Think of this – you have always dreamt of owning a bike. Realizing that there’s no time like the present to make the purchase, you begin to analyze all options available in the market. After careful consideration, you choose one that best fits your needs and budget. Perhaps you buy it with an upfront payment, or purchase a motorbike EMI. Either way, you finally bring your dream bike home!
You see, buying a bike can be sometimes complicated and yet a most satisfying process. But that isn’t the end of the story.
With a motorbike also comes the need to purchase certain bike accessories. If you want to experience some of the most enjoyable adventures on your bike, then these accessories are absolutely essential. However, there’s plenty of them in the market, which can leave anyone new to biking confused. This is why we have rounded up a list of the most vital accessories you’ll need to make riding more safe and fun. Let’s take a look at what they are:
Helmet
No surprises when we say that wearing a helmet can mean the difference between life and death. In the case of an unfortunate crash, a helmet can protect you like no other safety gear can. Traffic rules in India, makes it mandatory to wear a helmet for all bike riders as well as pillion riders. Crashes and road accidents are common, and in most cases, it’s bikers who suffer the worse consequences. Naturally, this has to be on the top of your bike accessories list.
But again, there are infinite helmet options out there, and not all of them may be right for you. When buying a helmet, keep the fit in mind. This may seem like obvious advice but is often ignored. People usually tend to choose a helmet based on how it looks on the outside rather than how it fits. But you must always try on the helmet before you buy it! Ideally, full-face helmets are recommended. If it fits well, is comfortable to wear, offers adequate ventilation, and covers your jaw, head, and facial area, then go for it.
Gloves
If you’re a frequent rider often venturing out on long bike rides and road trips, then consider biking gloves as an absolute requisite. Biking or cycling gloves offer extra protection to your hands and a better grip on the bike too. They are a safety precaution and an investment worth making. Based on your personal preferences, you can opt for gloves that are bulky or well-padded. You can also purchase gloves based on the season and climate. Hot summer months call for thin padding and minimal designs. Whereas cold, windy, and rainy seasons call for gloves that come with thermal protection and moisture-wicking technology. With the right pair of gloves to cover and protect your hands, you can ride your bike with comfort, ease, and of course, the right stability.
Tire Inflator
While there are many tools you can pick to add to your personal tool kit, a tire inflator is the one most necessary. It should come as no surprise when we say that your safety is highly dependent on your bike’s tires. And while one should always get their bike regularly serviced and tires checked by a professional, owning a tire inflator can come in handy. At any point in time, when you’re out and about and notice your tires being a little low on air, it’s this inflator that will come to your rescue! Yes, the tool allows you to check your tire’s pressure and inflate it within minutes wherever you are. It is life-saving and reduces your reliance on external help when facing a tire problem.
Backpack
A backpack or storage bag is yet another must-have addition to your bike accessories list. Whether on your daily commute rides or cross-country trips, a sturdy and spacious bag is helpful at all times. Choosing what kind of backpack to purchase is a decision closely influenced by your personal needs. Try and find one that’s spacious, with multiple pockets and compartments to fit and accommodate the items you carry and is light in weight. A bag that can be strapped on easily and isn’t too burdening on your back, allowing you to ride effortlessly, is a perfect choice.
Bike Cover
And last on this list is a bike cover. A bike cover is a large-sized sheet that covers your bike in all its entirety. If you have recently purchased an expensive new bike and wish to protect it well, then a bike cover is what you need! Bike covers help protect your vehicle from all kinds of harm – rain, sun, winds, stones, sand, hail, and more. These covers ensure your bike looks as good as new each time you set out on a ride. You can also purchase one that comes with its own case – this makes it easy to store and carry along with you on long-duration trips. High-quality, durable bike covers tend to be more expensive than others but are definitely a good investment. The more durable your bike cover, the better protected your bike will be!
Final Thoughts
There are many more accessories one can opt for, but the above five are the ultimate basics. A suitable helmet, pair of gloves, and tire inflators will ensure your safety on the road, whereas a backpack will make riding convenient. And a bike cover will simply keep your bike in top shape so you can proudly flaunt it on the streets. Each of these accessories is important in its own way, adding comfort and enjoyment to the whole biking experience. It doesn’t matter if you’re a veteran or an amateur when it comes to bikes – every rider must have these essential accessories.
