What kit do I really need?

[benno1uk]

Hi there. I have just got back into the saddle after 10 or so years. I bought a Revolution Courier Classic and love it so far (makes me wonder why I wasn't cycling before). My question is, after reading forums and magazines etc, there is so much equipment and clothing around, can someone please advise me on the bare minimum I can get away with as I don't want to waste money of unnecessary gizmos. My riding is primarily leisure 5-15 miles at a time around 3 times a week.

I already have a set of lights and a lock, (and a bell!!). Please say what else I should get (including clothing type etc). Thanks very much.

 

[pinkkaz]

Puncture kit? Helmet? Something reflective and bright is always a good idea (imo). You don't really need anything clothing-wise, but maybe some gloves to prevent unsightly callouses! (Which I still need to purchase).

The trouble is once you start buying stuff it's hard to stop - I now have cycling shorts, reflective jacket for winter, winter gloves, cycle computer, 2 long-sleeved base layers. Next on the list is baggy shorts and short-sleeved jerseys. Could do with some sunnies too. It's addictive!

 

[spandex]

Welcome benno1uk to the mad house

Some of the things I would say is a puncture repair kit, pump, a new tube and a chain checker as it will save you money in the long run.

 

[ArDee]

I'd agree with pinkkaz a decent pair of cycle shorts; they are so much more comfortable than normal shorts or trousers and the flat seams will ensure that calluses don’t form in other places apart from your hands.

 

[Ludwig]

Take a spare tube, pump, allen keys, wind up lights, mobile phone, water bottle. Fit a carrier rather that carry a rucksack. You can get cycling shorts, jersey etc but any shorts and t shirt will do. The answer is that for casual riding you don't need much.

 

[gavintc]

It may sound obvious, but if you are novice about repairing punctures. It is worth going through the process in the dry in the garage / kitchen before you encounter one in the dark/wet/cold etc. Practice an inner tube change, it is pretty easy, but everyone makes a mistake once or twice snagging the tube getting in back in.

 

[Paulus]

For the basics, a puncture kit, pump and a spare tube. It is much easier to change the tube and then repair the duff tube at home than on the side of the road when it is dark and/or raining. A descent pair of cycling shorts and a pair of cycling gloves. These will start you off. From there, it is all down hill, more clothing, parts, gismo's, bikes, your bank balance on't know whats hit it. Enjoy

 

[TVC]

Padded shorts are always a sound investment.

 

[snorri]

My riding is primarily leisure 5-15 miles at a time around 3 times a week.

I don't think you should buy any special clothing at present. Just keep at it for a few months, by that time you will know what you need.
If you start wearing specialised clothing, you will begin to think you can't cycle without it. If you feel you have to change your clothing before cycling a few miles then you just won't bother to cycle.
The only specialised gear I wear on a regular basis
http://www.discountbicycles.co.uk/biz/section.php?xSec=4126&gclid=COmElOKM8JUCFRuD1QodICdyew

 

[ellis]

Wouldnt say there is any need for specialist cycling clothes yet doing the amount of miles your doing at the mo. Shorts and t-shirts will be fine.

I only wear cycling gear if im going out for more than 10 miles. Although you will start to want to do longer rides soon...

 

[benno1uk]

Thanks for so many useful and encouraging replies. I kind of forgot (wanted to forget?) about punctures. I will get myself a repair kit and pump. Also padded shorts as some of you recommended are on my priority list as after another ride this evening I am beginning to feel, shall we say, tender...

I am pleased that I don't need to go out and buy every type of clothing / shoe / hat etc. However tempting they seem, I want to try to remain minimalist in my approach - at least until I really know that I have got the cycling bug.

 

[Perry]

http://www.cyclechat.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=14996&highlight=spares

 

[Angelfishsolo]

1stly welcome to this Cycling Madhouse. Enjoy your stay :-)

The best item of cycling clothing I have bought so far is a Polyester cycling T-Shirt (from Aldi). So good at absorbing sweat and drying out very quickly. It makes for a far more comfortable ride. Next as most have said Cycling shorts. In terms of repair items I find a saddle bag with a few tools such as multi-spanner, alan key and Puncture Repair Kit more than adequate.

 

[Andy in Sig]

Clothing: you will soon work out if you need cycling specific clothing e.g. padded shorts for the distances you do. If you decide not then just get good quality outdoor gear which allows you to cycle comfortably. Rohan stuff is expensive but lasts years. Get a waterproof jacket and overtrousers which fold down to nothing. You may also wish to consider overshoes as there is nothing more demoralising than wet feet.

As for tools:

A multitool e.g. from Topeak
Leatherman
Set of tyre levers
Puncture repair kit
Slack handful of plastic ties.

You should be able to fit all that into a decent top bag which goes on top of the bike rack. If you do any longer trips and so require to carry more then look at Ortlieb panniers (the lighter weight version).

 

[Over The Hill]

I break it down into sections.

1. Keep the bike going.
Puncture kit and pump, I carry a spare tube too as it is easier to switch than repair. Tools to repair or adjust the bike. No good taking tools that you do not know how to use and really as long as you can get the wheels off you are OK. You can get home OK without a gear shift or one brake so it really is down to keeping the tyres working.
2. Clothing
At various time you will need to keep dry, warm or cool. Just take or wear what will do this. I am a recent convert to padded shorts and have just stocked up on wet and cold weather gear from Aldi. Proper cycling stuff is good but not essential. Only essential thing is to wear stuff you can be seen in.
3. Food and drink
This can be just a pint of water or a whole days worth of provisions depending on the ride lenth etc.
4. Odds
I take my mobi, a map if I am going somewhere new and a lock if I am going to leave the bike. As winter approaches I guess lights are another thing too.

Most important - things to leave behind...
Stress and worries of the day. Lethargy.
It is just you and the road!