Carrying things on a bike doesn’t need to get too complicated. Understand what you need to be safe & comfortable. What does the list look like for Commute or Urban Riding?
Overview
The requirements for gear when riding in an urban environment is pretty straight forward, your safety is not threatened in terms of isolation from people and help.
Personnel items like your wallet and phone, then lights and a lock are on the must have list. Whether you need extra things depends on…
- the season and your commitment to riding in all types of weather
- how far you are going
- if you’ll be riding in the dark
- the purpose of your bike trip
The base gear list to follow is targeted at commute or urban riders. Additions for riding in different seasons follow the basic list.
For ideas on ways to carry your gear see How to Carry Gear – Commute, Urban Riding
Choose the gear you need for the riding conditions you will be riding in.
Town Riding – the basics
A serviced, cleaned and checked bike and a bike helmet that is secure & stable
- Clothing suitable for riding in, allows movement and won’t get caught in moving parts
- Wallet, phone, personnel items
- Waterproof/Windproof/Thermal jacket &/or over trousers for riding
- Small tool kit that includes a mini pump
- Long distance commuters or anyone new to riding may want to add padded bike pants or padded bike underwear and bike gloves
Safety Considerations
- Lights, front & rear, that match to the conditions. Choose lights for visibility for day time riding. Choose night riding lights to see by and be seen in bad weather, poor visibility and for night riding.
- A bike lock that matches the level of security needed for where you want to leave your bike
- Additional visibility aids (optional). A cover for a back pack, a vest/jacket or bright outer layer.
Additions that match to your purpose
- Commute – work items, laptop, files, lunch box
- School – books, lunch box, sports/PE gear
- Shopping/Appointments/Library – shopping bags, books
SUMMER
- Sunscreen, sun glasses
- Water
AUTUMN
- Long sleeve top
- Merino base layer next to your skin
- Full finger gloves
- Longer length in riding clothing (3/4, capri style)
WINTER
- Extremity protection – neck warmer, head band, beanie, winter gloves
- Long sleeve merino/thermal base layer next to your skin
- Lights/Visibility aids
- Full length pant or waterproof over trousers
SPRING
- Long sleeve top
- Wind protection or thermal layer
Your bike riding success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solutions.
Buying Guides
Bike Bag Buying Guide
See all your bike bag, basket & pannier options for riding. Be guided to the right buying decision for the riding you do.
How to Carry Gear - Commute, Urban Riding
A great story that shows you all the options for carrying gear in urban environments.
How to Carry Gear - Bike Path, Trail Riding
If you ride on bike paths, easy trails or tracks and want to carry gear with you then this story shows you the options.
Riding with Kids Attached to your Bike
When it comes to taking your kids with you on your bike their are lots of options. What would work best for your family?
Town Riding - Am I Safe?
When you go out for a ride what will keep you safe? Do you need to plan or prepare in a better way? Lets find out.
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