by BikePortland.org

Question by TheHumanist: What bicycle accessories do i need for cycling ? ( i use a mountain bike)?
I mean ok, lets say we go for a race with a 5 year old Mountain bike, that had a lot of accidents (only small ones), but all the components are Shimano, except the Cycle computer, the front brakes fork (the legs at the front brake), the wheel covers ( because they got worn ) and the back wheel ( worn out ). OK the front wheel is Berretta and maybe the whole frame is not Shimano .

When i used to go at the bike shop for some maintenance i asked them for any contests and they told me in a way that my bicycle is actually an old damaged piece of metal .
So then, im not going in a race with this bicycle , but i will still practice and practice and the long trips that i make with this mountain bike are on road mostly and, i try to go faster and faster each time, on each track that i make ( i plan different routes) .
That’s why i would like to improve on my safety in case of an accident ( i faint because of my Anemia for example), and that’s why i would like to know, what are the accessories that i need to have for ME and for MY BICYCLE .
I could make a back pack, and i have a bottle holder on the frame, so please tell me all you know .

Best answer:

Answer by Matt M
I don’t know anything about medical conditions but anything you need (or might need) should be kept in a bag (seperate compartment) along with your tools and such. There are bags that are designed to mount on handle bars, and/or behind the seat. I like the handle bar style myself. A cell phone (radio, or other device to call for help) would be good to take too.

I keep a number of tools in my bag…
Tire Gague
2x phillips screwdriver (1 long & thin, 1 short & fat)
2x flat screwdriver (1 long & thin, 1 short & fat)
2x small adjustable wrenches
A small set of hex-head drivers (to fit the various screws)
My Leatherman multi-tool (like a big swiss army knife)
Gloves (keep hands clean in case I have to fix a chain)
Pocket Tissues (for nose, hands, cleanup, etc)
Flashlight
Cell Phone
Bicycle Lock & chain

Depending how skilled you are at repairs on-the-go, I’ve heard/read it’s good to have some of these…
Emergency tire pump
Inner Tube (and tools to replace it)
Spare wheel spoke

My bike has two water bottle holders, and my personal preference is to have one with plain water and another with iced tea or mild fruit-juice & water mix (NOT Orange Juice – the acid can leave funny tastes in plastic)…but that’s me.

Good luck and happy cycling!

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