will always keep my gear dry, no matter the weather conditions. They are also easy to detach from the bike and can be carried around as a shoulder bag. The only downside is their price, but they are definitely worth the investment for anyone looking to use their bike for more than just recreation. — I.B. $260 at Amazon$260 at Backcountry.com$260 at Rei
With the holiday season approaching, shopping for the perfect gift for the cyclist in your life can be overwhelming. But fear not! Whether they’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, the right accessories can make their biking experience more fun, safe, and rewarding. From must-have safety gear like bike lights, to tech gadgets like bike computers, there are numerous options to choose from. And to make your holiday shopping a little easier, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of recommendations that have been personally tested and recommended by the staff here at Engadget.
One of the essential accessories for any cyclist is a multi-tool. The inevitable fact of cycling is that at some point, something will go wrong and a part will need adjustment during a ride at the worst possible moment. A compact multi-tool like the Crankbrothers M19 is a lifesaver in such situations. It comes with everything needed to work on a bike, including several different sizes of hex wrenches and a chain tool. This tool is indispensable for regular maintenance a bike needs and is a great addition to any cyclist’s kit.
For safety during night rides, a rear bike light is essential. The Knog Rear Plus light, with its clever design and impressive battery life, is a favorite among cyclists. It features a USB-A port for charging and can provide up to 40 hours of run time when using the light’s Eco-Flash mode. If you’re looking for something with more brightness and longer battery life, the Knog Blinder Rear light is a great option.
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Another gadget that can give both newbies and seasoned riders more confidence on the road is Garmin’s Varia rearview car radar. It can detect vehicles up to 140 meters away and provides the rider with audio and visual alerts when a speeding car is approaching. It also doubles as a tail light, providing safety and peace of mind for the cyclist in your life.
In addition to safety accessories, there are also practical items that can enhance a cyclist’s experience. A bike bell is an important accessory for communicating with pedestrians and drivers on the road. The Knog Oi Luxe Bike Bell is loud, fast, and features a nifty design that won’t crowd a handlebar. It’s a great addition to any bike and provides an effective means of communication while cycling.
For those who rely on their bikes for transportation and fitness needs, a lock to protect their bike from theft is essential. The Kryptonite New York U-Lock is a reliable and durable option that will keep a bike safe when locked outside.
For cyclists who enjoy capturing their adventures, a camera strap like the Rider Strap from PS Bagworks can securely hold a camera in place while riding. It’s a stylish and practical accessory for cyclists who want to take their cameras on their rides.
To protect against unexpected rain showers, a lightweight and packable rain jacket like the Patagonia Houdini Jacket is a great gift idea. It’s perfect for cycling and can easily fit in handlebar and top tube bags.
A chain cleaner is an essential tool for every cyclist. Regular cleaning of a bicycle drivetrain not only extends its life but also provides a more enjoyable riding experience. The Park Tool Cyclone Chain Scrubber is a durable and effective option for keeping a bike’s chain clean and in good condition.
For cyclists looking to track their rides and meet their fitness goals, a bike computer like the Wahoo Elemnt Bolt V2 can be a game-changer. It provides turn-by-turn navigation and motivation to push harder during rides. Alternatively, a smartphone mount like the Out Front model made by Quad Lock is a budget-friendly option that allows cyclists to use their familiar smartphone as a bike computer.
Finally, for those who use their bikes for errands and daily tasks, panniers like the Ortlieb Back-Roller Plus are a great addition. They offer ample storage space and are durable, waterproof, and easy to detach for carrying around as a shoulder bag.
With these comprehensive recommendations, you can find the perfect gift for the cyclist in your life, whether they’re in need of safety accessories, practical gear, or tech gadgets to enhance their rides. Each of these accessories has been personally tested and recommended, making them great holiday gifts for any cyclist.
