Ok, I just bought my first road bike. I’m taking to the bike shop tommorrow to get some clipless pedals, shoes and a helmet. Other than that, what else will I need? I’ve heard stories about people having flats. And I’ve heard you need to take care of your bike by doing maintenance on it after ever ride or two. I am a beginner and just need some advice from you guys who know. I’ll be riding to work some (about 20 miles each way) and going on some longer(like 30-40 miles) rides on the weekends, but the main purpose of the bike is for training and competing in triathlons. So any advice you guys give me will be appreciated.
Things I never leave home without: Water bottle and cage, Spare tube or two, CO2 or Frame pump, Tire Levers.
Things nice to have: tire patch, spare tire, tube patches, multi-tool (allen wrenches)
I love my gel gloves and a good windproof snug fitting top for going up wind. I also love my bike shorts. Make sure you don’t waste your money on a lame pair with no real padding. Spend the extra bucks for a nice pair and your butt will thank you every time you ride!
Welcome to the club!
ps. a computer with cadence is also really nice to have
Great article here:
Buy the essentials that people have mentioned already, and then just ride. Eventually you’ll figure out what you need piece by piece.
This morning my ears were cold, I need a balaclava. I hate the feeling of my cleats against the pavement, cleat covers may work for me. Damn that car was close, maybe I should buy a light. I hate the sound of the wind, an iPod will drown it out.
"Eventually you’ll figure out what you need piece by piece. "
This is true. Cycling is such a financial investment…I would buy the stuff folks listed above (and learn how to use them) and gradually add on as you ride.
Small bike bag for under the seat is nice to keep extra tube, levers, etc, so you have it each time you head out.
The one extra that I am glad I got with my road bike is the flight deck cycle computer. It is over the top and can be pricy, but for someone starting out, I liked having the visual reference of what gear I was in to learn gearing and gear shifting . It actually has a picture of what gear you are in and the number gear combination. Sometimes it is too hard when you are starting out, to look down to see what gear you are in.
Each time you ride, you find what extras work for your purposes.
Each time you ride, you find what extras work for your purposes.
and it never stops. be careful.
For what it is worth I carry a tube (ultra lite), chain link, one of those small folding tool kits, plastic tire spoons, (I prefer) a small pump, and my cell phone. Sounds like a lot but it all fits into a pouch under/behind the seat.
Have Fun
Rick