To survive city streets on two wheels you need the right kit. Sunday Times reporter and bike nut, Jonathan Ungoed-Thomas, lists the 'must haves' for the urban cyclist
Best Rucksack Cover (Respro Hi-Viz Hump, £15)
A must-have for the serious urban cyclist. High-visibility rucksack covers were almost unheard of a few years ago, but are now widely available through Respro. They increase your visibility enormously in a key area which would otherwise remain dark. Simple but brilliant.
The lock of choice among London couriers, the Abus Steel-O-Flex offers the ideal combination of muscle, agility and portability for city riding. It’s long enough to get round the fattest lamp-posts, it’s seriously tough and you can sling it round your hips between stops.
A design classic - no other pannier even comes close. Don't worry about getting caught in a downpour on the way home, you could throw these bags in a river and the contents wouldn't get wet. They also look great, are very easy to take on and off and will last forever. Now you just need the bike to match.
You need to be seen as a city cyclist, and there’s no better way to do it than with these powerful, light-weight lights. They are easy to mount, a doddle to maintain and the batteries last for weeks. The glare they give off has to be seen to be believed, ensuring drivers will spot you early. Both offer a flashing mode. Superb.