Best Gear and Accessories for Electric Bike Riders
Best Gear and Accessories for Electric Bike Riders
Having the right gear will make life with an electric bike safer, more comfortable and more fun. While many products for non-electric and electric cyclists overlap there are a growing number of ebike specific products on the market. In this guide we’re going to showcase some of the best gear and accessories for electric bike riders.
Locks
It’s an unfortunate fact that electric bikes have been a target for theft in the last few years. Having a good lock (and bike insurance) should be top priority on any list of accessories for electric bike riders. Most locks we sell use the Sold Secure rating system. This is an independent testing system for locks and you’ll often find that insurance policies specify that you have to have a specific level. For electric bikes we normally recommend either Gold or Diamond rated locks, but always check your policy to make sure you will be covered.
We stock Kryptonite locks in our stores and they have a handy guide on the best way to secure your ebike. A couple of good Kryptonite products are:
Kryptonite Evolution Mini 7 Lock with Cable - £74.99
This is a good lock to carry with you when out and about. The D-Lock can go through your frame and back wheel and around a bike stand. The cable can then be used to loop around your front wheel for extra security.
Kryptonite Stronghold Ground Anchor - £99.99
Many insurance policies specify that you have to lock your bike to an immovable object. Ground anchors can be placed on the floor (or wall) of your garage, or home, to create a solid point to lock your bike to.
Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain - £199.99
This is Kryptonite’s top of the range lock and it is heavy. It’s not something you want to be carrying around every day but, when combined with a ground anchor, is great for securing your electric bike at home.
Navigation
Lots of studies have been done which show electric bike owners ride further than cyclists on standard bikes. If you are going to go exploring you’ll want to be sure you can find the way home. Garmin do a range of GPS cycle computers which can give you turn by turn instructions. The Edge Explore is the one they recommend for electric bike owners.
Garmin Edge Explore GPS Computer - £219.99
The Edge Explore comes pre-loaded with maps so can see where you are, plot routes, or follow routes other people have created. Garmin’s mapping data knows where other cyclists ride so will generally steer you away from the busiest roads. The Edge Explore can also be paired with the Shimano Steps ebike system to show your electric bike’s battery status, range, mode and other speed.
Helmets
Specialized did a big re-design of their helmet range for the 2021 season. As part of this they have rated certain helmets for electric bike use. These include helmets aimed at urban commuters as well as mountain bikers and general fitness riders. Their electric bike rated helmets pass the Dutch e-bike Standard NTA8776. The two most popular are the Mode and the Tactic 4.
Specialized Mode Urban Helmet - £100
The Mode helmet has a stylish and minimalist design for use around town. It still has decent venting, and all the safety features you want.
Specialized Tactic 4 mountain bike helmet - £100
The Tactic 4 is designed for mountain biking but works equally well for general fitness riding. It comes with bigger vents to keep you cool on long climbs and has extended coverage at the rear.
Cleaners and Lubricants
Keeping your electric bike clean not only makes it look nicer but will make it last longer. As muck and grime builds up on bikes it wears parts down much more quickly. A number of electric bike specific cleaners and lubricants are now available to help you keep your bike spotless.
Finish Line EBike Cleaner - £9.99
Although electric bikes are designed to be reasonably waterproof you don’t want to be regularly pouring water over the charging ports, sensors and other electronic parts. The Finish Line EBike cleaner is designed to be used without water. So you can keep your bike clean without having to worry about damaging it.
Finish Line EBike Chain Lube - £9.99
Electric bike motors put extra strain onto the bike’s chain and gearing. Finish Line’s EBike lube is designed to help your chain deal with the extra load and keep your gears running smoothly.
What other accessories for electric bike riders are needed?
We’d normally recommend lights to anyone buying a new bike but many electric bikes come with them built in. A lot of electric hybrid bikes will also come with mudguards, kickstands and pannier racks already fitted. So all you really need is some comfortable clothes and you’ll be ready to get out and explore!
