| There is a massive range of accessories available for | | | | Mountain bikes are prone to breaking down when |
| mountain bikes and it is possible to spend as much as | | | | you least expect it. A basic repair kit is a great |
| you did on the bike. But a lot of the accessories are | | | | mountain bike accessory to own and can be a real |
| gimmicks and are not needed for typical mountain | | | | lifesaver. This should contain a puncher repair kit, allen |
| biking. There are, however, some mountain bike | | | | key, screw driver (to adjust the front and rear |
| accessories that are essential. | | | | derailleur) and a pump. Other equipment includes a |
| Helmet | | | | spoke tool, spanners and a bottom bracket tool. Of |
| This is the most obvious accessory for mountain | | | | course, a lubricant is essential! |
| biking. It is advisable for any cyclist to wear a helmet | | | | Cleaning equipment |
| and it is particularly important if you are going to be | | | | Mountain biking can be a dirty sport and bikes tend |
| mountain biking. It is common to fall off your bike | | | | to not like dirt! So the right cleaning equipment is |
| when mountain biking off road and the surface can | | | | required to keep your mountain bike in good working |
| be unforgiving. A good solid helmet is necessary to | | | | order. It is possible to buy stray that will degrease |
| protect you head from any impact with the ground, | | | | your gears. A small brush is often necessary to |
| trees or rocks. | | | | remove the stubborn dirt. |
| Cycle Shorts | | | | Bike bottles and cages |
| Mountain biking on rough bumpy roads is very hard | | | | Make sure you carry plenty of liquid when mountain |
| on the body. It is very common for cyclists to have | | | | biking. You should buy a cage to hold a water bottle. |
| a sore bottom after a hard days mountain biking. A | | | | If it will fit, two cages is a good idea so that you can |
| good pair of cycle shorts will help absorb some of | | | | carry extra liquid. |
| the impact. | | | | Cycle lights |
| Gloves | | | | If you are going to do any cycling at night, you will |
| For the same reason as above, gloves are an | | | | need lights. There is no point taking the risk, as it is |
| important part of your mountain bike kit. A lot of | | | | easy for cars to not see you. |
| people overlook gloves, but they do absorb a | | | | Lock |
| significant amount of the shock that travels up | | | | If you are going to leave your mountain bike |
| through the handlebars. Gloves with gel padding are | | | | unattended for any length of time, then you will need |
| the best ones to buy for mountain biking. | | | | a lock. Of course this depends on where you live, but |
| Other Clothing | | | | in most places, bikes are stolen on a frequent basis. |
| If you are going to be out in the countryside for a | | | | You can get locks that come with a guarantee |
| day, or even half a day, make sure you protect | | | | against breaking. |
| yourself from the weather. A lightweight waterproof | | | | Summary |
| jacket is needed in case of rain. An outer layer is a | | | | Mountain biking is a fantastic form of exercise and |
| good idea on hot sunny days to protect your skin | | | | can be enjoyed by most people. With the right |
| from the harmful sunrays. | | | | mountain bike and accessories, you will have the time |
| Repair kit | | | | of your life. |