Cycle to Work Scheme - Accessories

decommuter771 · 06-09-2015 9:27am #1

Started cycling to work and planning on buying a bike through the cycle to work scheme.

Beyond the bike, what accessories it is worth getting at this stage?

Is it worth getting extra tubes, puncture repair kits, tire levers, ruck sack covers etc?

Also, what brands should I watch out for/avoid on jackets and waterproof trousers?

Thanks!

Beasty · 06-09-2015 9:51am

Are you talking about things that qualify under the BTW scheme? If so this thread belongs in the BTW megathread. If you are talking generally what stuff should you carry with you it has equal relevance whether you buy your bike under the schemo or otherwise (and this thread can remain standalone)

decommuter771 · 06-09-2015 6:49pm

Hi Beasty,

I'm asking more generally what should I buy (as a new cyclist/commuter).

Interested to hear what's worth buying and what I don't actually need. I can check what's eligible under btw scheme in t&cs in work.

Thanks

Beasty wrote: »

Are you talking about things that qualify under the BTW scheme? If so this thread belongs in the BTW megathread. If you are talking generally what stuff should you carry with you it has equal relevance whether you buy your bike under the schemo or otherwise (and this thread can remain standalone)

Undercover Elephant · 06-09-2015 7:38pm

A good lock. Lights if you're going to be commuting in winter. A backup plan for when you get a flat- best to be able to fix it yourself but some just have money for alternative transport.

If you're already over the bike scheme limit, I'd leave it at that. You'll work out soon enough what you want. But if there's part of the allowance left, you might as well take it as you'll effectively be paying half price.

Waterproofs are a waste of time. If they're properly waterproof, you'll just get wet from the inside instead. A light rain jacket is useful to keep the worst of a quick shower off. Otherwise staying warm is more important than trying to stay dry.

Carawaystick · 07-09-2015 8:07am

I bring 2 tubes
tyre levers
pump
2 lights - 1 bright and steady, one flasher
2 back lights same, steady & flashing

In work we have a track pump from Lidl and solution&patches so if you get a puncture on the way in, you still have 2 tubes for the return journey.

I cycle though Dublin city, so more puncture prone.

I'd get mudguards on the cycle to work scheme if you can. They'll keep you drier than most raingear, as they won't wet you with sweat.

Cycle to Work Scheme - Accessories

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