Bicycle Junkie

Bicycle Accessories You Should Consider

photo credit: RJL20

When I started riding my bicycle I was all set to go thinking that all I need is me and my bike. Well, technically that is true, but when you ride for a couple of hours or so, you can add several accessories to make your bike ride more enjoyable.

The first thing I had to get was a squeeze bottle to carry water or a sports drink. Luckily my bike already had a bottle holder attached to the frame but even if it didn’t, the holder’s are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. I purchased a small enough squeeze bottle to fit into the holder and it holds enough water for my short rides. For longer rides, I also have a Camelbak. I have the version that is like a small backpack. Camelbak’s are so convenient and drinking from them is easy. They range in price but are worth having if you plan on riding a lot. You need to stay hydrated.

Since I ride on bike trails a lot, I had to invest in a bell. People also walk on the trails and after awhile, yelling out, “on your left” or “on your right” gets old really fast. A bicycle bell is a nice way of warning people that you are fast approaching. Plus it comes across more politely than yelling out all the time. The bells can be attached right near your hand grips for easy access. They require nothing more than a screwdriver and take about 5 minutes to install.

The other major accessory that you may consider is the headlight. Headlights can get expensive but I suggest not going to cheap on them. There have been many times when I get caught in the dark thinking I’d be home on time and my cheap headlight barely lit up the road. I bought one that was better and didn’t cost a ton of money. The point is, you just never know when you may be caught in the dark so a headlight will alert any oncoming traffic as well as lighting up your path.

Other smaller accessories I’ve also purchased were padded bike gloves and a small pouch that attaches underneath my seat to hold keys, ID cards, etc. After riding for awhile, you will begin to realize that you may need specific bicycle accessories for safety as well as enjoyment.

What I Love About Hybrid Bicycles

photo credit: warriorgrrl

There are various types of bicycles to choose from depending on how you intend on riding it. If you’re into racing then there are several racing bikes to choose from. If you are a mountain biker there are tons of mountain bikes to browse. However, if you are a moderate bike rider and are stuck between adventure and comfort then you ought to consider a hybrid bicycle.

A hybrid bicycle is a cross between mountain bike and comfort bike. As you know a mountain bike is made for rocky terrain. It is designed especially for handling dirt trails and steep hills. The handlebars sit really low as many times when you are going down a hill, you will be standing up. The seats are not really made for comfort therefore if you want a leisurely ride around a bike trail or park, forget it. Your arms and backside will be in pain after 20 minutes or so. The tires on a mountain bike are also different. They tend to be thicker and have more tread. These bikes are sturdy and can handle bumps and bruises.

A comfort bike is the exact opposite. You can adjust the handlebars which typically go up high and the seat is usually extra padded and wide. The tires on a comfort bike have much less tread and made for riding on concrete rather than rocky dirt trails. These bikes are perfect for cruising around town or a local bike trail.

I have rode both types of bikes so when I discovered the hybrid bicycle I was so happy. Finally a bike that met the adventurous side of me while allowing me to ride just for fun. The cool thing about hybrid bicycles is that you can modify them to suit your taste. If you know you will mountain bike more you can set it up to handle it while still being comfortable. My hybrid bike can handle a mountain bike trail or two but not for serious riding. Yet, I can ride for hours around town and now feel any discomfort. My handlebars are midway and I have the padded comfort seat but I feel secure if I ever take my bike out on a dirt trail.

If you are like me and want the best of both worlds, check out the hybrid bicycles at your local bike shop. Take a test ride and I bet you will fall in love with one just like I did.

Welcome to Bicycle Junkie Blog

Thanks for stopping by and welcome to the first post for Bicycle Junkie. I look forward to writing posts related to all things bicycle related. I ride as often as I can on my GT Timberline hybrid bicycle. I purchased it about 2 years ago and it is one of my favorite items that I own.

I try to do minor upgrades and fixes myself. I think it is fun working on my own bike and I learn a lot more about how everything works. Feel free to leave comments and share your opinions and ideas on bicycle related topics.

Also stop by and visit the Bicycle Junkie discount bicycle parts store to find great deals on bicycle parts and bicycles.