If you’ve just taken up cycling after a long absence, you might have been surprised at how much cycling equipment and accessories have changed over the past couple decades. It wasn’t so long ago that all most bicycle riders needed was the bicycle and, maybe, a lock. But that’s not how it these days.Today’s cyclists utilize a huge array of accessories that range from simple helmets to a high end commercial bike rack that mounts on the car top. But outsiders might be forgiven for asking, “Is all this equipment really necessary?”

The fact is, today’s bike riders only need a bike and a helmet. Anything beyond that is just extra, and nice to have. But while most biking accessories aren’t really necessary, many of them make bike riding a lot more enjoyable and easier on the body.

Taking a quick look at the offerings on retail bike sites like BikeRackShops.com, you’ll see that there are plenty of choices when it comes to accessories like car top racks. Consumers should take their time picking accessories like this and get the best one they can afford. In general, accessory shoppers get what they pay for and commercial brands work best.

Accessories that you’ll use on a regular basis are usually worth the money.