Whether you already own a bike or just purchased a new one, and consider it as your main transport means or just a fun outdoor hobby, consider adding a few bicycle accessories to make riding safer and more convenient for you. Other than your helmet and basic repair kit, here are a few more cycling accessories you may want to pick up from your favourite bicycle shop for your next ride around Singapore.
1. Lights
If you’re planning to ride at night, your bike should have front and rear light on it—or at the very least have reflective lights on. The lights you need are more like for making you visible to other motorists than lighting your way, unless you plan on riding through the forest at night. Before riding, make sure to check that your lights are fully charged or you have enough batteries so you won’t run out.
2. Phone Mount
Although you should be keeping your eyes on the road, seasoned cyclists prefer to have phone mounts as one of their essential bicycle accessories. This accessory makes it convenient if you are headed somewhere unfamiliar and need Google Maps for directions.
3. Bike Trailer
If you use your bike as your primary means of transportation around Singapore, you should invest in a bike trailer. A good bike trailer can make everyday trips easier. You can go grocery shopping, run errands or pick up packages with your bike without worrying about burdensome boxes and heavy grocery bags.
4. Fenders
For city dwellers, one of the must-have bicycle accessories is a set of fenders or mudguards. Go to a bicycle shop in Singapore and look for a pair that fits the size of your bike. These are very helpful to keep mud and rain water from hitting you and staining your clothes. They also serve as a great space to attach your rear lights to.
5. A Lock
Even if your workplace has indoor storage that lets you park your bike, a lock is always good to have in case of unplanned stops. You never know where you need to leave your bicycle, and of course you would want to find it just where you left it.
6. Waterproof Jacket
This one is technically not a bike accessory, but an essential for the bike rider. To keep you (a little bit) dry under the rain, get yourself a cycling jacket. This is not just any jacket, but one that suits your cycling needs. A good bicycle shop offers a selection of high-visibility ones made from reflective, breathable and waterproof materials. Make sure to get yourself a good one.
When riding your bike, especially for long rides, your safety and comfort should always be considered, and this may require equipping your bike with the right bicycle accessories. Other than the necessary safety gears, such as your helmet and knee pads, these accessories can offer much more comfort and safety anywhere and anytime you wish to ride.
*This list is compiled in no particular order.*
