Reddit mentions of BV Bicycle Strap-On Bike Saddle Bag/Seat Bag/Cycling Bag

For longer rides I typically take these items with me:

1. Multitool. I have a Topeak Alien II which can solve almost any minor mechanical issue that arises. It's probably overkill for most people though.
   
   
2. Spare tube, tire levers, and a mini pump. I use a CO2 inflator, but I also have puncture resistant tires so I'm not constantly using CO2 cartridges.
   
   
3. Lights if you'll be riding at night.
   
   
4. Something to put the tools in. I have a saddle bag, top tube bag, and a frame bag. If I need to see turn by turn directions on my phone, I use my top tube bag (not this exact model), but most of the time I stick with a saddle bag.
   
   Don't discount how comfortable lycra shorts can be on longer rides. They can be a very good investment.
   
   To learn about maintenance, Google will honestly be your best bet. Even a general description of the problem (eg, "bike brakes not stopping well") will likely turn up a number of articles and posts on various cycling forums. However, there are some really good Youtube channels out there. These include GCN and GMBN which every Monday show some aspect of bike maintenance. RJ the Bike Guy has a number of very comprehensive videos on relatively obscure bike maintenance topics, but his channel tends to focus on vintage bikes rather than brand new ones.

Sure thing!

1. The Saddle bag
   
   
2. Planet Bike Snack Sack

BV Bicycle Strap-On Saddle/Seat Bag, Medium, Black https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00A3W8EG2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_xzhmDb7QHQSTX

I have the medium version of this one. Inside there is a spare inner tube, tube sealing stickers (for when the inner tube is repairable), 2 tyre removing tools, 3 allen keys (for every bolt size present on my bike), a presta to shrader adapter and a pair of vinyl gloves. When I ride I also fit my phone, a small battery pack and a usb c cable.

All of this is in the unextended position of the bag.

I think that's a reasonable figure to use to get started. As was already stated don't forget about the helmet, tubes etc. I'd keep 1 spare tube per bike, a bike pump (or CO2), a helmet each, a multi-tool, tire levers and a bike bag or two. Make sure you know how to change a tire before heading out just in case you need it on the trail (it's not hard). Sometimes Craigslist is a good place to look. Fuji makes reasonably priced entry level bikes if you have a retailer for them nearby. I think Specialized, Trek and Cannondale will all run a bit more unless you can find some closeout deals.

Suggestions: I like this bike bag, This is the multi-tool I carry

I have this BV Saddle Bag. The medium is $10.99 and holds all my shit admirably. I carry 2 levers, tube, bike tool, regular multi-tool, and some bandages, and I have a frame-mounted pump but you could put a CO2 inflator in the bag instead if you don't want anything else on the bike.

Other stuff that may be handy:

• saddle bag or panniers for carrying extra tubes, snacks, etc.
  
• basic gloves, they'll help keep your hands comfy on long rides; I have Pearl Izumi "Select" gloves that work great.
  
• bike jersey with pockets to hold your keys/water bottle/whatever. You can get cheap ones from China on eBay with whatever design you like, I just ordered a Spongebob one for $20
  
• water bottle and cage (if your bike doesn't come with one)

• 1x Tube
  
  
• 3x threaded 16 Gram co2
  
  
• 2x Pedros Tire Levers
  
  
• Portland Design Works Shiny Object (Co2 valve)
  
  
• Topeak Alien 2 Tool (Which is an AWESOME tool btw)
  
  
• Patch kit with multiple patches
  
  
• 1x Ziploc bag. This is for the electronics if I get caught out in the rain.
  
  The following items get removed / put in depending on the ride
  
  
• Debit card
  
  
• Insurance card
  
  
• I.D.
  
  
• Emergency $10 cash
  
  
• Keys
  
  
  
  And here is the bag that all fits in:
  
  BV Bicycle Saddle Bag
  
  I have the large saddle bag and its more than big enough for all that stuff. Everything on my list could probably fit in the medium as well. I just like to have room for extra goods.