Tested & Approved
RIDER ESSENTIALS
What I run on my bike and what I recommend for long-distance riding.
Some links may be affiliate links. I only recommend gear I use or trust.
COMFORT & FATIGUE RELIEF
Small upgrades that make long days in the saddle noticeably easier.
Ultimate Seat
I run an Ultimate Seat on my bike because it lets me ride longer without thinking about it. the support and shape make a noticeable difference once the miles start adding up on longer rides.
This is one of those upgrades you don’t appreciate fully until you ride without it.
Earplugs (Wind Nose & Fatigue Reduction)
Passive (Simple & Affordable)
Eargasm
Reusable earplugs that cut wind noise without killing awareness. A solid, simple option if you don’t want electronics.
Bluetooth
IsoTunes
Bluetooth hearing protection with solid noise reduction. I use these so I can connect to Ride Command and wireless CarPlay, even though I still prefer blasting music through the bike’s speakers for a more visceral ride.
Custom-Fit
Custom-Fit Ear Guards
(Bluetooth or non-Bluetooth)
Molded to your ears for maximum comfort and noise reduction. Available with or without Bluetooth, longer battery life than most off-the-shelf options, and they don’t interfere with full-face helmets. Longer lead time, but worth it for serious miles.
TECH & CHARGING
Gear that keeps your phone powered, mounted, and usable on long rides.
Quad Lock Phone Mount
I only recommend Quad Lock when it comes to phone mounts. It’s secure, doesn’t move at speed, and actually holds up to long rides and rough roads. If you rely on your phone for navigation, this is one of those things you don’t want to cheap out on.
Battery Tender USB Charger
If your bike doesn’t come with a factory USB port, this is the cleanest way to add one. it plugs directly into the battery tender lead, keeps things simple, and just works. I prefer this setup over hard-wired USB ports because it’s reliable and easy to manage. Offered in USB-C and USB-A type.
Anker PowerCore 10K Power Bank
I carry this as a backup power source on every long ride. If the bike is off, a cable fails, or I’m charging overnight at a hotel, this keeps my phone and accessories topped off without thinking about it.
Slim enough to ride in a pocket or saddlebag, reliable, and just works. It’s one of those items you don’t need until you really need it.