What gear to pack on your first long-distance bike ride

Are you trying a long-distance bike ride for the first time this summer?

The big picture: Biking is great for exercise, commuting and recreation but it also carries risks , especially when sharing the road with motorists.

Here are six things to remember to bring, per Jon Hughes, owner of the Downtown Ferndale Bike Shop north of Detroit.

• Hughes, who lives in Detroit, says he rode more than 10,000 miles last year.

1. Helmet: A must for any cyclist. Pricier helmets offer lots of ventilation and are lightweight, he says.

• Some are Mips-certified for safety, but the designation isn't necessary, Hughes says. His $300 helmet doesn't have one.

2. Headlight/taillight : They help with night visibility and alerting cars to your presence on the road — and are required in some states.

3. Seat bag : Many of Hughes' essential accessories are tucked into a small bag affixed to the back of his seat.

• Its contents: Two inner tubes, two CO2 cartridges and a patch kit in case of a flat; a bike multitool ; $10 cash for emergencies. A battery-pack phone charger is a good idea, too.

4. Water bottle cages : Hughes' bike has two cages for water bottles. You may only need one if there are places to fill up along the ride.

• Another hydration option is a CamelBak-style hydration pack .

5. Clothing: "If I'm going more than five miles, I'm wearing cycling shorts," Hughes says.

• Their built-in padding helps on long rides, he says. But proper sitting technique is paramount for comfort.
• Hughes also rides with gloves to avoid road rash on his hands if he falls.

6. Lock: A necessary deterrent for would-be thieves.

• Folding locks are the most popular at Hughes' store.
• "I don't care where you live, people will steal your s--t," he says. "The bike is the getaway vehicle."