Cycling feels simple—just you, the road, and your bike.
But a smooth ride depends on more than strong legs. What you carry makes the difference between a quick fix and a long walk home.
This guide breaks down everything a cyclist should bring, with details even seasoned riders might overlook.
Spare Tube
Punctures are the most common issue on the road. Even if you use tubeless tires, having a spare tube is smart. Tubeless sealant won’t fix large cuts or valve issues.
Tip: Store your tube in a sealed plastic bag with a bit of baby powder. The powder keeps the tube from sticking to itself and makes installation easier.
Tire Levers
These are essential for removing a tight tire from the rim. They’re small but powerful.
What to look for:
- Nylon levers prevent rim damage.
- Some levers snap together for easier storage.
- One lever often has a hook to attach to a spoke—this keeps the bead in place while you work.
Mini Pump or CO₂ Inflator
Both tools re-inflate your tire, but they work differently:
- Mini Pump: Reliable, reusable, slower.
- CO₂ Inflator: Quick, light, single-use. Cold CO₂ can cause frostbite if handled wrong—use the sleeve.
Pro tip: If you carry CO₂, bring at least two cartridges. One mistake and you’re out of luck.
Multi-tool
Things shake loose: seatposts, handlebars, bottle cages. A good multi-tool prevents small problems from ending your ride.
Key features to have:
- Hex keys (2mm to 8mm)
- Phillips and flathead screwdriver
- T25 Torx (for disc brakes)
- Chain breaker tool
Did you know? Many modern multi-tools include a spoke wrench or valve core remover—very helpful if you run tubeless.
Chain Quick Link
A snapped chain might seem like the end of the ride, but with a quick link and a chain tool (on your multi-tool), you can be rolling again in minutes.
Important: Quick links must match your chain speed (e.g., 9, 10, 11, or 12-speed). Don’t guess—check before you ride.
Water and Nutrition
Dehydration and low energy ruin rides.
- Use insulated bottles to keep water cool longer.
- Avoid sugary drinks—they can spike and crash your energy.
- Bring something salty on hot days (like salted peanuts) to help with electrolyte balance.
Surprise fact: Even short rides in cool weather dehydrate you. You lose moisture just by breathing hard.
ID and Emergency Contact Info
Always carry some form of ID. If something goes wrong, emergency responders need to know who you are.
Smart tip: Write emergency contact info on a small card or medical band. Don’t rely solely on your phone—it might be locked or broken.
Phone
Besides calling for help, your phone is a navigation tool, camera, and flashlight.
Battery saver tips:
- Lower screen brightness.
- Turn off background apps.
- Use airplane mode with GPS apps that work offline (like Komoot or Ride with GPS).
Lights (Day and Night)
Daytime lights aren’t just for night rides. They help drivers see you sooner, especially in shadowy areas or during sunrise/sunset.
Choose lights with:
- Flashing mode for visibility
- USB charging
- Battery indicators
Little-known fact: Studies show flashing front lights improve rider visibility by over 30% in daylight.
Patch Kit
This is your backup plan if you use your spare tube.
Modern patch kits include:
- Pre-glued patches (faster and cleaner)
- Sandpaper or metal scuffer to prep the tube
Pro tip: Store the patch kit in an airtight bag. If the glue dries out, it’s useless.
Zip Ties and Duct Tape
Strange repairs call for simple tools. A few zip ties and a short strip of duct tape can fix broken racks, hold brakes in place, or secure a shoe if the strap fails.
How to carry them:
- Wrap duct tape around your mini pump or seatpost.
- Tie zip ties into a loop and tuck them in your saddle bag.
Cash and Card
Not every café or store takes cards. Cash works when everything else fails.
Carry small bills—like $5s and $10s—and a coin or two if you ride near vending machines.
Gloves and Layers (Weather Dependent)
Conditions can change fast. Always carry a windproof vest or arm warmers if the weather might shift.
Tip: Gloves help with grip and protect your hands in a crash—even in warm weather.
Conclusion
You don’t need to carry everything for every ride, but having the right tools at the right time makes a big difference. Build your kit once, and you’ll avoid the mistakes others have already made.
A small saddle bag or frame pack can hold most of it—no need for a bulky backpack.
Ride prepared. Ride smarter. Let the road bring the fun, not the problems.