Help a beginner spend!

[JLammy]

So with the bike choice chosen at a Giant store yesterday (Defy 1 Disc), I now need to buy all of the clothing and accessories I need. With several online stores having discounts for the bank holiday (CRC, Tredz etc.), it seems wise to buy things ASAP!

I'll need everything a beginner needs:

- Bib Shorts
- Base Layers
- Jerseys
- Helmet
- Shoes
- Cleats
- Lights
- Replacement Tubes
- And anything else: Can't really think of what else I'll need

I've got a budget of around £300-400 for everything. Although I don't have to spend all if I really don't need to! But help me spend.

Main purpose is to cycle to work, but would also use it on weekends in the summer, and maybe try a few bike events: London to Southend etc.

 

[vickster]

Gloves should be at the top of the list IMO
Pedals, cleats come with those
Track pump
I'd add some decent wicking cycling socks
Multi tool, chain tool
Glasses to protect eyes
Some sort of light wind proof/shower proof jacket
Also get a lightweight wind proof gilet
And a buff

And a bloody good lock or two, plus make sure the bike is insured. Depending on how you will carry stuff to work, you'll need some sort of baggage or a decent rucksack which isn't sat right next to your back

Evans price match lots of online retailers so you could buy stuff from them, click and collect, can return clothing asap if no good

 

[classic33]

What about a decent lock!

Too often it's the last thing considered, after the above has been bought and little, if any left to buy one.

 

[vickster]

Also if commuting especially, look into joining a cycling organisation which provides 3rd party indemnity and legal cover

Have a read here. https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/the-essential-guide-for-new-commuters.56622/

Get a tub of sudocreme as you may well be sore down below when you start out until your nether regions toughen up a bit!!

 

[Spiderweb]

All as Vickster says, you will also need a mini pump to keep with you as well as the track pump for home.
Depending what time of day you cycle you may still need long finger gloves if it's chilly. Definately a pair of mitts.
2xbottles and cages for hydration.
Maybe a seat pack to keep tubes, tyre levers, multi tool and personal belongings with you.
Download the Strava app, I always think it useful to record mileage and average speed so you can see your progression into fitness.

 

[Crandoggler]

Go to decathlon.

 

[cyberknight]

Go to decathlon.

+1
their stuff is very good for the money .

Im into dhb shorts atm
ok for shorter rides hour or two ?
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/wiggle-essentials-cycle-padded-bib-short/
long rides 3-4hours +
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/dhb-bib-shorts/

 

[vickster]

I don't think their non clothing is any cheaper / better than the online companies however

Www.cycle-clothing.co.uk have 20% off this weekend I think

 

[JLammy]

Thanks for all of the replies so far! You guys and girls are amazing!

I'll check out Wiggle as well as Evans. I also saw some Castelli items on sale on some sites (Tredz, CRC etc.) - would Castelli clothing items be a lot better?

It's a long process when trying to choose what to buy! Exhausting even if it is just online shopping!

 

[vickster]

Sigma sport have good deals too, and free returns. Where in the country are you?

 

[Pale Rider]

Don't be too impatient to buy all the stuff straight away.

What you think you need now won't be what you find out you need after a month or two of riding.

 

[JLammy]

Sigma sport have good deals too, and free returns. Where in the country are you?

I'm in London.

 

[vickster]

Loads of choice then

 

[NorthernDave]

Decathlon is a good place to start as is Wiggle, check out Planet X too who have a seemingly never ending range of special offers.

 

[SpokeyDokey]

Thanks for all of the replies so far! You guys and girls are amazing!

I'll check out Wiggle as well as Evans. I also saw some Castelli items on sale on some sites (Tredz, CRC etc.) - would Castelli clothing items be a lot better?

It's a long process when trying to choose what to buy! Exhausting even if it is just online shopping!

Yes...they would be miles better for reducing your available budget quicker.