It’s not all about the bike. Cycling accessories can make or break your cycling experience. There are many accessories available for you and your bike. But, how do you determine what you should you spend your hard-earned money on? Whether you’re a casual rider, a daily commuter, or a pro cyclist, there are countless add-ons to make your ride even better. Payflex outlines the must-have cycling accessories you shouldn’t get on the road without.
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Helmets
Head injuries are the main cause of long-term disabilities and fatalities in cycling accidents. Therefore, a helmet is the most important cycling accessory you can get. Moreover, wearing a cycling helmet contains reflective strips which makes you more visible to drivers before sunrise or during the evening.
Thousand Heritage Collection Helmet
POC Ventral Air Spin – Prismane Red Matt – R4795
GIANT CCC REV MIPS TEAM GLOSS ORANGE R2740
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Lights
Whether it is a rear light or a front light, we can’t emphasise the importance of having a bike light enough. Firstly, bike lights are essential for your safety if you’re cycling at night or in rain or fog. Secondly, lights are vital in helping to illuminate the road. The bottom line is riders need to stay visible in all conditions, making bike lights an absolute essential.
GARMIN – Varia RTL515 Light – R4099
GARMIN – VARIA UT 800 FRONT LIGHT – R3449
Lezyne L/Set Front KTV Drive 200 BLK – R410
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Lock
A bike lock might be the only thing that stands in between having a bike or not. As a result, a lock is an essential cycling accessory especially if you plan on leaving your bike unattended. Most importantly, bike thieves have several tools at their disposal, so make sure you invest in a strong and durable lock.
Universal MTB Folding Password Security Anti-Theft Bicycle Code Lock – R549
Ryder Combination Coil Lock – R190
Copper Cable Security Bicycle Lock R442
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Multi-tool/Repair Kit
Regardless of how sturdy your bicycle is, you may need to do minor repairs and maintenance while on the road. Therefore, it always pays to be prepared. As a result, always make sure you have a multi-tool, pump, a patch kit, spare tubes, assorted wrenches, zip ties, torch and duct tape.
Speed master puncture repair kit – R35
Victorinox Swiss Champ Red 91mm – R1649
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Pump it up
No one escapes the odd puncture. Every cyclist needs a good pump to keep their tyres performing as they should. Keep a track pump at home and use it regularly to keep your tyre pressure up and prevent punctures on the road. In addition, it’s also a good idea to keep a mini pump for the road. For instance, a pocket-sized pump isn’t ideal for long-term maintenance. Moreover, if you have a flat tyre while you’re on the go, a mini pump that can be attached to your frame provides enough air to get home. Above all, you will need to understand not only how to pump a tyre but change one during emergencies.
Lezyne Pocket Drive Pump BLK – R475
Lezyne Sport Drive HV S Pump Grey – R345
Lezyne Steel Digital Drive Floor Pump – R1325
Birzman salute shock pump – R899
- Bottle cage
Bottle cages aren’t usually the most exciting component on your bike. But it is important to always stay hydrated. Above all, you need to look that holds your bottles securely on the road on even the toughest terrain.
Ryder water bottle cage – R110
Carbonworks lightweight 8g bottle cage – R1799
TriMax Rear Hydration System V17 – R1199
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GPS
Whether you’re trying a new trail, or riding in unfamiliar terrain, it is vital to know where you are going at all times. As a result, a GPS is a must-have when it comes to cycling accessories. A top of the range GPS will have a compass, calorie counter, altitude change, pre-loaded maps, waterproof and shockproof features and street maps for turn-by-turn bike navigation. Firstly, ride info is easier to read and access during bike rides without having to unlock the device. Secondly , a GPS can be an important tool in helping improve your performance. Moreover, it won’t use up all your much-needed cellphone battery in case of an emergency. Further, GPS devices will provide you with a rich and complete log of each bike trip.
Wahoo Elemnt Roam Bicycle Computer – R7999
GARMIN EDGE 530 PERFORMANCE BUNDLE – R8999
Elemnt Mini GPS Bike Computer – R2199
Giant Computer NEOS GPS – R1599
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Sunglasses
Cyclists often neglect wearing the correct eyewear. But, if you’ve ever had something in your eye while traversing through SA’s scenic streets, you’ll know how annoying it can be. As a result, it is vital to invest in cycling-specific sunglasses. Firstly, cycling-specific sunglasses are generally lightweight, with a mix of interchangeable lenses. Secondly, they offer a large field of vision to ensure your view is not obstructed. Most importantly, it’s always a good idea to also check for a comfortable fit on your head. In addition, make sure you also check that your glasses also fit with your helmet.
100% S2 – MATTE METALLIC VIPERIDAE – BRONZE MULTILAYER MIRROR LENS -R4255
100% S3 – PINK – HIPER BLUE MULTILAYER MIRROR LENS – R3795
Delta Lime Green Mirror – R3050
