{"id":178493,"date":"2024-01-19T20:02:55","date_gmt":"2024-01-20T04:02:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/?p=178493"},"modified":"2024-09-04T11:12:20","modified_gmt":"2024-09-04T18:12:20","slug":"e-bike-essentials","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/cycle\/e-bike-essentials","title":{"rendered":"Our Favorite Gear for Your Next E-Bike Ride"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Given the gentle assist that nudges the rider forward whenever the going gets too tough, it\u2019s no wonder electric bikes are known for inducing joyful whoops as their riders buzz around town. (For the record, these pedalers are also burning calories<\/a>.) <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s the gear you need for the next time you hop in the saddle. And good news: All our picks go perfectly with that perma-grin you\u2019re wearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Electra Loft Go! 7D EQ Step-Thru Electric Bike <\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With its leatherette saddle, extruded fenders and step-through silhouette, Electra\u2019s<\/a> e-bike might leave other riders thinking you\u2019re a dream out of yesteryear. That is until you pedal the 250-watt Hyena rear hub motor and leave them in your dust. Promising a top assisted speed of 20 mph and a range of up to 40 miles, this Class 1 e-bike (read more about classes here<\/a>) charges in just four hours. A fully integrated battery provides a smooth ride and streamlined look, while the dual front- and rear mechanical disc brakes ensure you can stop when you need to. Speedy, 700c tires are designed for in-town transit. $1,700<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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REI Co-op Beyonder Saddlebag Panniers<\/strong> <\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If your pedal-assist grocery runs or commute require carrying more booty than you can fit in your backpack, consider investing in the REI Co-op<\/a> Beyonder Saddlebag Panniers, which fit most bike racks. Their burly, bluesign-approved nylon exterior and polyester lining both feature water-repelling capabilities, while inside a laptop sleeve and internal pocket keep up to 20 pounds of accoutrements organized. An external side pocket is a perfect place to store your bike <\/a>lock<\/a> while in transit. And once you get to where you\u2019re going, easily unhook the panniers and sling the bags\u2013and all that stuff\u2013over your shoulder using the tote straps. $99.95<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Thousand Heritage 2.0 Helmet<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Helmets sit at the top of the bike accessory hierarchy \u2014 and not just because they rest on your head. Data from the Mayo Clinic <\/a>shows wearing one can reduce head injuries by up to 80 percent. So pick one that fits<\/a> and wear it! The stylish Heritage 2.0 Helmet from Thousand<\/a> is a great choice. The second iteration of their crowd-pleasing Heritage line still has a magnetic buckle, dial fit system and vegan leather straps, but now features six vents and interior channeling for active cooling, magnetic light capability and an updated fit system designed with feedback from real riders. Bonus: Thousand earns our stamp of approval as a Good Gear brand<\/a>. $99<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Flylow Handlebar Tech Flannel Shirt – Men’s<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With its brushed polyester exterior, snazzy snap buttons, dual chest pockets and rustic plaid patterning, the Flylow<\/a> Handlebar Tech Flannel looks like just that: a flannel. Beneath its ruggedly handsome facade, however, lies a ready-for-anything collection of attributes like temperature regulation, wicking power and quick-dry capabilities. Commuting or crushing, the Handlebar will deliver. Mustache optional. $95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Terry Coolweather Bike Tights – Women’s<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Extend your ride in comfort with this essential base layer from women-specific brand Terry<\/a>, which combines all-season insulation with their popular flat-seam construction that reduces chafing. In changing conditions or on a ride where your exertion levels might fluctuate (think steep climbs or long descents), moisture wicking is a crucial part of staying warm. With these tights, the 8-panel design and microfiber fabric ensure that the process is happening as efficiently as possible. $134.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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PEARL iZUMi Quest Barrier Convertible Cycling Jacket (<\/strong>Women\u2019s<\/strong><\/a>) & (Men’s<\/strong><\/a>)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a coat! It\u2019s a vest! It\u2019s the PEARL iZUMi<\/a> Quest Barrier Convertible! As the superhero of cycling jackets, the Quest Barrier Convertible features zip-off-able sleeves for quick transitions in changing weather conditions, and <\/em>it\u2019s made with recycled materials. But that\u2019s not all. A DWR finish fends off light rain; mesh paneling along the upper back boosts ventilation; and a two-way zipper and dual-side hem cordlock ensure a fit that would please Goldilocks. Reflective hits on the chest and back increase visibility in low-light conditions. $130<\/em>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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PEARL iZUMi Cyclone Gel Cycling Gloves (<\/strong>Women\u2019s<\/strong><\/a> & <\/strong>\u00a0Men’s<\/a>)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cooler weather doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s time to hang up your bike helmet. Just make sure you have the right gear\u2013including a pair of wind-blocking, water-shielding gloves. We especially love Pearl Izumi\u2019s<\/a> Cyclone Gels, which are made with breathable, four-way-stretch synthetic leather and are designed with specific men\u2019s and women\u2019s fits. Meanwhile, 3D-shaped gel pads improve grip comfort without adding bulk and thoughtful, reflective hits increase visibility in low-light conditions. Plus, the gauntlets are long enough to overlap with your jacket<\/a> (Read: No cold wrists here). Still, if you\u2019re getting after it on an especially freezy day, opt for the insulated AmFIB Gel glove<\/a> instead. $45<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Fjallraven High Coast Pocket Sling Bag <\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Bring along the essentials like your smartphone, passport, wallet and keys\u2014while avoiding cringey back-sweat from a backpack\u2014with Fjallraven\u2019s<\/a> handy High Coast Pocket Sling Bag. The adjustable shoulder strap facilitates a range of carrying options and the waterproof fabric repels offending droplets from unexpected showers. Bonus: The 100% recycled nylon fabric and lining mean your brand-new bag has sustainability cred. $35<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Topeak Mini 9 <\/strong><\/a>Multi<\/a><\/strong>-Tool<\/strong><\/a> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

“And I shall call it \u2026 the Mini 9 Multi-Tool.\u201d Certainly Dr. Evil would approve of Topeak\u2019s naming convention. He\u2019d likely be impressed with the nine essential tools\u20132, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 Allen wrenches; Torx T25 bit for disc brakes; and a Phillips-head screwdriver\u2013contained in this uber compact, fits-in-the-palm-of-your-hand design. Would he pay $1 million <\/em>for it? Maybe somewhere else. $19.95<\/em>   <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Nite Ize Squeeze Rotating Smartphone Bar Mount<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With the Squeeze Rotating Smartphone Bar Mount from Nite Ize<\/a>, apps, maps, texts and more all stay in view even when you\u2019re on the go or parked. Need to switch between portrait and landscape views? No problem, thanks to the 360\u00b0 rotation functionality. The tool-free mounting strap means attaching the device securely to your e-bike is easy-peasy-iPhone-squeezy. $26<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Po Campo Domino Handlebar Bag<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The brainchild of Maria Boustead, an industrial designer who fell in love with bike commuting during a study abroad stint in Germany, Po Campo<\/a> offers a stylish line-up of bike baskets, panniers and handlebar bags, including our pick for e-bikers, the five-pocket Domino. At 4.3 liters, the pack is \u201cperfect for holding stuff for a recreational ride but not so clunky,\u201d Boustead says. \u201cPeople love the capacity.\u201d The bag attaches easily to all types of handlebars via a simple, three-point Fixi-Strap\u2122 attachment system, but it can serve double-duty as an off-the-bike stuff-carrier too with the help of a detachable sling strap (included). Don\u2019t fear the rain or the dark: A vegan waterproof fabric exterior and reflective hits have you covered. $65<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Trek Commuter Pro RT Flare RT Bike Light Set<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Bike lights are a see-me-clearly accessory legally required in some states when riding at night and advisable for use during daytime hours as well. Get both with the Trek<\/a> Commuter Pro RT Flare RT Bike Light Set\u2014designed to keep light on the ground and out of oncoming riders\u2019 eyes and a red rear light\u2014along with mounts and USB-C and micro-USB charging cables. The front and rear lights pair wirelessly for one-push adjustments to their impressive 1,000 and 90 max lumen counts, respectively. Focus, flash and range flash patterns boost daytime visibility for up to 1.2 miles. Keep an eye on the dual-fuel gauge for at-a-glance updates on the available battery life, but if you\u2019re in a pinch, a USB-C charging port facilitates on-the-go recharging from your phone or cycling computer. $210<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Hiplok D1000 Bike Lock<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dubbed the \u201creigning champ of bike locks\u201d by one happy reviewer on the brand\u2019s website, the Hiplok<\/a> D1000 features a U-lock design, a no-nonsense 20-millimeter thickness and a rubberized outer surface to prevent scratches to your bike frame. What sets the D1000 apart from its competitors\u2014and what earned it a Sold Secure Diamond rating\u2014is its graphene-reinforced hardened-steel shackle, which is specifically designed to thwart sustained attacks from nasty power tools like angle grinders. At $300, the D1000 is indeed an investment. Then again, so was that e-bike it\u2019s protecting. $300<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Thule T2 Pro XTR 2-Bike Hitch Rack<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

News flash: E-bikes can be heavy. That doesn\u2019t matter so much for the rider (you have a motor, after all). It can, however, limit your bike rack choices. This rack from Thule<\/a>, which has a total load capacity of up to 120 pounds for the 2-inch version, is up to the task. The burly hauler fits wheel sizes from 20 to 29 inches in diameter, and up to 5 inches wide, without the hassle of an adapter. Generously spaced bike mounts prevent scratches, and an integrated locking system deters thieves. When not in use the rack folds up while still allowing access to your vehicle. The T2 Pro XTR is also easy to remove from your car without tools, thanks to Thule\u2019s proprietary AutoAttach system, and built-in wheels that make moving it into storage a breeze. $749.95<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\nLearn More in Our Electric Bike Basics<\/path><\/svg><\/a><\/span>\n\n\n\n

Interested in more staff picks and kits? Find more collections here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

This article has been updated since it published in Aug. 15, 2023<\/em><\/p>\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Given the gentle assist that nudges the rider forward whenever the going gets too tough, it\u2019s no wonder electric bikes are known for inducing joyful whoops as their riders buzz around town. (For the record, these pedalers are also burning calories.) Here\u2019s the gear you need for the next time you hop in the saddle. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9145,"featured_media":192182,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[25,1846,724,1951],"internal-tag":[],"class_list":["post-178493","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cycle","tag-cycle","tag-e-bikes","tag-gear","tag-the-perfect-kit"],"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","canonical_url":"https:\/\/rei.com\/blog\/cycle\/e-bike-essentials","smart_links":{"inbound":0,"outbound":0},"traffic_boost_suggestions_count":0,"meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","headline":"Our Favorite Gear for Your Next E-Bike Ride","url":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/cycle\/e-bike-essentials","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/cycle\/e-bike-essentials"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/12\/Kingman_20220102_0755.jpeg?resize=150%2C150","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/12\/Kingman_20220102_0755.jpeg?fit=4096%2C2731"},"articleSection":"Cycle","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Phuong Le"}],"creator":["Phuong Le"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Uncommon Path \u2013 An REI Co-op Publication","logo":""},"keywords":["cycle","e-bikes","gear","the perfect kit"],"dateCreated":"2024-01-20T04:02:55Z","datePublished":"2024-01-20T04:02:55Z","dateModified":"2024-09-04T18:12:20Z"},"rendered":"