The essentials: don't ride without these
1. Front and rear lights
Mandatory at night and even during the day for visibility. Invest in USB rechargeable branded lights (Lezyne, Knog, Sigma, Giant). Avoid no-name Amazon lights that die in 3 months.
- Front: minimum 200 lumens to be seen, 400+ to see the road at night
- Rear: minimum 50 lumens, flashing mode mandatory
Budget: €25-60 for the set (front + rear)
2. Serious lock
A €10 cable lock protects nothing. Invest in a U-lock (Kryptonite, Abus) or folding lock (Abus Bordo). The rule: 10% of your bike's price on the lock.
| Type | Security | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cable | Low (cut in 5 seconds) | 200 g | €10-20 |
| Standard U-lock | Medium | 800-1200 g | €30-60 |
| High-security U-lock | High | 1200-1800 g | €60-120 |
| Folding (Bordo) | Medium-high | 700-1100 g | €50-100 |
| Chain | High | 1500-3000 g | €60-120 |
3. Helmet
Not mandatory for adults in many countries, but strongly recommended. A good helmet costs €40-80 and should be replaced after any impact or every 5 years.
4. Floor pump (for home)
A real pump with a pressure gauge. Not a pocket gadget. Brands: Lezyne, SKS, Topeak. Budget: €25-50.
5. Mini pump or CO2 cartridge (to carry)
For roadside flats. Mini pump is more reliable, CO2 is faster. Budget: €15-30.
6. Flat repair kit
- 2 spare inner tubes (right size!)
- 2-3 tire levers
- 1 patch kit (as backup)
- Total budget: €15-25
7. Multi-tool
A compact tool with 2-8 mm Allen keys, screwdriver, and ideally a chain breaker. Brands: Crankbrothers M19, Topeak Alien, Lezyne RAP. Budget: €15-35.
Strongly recommended
8. Chain lube
The chain is the fastest-wearing component. Good lube (Muc-Off, Finish Line, Squirt) applied regularly extends drivetrain life by 50%. Budget: €8-15.
9. Bottle cages + bottles
Hydration changes everything. Two cages + bottles for €15-25.
10. Mudguards
If you ride in rain or winter, mudguards are life-changing. Clip-on mudguards (SKS, Topeak): €15-30.
11. Bike computer / GPS
To track speed, distance, elevation. From basic (Sigma BC, €20) to advanced GPS (Garmin Edge, Wahoo Elemnt, €200-400).
12. Saddle bag
To store your flat kit, multi-tool and keys. Budget: €10-25.
Optional but useful
13. Bell
Legally required in many places. A Knog or Spurcycle bell is discreet and effective. Budget: €10-30.
14. Mirror
Very useful for commuting. Bar-end mirror models (Busch & Muller) are the most practical. Budget: €15-30.
15. Phone mount
For GPS navigation. Quad Lock (the reference) or SP Connect. Budget: €30-60.
