There is a new model Shimano spd pedals with one normal side, and these are better than the old 324 or whatever. However, I see no reason to use anything other than dual sided spd. That is just so much more convenient, and if you really want to be able to use normal shoes for brief rides to the shops, well you can on an spd pedal. No problem. As for the shoes, there is nothing like actualliy trying them on: this is not something to buy mail order. And don't buy them too tight. As for brands: their shapes differ from narrow to very wide.
You will need two pairs of proper cycling shorts, an ddon't wear underwear with them.
If you need a new cassette (rear chainwheels), get one with at least 32 teeth on the biggest sprocket.
Use as many battle cages as will fit on your bike. I like the Sigg aluminium bottles since they stay cooler (not all cages will work with these).
Get sufficiently sturdy and still fast tyres. My recommendation woulod be th eordinary (HS 368) Schwalbe Marathon, and not the mArathon Plus. The latter has better puncture protection, but i sunnecessarily slow and uncormfortable. The ordinary Marathon is sturdy enough, and a much sweeter tyre. Perhaps fit a slightly wi8der ture. Many hybrid bikes come with 37 mm but 42mm will often fit. This is far more comrrotable, and makes the bike handle better on rough surfaces. Contrary to folklore wider tyres are not or hardly any slower. And this is for touring, where the ability to ride on rough roads or even stretches of off road is paramount.
Get a sprung Brooks saddle such as the Champion Flyer.
Wear cycling gloves and a helmet.
Willem
You will need two pairs of proper cycling shorts, an ddon't wear underwear with them.
If you need a new cassette (rear chainwheels), get one with at least 32 teeth on the biggest sprocket.
Use as many battle cages as will fit on your bike. I like the Sigg aluminium bottles since they stay cooler (not all cages will work with these).
Get sufficiently sturdy and still fast tyres. My recommendation woulod be th eordinary (HS 368) Schwalbe Marathon, and not the mArathon Plus. The latter has better puncture protection, but i sunnecessarily slow and uncormfortable. The ordinary Marathon is sturdy enough, and a much sweeter tyre. Perhaps fit a slightly wi8der ture. Many hybrid bikes come with 37 mm but 42mm will often fit. This is far more comrrotable, and makes the bike handle better on rough surfaces. Contrary to folklore wider tyres are not or hardly any slower. And this is for touring, where the ability to ride on rough roads or even stretches of off road is paramount.
Get a sprung Brooks saddle such as the Champion Flyer.
Wear cycling gloves and a helmet.
Willem
