be prepared. Make sure you have a few spare tubes with you in case of an emergency.
- A pump: Once you have your spare tube, you’re going to need a way to inflate it. Bring along a hand pump or CO2 cartridge so you can quickly get back on the road.
- Tire levers: These will come in handy if you do get a flat tire. You’ll need to remove the old tire before you can put on the new one, and tire levers make that process much easier.
- A multi-tool: A multi-tool is an essential piece of equipment for any cyclist. It can be used for everything from fixing a broken chain to adjusting your saddle height. You can get a small, lightweight tool that has all the basics, or a larger one that has more features.
- A water bottle: It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re cycling, especially if you’re going on a long ride. Bring along a water bottle (or two) so you can drink whenever you need to.
- A headlamp: A headlamp is essential if you’re going to be cycling at night or in low-light conditions. It will help you see where you’re going, and it will make you more visible to other cyclists and motorists.
- Snacks: You’ll probably get hungry while you’re riding, so it’s a good idea to pack some snacks. Energy bars, trail mix, and fruit are all good options that will give you the fuel you need to keep going.
- A map: If you’re cycling in unfamiliar territory, make sure you have a map with you so you don’t get lost. A GPS device can also be helpful, but a map is a good backup in case your batteries die.
- A phone: A phone can be a useful tool while you’re cycling. You can use it to call for help if you have an accident, or to navigate with GPS. Just make sure you keep it charged!
- ID and money: Make sure you have some form of identification with you in case of an emergency, as well as some cash in case you need to buy anything while you’re out on the road.
Now that you know what supplies you need, it’s time to hit the road! Remember, safety comes first, so make sure you’re prepared before embarking on your next cycling adventure.