Essential items

rumbataz
rumbataz Posts: 796
edited December 2011 in Road beginners
So, I have purchased a bike and a load of accessories (lights, pump, lock, bell) that the shop will be fitting onto the bike. I also have a helmet and trouser clips.

What other essential items will I need for general leisure riding on roads?

Comments

  • anto164
    anto164 Posts: 3,500
    I would say, make sure you're wearing the correct clothing.

    Nothing worse than going out in the incorrect clothing and hating it. If you're looking at doing some mileage, get some padded shorts.
  • redvee
    redvee Posts: 11,922
    Ditch the trouser clips if they are the old fashioned metal clip type things and get some snap wrap reflectives. I wasn't sure about them at first but saw a friends and how they work and bought some soon after.
    I've added a signature to prove it is still possible.
  • rumbataz
    rumbataz Posts: 796
    ^ Would something like "Respro Ankle Bands" do the job? Halfords sell them so they'll be easy to purchase.
  • Wirral_paul
    Wirral_paul Posts: 2,476
    You bought a bell?? Really?? :D

    If you're doing more than about 30 mins then add a water bottle and cage. Nothing worse than dehydration to slow you down physically
  • rumbataz
    rumbataz Posts: 796
    LOL. I didn't actually buy the bell. Apparently it's Halfords' policy to fit one on bikes they sell. Also, I have a cage and a bottle that will be fitted before the bike is delivered.
  • redvee
    redvee Posts: 11,922
    These are what I'm referring to when I say slapwrap and can be used on arms or legs. the third I bought yesterday will go on one ankle so I know which leg is which and one from my ankle will go on my bag.

    http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stor ... yId_228860

    Available in Pink, Green or Yellow.
    I've added a signature to prove it is still possible.
  • unixnerd
    unixnerd Posts: 2,864
    Get some proper cycling shoes, flexible sole trainers don't cut it. Once you feel comfortable in a few months you can add clip-in SPD pedals and the cleats will bolt into your shoes. You want the SPD type shoes, not the SPD-SL to start with.

    Biggest challenge at first is to get the right saddle position and get comfy on the bike. Once that's sorted the rest is easy! I'd also suggest mudguards to keep you and the bike clean.
    http://www.strathspey.co.uk - Quality Binoculars at a Sensible Price.
    Specialized Roubaix SL3 Expert 2012, Cannondale CAAD5,
    Marin Mount Vision (1997), Edinburgh Country tourer, 3 cats!
  • Scrumple
    Scrumple Posts: 2,665
    Leg(s)
  • desweller
    desweller Posts: 5,175
    At this time of year, gloves. Preferably windproof, preferably with padded palms.

    Don't forget to enjoy yourself!
    - - - - - - - - - -
    On Strava.{/url}
  • Bobbinogs
    Bobbinogs Posts: 4,841
    ...a large wallet, above all else. Just when you have bought a load of kit that works great in the winter, the weather will warm up, which means you will need...
  • Scrumple
    Scrumple Posts: 2,665
    Bobbinogs wrote:
    ...great in the winter, the weather will warm up, which means you will need...


    Oh,

    Don't keep me in suspense!
  • rumbataz
    rumbataz Posts: 796
    What about lubes and cleaners? I only have a can of GT85 that was thrown in for free. I understand that this is not suitable for chains. I guess i'll need a proper chain lube and maybe a couple of cleaners? If so, which ones?
  • Scrumple
    Scrumple Posts: 2,665
    rumbataz wrote:
    ... I guess i'll need a proper chain lube and maybe a couple of cleaners? If so, which ones?

    how-clean-is-your-house_625x352.jpg
  • MichaelW
    MichaelW Posts: 2,164
    You can cycle in ordinary shoes and trainers. You dont need fancy SPD cycling shoes. If you are a beginner, then clipping in can be dangerous. Leave this kit to the competition racers and experienced riders.
    Gloves protect you hands in a fall, essential kit.
    Mudguards keep your clothes clean and dry. If your frame has threadede eyelets for bolt-on mudguards, then use them (SKS Chromoplastic are the best)
    If you are riding further than you want to walk, carry a repair kit inc spare inner tube, puncture repair kit, tyre levers and if your wheels use axle nuts, a spanner. A set of allen keys to fit all the bolts on your bike. You can get multitools.

    Chain lube. Finish Line is a decent winter lube. I find that GT85 is a bit light and washes off but its a good solvent for cleaning the chain. Dont spray into the wheels of bottom bracket, it dissolves grease.

    For clothing, you need a bright windproof top, some non-flappy, heardwearing trousers or leggings. I used to wear Ron Hill tracksters but now I mostly use polycotton hiking pants (from Go Outdoors). On rides over 1 hr I wear padded cycling shorts. In temperate weather, ordinary T shirts are OK but if you get damp in the cold they can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. Wicking synthetic base layers (polyester T shirts) are better.
    I collected my proper cycling gear of several years.

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