Basic Mountain Bike Accessories That You Should Have
As a beginner mountain biker, getting a bit overwhelmed with all the mountain bike accessories you see in a bike store or shop is natural.
Although many types of mountain bike accessories are being sold in the market today, you do not need them, so don’t waste your money on things you will not have much use for when you go biking.
Instead of buying those fancy mountain bike accessories, invest in safety gear.
Here are some basic mountain bike accessories that every rider should consider having:
- Helmet: This is a critical safety accessory. It protects your head from injuries in case of accidents.
- Mountain Bike Gloves: They offer comfort and grip, reducing the risk of slipping off the handlebars.
- Bike Lights: Essential for night riding, ensuring you’re visible to other road users.
- Hydration Pack: For long rides, it’s vital to stay hydrated. A hydration pack can carry water and other small items.
- First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, and it’s crucial to be prepared with bandages, antiseptics, and other first aid supplies.
- Bike Multi-Tool: This handy tool can help with most minor repairs or adjustments needed on the trail.
- Spare Inner Tubes/Puncture Repair Kit: Punctures can happen at any time. Carrying spares or a repair kit can save you from being stranded.
- Bike Lock: Useful if you need to leave your bike unattended at any point during your ride.
- Mountain Bike Shoes: They provide better grip and power transfer than regular shoes.
Remember, it’s always better to be prepared for a ride.
Mountain Biking Helmet
The helmet is one of the most important mountain bike accessories that you need.
Unfortunately, many bikers often do not wear helmets when they go out and end up suffering from severe head injuries during a fall.
You must wear reliable headgear to safeguard your head when negotiating difficult mountain bike trails.
When negotiating difficult mountain bike trails, a good helmet is your best friend, so make sure you get one.
Choosing the right helmet is critical for safety while mountain biking.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting a helmet:
- Fit: A helmet needs to fit properly to provide the best protection. It should be snug but not too tight, and it shouldn’t wobble or slide around when you move your head.
- Coverage: Mountain bike helmets typically offer more coverage at the back and sides of your head compared to road bike helmets, for better protection in a wider range of falls.
- Ventilation: Helmets with good ventilation help keep your head cool while riding. Look for a helmet with multiple vents to allow for adequate air circulation.
- Adjustability: Most helmets feature an adjustable strap and a dial in the back for fine-tuning the fit. Some also have adjustable visors.
- Safety Standards: Ensure the helmet meets established safety standards. In the U.S., look for helmets that meet the standards set by CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission).
- MIPS Technology: Some helmets include MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology, designed to help reduce rotational forces on the brain caused by angled impacts.
Remember, replace your helmet after a significant impact, even if there’s no visible damage, as it may no longer provide optimal protection.
- EXCEPTIONAL FIT: Highly absorbent microfiber wiping surface, moisture-wicking, four-way-stretch, breathable mesh upper conforms with your hand for close fit and flex zones at the knuckles that allows the glove to mimic the hand’s natural articulation without bunching or binding and gives more natural feel that enhances comfort and control.
- COMFORT AND SUPPORT: Silicone fingertip print, AX Suede microfiber palm conforms with your hands’ natural shape without excess material or seams and super fit three-panel designed palm allows your hand to move naturally for enhanced control that doesn’t compromise bar feel.
- PROTECTION: 2mm EVA crash pads.
- ATTENTION TO DETAIL: Touchscreen Technology silver fiber in the fingertips allows use of your smart phone and other touchscreen devices.
Last update on 2024-11-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Mountain Biking Gloves
Aside from buying a mountain bike helmet, you will need gloves to protect your hands. In many cases, you need to grip your bike’s handle tightly when you negotiate difficult trails, so you need gloves to cushion your hands.
Furthermore, in the case of a fall, your hands are the first things that usually touch the ground. If you are not wearing gloves, you could suffer from serious injuries when you hit your hands on some sharp objects like rocks when you try to break a fall.
What type of gloves should you get?
When it comes to choosing mountain bike gloves, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Fit: Gloves should fit well and not be too tight or too loose. A glove that’s too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort, while a too loose glove may not provide enough grip or protection.
- Padding: Some gloves come with padding on the palms to provide extra comfort and shock absorption.
- Material: Look for gloves made from breathable material to prevent your hands from getting too sweaty. Some gloves are also made with waterproof material for wet weather conditions.
- Finger Length: Full-finger gloves offer the most protection and are suitable for most mountain biking conditions. Half-finger (or fingerless) gloves can be cooler and allow more dexterity, but they offer less protection.
- Closure System: Some gloves have a Velcro strap, while others might have an elastic cuff or pull-on design. Choose what you find most comfortable and secure.
Finally, consider the type of riding you’ll be doing. If you’re doing more aggressive downhill riding, you may want gloves with more padding and protection. You might prefer lighter, more flexible gloves if you’re doing cross-country riding.
Eye Protection When Biking
Your mountain bike accessories will not be complete without the right eye protection—especially Protective Glasses with Removable Lenses.
It would be best if you protected your eyes when you go out biking. You can run into some deep trouble if something gets into your eyes and blur your eyesight.
Always remember small dirt and dust particles and small insects can easily get into your eyes while you concentrate on negotiating mountain bike trails.
Eye protection is an often overlooked but essential accessory for mountain biking.
Here’s what you should consider when choosing eye protection:
- Protection: Mountain biking can expose your eyes to dust, dirt, bugs, and sunlight. Look for glasses or goggles that have high impact resistance and provide 100% UV protection.
- Fit: They should fit comfortably, not too tight or too loose. They also need to fit well with your helmet.
- Lens Type: Consider the conditions in which you’ll be riding. Clear lenses are great for low light conditions, while darker lenses are beneficial in bright sunlight. Some glasses come with interchangeable lenses for different conditions.
- Frame Material: Look for durable materials that can withstand falls and impacts. The frame should also be flexible for comfort and to prevent breakage.
- Ventilation: Good ventilation prevents fogging. Look for glasses or goggles with vents or anti-fog coatings.
Remember, regular sunglasses may not provide enough protection for mountain biking. It’s worth investing in a pair of mountain biking glasses or goggles to ensure your eyes are adequately protected.
Biking Shoes
When it comes to mountain bike accessories, good mountain bike shoes should be on your list.
You must buy mountain bike shoes to keep your feet comfortable while biking.
Take note that your feet could feel sore after pedaling for a while, so make sure that you wear comfortable shoes.
Choosing the right mountain biking shoes can greatly enhance your riding experience.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Type of Riding: You might prefer lightweight and stiff-soled shoes for efficient power transfer for cross-country riding. Downhill riders might opt for more robust shoes with better foot protection.
- Pedal Compatibility: There are two main types of bike pedals: flat and clipless. Flat pedal shoes have a sticky rubber sole for grip, while clipless pedal shoes have cleats that attach the shoe to the pedal for better control.
- Fit: Shoes should fit well and be comfortable. They should be snug but not too tight to prevent discomfort or circulation issues.
- Material: Look for durable materials that can withstand the rigors of mountain biking. Waterproof or water-resistant shoes are beneficial in wet conditions.
- Sole: A good mountain biking shoe will have a stiff sole for efficient power transfer. The sole should also provide good traction for when you need to walk or carry your bike.
Remember, it’s a good idea to try on several pairs before making a decision. The right pair of shoes can significantly improve your comfort and performance while riding.
Bike Lights
Bike lights are an essential accessory for any cyclist, particularly for those who ride in the early morning, late evening, or during the night.
Here’s what to consider when choosing bike lights:
- Brightness: Measured in lumens, the brightness you need depends on where and when you’ll be riding. For well-lit urban areas, 100-200 lumens could be sufficient. For darker, off-road trails you might need 600 lumens or more.
- Battery Life: Check how long the light lasts on a single charge and how easy it is to recharge. Some lights use standard batteries, while others are rechargeable.
- Mounting: Ensure the light can securely and easily attach to your bike. Most lights come with mounts that fit onto the handlebars, but some can also be mounted on your helmet.
- Front and Rear Lights: Front lights are usually brighter and white to illuminate the path ahead. Rear lights are red and serve to make you visible to traffic coming from behind.
- Light Modes: Many lights offer multiple modes, such as steady, flash, and pulse. Flashing lights can make you more visible during daylight hours.
Remember, even if you don’t plan on riding in the dark, having lights can make you more visible to other road users during the day, improving your safety.
Bike Multi-Tool
A bike multi-tool is a compact device that combines several tools essential for adjusting or repairing your bike while on the go.
Here’s what to consider when choosing a bike multi-tool:
- Tool Variety: Basic multi-tools usually include a range of Allen keys (also known as hex wrenches), which are used for most bike adjustments. More comprehensive tools may also include Torx keys, screwdrivers, chain tools, spoke keys, and even tire levers.
- Size and Weight: Prefer a lightweight and compact tool to carry without issue, but still sturdy enough to be functional.
- Quality: Look for a multi-tool made from durable materials like hardened steel that can withstand the force applied during use.
- Ease of Use: Make sure the tool is easy to use. The tools should fold out easily and be long enough to reach into harder-to-access parts of the bike.
Remember, while a multi-tool can cover most basic repair needs, it may not be sufficient for more complex repairs. It’s therefore a good idea to have a more comprehensive tool kit at home or to seek professional help for more serious mechanical issues.
Crank Brothers M19 Multitool
The Crank Brothers M19 Multitool for mountain bikes is one of the best-selling tools today. Made from high-strength steel, this multitool has a curved and precise fit, allowing you to use it with either hand without slipping or losing your grip.
A side handle makes it easy to hold while wearing gloves. A key feature of this multitool is its durable and rust-resistant finish.
It has been around for a decade and has outlasted many mountain bikes. The M19 features 19 tools, and the ergonomics are the best of any model we’ve tested.
It’s not the smallest or lightest multitool, but its design and ease of use make it a top pick among testers. While you might be looking for the smallest and lightest multitool, the Crankbrothers M19 is well worth its price.
Mountain Biking Puncture Repair Kit
A puncture repair kit is a must-have for any cyclist. It can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and being stranded far from home.
Here’s what to look for in a puncture repair kit:
- Tire Levers: These are essential for removing the tire from the wheel to access the inner tube.
- Patches: These are used to seal the hole in the inner tube. Some kits include self-adhesive patches, which are quick and easy to use, and traditional patches, which require glue but are more durable.
- Adhesive: This is necessary if your kit includes traditional patches. Some kits come with a tube of adhesive, while others have pre-glued patches.
- Sandpaper or a small metal grater: This is used to roughen the area around the puncture before applying the patch, helping it to adhere better.
- Spare Inner Tube: While not technically part of a puncture repair kit, carrying a spare tube can be a lifesaver if you get a large puncture or multiple punctures on a single ride.
Remember, knowing how to use your puncture repair kit is just as important as having one. Practice at home so you know what to do if you get a flat while out on a ride.
- Rechargeable Bike lights: USB rechargeable front and back lights, built in 2000 mAh rechargeable lithium battery for headlight and built in 330 mAh rechargeable lithium battery for taillight
- Four Light Mode Options: The headlight and taillight feature an one-touch switch with four different lighting modes depending on your preference. Include full brightness, half brightness, slow flashing and fast flashing
- Advanced Design: With simple structure and lightweight, our bicycle lights are easy to carry. Rated IPX4 waterproof. The indicator of headlight turns red, when the battery power is too low
- Easy Installation: The Headlight is equipped with a mounting bracket that can be easily fixed to the handlebar. The silicone mount strap for Headlight and Taillight are designed with four openings that tightly fit around most size seat posts. Both Headlight and Taillight can be easily loosen and fasten, and no tools are required
- Multifunction: This bike light set is versatile enough for cycling, hiking, camping, or any outdoor activity and can be used as emergency flashlight. This is great for cycling at night or in places where visibility and safety are concern
Last update on 2024-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Granite Rockband Mountain Bike Frame Carrier Strap
The Granite Rockband Mountain Bike Frame Carrier Strap ensures your essentials are held in place when you’re rocking hard. Featuring a secondary inner strap, it’s made with a 49-cm length to be secure even when you’re rocking hard.
Whether carrying a helmet or a full water bottle, this carrier strap covers you.
The Granite Rockband has a small velcro strap that wraps around your frame and secures an inner tube. If you’re running out of tubes for your day of riding, this frame carrier strap is an excellent option for keeping everything organized.
Its lightweight design makes it convenient to carry around, and it won’t take up much space in your bag. A hook-and-loop fastener makes it easy to secure the strap to your frame and get back on the road in no time.
The Granite Rockband Mountain Bike Frame Carrier strap is tough polypropylene that won’t scratch your bike’s paintwork.
The main belt is made from grippy material that won’t scratch your bike’s frame, and its interior is lined with a soft inner strap that protects against dirt and wears.
This versatile carrier strap will last for years and never need to be packed away.
Bike Lock
Choosing the right bike lock is essential to keep your mountain bike secure.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting a bike lock:
- Type of Lock: The most common types of bike locks are U-locks, chain locks, and cable locks. U-locks and chain locks usually provide a higher level of security than cable locks, but they are also heavier.
- Lock Size: The size of the lock should be just big enough to secure your bike to a fixed object. A smaller lock can be more secure as it leaves less room for thieves to use tools.
- Material: Look for a lock made from hardened steel or other high-quality materials that can resist cutting and breaking attempts.
- Locking Mechanism: Keyed locks are generally more secure than combination locks, but you have to keep track of the key. Some modern locks use electronic keys or even smartphone apps.
- Security Rating: Some lock manufacturers provide a security rating for their locks. This can give you an idea of the lock’s security level.
Remember, no lock can provide 100% security, but a good quality lock can significantly deter would-be thieves. It’s also important to know how to lock your bike properly — secure both the frame and wheels to a fixed, immovable object in a well-lit, high-traffic area.
And last but not least: A Riding buddy; technically, they are not an accessory, but a good riding buddy makes every ride that much better and safer.