Bike Commuting Essentials
More and more people every day are discovering the benefits of commuting to work and otherwise getting around town by bicycle.
Bikes are booming these days as more and more people discover (and rediscover!) the benefits of cycling. Freedom, joy, fitness, health, transportation, family connection — whatever the reason for opting for two wheels, one thing is for certain: bikes are essential.
But what are the essentials you need for your rides?
This is part three of a three-part “Essentials” series. Get road riding essentials here and mountain biking essentials here!
The bike
The first essential needed for commuting and otherwise getting around town by bike is, of course, a bike!
Any type of bike in good working condition will do, but a model designed for specific needs will prove to be more comfortable and efficient.
Factors to consider when choosing a commuter bike include how far you’ll be traveling, how fast you’d like to go, how much effort you want to put into your ride, and how much cargo you’ll be carrying.
For example, consider an electric bike if you’d like the option of arriving at your destination fresh as a daisy yet work up a sweat on the way home.
If you’re planning to use your bike for groceries and other cargo, you’ll want to choose a model that can accommodate appropriate carrying options.
Is an exceptionally comfortable ride your priority? You’ll want a model designed to seat you upright, with nice wide handlebars and a plush seat.
Learn more about the wide range of electric and traditional urban bikes we carry here.
Express your style with one of Electra’s many unique helmet designs.
Helmet
Besides a bike, the most essential thing you need for getting around by bike is a helmet. Even if you’re just taking a quick spin down to the corner store, pop that lid on your noggin. It goes without saying, your brain is far too important to risk injury to it.
Your helmet should be no more than three to five years old (depending on use) as the materials it’s made from degrade over time. Also, be sure to replace it any time it’s in a crash, even if there’s no visible damage. For ultimate visibility, choose a style in hi-vis yellow.
Learn more about helmets and the models we recommend here.
Bontrager’s ultra-bright, all-weather headlights and tail lights provide visibility at night and help you stand out during daylight hours.
Lights
A set of lights is up there in importance with a quality helmet. Be sure to run front and rear day-time running lights (DRLs) day and night, and don’t forget to keep them charged. Learn more about how DRLs significantly boost your visibility here.
Tire care and tools
Don’t let a flat or other minor mechanical derail your day. Carry a flat repair kit and multi-tool, and know how to use them. Check out this video from Trek that shows you how to change a flat, and feel free to ask our crew for the lowdown.
Apparel
You can get around town in just about any type of clothing that’s comfortable to ride in (consider something bright for safety), but it’s good to have some essentials on hand in case of inclement weather. A breathable, waterproof jacket or shell is a must. Add rain pants and water resistant shoe covers for optimal comfort.
If you’re breaking a sweat on your commute to work, a change of clothes and a way to spruce yourself up are essential as well. And on those especially long commutes, you might find a chammy indispensable, too.
Get detailed suggestions on what to wear when getting around town by bike here.
Panniers are a simple, easy and convenient way to carry groceries, whatever you need for work, and so much more.
Storage
Whether you’re commuting to work or running errands by bike, you’ll need to have a way to carry things. There’s a wide range of options that boil down to personal preference. Choose from panniers, baskets, backpacks, hydration packs (with room for extra items), and messenger bags.
Cargo bikes have even more carrying capacity and can even haul the kiddos when necessary!
Of course, if you’re committed to a rain or shine commute, it’s imperative that your storage be waterproof.
Nutrition and hydration
Definitely eat a decent meal and hydrate before setting out, as not having the appropriate fuel in the tank can cause you to make poor judgment calls that affect your safety.
Unless you’re commuting a long way, carrying water and nutrition isn’t absolutely vital; however it sure wouldn’t hurt to do so just in case.
Bike lock
Bike thieves are everywhere so a solid lock is crucial if you don’t have access to a bike locker or secure parking at your destination. Check out the section on keeping your bike safe in our Guide to Getting Around Town by Bike for more details and recommendations.
bike law lowdown
You should be up to date on bike law in your state and community when using your bike to commute and run errands. Review this post to learn current California and Santa Cruz bike laws.
Fenders minimize water and mud spray … and look pretty dang stylish, too!
Beyond essential
Certain accessories may not be “essential” but certainly offer added safety, convenience and/or comfort.
Consider a mirror to easily check on traffic behind you, a bell to alert a pedestrian or other cyclist that you’re approaching, a handlebar holder for your smartphone, a GPS cycling computer for navigation and to track your ride stats, and/or fenders to minimize water and mud spray.
Hi-vis and/or reflective leg bands and/or hi-vis shoe covers will boost your visibility a great deal. These items stand out especially well due to your legs and hands being in motion.
Protect your hands and absorb shock from the road with a good pair of cycling gloves. Gloves come in many different styles and materials; come by to check out our selection and feel free to try them on. Be sure to protect your eyes as well with cycling eyewear which reduces glare and protects from UV rays and debris.
If you’re wearing loose pants, a leg band around the bottom of your right leg to prevent the chain from catching on the fabric. Choose hi-vis and/or reflective for added safety.
Finally, cycling gloves absorb shock from the road, while eyewear can reduce glare and protect your eyes from UV rays and debris.
For more information on bikes, apparel, protection, and accessories, browse the Trek website, then swing by or give us a call to see what we have in stock. Special orders available.
Enjoy commuting and otherwise getting around town by bike! Tag us in your social posts — we’d love to share your stoke!