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What is a bike ride?
In a simplistic sense, it’s the bike, you & the route.
Let’s start with the you, which needs water, food & protection. The bike needs to be safe and prepared for the ride. The route should be understood and familiar. Of course there is much more, briefly…

the bike needs a road kit that should include at minimum: pump/inflator, spare tube, patch kit, tire irons, spoke wrench & multi-tool for tightening loose bolts/fasteners. You should have practiced changing a tire, especially a rear tire. What gear should the bike be in to remove the tire, releasing the brake for clearance??

the rider needs protection from the environment: a good helmet, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen; also cycling shoes, shorts, jersey(rear pockets), jacket and don’t forget money. Cycling fuel water/drink and food. Perhaps a helmet mirror, Camelback, cell phone, emergency information card, etc.

the route, you should be familiar with it. What are the safest roads, most scenic, easiest\hardest sections, how much climbing, high traffic areas. Where are the rest stops or stores, restrooms, bail out options… meaning shortest way back should the weather turn or having mechanical or fatigue problems. Perhaps you were paged for an emergency, what’s the fastest way back. Know your options.

The Basic Road Kit: Seat pack (holds it all), tire pump/inflator, tire irons, spare tube, patch kit, spoke wrench (that fits your spokes)and multi-tool.