If you’re riding with the Sharks, you’ll need to bring a few basic tools on every ride. Not because we expect crashes, but because small things happen, like flat tires or loose bolts, and it’s important to be prepared.
Your coaches will help you learn how to use each item, but you’re expected to bring your own gear.
Here’s what you’ll need to carry every ride:
- A handheld bike pump – It should be small enough to fit in a bag or clip to your frame. This is what you’ll use to inflate your tire if you get a flat or just realize mid-ride that you don’t have enough air in one of your tires.
- A spare inner tube – Whether you ride tubeless or have tubes in your bike, you’ll carry a tube as a way to fix a flat tire mid-ride. These vary in size, so it’s pretty critical to carry one that fits your bike; otherwise, you’ll be walking your bike back if you get a flat.
- A bike multi-tool – It should have basic hex/Allen keys and a chain tool if possible. These are inexpensive and allow you to tighten bolts, remove your wheel, adjust your saddle, and many more things.
- Tire levers (x 2)– These help you get your tire off the rim (the metal part of your wheel) without hurting your hands. Don’t buy the cheapest ones; they tend to break. Park Tool is an excellent brand for any bike repair equipment (in stock at Syracuse Bicycle).
- A bag or pack to carry it all – A bag or pack to carry it all – This could be a seat bag, hydration pack, or small frame bag. In our experience, a seat bag is an excellent solution because once it’s attached, it’s there for the season, no need to take it on and off. It never gets forgotten.
Please go to our team sponsor Syracuse Bicycle to buy these items. They are a long running team sponsor and so we love to support them. You’ll also get a 15% discount when you mention that you’re a Shark! Their staff are experienced, welcoming and beginner friendly, ask them anything!
Syracuse Bicycle are located at 2540 Erie Blvd East, Syracuse, NY 13224.
