Bare minimum to get started, and where to buy?

mrbez
mrbez Posts: 113
edited September 2011 in Road buying advice
Hi Guys,

What would be the base minumun, other than a bike, to get started in road cycling?

I have my eyes on a Specialized Allez Sport in my local shop, but I know if I go and buy it today, I will spend £350 on shoes, helmet, pedals, computer, padded shorts, waterproof top, pump, spare tubes etc.

I am thinking if I put a deposit on the bike, and then source the other stuff that I would need elsewhere, would I make much of a saving?

Is there anything on the list above that I have missed that I may need, or anything on there that I wouldn't need for starting out?

Thanks in advance.

Comments

  • richa
    richa Posts: 1,632
    That's mostly it.

    Maybe jersey, glasses, gloves, bottle cages, bottles, seat pack...
    Rich
  • mosc7pc2
    mosc7pc2 Posts: 11
    Lights?

    http://www.wiggle.co.uk/cateye-tl-ld610 ... ear-light/

    At 50% off, seems a bargain to me for one of the best rear lights.
  • EarlyGo
    EarlyGo Posts: 281
    Hi mrbez,

    I'd add bottles & cages, tyre levers, mini-tool, track pump, glasses, jersey, gloves and lights to your list.

    However, it's not essential to get SPDs and cleats straightaway. Initially you can just use those cheap plastic toe clips that come on most Specialized bikes and some stiff soled trainers.

    It's probably worthwhile buying at the same time as you buy the bike if you can stretch to it? You'll be able to negotiate a much better deal if you buy the bike and as much kit as you can afford at the same time. I bought a £550 bike plus all the above and got £180 off the total. A little bit of haggling goes a long way!

    Regards, EarlyGo
  • mrbez
    mrbez Posts: 113
    Hi guys, thanks for the replies.

    Early, the bike is already down from £770 to £600, so I'm not sure how much they would do on the equipment.

    Most of the stuff that they have in the store is available online for around 25% less, so I may bring this to their attention tomorrow and see what we can work out.
  • mrbez
    mrbez Posts: 113
    Where else would be the best to buy these items guys?

    I just went back into the shop, he said he can do me 10% on the accessories, but he only has £60 3/4's in, £90 long sleeve jerseys, £100 shoes, so slowly this £600 is becoming £1000.

    Thanks.
  • Dalton
    Dalton Posts: 265
    Have a look at www.wiggle.co.uk

    I tend to purchase from their DHB range and have yet to be disappointed.

    Good balance between quality and value in my opinion.

    :D

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