Equipment/Accessories for beginning

[EstherL]

Well, I have a bike. I haven't cycled in a very long time, and I'd much rather get used to cycling and, to be honest, have a bit of an idea what I'm talking about before I spend a lot of money on a bike, so I've dusted off the barely used one in the garage, which will do for the time being.

Only the thing is, what else should I get to start off with? I'm going to ask for some stuff for Christmas (and actually, my birthday is coming up too) - what should I ask for? Helmet I'll get for myself, as then I can make sure it fits properly.

 

[summerdays]

Hi - welcome. Using the old bike sounds like a good idea for a bit to give you time to think about what type of bike you might like to buy. Hopefully its not in too bad a condition

This time of year you'll need lights, pump and some sort of waterproof (you may already have a non-cycle specific one at home), though I would recommend a cycling one for your Christmas list. After that there are loads of bits that I seem to find essential, but the main other thing I would suggest is buying a copy of Cyclecraft. Lots of good information about how to position yourself safely on the road.

 

[Andy in Sig]

Welcome Esther. At this time of year I think you should be after a decent pair of gloves, waterproof jacket, touring type cycling shoes (unless you're using a racing bike) and waterproof overshoes as there is nothing more demoralising than freezing wet feet.

 

[betty swollocks]

Hi Esther and welcome. Good recommendations from the others.
In addition, I suggest: water bottle, bottle cage, puncture repair kit and tyre levers.....and learn how to fix a puncture!:

 

[Arch]

Welcome!

Maybe you have one, but a decent lock is a must....

 

[EstherL]

Wow - I was not expecting this many replies so soon. That's fab.

Well, we got the old bike out, breaks seem to be working fine, when I hold the front wheel in between my legs I can't move the handlebars, so that's all good. It looks in fairly good condition. It used to be my brothers, and he cycled to school every day for ages (although not on this one - he broke his old bike getting run over by a lorry! Luckily the old bike was the only thing broken beyond repair.) so when he got it he new, at the very least, what was a crap bike, and to avoid that.

Since I'm here - who would I ask for advice re. fixing a puncture? A friend who is a cycling nut, and used to live in the area, has recommended a bike shop close by, are they the people?

 

[Lazy-Commuter]

For help with repairs and stuff, you can get books on bicycle maintenance .. which might be OK if you're confident enough to have a go. I managed to get half a dozen from our local library.

Alternatively, your LBS (Local Bike Shop) are probably a good place to start .. especially if they've been recommended. If you explain your situation, you'll probably find they're keen to look after you as they'll be wanting to sell you your next bike. And all the inevitable accessories.

 

[Sittingduck]

Since I'm here - who would I ask for advice re. fixing a puncture? A friend who is a cycling nut, and used to live in the area, has recommended a bike shop close by, are they the people?

Hi Esther

Take a look here:
http://bicycletutor.com/fix-flat-tire/

The guy is a little creepy but don't let that put you off - this site is very useful!

SD

 

[Angelfishsolo]

A very large +1

Hi Esther and welcome. Good recommendations from the others.
In addition, I suggest: water bottle, bottle cage, puncture repair kit and tyre levers.....and learn how to fix a puncture!:

 

[swee'pea99]

Hi Esther

Take a look here:
http://bicycletutor.com/fix-flat-tire/

The guy is a little creepy but don't let that put you off - this site is very useful!

SD

He's not creepy, he's Canadian.

Re the OP: you need: lights & a lock. At this time of year if you plan anything but the shortest rides, you also need gloves. The first 'nice to have' I'd get would be a decent track pump. It will cost £20, give or take, which seems a lot for a pump, but having your tyres at the max pressure (look on the side of the tyre for a number by 'PSI' and/or 'BAR') makes a vast difference to how easily/fast you can ride, and helps keep the pesky p******e fairy at bay.

 

[john2702]

Decent lights and a hi-viz vest are essential items.

 

[Dave5N]

Um, if you get anything at all, get some decent bibshorts.

 

[Dave5N]

ANd gloves.

 

[summerdays]

Um, if you get anything at all, get some decent bibshorts.

I'm assuming EstherL is a girl ... and therefore females probably are less inclined to wear bib shorts. There was another thread somewhere about chaffing of the bib bits. I don't know as I've not worn them. I always think it would be difficult to go to the loo!!!

I tend to try and find normal clothes to cycle in mostly, though I am starting to buy some technical base layers. I would love to emulate the Copenhaganzie style of cycling though I don't think I could cycle in heels!!!

But cycling gloves are definately a very very good idea...

 

[Dave5N]

Well if not Bibs - and most women I know who cycle where them - definitely padded shorts. Jeans are not at all comfy.