Five Bike Accessories Everyone Should Have

If there's one thing we all have in common, it is our love for gadgets. We love gizmos that make our lives easier. And if you're a bicycle rider, some gadgets are more than just convenient. Here are some items that no bike rider should be without.

But first, you need to examine how you ride your bicycle. Do you enjoy an easy trip through the neighborhood once in a while, or maybe down to a local store on an errand? Or do you go on trails with your mountain bike for hours? The answer will determine what kind of extras you should get.

1. Bike rack

A rack is a must for anyone who wants to ride in a location a good distance from home. You have to be able to transport your bicycle there without riding it. And it's best to get a rack that can fit more than one bike. You never know when you'll want to go riding with family or friends, or even if going solo, bring along a spare bike just in case. Just make sure you get a bike rack that holds your bicycle securely with the least amount of movement of the wheels or handlebars. And if your rack goes on the top of your car rather than the back, be mindful of the extra height when driving through tunnels or underpasses.

2. Bicycle Computer

Some might argue how helpful this is but if you like to track your progress it is a useful tool. These computers track mileage, trip time, clock time and speed to name a few. You can go simple or fancy depending on the stats you want to measure.

3. Water Bottle

This comes as a standard on many bicycles today, but if you don't have one, you need to add it. The first time you take a long drink after a hard ride, you'll be happy you added it.

4. Pedal Clips

Clips are very useful for keeping your feel from slipping off the pedals. It may seem that this makes it more difficult to stop, especially to a new bike rider, because you have to take your feet out of the clips before putting them down. But in reality, pedal clips make it easier on your feet.

5. Bike panniers

Panniers are just a fancy name for bike bags. They can carry all kinds of needed items. For example, you can put in them snacks, an extra jacket just in case bad weather comes up, a phone, first aid kit, and tools for emergency repairs. And having a bag attached to your bike is much safer than wearing a backpack or purse that can slide around and make you unbalanced as you ride. Using panniers leaves you free to concentrate on the ride.