When cycling it is important to be prepared. These are some of the most important things to carry when cycling
- Mobile Phone. A mobile phone allows you to ring for a taxi (always have a local taxi service in your address book – make sure also they have cars to pick up bikes) or ambulance in emergency’s. This is essential, even for just letting your parents / partner know you will be late.
- Spare Inner tube and Tyre Leavers. A puncture is an occupational hazard of being a cyclist. Punctures usually occur when you least want them or least expect. The general rule is – would you be able to walk home with a flat tyre? If you are going for a longer distance than that it is best to be prepared. Note, a puncture repair kit is OK, but, it can be quite time consuming to repair a puncture. It is better to just have a spare inner tube and mend the puncture when you get home.
- Portable Pump. A spare inner tube, is no use without a pump. Quite often, a pump may be able to deal with a slow puncture and avoid the need for chainging inner tubes. Some of the modern portable pumps are very light, but, can easily pump up tyres to 60-80psi. It is advisable to get a pump which can be attached to the bike. This means that it is harder to forget the pump.
- Money. It is good to have a second wallet you use for cycling. Here you can keep a small amount of change and enough to pay a taxi. If you are travelling further afield take a credit card for emergencies. Money is essential for buying water or food you may unexpectedly need.
- Food It is better to carry too much food than too little. If you carry too little you run the risk of suffering from the symptoms of ‘bonk’ – a complete loss of energy where you struggle home. It is the same for Water; on a hot day never underestimate the extra amount you will need to remain hydrated.
- Map Not essential for local rides. But, for new rides you could print out a google map. This saves carrying around a full map.
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