These 28 Cycling Essentials Will Seriously Upgrade Your Ride—and They Start at $8





Whether you’re a weekday commuter, a weekend bike camper, or a hardcore cyclist, we’ve got suggestions to take your ride to the next level.

Keep the rain at bay with waterproof backpacks and parkas, make room for farmers’ market goodies with a sturdy basket, or pick up a new bell to stay safe on the road.
Olli Ella Rattan Bike Basket
Don’t forget to accessorize. For days when you want to peddle to the beach or park with a little lunch to-go, this handmade rattan basket is just the thing. Not only is it cute-as-all-get-out, it’s also got a long (and handily adjustable) canvas strap with brass hardware for easy toting. Attach it to your bike handles, secure it to your scooter, or sling it over your shoulder while running errands—it’s all ready to go. Photography by Rocky Luten & Ty Mecham
Velo City
For a cycling enthusiast, only the perfect bicycle will do. Enthusiasts adapt their creations to every terrain and every taste―from chic baroque bicycles with frivolous details to minimal city bikes; from remakes of classic cruisers to robust cargo bikes. Fully equipped SUV two-wheelers are ready to roam through rocky terrain, while the latest electric technologies are perfect for pushing tired muscles up the steepest climb. And don't forget the gear: independent companies are constantly releasing fashionable and functional equipment to satisfy any cyclist's needs. As one of the most sustainable, healthy, and economical means of transportation in today's metropolis, the bicycle has the power to change our future profoundly. Time to explore that future―come take a breath of fresh air with Velo 4th Gear! Photo Courtesy of Gestalten
Viva Bicycle Bell
If you find yourself yearning for simpler times, this piece by designer Oji Masanori may be just the thing to transport you the the days of yore. Manufactured in Japan by Viva Bicycle Accessories since 1974, this classic bicycle bell offers a straightforward method of communication – not to mention a touch of stylish flair – for the everyday cyclist. The retro design is made from 100% brass in a compact two-inch form that can fit handlebars from 21.1 to 23.8mm in diameter with an adjustable screw fastening. This timeless product lets you showcase your dedication to good design without breaking the bank. Available in brass, chrome, and copper finishes. Photo Courtesy of Gessato
Ottolock Cinch Lock 18"
The ultimate, all-purpose locking system. Popping into the gas station for a quick road snack, pulling off at the bodega for a cold water, or turning in for the night at a rest stop, the number of times we leave our bikes, motorcycles, or cars full of gear unattended is particularly high. The best way to ensure that your belongings are still there when you return is with Ottolock’s Cinch Lock—the small but mighty interlocking system that fastens your bike to a stand, your helmet or pack to your motorcycle, or your adventure gear to your car’s roof. The lightweight, packable design easily fits in the palm of your hand, and allows you to beat the odds of falling victim to opportunity theft when your back is turned.
Cycloc Solo Bicycle Storage
Store and display your bicycle with style and clear up some floor space while you're at it. An elegant and effortless bike storage solution for homes, offices and retail spaces, the Cycloc Solo Bicycle Storage (designed in 2006) unit features an attractive and simple locking mechanism that mounts your favorite vehicle to any interior wall space. An optional spacer is included for bikes with wider handlebars. Established in 2006 with the launch of their first product, London-based Cycloc makes simplistic bicycle storage solutions easily accessible. Cycloc is committed to providing modern and functional bicycle storage options for consumers whose main method of transportation is cycling. The most popular storage option, the Solo, comes in a variety of colors and allows for hassle-free vertical or horizontal storage; Cycloc also offers accessories such as wraps and helmet storage. Photo Courtesy of The Container Store
Thousand City Bike Helmet
Designed for urban city riding, the minimalist Heritage bike helmets are Thousand's original collection, inspired by the simplicity of vintage moto lids and the heritage colorways of the 50s and 60s. Photo Courtesy of Brooklyn Bicycle Co.
Timbuk2 Tuck Laptop Backpack
The key to a great cycling backpack is a waterproof and durable exterior (remember, you will be out in the elements en route to work). Luckily for you, this color-blocked Laptop Backpack from Timbuk2 fits the bill. Photo Courtesy of Timbuk2
Clean Motion Sonika Bluetooth Bike Speaker
Take the party along with the Sonica handlebar speaker! Clean and dynamic sound with clear bass and no-compromise design. Easy to install and remove in seconds with the silicon attachment band. Photo Courtesy of Clean Motion
Polar Thermaluxe Vacuum Insulated Stainless 21oz Bottle
The Polar Bottle Thermaluxe is a premium, vacuum insulated stainless steel bottle, designed to endure hot and cold conditions to keep your beverage fresh, no matter the adventure. Copper Shield Technology provides superior insulation and keeps drinks cold for 24 hours or hot for 12. Photo Courtesy of Urban Outfitters
Blackburn Local Basket
Though it appears humble at first blush, the Blackburn Local Basket is one of the most powerful catalysts in the cycling world. Applying it to the front or rear of a two-wheel machine initiates a chain reaction that turns a mere bicycle into an all-purpose cargo-toting self-propelled conveyance machine. Blackburn's universal swivel mounting hardware means this catalyst is compatible with virtually any adult-sized bikes—even those with disc brakes—though it does have a suggested tire clearance limit of three inches. The basket is finished with details that include a light mount, a strap hook, and a lock holster, and the included cargo net helps keep everything in its right place for the duration of the ride. Photo Courtesy of Backcountry
Wolf Tooth Components B-RAD Accessory Strap Mount
Wolf Tooth's Bottle Relocation and Accessory Device (B-RAD) is an ingenious system that optimizes storage of your trail bike with limited clearance, due to frame tolerances and shock locations. Also, it's a great addition to your gravel bike and daily commuter, as it holds spare tubes, extra bottles, and must-have items in a cleanly situated fashion. Designed to harmoniously integrate with this aftermarket mounting system, the Wolf Tooth Components B-RAD Accessory Strap Mount carries virtually any riding accessory measuring 50 to 80 millimeters in diameter. It attaches directly to Wolf Tooth's B-RAD mounting base (sold separately) with the help of an aluminum mounting bracket and stainless steel hardware. The Toughtek Grip strap is burly enough to withstand serious trail thrashings and countless miles of riding, complete with a secure hook-and-loop fastener that stays put while you're rallying over rugged stretches of trail and bumpy gravel roads. You'll find it especially useful for carrying spare tubes, extra layers, food items, or multi-tools when you're far from the help of civilization or simply commuting to work and desire a bit of extra storage. Photo Courtesy of Backcountry
Blackburn Local U-Lock
Foil would-be bike thieves with the easy to use and hard to defeat Blackburn Local U-Lock. Unlike standard, round-shackled U-locks, this one features a hexagonal hardened steel shackle that can't twist in the locking mechanism, which increases the already considerable amount of time it would take to chop the lock off your bike. A silicone sheath protects your bike from scratches and further deters thieves with increased cutting time, which increases the chances that they'll pass up your bike for one with a less intimidating lock. Each Blackburn Local U-Lock comes packaged with three keys. Photo Courtesy of Backcountry
Pedal Happy Bicycle-Mounted Wine Holder
Wine on wheels. What’s better than a glass of wine? A bottle strapped to a bicycle to open at an impromptu picnic destination—that’s what! An entire bottle fits in this stainless steel holder, which attaches to any bicycle. The bottle comes with a handcrafted vegan tanned leather strap. Choose from either light brown or mahogany. Simply slide the wine bottle into the strap and snap it shut. It’s a simple and beautiful way to carry wine no matter your destination. It even comes with a stainless steel wine bottle opener built in so you’re never stuck with an un-openable bottle. The straps are removable which allows this beautiful cover to also be used when you are not on your bike. Photography by James Ransom
Portland Design Works Loading Dock Rear Rack
You have two options: get a second set of arms surgically added onto your shoulders to help carry your groceries, books, and beer, or attach the Portland Design Works Loading Dock Rear Rack to your commuter. If you opt for the latter, you'll be stoked on the light and strong aluminum frame, double-ply bamboo deck, and 35lb weight capacity. The Loading Dock attaches to a combination of seat stays and rear dropout mounting bosses with four bolts and seat stay clamps, so it'll fit any bike with the requisite eyelets and clearance. Photo Courtesy of Backcountry
Gentlemen's Hardware Anatomy of a Bike Kit
This handy tool kit comes stocked with all the tools that cyclists need to gear up for their next ride, all stored in a sturdy wooden box. Photo Courtesy of Amazon
Brooks England P1 Hand Pump With Gauge
Brooks England brings its classic British sensibilities to mini pumps with the introduction of its P1 Hand Pump With Gauge. With its clean aesthetics and understated styling, the P1 will look right at home alongside your Brooks saddle and bag. The pump's compact shape suits it to easy storage, and its aluminum body includes rubber grips for easy roadside inflation. Brooks also adds a pressure gauge to prevent PSI guesswork, and it made the P1 compatible with both Presta and Schrader valves for added versatility. Photo Courtesy of Brooks England
Knog Oi Luxe Bike Bell
A low profile bike bell for commuting, road, or mountain biking. CNC machined ringer and brass dinger have a great tonal quality. Photo Courtesy of Backcountry
Sunlite Wire + Mesh Lift-Off Front Bike Basket
Add some storage to your bike with the Sunlite mesh-bottom front basket. Attaches to your handlebar with the included mounting bracket. Easy to install and remove with no tools needed. Powder-coated steel wire construction with a mesh bottom to keeps your things from slipping through the cracks. Integrated butterfly style handles let you carry the basket with you off of the bike. Photo Courtesy of Urban Outfitters
One Year on a Bike: From Amsterdam to Singapore
The title says it all: one man, one bike, one long ride, the adventure, the pleasure, and the pain. It is simultaneously a travelogue and visual journey. Martijn Doolaard traded the convenience of a car and the distractions of daily life for a cross-continental cycling journey: a biped adventure that would take him from Amsterdam to Singapore. Leaving behind repetitive routines, One Year on a Bike indulges in slow travel, the subtlety of a gradually changing landscape, and the lessons learned through traveling. Venturing through Eastern European fields of yellow rapeseed to the intimate hosting culture and community in Iran, One Year on a Bike is a vivid chronicle of what can happen when the norm is pointedly replaced by exceptional self-discoveries and beautiful sceneries. Doolaard shares the gear and knowledge that made his trip possible alongside the passionate curiosities that served as his impetus. Photo Courtesy of Gestalten
Clug Clip Bike Rack
Launched as a Kickstarter campaign in 2014, the Clug Clip Bike Rack designed by Vancouver-based Hurdler Studios is a minimal storage solution for your two-wheeled steed. Acting as a miniature bike stand, the Clug easily screws into the wall and comes in three sizes to accommodate road bike, hybrid bike, or mountain bike tires. You can mount the Clug lower to hold your bike up on two wheels, as pictured above, or attach it higher to give the bike the appearance of hanging. Named for the sound it makes, the Clug is a space-saving solution and a way to proudly display your ride. Photo Courtesy of Clug
Fabric Gripper Water Bottle
High-grip water bottle Get to grips with your thirst, with our innovative Gripper bottle. The unique non-slip surface gives you maximum grasp, whatever the weather. The bottle is BPA free and features our high-flow valve and silicone mouthpiece. Photo Courtesy of Backcountry
Hex Wrench Multi-Tool
This Y-type allen wrench features 4, 5, and 6 mm bits, perfect for adjusting most of your ride! Photo Courtesy of Brooklyn Bicycle Co.
Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Front Bike Rack
Our stylish polished stainless steel porteur rack is a heavy duty option for carrying groceries, a change of clothes, or whatever you need for everyday adventures. It’s height adjustable and will fit almost any commuter, road, or mountain bike. Photo Courtesy of Brooklyn Bicycle Co.
Kryptonite KryptoFlex 1265 Key Cable Lock
If many years of bike adventures has taught us anything, it's never to leave your bike lock at home. Leaving your bike unlocked when you pop in to a corner store for some quick hydration can leave you stranded in seconds when an opportunistic thief wanders by, so keep your steed secure with the Kryptonite KryptoFlex 1265 Key Cable Lock. Its small and compact design makes it easy to bring along on any ride, and at just over 2-feet in length it provides enough cable to securely lock your ride to a tree, sign, or bike rack while you run in for a drink. The cable is made from 12-millimeter braided steel to provide resistance to cuts, and its lock head rotates 360-degrees for easier handling when you're locking up and unlocking. The lock comes with two reversible keys, so you can always keep one stashed in a safe place, in case yours goes missing when you're out on an adventure. As with all bike locks, the KryptoFlex 1265 isn't 100% theft proof. It's designed as a lightweight option to protect against the opportunistic cheats, and is a perfect option for a school bike rack or your suburban neighborhood corner bar, but most cable locks won't save you from a skilled bike thieves. If you live somewhere urban, or where bike-theft is a problem, we recommend stepping up to a bigger lock to provide serious protection to your heart and soul. Photo Courtesy of Backcountry
Rains Rolltop Water-Repellent Rucksack
Sleek cycling-inspired backpack from Rains. Designed for wet weather conditions. Waterproof rubberized coating. Rolltop closure with lobster clasp fastening and bike-lock loop. Front zip pocket; side zip laptop sleeve fits a 15" laptop. Canvas-lined interior. Water-repellent zippers. Tonal hardware. Tonal printed logo at face. Self-lined. Photo Courtesy of END
Lezyne Power Water Bottle Cage
Lezyne built the hollow aluminum Power Water Bottle Cage with an integrated mount for any of Lezyne's high-volume pumps. This provides quick, easy access to a badly needed tire pressure boost on the fly. The hollow construction keeps the weight down, and the wraparound design locks onto your water in any type of terrain. The Power Water Bottle Cage is available in the colors Polish/Hi Gloss, Powder Matte Black, and Powder White. Photo Courtesy of Backcountry
Thule Pack 'n Pedal Basket
Versatile and stylish bike basket that securely mounts to front or rear bike racks and delivers plenty of added storage space. Photo Courtesy of Backcountry
Polar Zipstream Thermal Insulated Color Series 24oz Water Bottle
The Polar Zipstream Color Series bottle is thermal insulated to keep liquids cool twice as long as other water bottles. Featuring the ZipStream cap with a self-sealing valve and a convenient, removable carrying strap for use on the move. All Polar Bottle products are, and always have been, BPA-free and Phthalate-free. Photo Courtesy of Urban Outfitters

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