10 top accessories for your urban bike

Urban bicycles are a mode of transport that has gained popularity in recent years, and no wonder! Many people have realised that this is a healthy, sustainable and economical way of getting around the city. Are you one of them? With increasing demand, the variety of add-ons available to enhance the cycling experience has also increased. In this article, we share with you our list of must-have urban cycling accessories to make your journey more enjoyable and efficient.

Top 10 list of the best accessories for urban cycling

Below, don’t miss our recommendations to make getting around the city on your city bike even easier and more comfortable for you.

1. Padlock

This is an essential element to protect our bike when we park it on the street. This is where you need to invest in a good enough lock. Opting for poor quality goods is a risk not worth taking. Some of the many options available to you are as follows:

• U-shaped: They are very safe and difficult to cut. However, they can be heavy and are not very flexible.
• Chain: They have a thick, strong metal chain that can be wrapped around a pole or solid object. They are more flexible than U-shaped padlocks, but may be less secure.
• Cable: They consist of a steel cable covered with plastic and are very light and flexible. They are ideal for securing parts of the bike, such as the front wheel.

2. Helmet

Although helmets are an essential part of cycling on interurban roads, their use in urban areas depends on local regulations. In any case, the DGT recommends always carrying it. In the city, you are sharing the roads with motor vehicles, pedestrians and other cyclists, which increases the risk of collisions and accidents. A helmet is a safety feature that will help to minimise the risk of injury in such cases.

3. Lights and reflectors

We continue with more security elements. In general, city bikes are already equipped with lighting devices. Remember that, at night, it is compulsory to have a white light at the front and a red light at the rear, as is the case for motorised vehicles.

However, you may want to consider whether your bike’s standard lights provide sufficient illumination or if you would like some kind of reflector to help you gain visibility.

4. Toolkit

As the saying goes, ‘better safe than sorry’. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a bike tool kit to make it easier to deal with any minor mishaps you may have with your vehicle. A repair set or a multi-tool are items that you can carry with you comfortably so that you won’t be caught unawares.

5. Inflation pump

One aspect that should not be overlooked when cycling is tyre pressure. Did you know that without the right pressure you will need more effort to propel the bike? It is also a risk factor for an accident in the event of a collision or when trying to negotiate a pothole. Fortunately, there are very practical and easy-to-use inflation pumps that can be used to restore air to the tyres.

6. Bell

Like lights, a bell is a compulsory item according to the current traffic law. This is especially useful if you are used to riding on busy cycle paths. This way, you can alert passers-by and other road users of your presence to avoid accidents.

Between you and me, the sound they make is lovely, which is another incentive to buy one. Another advantage is that there are many alternatives on the market, so you can also use it to add a touch of originality to your bike.

7. Baby seats

What could be better than sharing your hobby with your loved ones? And this also applies to cycling – don’t think that small children can’t join you on your rides. All you need is a baby seat for your children to take part in this enjoyable activity every day. Doing things outdoors, taking them to school and spending time with the family are moments of great happiness that this gadget will help you achieve safely and effectively. All you have to do is choose the right seat for your child’s age, and that’s it!

8. Boxes and baskets

If you use your bike to run your day-to-day errands, you need a space to carry bags and other items. In this respect, wooden boxes and baskets are the best option. Not only do they provide you with a convenient and efficient way to carry your shopping, but they also add a very special touch to your vehicle.

9. Skirt cover

This is an element that is placed on the rear wheel to prevent clothing or other items from getting tangled in this part of the bicycle and damaging it. It’s definitely a useful gadget for urban cyclists and if you ride in formal or street clothes.

Skirt covers are usually made of water and wind resistant materials such as nylon or polyester. In addition, some incorporate colourful designs to add a touch of original colour to the bike itself.

10. Bicycle grips

Finally, in our list of accessories, we recommend the grips. These items ensure that your grip is optimal, stable and comfortable in equal measure. It is also a way to add style and personality to a bicycle. There are a variety of options available in different colours, materials and designs, allowing riders to personalise their bike and make it unique.

Without a doubt, these accessories for urban cycling that we have shown you will greatly improve your experience, providing you with safety and many facilities on the saddle.