The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Last Updated: May 2026

Cycling is one of the best things you can do for your health, your mindset, and your sense of freedom.

But here’s the truth most people don’t talk about:

👉 The right accessories don’t just make your ride better—they can keep you from getting hurt, stranded, or miserable.

After more than 155,000 miles riding everything from quiet roads to traffic-heavy routes, these are the accessories I trust and actually use.

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🚴 The Cycling Accessories I Actually Use (And Trust)

1. Helmet

Your helmet is your most important piece of gear. No debate.

I wear the Giro Fixture MIPS II Helmet, but there are other great helmets in different styles available.

2. Bike Lights (Front + Rear)

If you ride near traffic, this isn’t optional.

I’ve used a Cateye Headlight for over 13 years. It’s reliable and visible even in daylight.

For the rear, I use the Garmin Varia Radar. It’s the single biggest safety upgrade I’ve ever made.

👉 Read how I use it with a mirror here:
Two Cycling Safety Tools I Trust at 70 (Mirror + Radar)

3. Bike Lock

Theft happens. A lock won’t stop everyone, but it stops most.

👉 Browse bike locks

4. Water Bottle + Cage

Hydration matters more than most riders realize—especially in Texas heat.

I use insulated bottles like the CamelBak Podium Chill.

👉 Browse bottle cages

5. Pump or CO₂ Inflator

Flat tires happen. Be ready.

👉 Bike Pump 👉 CO₂ Inflator (I’ve used mine since 2012)

6. Bike Bag

You need a place for tools, snacks, and essentials.

👉 Browse bike bags
👉 The one I use (over a decade now)

7. Cycling Gloves

Better grip. Less numbness. More comfort.

👉 Browse gloves
👉 HTZPLOO Gloves I wear

8. Cycling Shorts (Bib Shorts for Me)

Comfort matters more than style.

I ride in Przewalski bib shorts.

👉 Browse more options

9. Cycling Shoes

These improve efficiency, but fit matters more than anything.

I recommend getting shoes from a local bike shop if possible.

10. Cycling Computer

I use the Wahoo Elemnt Bolt.

It tracks everything and syncs with my rides.

👉 Other options

11. Bike Rack

If you ever need a ride home, you’ll want this.

👉 Bike Carriers for Seniors Guide

12. Mirror (One of the Most Important Items I Own)

I use a glasses-mounted mirror and check it constantly.

It has saved me more than once.

👉 The mirror I use
👉 More options

💡 My Bottom Line

You don’t need everything at once.

But if you want to ride safer and more comfortably, start here:

• Helmet
• Lights
• Mirror

Those three alone will change your riding experience more than anything else.

After that, build your setup based on how you ride.

I’m not trying to have the fanciest setup out there.

I just want to ride longer, safer, and get home every time.