Which bike???

[g_campbell1983]

Hi Folks,

Complete newbie here so need some proper advice. I havent owned a bike in id say roughly 23 years (I would have been 8 at the time).

Anyway looking to get myself a bike, mostly to get fit and loose weight, currently tipping the scales at a mere 20st. The bike when purchased will be used every day for a short journey to the train station along the man road. We live very close to a long cycle track around some lakes so id imagine it will be on there quite often and also spend some time on the roads

I was planning on going to Halfords as I will be purchasing the bike and whatever else I need through the cycle to work scheme. Can some of you good folk give me some advice on what type of bike to buy, models ect and also any kit I am likely to need??

Many thanks in advance

 

[vickster]

I'd look at a flat bar hybrid bike from the Boardman range...without suspension...which one depends on budget

Other kit:

A good lock, stations are dens of thieves for bikes! Something like a Kryptonite Fahgettaboutit (£70 odd) + a cable for the front wheel too
A helmet if you want to wear one (it's not compulsory)
A pair of mitts/gloves
A buff
Some glasses to keep the bugs away
Inner tubes, tyre levers, multi tool
A bottle cage and bottle if planning longer rides (not needed for 2 miles)
Padded shorts (you might want these from the off as a newbie), wear under 'normal' clothes of preferred (Maybe a tub of sudocreme as your nether regions will suffer to begin with, sorry)
Some sort of jacket with reflective bits (hi viz optional)
Lights, front and rear (Cateye are a good make for 'be seen' lights, if pitch black you'll need better lights to see)
Chain lube

That lot should get you started

Insurance for the bike through home insurance especially if buying on C2W