Top 10 must-have pieces of kit for your next bike ride


With the clocks going forward this month (31 March), it’s time to make the most of the longer days and lighter evenings by getting the bike out of the shed and planning your next ride.
Cycling is as good for your health as it is your pocket (think of the fuel savings!) and the environment, but you need to make sure you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead.
Team GP is here to help kit you out with the must-have bike gadgets and equipment that’ll make your cycling safer, smarter – and more fun to boot!
1.GPS cycling computer

Garmin Edge 820 Explore GPS Computer
If you’re a serious cyclist – or if you just like exploring new trails – it’s worth thinking about investing in a GPS bike computer.
The Garmin Edge 820 Explore GPS features a built-in cycle map with points of interest, bike-friendly trails and much more. Its anti-glare touchscreen makes it easy to find your way, even when the sun is at its strongest. It also comes with a nifty tracking feature which lets you and your friends know each other's whereabouts while you’re out on a ride.
2.SmartHalo
If you don’t want to commit to buying a dedicated GPS computer, you could always get a SmartHalo instead. At around half the price, this ultimate biking companion offers a GPS computer, a light, anti-theft system and fitness tracker all in one. Simply input your destination into your smartphone using the special app, tuck it into your pocket and get turn-by-turn navigation straight to your handlebars via the intuitive light halo. See it in action by watching this fab video.


3.Burner Brake
If you’re riding on public roads, safety is paramount. You’re going to need to get a rear light, so why not make it a Burner Brake? The Burner Brake is smarter than other rear lights – it can detect when you slow down, increasing in brightness to let the road users behind you know when you’re coming to a stop.
4.Magnetic bike bell
The Nello magnetic bike bell does just what it says on the tin. Beautifully designed, it makes three different sounds, and the magnetic fastening means it can be easily slipped into your pocket on arrival at your destination.
5.Turn signal gloves

Image result for zackees gloves
Drivers are attuned to seeing indicators as the signifier that a fellow road user is going to make a manoeuvre. Thanks to the Zackees gloves, you too can now signal just like any other vehicle on the road. The 54 lumen LED panel on the back of each glove lights up naturally when you extend your arm out in the direction of your turn, so other road users can easily see where you are heading.
6.Linka smart lock

Image result for linka
Unfortunately, there are some ‘opportunists’ out there who could well be eyeing up your bike if you leave it insecure somewhere on your ride. Deter them with the Linka Bluetooth bicycle lock which is both iOS and Android enabled and comes with clever GPS tracking. It also locks and unlocks as you approach and walk away from your bike so, with no need for fiddly keys, you can get on with having as much fun as possible.
7.CO2 inflator
A tyre puncture can bring your ride to a grinding halt. Not if you have a Pro Bike Tool CO2 Inflator to hand. With its one-turn valve system, you can inflate a flat tyre in seconds. Compatible with both Presta and Schrader valves, the compact Pro Bike Tool is a crucial part of every cyclists’ toolkit.

8.Osprey backpack

Osprey Farpoint 40 Backpack
Chances are you’re going to need a backpack to ferry some stuff about – so make it a good one! You won’t find much better than an Osprey backpack. Available in various sizes from 18L upwards, Osprey backpacks comes with detachable rain covers and even an attachment for your bike lights and helmet.

9.Surfboard rack

46 - Surf Sports - Bicycle Surfboard Rack SURFSYSTEM
If you’re a surfer dude or dudette, then this bit of kit from Surfsystem enables you to take your board on your bike. Carry your surfboard on its side by attaching the bracket to the seatpost, then get pedalling towards the beach!

10.GP PowerBank


To keep your smartphone and other gadgets charged while on the move, you’re going to need to pack a reliable, compact and lightweight PowerBank. If you plan on taking more than one phone, or multiple devices that need charging (including an action camera, for example), then you'll need a slightly heavier-weight PowerBank capable of powering up two devices at the same time.
Planning on heading out on your bike with the family? Check out our tips for the ultimate family bike ride.

Are there any bike gadgets or equipment you couldn’t do without? Let us know on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

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