MisterMeg said:
I have ordered myself a bike and now I need to know what other "essentials" I might need (profuse apologies if this has been covered already).
I'm not keen on helmets, but other items I have bought are a puncture repair kit, a pump that fits onto the frame and a bottle and cage.
Is there anything else I ought to consider, bearing in mind that I just want to enjoy cycling, not ride the Tour de France? Does all that lycra kit have a functional purpose or is it just for show?
PS Thanks to everyone who gave such good advice on my last question.
Technically you don't
need anything, as nothing's stopping you just riding your bike out without anything.
However, it is strongly recommended
the most important thing you need to take with you is a spare tube, pump and tyre levers - otherwise you can get stranded miles from home with no way of fixing your puncture. Taking a spare tube is preferable to taking a puncture repair kit, as puncture repair kits are a faff at the best of times, never mind by the side of the road where it might be windy/rainy/dark, and you might not be able to find where exactly on the tube the puncture is, so it's best to take a spare tube, even if you then decide to mend the old one when you get home and can find where it is with a sink full of water.
You may also need a spanner if your bike hasn't got quick release wheels, I vaguely remember you saying you had a fairly old bike so it might not have? Might be better just to replace the axles with QR ones if not, they're not dear.
Next most important is a lock, if you intend leaving your bike anywhere it might get nicked, a lock is very strongly recommended. I've got a kryptonite evolution mini (D-lock), which is small and light and thus easy to carry around but is also secure.
These are the things I personally have, you decide which of them you think you want:
Lycra shorts - have padding in them for better comfort
helmet - up to you. I must admit i don't always wear mine.
Gloves - comfort for ulnar nerve, and protection against road rash on hands if you come off
Lights - essential for at night
Saddle bag - good for keeping tube/tyre levers in, so you always have them. Detachable ones are good for not getting nicked (as
does happen!)
Hydration pack (or
water bottle) - I find the former much better, but you may like water bottles
Panniers (and pannier rack) - great for carrying gym kit/shopping
Teflon spray and
low viscosity chain oil - couple of drops of chain oil on each link every few rides, and spray the teflon on the cassette, chainrings, and in both mechs, bit on the cable inner where it comes out of the outer aswell can't hurt.
Clipless pedals - claimed to increase power output, which I think is true. Your choice though.