Necessary Accessories to Buy as a Beginner Cyclist: A Complete Guide for New Riders

Bike it or Hike IT • October 1, 2024

1. Helmet: Safety First!

The first and most important piece of gear for any cyclist, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, is a good quality helmet. Helmets protect your head from serious injuries in case of falls or accidents, and it’s a law in many places to wear one while cycling. You should never compromise on this accessory!

Why you need it:

  • Protection: In the event of a crash, a helmet cushions your skull and reduces the risk of head injuries.
  • Comfort: Many helmets come with adjustable straps and vents for better airflow, making them more comfortable to wear for longer periods.

At Cycling Accessories and Parts, you’ll find a wide range of high-quality helmets for different cycling needs, from road cycling to mountain biking. They carry helmets from top brands that are not only safe but also stylish and comfortable. Plus, they have helmets for both adults and children, ensuring the whole family is covered!

Recommended helmet features:

  • Adjustable straps
  • Good ventilation
  • Lightweight design
  • Certification (e.g., CPSC or EN1078)

Pro tip: When trying on a helmet, make sure it fits snugly without being too tight and sits level on your head.


For all your cycling accessory needs, contact Cycling Accessories and Parts at:
📞 0738196843 or 0798154123
🌐 www.sportshouse.co.ke


2. Cycling Gloves: Comfort and Grip

Cycling gloves might seem like an optional accessory, but they are an absolute must-have for comfort and grip. Whether you’re cycling on smooth roads or rough trails, gloves provide cushioning and help reduce vibrations that can cause hand fatigue. They also offer better control and grip on the handlebars, especially when your hands get sweaty.

Why you need them:

  • Comfort: They provide padding that helps to prevent numbness or tingling in your hands on longer rides.
  • Grip: Good grip on the handlebars makes controlling the bike much easier, especially when riding over bumpy terrain.
  • Protection: Gloves can help prevent blisters and abrasions from rough handlebar grips.

Cycling Accessories and Parts has a wide selection of cycling gloves, from full-fingered gloves for winter to short-fingered gloves for warm weather rides. These gloves come in various designs and sizes to fit your specific needs and style.

Recommended glove features:

  • Breathable fabric for ventilation
  • Padded palms for comfort
  • Elastic cuffs for a snug fit

For all your cycling accessory needs, contact Cycling Accessories and Parts at:
📞 0738196843 or 0798154123
🌐 www.sportshouse.co.ke


3. Cycling Shoes: Efficiency and Comfort

When you start cycling seriously, you’ll quickly realize that cycling shoes are a game-changer. They are designed to be worn with clipless pedals (which allow you to clip your shoes into the pedals for better pedaling efficiency), but they also provide comfort and support during regular cycling rides. If you’re a beginner, cycling shoes will help you make the most of your pedal strokes.

Why you need them:

  • Pedal efficiency: With clipless shoes, you’ll be able to transfer more power to the pedals, allowing for more efficient cycling.
  • Comfort: Cycling shoes are designed with stiff soles that reduce foot fatigue on long rides and keep your feet in a natural position.
  • Safety: A firm grip on the pedals reduces the risk of slipping or falling.

Cycling Accessories and Parts stocks a variety of cycling shoes for all types of cyclists, from road cyclists to mountain bikers. They have shoes with both clipless and flat pedal compatibility, so you can choose according to your riding style.

Recommended shoe features:

  • Stiff soles for better power transfer
  • Breathable upper for comfort
  • Secure fastening system (Velcro straps, laces, or buckles)

For all your cycling accessory needs, contact Cycling Accessories and Parts at:
📞 0738196843 or 0798154123
🌐 www.sportshouse.co.ke


4. Cycling Shorts: Comfort for Long Rides

When you start cycling more frequently, you’ll notice that your regular workout gear just doesn’t cut it. Cycling shorts are specifically designed to make your rides more comfortable by reducing friction and providing padding where it’s needed most.

Why you need them:

  • Comfort: Cycling shorts are padded in the areas where contact with the saddle occurs, making them much more comfortable for longer rides.
  • Breathability: The fabric of cycling shorts is designed to wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.
  • Fit: Cycling shorts are designed to fit snugly and stay in place, which reduces chafing.

Cycling Accessories and Parts offers a variety of cycling shorts for both men and women, including padded shorts for added comfort. Whether you're just starting out or preparing for longer rides, you’ll find something that suits your needs.

Recommended shorts features:

  • Chamois padding for comfort
  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Elastic waistband for a snug fit

For all your cycling accessory needs, contact Cycling Accessories and Parts at:
📞 0738196843 or 0798154123
🌐 www.sportshouse.co.ke


5. Water Bottle and Cage: Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key when cycling, especially during long rides or in hot weather. A water bottle and cage are essential accessories to carry your water with you while riding. You can easily access the bottle without having to stop, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout your ride.

Why you need them:

  • Convenience: Having a water bottle within easy reach means you don’t have to stop and take off your bag to drink.
  • Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining energy and focus during your ride, preventing fatigue, and avoiding dehydration.

At Cycling Accessories and Parts, you can find high-quality water bottles and bottle cages in various sizes and designs. Choose one that’s durable, leak-proof, and easy to clean.

Recommended water bottle features:

  • BPA-free material
  • Leak-proof lid
  • Easy-to-grip design

For all your cycling accessory needs, contact Cycling Accessories and Parts at:
📞 0738196843 or 0798154123
🌐 www.sportshouse.co.ke


6. Pump and Tire Repair Kit: Be Prepared for Flats

There’s nothing worse than getting a flat tire miles from home without the proper tools to fix it. As a beginner cyclist, you should always carry a pump and a tire repair kit with you. These tools will allow you to quickly fix a flat tire and get back on the road without the need to call for help.

Why you need them:

  • Self-sufficiency: A pump and repair kit allow you to fix a flat tire on your own, so you don’t have to rely on others.
  • Peace of mind: Having the right tools with you gives you confidence, knowing that you can handle unexpected issues on your ride.

Cycling Accessories and Parts carries high-quality pumps and repair kits, including portable mini pumps and compact tool kits that are perfect for beginner cyclists. These kits usually come with tire levers, patches, and a small multitool to help with other minor bike adjustments.

Recommended pump features:

  • Compact size for easy storage
  • High-pressure capacity
  • Durable build

7. Bike Lock: Security is Key

If you’re commuting or cycling in public spaces, a bike lock is an essential accessory. You’ll want to protect your bike from theft when you need to leave it unattended. Invest in a high-quality, secure bike lock to keep your bike safe.

Why you need it:

  • Protection: A good lock prevents thieves from taking your bike when you’re not looking.
  • Convenience: You won’t have to worry about leaving your bike behind if you know it’s securely locked up.

At Cycling Accessories and Parts, you can find a variety of bike locks, including U-locks, chain locks, and cable locks, to suit your needs. Choose one that’s both secure and easy to carry around.

Recommended lock features:

  • Strong, durable material (e.g., hardened steel)
  • Key or combination locking mechanism
  • Compact design for easy portability


For all your cycling accessory needs, contact Cycling Accessories and Parts at:
📞 0738196843 or 0798154123
🌐 www.sportshouse.co.ke


8. Lights and Reflectors: Stay Safe and Visible

Cycling at night or in low-light conditions can be dangerous, especially if you’re not visible to other road users. To ensure your safety, invest in bike lights and reflectors. These accessories make you more visible to cars, pedestrians, and other cyclists.

Why you need them:

  • Visibility: Lights and reflectors help you be seen in low-light conditions, which reduces the risk of accidents.
  • Safety: Bright front and rear lights, along with reflectors on your bike, make you more visible to other cyclists and drivers.

Cycling Accessories and Parts offers a variety of front and rear bike lights, along with reflectors and reflective gear to increase your visibility on the road. Whether you’re riding at night or early in the morning, these accessories will ensure you stay safe.

Recommended light features:

  • Bright LED bulbs
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Easy-to-mount design

For all your cycling accessory needs, contact Cycling Accessories and Parts at:
📞 0738196843 or 0798154123
🌐 www.sportshouse.co.ke

Conclusion: Gear Up with Cycling Accessories and Parts

As a beginner cyclist, the right gear will make a world of difference in your cycling experience. From safety helmets to comfortable clothing, high-quality accessories are essential to ensure that you ride in comfort, safety, and style. And when it comes to buying the best cycling gear in Nairobi, Cycling Accessories and Parts is your go-to bike shop.

With their wide variety of products, unbeatable prices, and expert advice, they are the best place to shop for all your cycling needs. They stock a range of products, from helmets to pumps, gloves to shoes, ensuring that you have everything you need for a smooth ride. Plus, their commitment to quality means you won’t have to worry about your gear breaking down on you after just a few rides!

For all your cycling accessory needs, contact Cycling Accessories and Parts at:
📞 0738196843 or 0798154123
🌐 www.sportshouse.co.ke

Gear up today and take your cycling journey to the next level!

How to Learn Cycling in Nairobi

By Critical Mass • July 22, 2025
Cycling offers so many benefits for adults—and it’s never too late to start riding. Here’s exactly how to get started. 1. Gear Up: Bike, Fit & Safety Choose the right bike : Make sure your bike fits—stand over it and ensure you can comfortably reach handlebars and brakes. Adjust it : Lower the seat so your feet touch the ground initially . Prioritize safety : Always wear a proper-fitting helmet, gloves, and reflective gear, especially in Nairobi's morning or evening traffic. 2. Find a Learning Community in Nairobi Consider these reputable local instructors and programs: Bike it or Hike It : Offers beginner sessions for adults—3 to 5 session courses, group rides, and family-friendly routes. They’ll even come to your location for training. Contact: 0726 729 737 . Nairobi Bike School : Structured lessons, equipment provided. Contact: 0738 196 843 . Cycling Accessories & Parts (CAP) : Lessons + rentals + gear advice. Budget ~KSh 1,800/session and bike hire ~KSh1 500 if you just want to refresh. Direct contact through 0798154123 or https://www.facebook.com/cyclingaccessoriesandparts/ Bike Park Kenya : Hands-on mountain biking in Tigoni—perfect to learn in a safe off-road environment . Critical Mass Nairobi : Social group rides monthly—great for real-life traffic practice in a supportive crowd . 3. Learn the Fundamentals (Adapted from Bicycling’s 6‑step method): Mount/dismount practice : Lean bike lightly, brake, step on/off confidently. Braking drills : Walk next to the bike and practice even, gradual braking to build control . Balance & glide : Scoot with your feet, hoist feet up and glide—stay balanced for ~3 seconds before pedaling . Vision : Look forward—not down—to maintain line and stability . Pedal launch : Start with one foot at 2 o’clock on the pedal; push and bring the other foot onboard . 4. Practice on Safe, Scenic Routes Once basics are mastered, ride on gentle, low-traffic Nairobi routes: Karura Forest : 5–15 km loops through greenery, waterfalls, wildlife. Bikes available to rent .You can get a guide from Bike it or Hike it at Kes 1800 for 2 hours. Contact them through 0726 729 737 Nairobi Arboretum : Calm 3 km loops perfect for mastering turns in a park environment . Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary : 5–10 km mixed terrain trails, great for balancing on slight inclines . Karen & Langata routes : 20–30 km leisure rides through quiet neighborhoods and coffee country . Nairobi National Park perimeter : ~35 km for confident learners—high chance of wildlife sightings . 5. Join Events & Ride Sociably Group rides foster learning and motivation: Monthly Critical Mass tours —fun, communal city riding . Loop Gravel Series & family-friendly rides in Tigoni, Jubilee Race, and others—all beginner-inclusive . Cycling & beer tours around Karura for social riders who want to balance fun and fitness. 6. Stay Consistent & Build Skills Ride often : Aim for at least 2–3 rides weekly to improve balance, endurance, and confidence. Use training plans : Consider beginner-friendly plans like Bicycling’s 4–8 week base-building regimen for structure . Your trainer will give you a plan book if keen to master the skills. Maintain your bike : Regularly check brakes, gears, and tires. Shops like CAP, Probike Kenya, Spin Kings, Cycle World, Velokart offer maintenance and tuning . Have a mechanic from 0798154123 or https://www.facebook.com/cyclingaccessoriesandparts/ check your bike on site or off site. 7. Progress at Your Pace Start slow—fresh air, gentle paths, safe instruction. Advance gradually—longer rides, light hills, group rides. Celebrate milestones—first glide, first solo loop, first organized ride. Stay patient—remember, adult learners sometimes fall, but practice and encouragement go a long way . Final Thoughts Learning to cycle in Nairobi is not just about acquiring a skill—it’s an entry into a vibrant, supportive community and eco-friendly lifestyle. Gear up, start small, find local mentors, and choose safe, enjoyable routes. Soon, you'll be gliding confidently through Karura Forest, navigating city streets with ease, and joining group rides like a pro. Happy pedaling! 🚴‍♀️🌿

Not All BNPL Models Are Created Equal: Why Some Thrive in Africa While Others Stall

By Riderental blogs • July 21, 2025
The African digital lending space is full of contradictions right now. 📈 M-Kopa just sold over 1 million smartphones . 📊 Watu Credit hit 3 million financed devices . ❌ Meanwhile, Wabeh is scaling down in Kenya. 🤝 Engage Capital is acquiring Lipa Later , which has had its own struggles. So, what gives? Many point fingers at Kenya’s economy: “people don’t pay loans,” they say. But here’s the thing—if that were entirely true, how is M-Kopa thriving? Why has Watu managed to finance millions of assets? 🔍 The answer: There are two very different digital lending models at play in Africa. A Tale of Two Models Type A: Asset Financing (Economic Enablement) Targets the unbanked/informal economy Finances income-generating assets (smartphones, boda bodas, solar systems) Uses IoT lockout features for credit enforcement High-touch, agent-driven distribution Funded via patient capital Examples: M-Kopa, Watu, Asaak, Moove Type B: BNPL for Consumption (Lifestyle Smoothing) Targets salaried, banked consumers Used for fashion, electronics, travel Integrated into POS and online checkouts Short-term, interest-free “Pay-in-4” style Funded via merchant fees & securitization Examples: Lipa Later, Payflex, Payjustnow Why the Disconnect? What we’re seeing isn’t a failure of BNPL—it’s a failure of Product-Market-Ecosystem Fit . Type A works in capital-scarce but high-need environments Type B needs strong credit bureaus , digital merchants , and deep capital markets So when BNPL players targeting consumption default in underdeveloped markets, it’s not because of "bad customers"—it’s often because the model isn’t ecosystem-ready . Final Thought Two models. Two different growth engines.One continent. Before launching or investing in a digital lending product in Africa, ask: ✅ Are you solving for income or lifestyle ? ✅ Do you have the infrastructure to support your model's risk, funding, and scale needs ? 🔗 Let’s challenge the single-story narrative around digital lending in Africa. 💬 I’d love to hear your thoughts: Are we overestimating BNPL potential in underbanked markets? Is asset-based lending the future of inclusive finance? 👇 Drop your insights, experience, or questions in the comments. #FintechAfrica #BNPL #DigitalLending #ProductMarketFit #FinancialInclusion #Startups #InvestingInAfrica #MkopA #WatuCredit #LipaLater #VentureCapital #FinancialServices #EmergingMarkets

Top Cars Tourists Rent While in Kenya (And Where to Hire Them Hassle-Free)

By otoooh rentals • July 10, 2025
When planning a trip to Kenya, one of the top questions international travelers ask is: “What’s the best car to rent for my safari, beach trip, or Nairobi city tour?” Whether you're landing at JKIA (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) , headed to the Masai Mara , exploring Nairobi National Park , or driving to Diani Beach , having the right rental car can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll highlight the most popular cars tourists rent in Kenya , answer key questions about car hire in Nairobi , and show you how to book the perfect ride through www.riderentals.co — Kenya’s #1 car rental platform. Why Tourists Rent Cars in Kenya Tourists visiting Kenya rent cars for: Game drives and safaris Airport transfers from JKIA, Moi Airport, or Wilson Road trips to Naivasha, Nanyuki, Diani, Tsavo, and beyond Business or diplomatic visits Weekend getaways and city exploration Top Cars Tourists Love to Rent in Kenya 1. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Best For: Safaris, executive travel, and long-distance road trips Why Tourists Love It: Powerful, spacious, off-road ready, perfect for game parks like Masai Mara or Amboseli. Google Search Terms Tourists Use: "4x4 safari car hire Kenya" "Land Cruiser for rent in Nairobi" "self-drive car for safari in Kenya" 2. Toyota Noah/Voxy Best For: Family travel, group trips Why Tourists Love It: Spacious, fuel-efficient, comfortable for city tours and countryside trips. Common Searches: "cheap family car rental Nairobi" "Toyota Noah for hire with driver in Kenya" 3. Toyota RAV4 Best For: Couples, solo travelers, light off-road adventures Why Tourists Love It: Affordable, compact SUV, good for both city and safari. Search Queries Include: "rent a 4x4 SUV in Nairobi" "affordable self-drive SUV Kenya" 4. Toyota Alphard/Vellfire Best For: Luxury airport transfers, VIP guests, weddings Why Tourists Love It: Stylish, extremely comfortable, perfect for business or luxury leisure travel. Popular Search Terms: "luxury van hire Nairobi" "chauffeur-driven Alphard in Kenya" 5. Toyota Fielder/Axio Best For: Budget travelers, city movement Why Tourists Love It: Affordable, compact, perfect for Nairobi and nearby towns. What They Google: "cheap car rental in Kenya" "affordable self-drive cars Nairobi" 6. Toyota Hilux Double Cab Best For: Adventure trips, rugged terrain Why Tourists Love It: Heavy-duty, great for Lake Turkana, Lamu overland, or remote missions. Search Examples: "4x4 Hilux for rent Kenya" "pick-up truck rental Kenya for safari" 7. Mercedes-Benz E-Class / S-Class Best For: Corporate guests, luxury travelers Why Tourists Love It: Executive comfort, ideal for business meetings, VIP pickup, and wedding rides. Common Google Searches: "hire a Mercedes-Benz in Nairobi" "luxury car hire JKIA airport" 8. Toyota Hiace / Nissan Caravan Best For: Large groups, team tours Why Tourists Love It: Seats 10–14 people, ideal for missionary trips, conferences, and tour companies. What Tourists Search: "rent a van for group travel Kenya" "tour van rental with driver in Nairobi" What Tourists From Around the World Search Before Renting a Car in Kenya "How to rent a car in Kenya" "Best self-drive cars for tourists in Nairobi" "Hire a car for safari in Kenya" "Where to rent a car near JKIA airport" "Car rental with driver in Kenya" "Top car rental companies in Nairobi" "Toyota Prado for rent Masai Mara" "Budget car rental Kenya for tourists" ✅ Why www.RideRentals.co is the Best Car Hire Option for Tourists in Kenya www.riderentals.co has become the go-to car rental platform for tourists across the world thanks to: 🔹 Vast Fleet Selection From 4x4s for safari to executive cars and budget-friendly options , you’ll find your perfect ride. 🔹 Instant Booking & Transparent Pricing No hidden fees. What you see is what you pay. 🔹 Self-drive or Chauffeur Options Book a driver or take the wheel — your choice. 🔹 Airport Pickups & Drop-offs Get your car delivered right at JKIA , Wilson , or Mombasa airport . 🔹 WhatsApp Support Get help in real-time by chatting with the support team at: +254 714 877948 🔹 Trusted by Locals & International Visitors Awarded: Best Corporate Car Rental Firm 2023 Most Innovative Car Rental Platform (Customer Experience & Tech) 2024 Just Landed in Kenya? Here's How to Rent Your Car in Minutes Visit www.riderentals.co Browse cars by location, date, or car type Choose between self-drive or with driver Confirm & pay via M-Pesa, card, or PayPal Get your car delivered to the airport, hotel, or Airbnb 📞 Need help booking? Call or WhatsApp: +254 714 877948 (Lina - Bookings Office) Final Word Whether you’re headed to the wild savannahs of Kenya or just looking to explore Nairobi in comfort, renting the right car can define your travel experience. With a wide selection of tourist-friendly vehicles and seamless service, www.riderentals.co is the best way to rent a car in Kenya. Book today and explore Kenya your way!