| What is it: | Why you need it: |
| Helmet | A Life Saver |
| Good lock and holder | A Bike Saver |
| Pump that fits your frame | Use to fix flats |
| Spare tube | To replace punctured tubes |
| Tire levers | Eases tire removal |
| Water bottle and cage | Makes it easy to stay hydrated |
| Patch kit | For patching popped tubes |
| Gloves | Adds comfort and protects hands |
| Mini all-in-one tool | Just in case an adjustment is needed |
| Seat bag | A way to carry all this stuff |
| Eyewear | Protection from airborne debris |
| Cycling shorts | They’re padded for comfort |
| Energy bars | Calories in case you tire |
| Sun block | Prevents sunburn |
| What it is: | Why you'll want it: |
| Dress for Success | |
| cycling shoes & socks | increase comfort & efficiency |
| cycling jersey (short & long sleeve) | comfy with rear pockets for gear |
| cycling tops (for women) | comfy, pockets, high visibility |
| tights | keep knees & legs warm |
| windbreaker | protection from wind & rain |
| leg & arm warmers | easy on/off; fit in pocket |
| rain jacket | keeps you dry and warm |
| booties (shoe covers) | protects toes from cold & wet |
| long-finger gloves | warm & protect hands and fingers |
| Get all the Right Gear | |
| front light or lighting system | be safe at night & expand your ride time |
| flasher taillight | be seen after dark |
| bell | friendly warning device |
| hydration system | carry your favorite sports drink |
| hydration system cleaning kit | kills nasty germs |
| cyclecomputer | shows/records speed, pace & distance |
| rear rack | carry more stuff |
| aero handlebars | for a stretched-out, streamlined position |
| Be Fit for Life | |
| heart-rate monitor | a tachometer for your heart |
| indoor trainer | bike in front of the TV |
| computerized indoor trainer | a virtual-reality cycling station |
| home gym | build strength without the club |
| Bike Repair is Fun | |
| floor pump | has air to spare |
| maintenance book | learn how to fix your bike |
| bike repair stand | supports the bike so you don't have to |
| wheel-truing stand | helpful for fixing wobbly wheels |
| bicycle tool kit | cool tools for fixing your ride |
| Hit the Road & Trail | |
| panniers (saddlebags) | bring the kitchen sink |
| trailer for kids or gear | hooks to the bike & pulls easily |
| car rack | carry your bike on the car |
| bike case for airline travel | protection from the baggage goons |
| Be the Sport | |
| membership in cycling organization | meet other cyclists |
| Lance Armstrong book | gives you goosebumps |
| cycling videos | watch for fun & motivation |