Celebrating National Bike Month
May is here, and it's not just any month for us bike enthusiasts. It's National Bike Month!
It's a time to celebrate the joy of cycling, the freedom it brings, and the community it builds. It's also a time to make sure your e-bike is ready for the many miles ahead.
At Cascade Manufacturing, we are passionate about enhancing your biking experience with our quality accessories.
Here's a list of the top 10 essentials that you need for biking fun!
- Helmet: Safety first! Regardless of how short or long your ride is, wearing a helmet is an absolute must. Choose one that's comfortable, adjustable, and stylish. Ensure that it meets all safety standards for maximum protection.
Our recommendations:
- The one that you find the most comfortable and will wear EVERY time!
- Water Bottle Holder Bracket: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during those long, sweaty rides. Our Cascade Manufacturing water bottle holder bracket is a perfect accessory. It's lightweight, durable, and fits most standard-sized water bottles.
Our recommendations:
- Bracket: Our very own brackets! We have ones for Rad Power Bikes (original & angled one), Himiway Bikes, and Lectric Bikes. Our brackets are lightweight and easy to install.
- Bottle Cage: An aluminum one last longer than plastic ones in our experience. We like this one by Planet Bike.
- Bike Multi-Tool & Tire Repair Kit: You never know when you'll need to make a quick adjustment or repair. A compact, reliable multi-tool can solve a range of mechanical issues, keeping your adventure on track. A flat tire can bring your ride to a halt. Always carry a few spare tubes just in case! As well as a nice small pump. This way, you'll be back on the road in no time.
Our recommendations:
- Pump: Any small lightweight one should work, but the Lezyne Pocket Drive is a good choice.
- Tire Tubes: The ones that fit your tires! Always carry 2 just in case.
- Multi-Tool: Topeak or crankbrothers
- Topeak Bag Adapter: Have you ever needed more storage space during your ride? Our Topeak bag adapter allows you to carry all your essentials securely. It's easy to install and compatible with a variety of Topeak bags.
Our recommendations:
- Our Topeak adapter plate will allow you to carry alllll the things you need for a ride!
- Bike Lights and Reflectors: Visibility is key when you're out on the road. Equip your e-bike with front and rear lights for those dusk-to-dawn rides. Don't forget about reflectors—they make you more visible to other road users.
Our recommendations:
- We use the large one that Rad sells for the front. But REI has great options for lighting up your bike so you can be safe. They are also very helpful if you have any questions!
- Skid Plates: Want to venture on rough terrains? Protect the underside of your e-bike with durable skid plates. They shield your bike from debris and reduce the risk of damage to the motor and battery.
Our recommendations:
- We have several skid plate options for the different bikes that Rad carries.
- Battery Case Adapter: Make sure you never run out of juice on your ride. A battery case adapter allows you to carry an extra battery, so you can ride further and longer.
Our recommendations:
- Our own Rad battery case adapter plate. Made of Aircraft grade aluminum and precision machined right here in the PNW!
- Comfortable Saddle: Your saddle can make or break your ride. Invest in a comfortable one, preferably ergonomic and designed to reduce pressure points for a smooth ride.
Our recommendations:
- We all actually use the stock saddles that came on our Rad bikes 🫣
- Tell us in the comments what your fave bike seats are!
- Cycling Gloves: Protect your hands and improve your grip with a pair of cycling gloves. They also provide some cushioning, reducing hand fatigue during long rides.
Our recommendations:
- We like Dakine gloves, but gloves can be very personal. Our suggestion is to go to your local cycling shop (or REI) and try on many pairs of gloves!
- Bike Lock:
Our recommendations:
- The team had several recommendations based purely on personal preference.
- I like the thin bendy ones that allow you to supply your own lock. I find they are the easiest to wrap up and store in my bike’s bag!
Every ride is an adventure, but having the right accessories can make it even better! Tell us in the comments what you always make sure to carry when riding a bike!
This National Bike Month, let's pledge to ride safely, responsibly, and, most importantly, have fun. At Cascade Manufacturing, we're here to make your e-biking journey the best it can be.
Happy cycling!
