Helmet: Always Wear One

• This one’s a must. A helmet protects your head in case of a fall or crash. Choose one that fits well (snug, not tight) and is certified for safety. Many have vents to keep you cool and adjustable straps for comfort. You don’t need anything fancy—just make sure it fits properly.

Comfortable Clothing

• You don’t need special clothes to start riding, but some basic cycling-friendly items can make things more comfortable.

• Tops
  • A breathable shirt or workout tee works fine. If you’re riding a lot, consider a cycling jersey—they’re designed to keep you cool and often have pockets in the back.
• Bottoms
  • Regular shorts are okay for short rides, but padded cycling shorts (also called “bike shorts”) are a game changer if your rear gets sore. There are options that look like regular athletic shorts but have padding inside.
• Layers
  • Bring a light jacket or windbreaker if it’s chilly. If you’re commuting, a rain jacket can be really helpful too.

Gloves (Optional, but Nice)

• Bike gloves help with grip and protect your hands if you fall. Some also have padding to reduce pressure and vibration. Not essential right away, but many riders grow to love them.

Shoes and Pedals

• To start, just wear sturdy sneakers. If you stick with riding, you might later upgrade to cycling shoes that clip into the pedals—but that’s not necessary for beginners. Flat pedals are totally fine!

Water Bottle

• Hydration is key. A water bottle and a simple bottle holder on your bike frame will keep you going, especially on warm days.

Bike Lights and Reflective Gear

• Even if you don’t plan to ride at night, lights help cars see you in low light or cloudy conditions. A white front light and a red rear light are standard. Reflective gear (like a vest, ankle straps, or stickers) adds extra visibility.

Basic Repair Kit

• Flat tires happen—it’s part of riding. A small repair kit can save the day.

Start with:

• A spare inner tube that fits your tires
• Tire levers (to help remove the tire)
• A mini pump (or CO₂ inflator)
• A small multi-tool (for quick adjustments)

You can carry these in a small bag under your seat or in a backpack.

Phone Mount or Simple Bike Computer (Optional)

• If you like tracking your rides, you can use apps like Strava or Komoot on your phone. A handlebar phone mount makes it easy to follow routes or maps while you ride. Some riders later upgrade to bike computers, but it’s not needed to get started.