Help on extras.

[stevepn]

Just about to get my 1st Road bike, via cycle2work.
It will be either Specialized at £799 or Bianchi at £775.
I have a max of £1000 so will have £200/£225 left for extras.
What do you think I will NEED to get.
I will also use it for commuting, so a bit unsure about the Shoe/Pedal issues.
Any advise most welcome.
Steve

 

[N1ck]

get some lights if you are going to ride in the dark.

 

[colinr]

This thread may have some useful suggestions: http://cyclechat.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=38051

 

[jig-sore]

a good track pump is a must, otherwise you won't get the tyres up to pressure.

personaly i like to ride with gloves.

clip-less pedals are one of those "once you try them you never go back" items, i would recommend some, even for commuting.

then you need the basic road side tool kit and saddle bag

 

[simon_brooke]

get some lights if you are going to ride in the dark.

a good track pump is a must, otherwise you won't get the tyres up to pressure.

Absolutely - saves lots of hassle. Get a good one - it's money very well spent. Cheap ones may have difficulty getting up to road-bike pressures.

personaly i like to ride with gloves.

Absolutely the most vital safety equipment - never ride without them. Gravel rash on the palms of your hands is nasty, and if you damage tendons, very nasty indeed.

clip-less pedals are one of those "once you try them you never go back" items, i would recommend some, even for commuting.

Again, definitely.

Add to that, if you don't already have it, a small locker at work to hold a couple of dry changes of smart clothes - you will (occasionally) get wet, and you need to have something to change into.

 

[HJ]

As the bike has to be used for commuting under the terms of C2W then a good set of light would be appropriate...

 

[Randochap]

personaly i like to ride with gloves.

Yep. Personally, I feel naked without ... and, if I hadn't been wearing my well-padded pair, three weeks ago when I crashed at 48 km/h, I'd have no palms.

You might not need everything here but the list will give you some ideas. At least carry the kit you'll need for dealing with the inevitable flat tyre.

Of course, Lights are a must if you are riding at night.

Get a bag to carry your gear.

 

[accountantpete]

All this spending is going to bankrupt you - but I'd be looking at getting another set of tyres for summer/pleasure use and then keep the ones that come with the bike for winter use (on the assumption that they will offload some naff tyres on you).

 

[HJ]

All this spending is going to bankrupt you - but I'd be looking at getting another set of tyres for summer/pleasure use and then keep the ones that come with the bike for winter use (on the assumption that they will offload some naff tyres on you).

Why ride on naff tyres in winter???