HELP AGAIN - What clothing to get me started ?

bilabonic

Hi

Been riding for couple months now and really getting into it, fitness much better and even using the drops now.......lol

I have a good helmet and spd shoes.

The only thing i am not happy with is clothing. All i basically have is 2 pairs padded lycra shorts and one very tight cycle top all from Tesco......lol

This is ok in bright sunshine/no wind but normally i end up with an old windproof jacket tied around my waist and a pair of 3/4 training bottoms over my padded shorts. I also always wear a very light gym top over my cycle top.

I have looked at sights and just do not know what to purchase ? Gillet ? Bib shorts ? Jacket ? arm/leg warmers ?

prob need them all but whats the best/versatile to get me going, got some Spez bg gel mitts on way.

Cheers

zedders

Just a couple of suggestions!
1) You say you have some shorts from Tesco's? See my link below. If your getting into cycling you should really get some 'quality' shorts soon. http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtop ... t=12625707

2) As you say theres all sorts of stuff you can get, but IMO I would say get yourself some sort of waterproof jacket. You can be 100% sure somewhere along the line it will be cold and wet? (And as its coming up to summer it could be a good time to buy?). I got the Altura Night vision jacket for £50 (google it theres loads about). Its no good in warm/normal weather conditons, because you'll just cook up, but if its a chilly day, or very wet its ideal. I can honestly say no matter how cold it is (even in freezing conditions) I've never been cold wearing it! I know a couple of others that swear by them as well. You could easily spend twice as much for less. So if you want to ride all year round, or just in british weather its going to be a vital bit of kit.

bilabonic

Cheers Zedders.

Found the 08 version of jacket for £38 online, what size you recommend ? M or L.

I am 5' 7", 41" chest, 34" waist.

Bike size gear is crazy imo.

Ta

zedders

I do agree sizing is a pain in the backside. I have found with bib shorts and short sleeve tops I always go up one size minimum on what the chart says!

Ref the Altura - I'm 5'8'' and unfortunately I have a slightly larger waist and chest size than you. I have a Meduim and that fits nice and snug, so no excess fabric flapping around. (But they are quite common so you might be able to try one for size in one of your LBS).

bobtbuilder

For me, arm warmer are a must have. They fold up small, and essentially make your short sleeve jersey into a long sleeve one and vice versa as conditions change.

Leg warmers are obviously simliar, but I find I can deal with the wind cold on my legs better than on my arms.

As Zedders said, a pair of quality bibshorts will improve your ride experience hugely.

Finally, if you plan on riding through the Winter, you can pick up some great bargains at this time of year.

zedders

bobtbuilder wrote:

Leg warmers are obviously simliar, but I find I can deal with the wind cold on my legs better than on my arms.

+1
I never use them, and seem to be able to handle the cold on the legs, but I hate getting cold feet, so sometimes have a pair of overshoes at the ready.
If its cold I'll put a pair of 3/4 shorts onto start with, or if its proper, proper cold out come the longs!

bilabonic

Cheers guys. So far going to get -

Spesh BG Gel mitts
Altura Jacket
Arm Warmers - Not sure make/colour
Bib Shorts - Not sure make/colour.

I also fing my feet go cold even in mild weather as my shoes are so ventliated, i wear 2 pairs socks then.

Did not know they even did those overshoes....Will get them for winter.

guilliano

Get some dee-feet woolie boolie socks for long rides or slightly cooler days...... warm but really breathable and they are merino wool so won't get smelly

ian_s

I'm in a similar situation to the OP.

In particular looking for a first proper jersey. Doesn't need to be waterproof (I already have a light shell in that case) or heavy (use a micro fleece) but must have pockets. Short or long sleeve - I'm not sure...

I don't want something covered in advertising/team logos etc.

Any suggestions within a reasonable budget?

Cheers
Ian