Accessories

Be Prepared

Riding in the city can be sublime: it's thrilling, liberating, practical and economical.

But being a Big Apple cyclist comes with some special concerns.

Security: Locks, Chains & Cables

When securing your bike, a good U-lock is usually the best way to go. Be sure get one that is wide and deep enough to secure your frame and a wheel around some substantial "street furniture".

It's also a good idea to use a cable, chain or second U-lock to secure your other wheel to the frame or other fixture.

If you have quick-release wheels – and you do not secure them – they will be quickly released from your bicycle!
Tools & Spare Parts

Here are some tools (and other items) that a well-prepared cyclist should carry. Most of them are inexpensive ($5.00 - $15.00)

view tool kit

Listed in order of priority. You will almost certainly have occasion to use a patch kit. It is much less likely that you will need to replace a cable on the road.

Patch kit and tire levers Spare inner tube(s) Air pump (frame pump) Set of hex wrenches Small adjustable wrench* Latex/nitrile gloves Swiss Army knife or multitool First Aid kit Purell, moist toilettes or similar Spare batteries (for lights) Spare brake/gear shift cable Pliers, wire cutters (to cut cable)

* Older bikes, bikes without quick-release wheels

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Baskets, Racks & Panniers
Yes, you can take it with you. But a word of caution: a basket on the handlebars is the WORST option available.

Why?
- Loaded, it destabilizes your steering. This is an especially bad idea in the urban environment, where quick and precise handling is essential.
- It obscures your lights.
- It interferes with cables
- If you hit a bump or a pothole, your stuff is likely to go flying if it is not secured
But it looks cute. more↴
If you are regularly carrying a load, a rear rack is a better way to go:
- Relatively neutral impact on handling
- Taillight can be mounted to rack
- Many touring, commuter and hybrid bikes have fitments specifically designed for racks
- Provides platform for panniers (saddlebags)
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