Quick Take: You don’t need expensive gear to ride safely and comfortably. These are the budget items I actually use on my long-distance rides — durable, affordable, and truly worth the money.
People waste a fortune on cycling gear they don’t need. After 150,000+ miles on the bike, I’ve learned that budget gear can be just as good — as long as you pick the right stuff. Here are the best low-cost items I trust on every ride.
1. Budget Rearview Mirror
The Take-A-Look mirror is still the most important cheap piece of gear I own. It has saved my life more than once — including the time a distracted driver drifted into the bike lane and I bailed just in time.
2. Budget Headlight & Taillight Set
You don’t need a $200 lighting setup. A reliable, rechargeable light set under $30 can make you visible day or night.
3. Budget UV Arm Sleeves
I ride with my skin completely covered. Budget sleeves work just as well as premium ones if you pick breathable, UV-rated fabric.
Budget Pick:
Stay cool, protect your skin, and avoid long-term sun damage. I have skin cancer and these are the ones I wear.
4. Budget Mini Pump
A mini pump is non-negotiable. Cheap ones work fine as long as they have a solid mount and can reach decent pressure.
5. Budget Multi-Tool
You’ll use this more often than you think. Tighten a bolt, fix a saddle angle, adjust a derailleur — all with one cheap tool.
Budget Pick:
Durable, compact, and includes the essentials. I have this one and have used it a few times.
6. Budget Gloves
No need for $50 gloves. Plenty of cheap options offer great padding, grip, and sweat wiping.
7. Budget Water Bottles & Cages
Cheap bottles are perfectly fine. Just avoid the super-hard plastic ones that taste awful.
8. Budget Phone Mount
I don’t use my phone for navigation (I ride with a Wahoo BOLT V3), but a phone mount is a great budget option for beginners.
9. Budget Padded Shorts or Bibs
You can absolutely get comfortable budget shorts or bibs — especially for rides under 30–40 miles.
10. Budget Saddle Cover
This is one of the best cheap upgrades for beginners who aren’t ready to replace their saddle.