You’ve just scored yourself a brand-new e-bike—awesome choice! By making the switch to this greener way of getting around, you’re doing wonders for your own fitness, helping reduce pollution for everyone, and inspiring others in your neighborhood to consider ditching their cars too. As someone who sticks to a traditional pedal bike, I tip my hat to you. But hold on, because that bike isn’t quite ready for prime time yet. You’ll likely swing by a bike store soon for some key add-ons.
The good news? You don’t need a ton of gear to make your e-bike your go-to ride for daily commutes. The hefty price tag on the bike itself is behind you, and these extras won’t break the bank. I’ve boiled it down to five must-haves (with one bonus suggestion) to get you fully equipped and car-free. Here’s the rundown.
A Solid Helmet
Wearing a reliable helmet is non-negotiable when you’re on a bike. In some areas, it’s even the law for e-bike riders. Skip grabbing the cheapest option from a big-box store—do a bit of research instead. There are specific upgrades worth paying a little extra for that can make a real difference in safety and comfort.
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Prioritize helmets with MIPS technology, which stands for multi-directional impact protection system. It’s basically an inner layer that shifts on impact to reduce rotational forces on your head, cutting down on concussion risks from those awkward spills common in urban cycling. If you live somewhere warm, opt for one with excellent airflow. Features like Koroyd—a honeycomb-like material that boosts ventilation while providing crush protection—can be a game-changer, though not essential for everyone. That’s why models like the Smith Persist, combining MIPS and Koroyd, consistently rank among bestsellers.
Lights for Front and Back
Many e-bikes ship with built-in lights, maybe even cool extras like automatic brake indicators. But if yours skimped on them or they’re just too dim, pick up a dedicated set. You might not plan on nighttime rides, but dusk sneaks up, or weather like storms or mist can reduce visibility fast.
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These lights aren’t just for spotting the road ahead—they’re crucial for drivers noticing you. Go for a rear light that offers flashing modes alongside steady red; it’s a standard feature on most quality ones. Power-wise, some run on batteries you recharge via USB, while others use a hub dynamo that generates energy from your pedaling. I prefer the plug-in kind for ease, especially since my bike’s parked near a charger, but dynamos are great if outlets are scarce. I’ve heard folks swear by adding blue accents for better standout, but there’s no solid evidence, and it could attract unwanted attention from law enforcement, who associate blue with emergency vehicles.
A Handy Multi-Tool
Ideally, you’ll rarely tap into the full capabilities of a quality bike multi-tool. I’ve yet to break out the chain tool on mine, and fingers crossed, I never have to improvise a quick fix without better equipment. That said, if disaster strikes, you’ll be grateful it’s in your kit.
On the flip side, you’ll use it often for tweaks. Bikes are built to accommodate different body types, so fine-tuning is key for comfort. A pro fitting at a shop is smart, but learning to adjust things yourself—like saddle height, handlebar angle, or brake positions—is empowering. Something compact like the Crankbrothers multi-tool handles all that with its array of hex keys and drivers. Plenty of brands offer similar ones, but I’ve relied on this model (in the same shade) through several bikes over the years without issue.
A Tough Lock
If you’re biking to populated spots—like work, shops, or events—you’ll need to secure it properly. Forget flimsy cable locks that thieves can pick or snip in moments. Invest in a robust U-lock, and if your e-bike was a big splurge, consider top-tier theft deterrents.
For my Orbea, I lug around the hefty Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit—about five pounds of reassurance. It’s among the few I trust against determined crooks, especially with e-bikes being prime targets. Modern thieves often wield cordless angle grinders, but this lock’s diamond-hardened steel coating forces them to work for over six minutes with a plugged-in tool, usually enough to make them bail for an easier mark.
Something to Hold Water
Early on with my Orbea, I headed out on a sunny afternoon, aiming for a park read, but after a short uphill slog in snug jeans, I detoured straight to the bike shop for a bottle cage, then grabbed a drink from a nearby spot. Even with electric help, cycling builds up a thirst. You’ll want hydration handy, like for sips during stops.
Most cages are pretty universal, so pick one that matches your vibe aesthetically. Only get picky if you need a side-loading design, which eases access if your frame’s cluttered with other gear—say, that bulky lock or the bonus item below.
Bonus Pick: Cargo Solutions
I call storage a runner-up because it’s so personal, depending on your bike’s design and what you haul. Handlebar pouches fit nearly anything but stay small and might unbalance you if overloaded. Frame-mounted bags offer more space and better weight distribution, though they’re tricky on low-step frames and require sizing checks.
A rear rack is versatile for many setups, but if you’re weight-conscious, it adds unnecessary bulk. If that’s you, maybe skip onboard options altogether—a basic backpack from your closet could suffice for essentials. Whether it’s saddlebags, top-tube holders, panniers, or just slinging it over your shoulder, choose what suits your rides best.
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