I bought an e-bike two years ago—here are the accessories I wish I’d known about from the start

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Two years (and many soggy commutes) in, I’ve learned that the bike is only half the story—the right accessories turn good rides into great ones. Below, I’ve kept the anecdotes, added evidence, and flagged where official guidance genuinely changes the game.

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Keep Calm And Carry Air: The Mighty Mini Compressor

There’s nothing like a slow puncture to make you late and flustered. A portable electric compressor lives in my frame bag now; it tops up tyres accurately and saves frantic forearm workouts on the pavement. It’s not just convenience—correct tyre pressure helps range, comfort and grip.

Bags Of Sense: Storage That Actually Works

My early “system” (pockets + hope) meant lost keys, squashed snacks, and phone acrobatics. A compact, waterproof frame bag with dividers made everything calmer. I still keep one small dry bag inside for wallet/ID—if the worst happens, at least those stay dry and together.

Safety In Shine: The Unsung Hero Of Night Rides

A flimsy blinky isn’t a visibility strategy. UK rules require, at night, a white front light, red rear light, and a red rear reflector (plus amber pedal reflectors on bikes made after 1 Oct 1985). Flashing lights are allowed; a steady beam is recommended where there’s no street lighting.¹ High-contrast or reflective clothing and accessories can also improve how early drivers spot you, which matters when reaction time is tight.²

Did you know?
A quick pre-ride check—front light, rear light, reflectors clean—takes seconds and prevents the “dead battery in the dark” surprise.

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Lock It Down: Why A Solid Lock Matters More Than You Think

After a couple of heart-stopping false alarms, I upgraded security. Police guidance is simple and sobering: use two quality locks, ideally different types (for example, a D-lock and a robust chain/cable), and lock the frame and both wheels to a fixed stand.³ It’s awkward carrying extra metal—but less awkward than filing a theft report. If you buy only one accessory after the bike, make it a serious lock.

Did you know?
Snap a photo of how you’ve locked the bike (and where), and store your key/combination codes separately—handy for insurance or recovery.

A Little Toolkit Goes A Long Way

A tiny roll with tyre levers, a compact multi-tool, patch kit, and a mini-pump lives on my rear rack. It’s the difference between limping to a shop and fixing a flat in ten minutes. I toss in a spare quick-link for the chain and a pair of gloves so I don’t wear my commute on my hands.

Helmet 2.0: Because Your Head Deserves High-Tech

I started with a plain lid; I now use a smart helmet with brake/indicator lights and fall detection—handy in city traffic. Safety organisations in the UK encourage helmet use and proper fit to help reduce the risk and severity of head injury; comfort and fit matter as much as the badge on the box.⁴ Adjust it once, then actually wear it.

Let There Be Light (And Radar)

My biggest late discovery: being seen in daylight. A Danish controlled study found that cyclists using permanent running lights had a 19% lower incidence of injury crashes, with the clearest effect in daytime—so I now run bright daytime rear lights even under blue skies.⁵ On darker routes I add a radar tail light for rider alerts; it’s no forcefield, but it improves my awareness when traffic is closing fast.

Final Thoughts

I still love the e-bike’s silent shove, but I love it more with the right kit: lights and reflectors set to spec, serious locks, a mini compressor, and basic tools. If you’re just starting, get the safety-critical items first; the rest can follow. Your future self—visible, prepared and on time—will thank you.