article – Spring is officially here, and we’ve had a few days in New York starting to feel warm – which means it’s time to get the bikes out of the warehouse and get ready for a new year of riding. Over the past year, I’ve picked up some new tools and gear and wanted to share a few staples that I always have in my saddle bag on my bike or every ride. It’s beyond the scope of this list, but for me, it’s my helmet on every ride – please ride safe and obey all local laws.I hope you enjoy this article and read it The rest of this series when you’re done.
electronic product
computer
The Lezyne Mega XL GPS bike computer is front and center on my handlebars. I love this computer because it offers a lot of features that I really care about and integrates perfectly with Komoot – my ride-planning app of choice. The integration of Bluetooth with my phone makes it easy to transfer driving data to and from the computer, and popping up text messages on the display is a plus.
- Lezyne Mega XL GPS – Amazon
lamp
Most of my rides require some segments to get to the trails, so lights are very important to me just to be on the safe side. Lezyne’s Smart Connect system makes everything “work together” – turning on the Mega XL GPS auto-connect and turning on the 1000XL and KTV taillights. Changing the flash mode of both lights is as easy as pressing a button on the headlight.
- Lezyne Smart Connect 1000XL Headlight and Lezyne KTV Taillight Set – Amazon
Mechanical
I’m always adding and subtracting gear here, but I’ve established that these are my must-haves. I try to think about what could go wrong with my bike that would prevent me from getting home, and prepare myself from there. Versatility is a factor here, as I tend to ride with people who may have other tire setups that are completely different from mine (tube vs tubeless, presta vs schrader valve). It’s important to me to be able to help if anyone in my group has a problem.
tire repair
Most of my gear is used to take care of my tires, as they are the parts most likely to have problems on the ride.
- Park Tool tires launch emergency patch: Repair a large puncture that tire sealant can’t handle — Amazon
- Park Tool Tire Lever: Remove the tire from the wheel – Amazon
- Parking tool VC-1: I’d rather use a specialized tool to remove the spool, as the job can be delicate and tedious. The spoke cutouts make this tool an easy-to-use winner – Amazon
- tire inner tube: In case things do go wrong- Amazon
- Lezyne Tube Repair Kit: If something does happen, real Incorrect – Amazon
- Lezyne Pressure Driven CFH: This pump fits under my water bottle and has a hose attachment for easy connection to the tire valve. It’s worth noting that flexible hoses can also be used with CO2 cartridges – Amazon
- Topeak Digital Tire Gauge: Quick and easy tire measurements on presta or schrader valves – Amazon
- US to Presta Valve Adapter: A must for presta valve tires as it allows you to refuel the tires from any schrader pump such as a gas station air compressor – Amazon
the rest
- Leatherman Skull Tool CX: Tried and tested, I carry this for pliers, blades, and corkscrews— Amazon
- Lezyne Super SV23: I love this tool. It has slots on the handlebars for attaching bike chain quick links, and a tubeless tire piercing kit with plug strips as part of the kit – Amazon
- Hayes Brake Pad and Rotor Calibration Tool: This is a must if you have disc brakes. I often need to remove a wheel to transport my bike and using this tool is the quickest way to get the disc and pads re-aligned to avoid rotor friction – Amazon
- Bike Chain Quick Links: These are great for chain repairs and are stored in a multitool handle – Amazon
- Extra cleats: I use SPD pedals and if the cleats on my shoes break it would be a hassle to get home without a spare pedal – Amazon
saddle bag
All my mechanical gear, except the bike pump, fits perfectly in the saddle bag. I like the Silca Mattone Grande because it holds everything securely and fastens everything on the seat rails using the python straps.
- Silca Mattone Grande Saddle Bag – Amazon
If you liked this article, you will definitely want to read it The rest of this series Check out what other Gadgeteers use every day.
