View Single Post
Old 01-11-19 | 04:19 PM
  #17  
Jim from Boston's Avatar
Jim from Boston
Senior Member
 
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 7,381
Likes: 219
Must-have gear for commuting?
Originally Posted by Andy Thousand
What is your favorite gear to commute with. Do you like clothing made specifically for bicycling. Or do you prefer gear that can be used on and off the bicycle?
Do you prefer panniers or a backpack?
Originally Posted by Jim from Boston
As a decades-long commuter. I replied with the intent of establishing a comprehensive list of gear (matériel)….
Originally Posted by CliffordK
Each person will find somewhat different gear that is comfortable. The [MENTION=124426]Jim from Boston[/MENTION] list is a good start. I don't have studded tires, and can stay home if it gets too nasty out (no snow or freezing rain so far this year).

For seasonal cycle clothing, this time of year in the northwest, good rain gear is a plus. Rain shoes, rain pants, rain jacket. I also use the rain jacket as a wind breaker. Cycle Specific clothing is nice including good ventilation for the rain gear.

Spare Tube?
Also have a small stock of spare parts so one can get back on the road if something breaks. Redundant bikes?
Originally Posted by wphamilton
Way too much for "must-have" gear. The only gear you must have is the bike. Everything else is situational and preference.
Thanks for the nod, [MENTION=392454]CliffordK[/MENTION]. My list was
meant to be comprehensive, especially for the beginning cycle-commuter, to consider the possibilities. I added items to the list such as a bell, and camcorder, which I don’t carry, though have considered a camera.

Yet to some subscribers, e.g. on the A&S Forum, a camera, and/or a bell seem to be a must-have.


I have posted to several threads.
Originally Posted by Jim from Boston
...“Those who disdain cycle computers, remind me of those who state, ‘I’m not religious but I am spiritual’. “
Yet [MENTION=392454]CliffordK[/MENTION] and I have commented about recording commuting miles as training miles, so a computer is a must-have.
Originally Posted by CliffordK
…Commuting mileage adds up. Most of my riding is commuting of varying distances, and I count most of my century rides as commutes. It helps to have a destination and goal.
Originally Posted by Jim from Boston
Thanks for your comment, [MENTION=392454]CliffordK[/MENTION]; +10 for commuting miles, and riding with a destination and a goal.
Jim from Boston is offline  
Reply