It's no secret that we're a nation of cyclists.No matter if you're a mud-splattered commuter, mountain biker, or weekend lycra lightning bolt, you sho
It’s no secret that we’re a nation of cyclists.No matter if you’re a mud-splattered commuter, mountain biker, or weekend lycra lightning bolt, you should always be prepared for every riding situation. When it comes to a new activity, it can be difficult to know where to start, so we’ve put together an easy-to-read checklist for new cyclists. Check out the extensive selection of cycling gear on this GO Outdoors checklist, from clothing to helmet
The appeal of road biking is that most of us have pavement just outside our front doors. You’ll find out when you step inside your local bike shop that the world of road riding can be quite complicated. The essentials for the road ahead can be difficult to find if you’re a beginner, from chain lube to pressure gauges.No matter what your experience level, a few roads biking essentials always seem to make the cut. As a general guide, you can use this road biking checklist as a baseline for essential gear. Your needs will vary based on your budget and experience.
Cycling Jersey
When you ride your bike, you can wear any old shirt, but a good cycling jersey will wick away sweat and have pockets for your keys, money, and energy bar. You can also find some pretty stylish designs for your bike that will make you look stylish.
Shoes
Depending on your bike, you’ll need a certain type of shoe. For road bikes with clip-in pedals, you will need bike shoes with cleats that fit your pedals.
Cycling shirt
Wear a close-fitting shirt to reduce wind drag. Cycling shirts are made from technical fabrics, which wick sweat away from your skin and allow it to evaporate.
Cycling shorts
You will feel more comfortable on those long rides with the padded seat. Furthermore, these shorts are made from a technical fabric that will keep you dry by wicking sweat away and allowing it to evaporate.
Cycling jacket
On a ride, it’s a good idea to layer up. Even on warm days, you can get cold due to the wind. A cycling jacket has pockets in the right places, is made to wick sweat, be breathable, and sometimes protect you from wind and rain. When you’re ready to take it off, most of them fold up so small you can store them in your winter cycling jersey back pocket.
Water bottles
On the road, it is important to stay hydrated. Many road bikes come with a water bottle holder. You can find information about staying hydrated in our nutrition section. Even a short, casual ride can be a great workout. For the best biking experience, stay hydrated. Besides water bottles and cages that mount on your bike, we also offer hydration packs that you wear around your waist or on your back.
Tire pump
An easy way to fully inflate your tires is to have a freestanding hand pump. The lightweight pump is useful if you’re training or going on long rides (more than two hours).
Spare tubes
Carry spare inner tubes on long rides in case of a puncture.
Eyewear
Glasses are always a good idea to protect against wind and debris. Ideal are sunglasses, clear glasses, or ones with interchangeable lenses.
Chain lube
You won’t need this on rides, but it’s an essential piece of kit since it keeps your chain lubricated so that your gears moving smoothly.
Gloves
waterproof cycling gloves typically are fingerless and have slight padding on the palm area to protect your hands from blisters and soreness.
Arm warmers
Most cycling tops are short-sleeved, so arm warmers will keep you warm without requiring you to change your wardrobe!
Multi-Tool
A key tool that can do a little bit of everything. Bring it with you on your bike rides or use it at home for DIY bike projects. With one, you’ll be able to fix all the simple problems that can arise on your bike. They are like eight spanners in one with fold-out Allen key tools that fit almost every bolt on a bike. You can use them if you want to change your riding position.
Emergency Information & First-Aid Kit
Motorists are known for hitting cyclists and leaving them unconscious – or worse – by the side of the road. If you need medical assistance in the future, you will be able to provide emergency services with your personal information by carrying an ID and contact information. If you don’t feel comfortable packing your ID, write down your personal information on a piece of paper you can tuck into your bike bag. Furthermore, while a miniature first-aid kit, or crash pack, isn’t a common item among cyclists, it is still useful if you or a fellow rider requires immediate medical attention. Consider bringing bandages or gauze that can treat road rash if you don’t have much room.
Tips for Road Biking Beginners
When you are putting on your gear and packing your bike bag, layout all the essential items on the floor before you secure them to your bike. You will be able to check your gear and make sure you have everything on your list. Check your bike before you leave to make sure everything is in working order. Remember your ABCs: air, brakes, and chain. You can determine the PSI of your tires by consulting the wall of your tire. Make sure the brake levers are properly engaged by squeezing them. Check your chain for excess dirt and lubrication.
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