What is the best cycling equipment for beginners?



You need very little other than a bicycle. This morning as the sun was coming up I jumped onto my bicycle and did a fast 33 miles. I had no cycling specific equipment other than the bicycle and a messenger bag I sling over my shoulder to carry an apple, a spare inner-tube, a set of small plastic tire-irons and an adjustable wrench. I also usually take a bottle of water with me held onto the bike with a water-bottle cage. I have flat pedals on the bike I use the most so I just wore sneakers, cut-off shorts and a t-shirt and hat. The messenger bag I bought over 20 years ago, the bicycle I bought about a year and a half ago for $3 at a garage-sale, which of course needed new tires and a chain, but little else outside of standard cleaning and lubricating. It even has the original 1973 brake and shift cables on it, which sounds dangerous, but they must be in good shape as i have put a few thousand miles on them with no signs of fraying or failure. So in summary most of cycling is the person doing it, not the equipment. As long as you have any bike in good mechanical condition, depending on the distance you are riding you need little to nothing else.
 
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You need very little other than a bicycle. This morning as the sun was coming up I jumped onto my bicycle and did a fast 33 miles. I had no cycling specific equipment other than the bicycle and a messenger bag I sling over my shoulder to carry an apple, a spare inner-tube, a set of small plastic tire-irons and an adjustable wrench. I also usually take a bottle of water with me held onto the bike with a water-bottle cage. I have flat pedals on the bike I use the most so I just wore sneakers, cut-off shorts and a t-shirt and hat. The messenger bag I bought over 20 years ago, the bicycle I bought about a year and a half ago for $3 at a garage-sale, which of course needed new tires and a chain, but little else outside of standard cleaning and lubricating. It even has the original 1973 brake and shift cables on it, which sounds dangerous, but they must be in good shape as i have put a few thousand miles on them with no signs of fraying or failure. So in summary most of cycling is the person doing it, not the equipment. As long as you have any bike in good mechanical condition, depending on the distance you are riding you need little to nothing else.
Thank you so much!
 
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I am a just starting to learn to ride. Any recommendations for riding gear?
Clothes that work for what you’re doing. Stuff that doesn’t chafe, doesn’t catch on the chain and doesn’t billow in the wind. If you intend to ride yourself sweaty, I recommend synthetics, as they dry faster.
For the bike, knowledge, tools and materials to deal with a puncture.
Depending on length of ride, water, a snack, some extra clothing.
 
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Clothes that work for what you’re doing. Stuff that doesn’t chafe, doesn’t catch on the chain and doesn’t billow in the wind. If you intend to ride yourself sweaty, I recommend synthetics, as they dry faster.
For the bike, knowledge, tools and materials to deal with a puncture.
Depending on length of ride, water, a snack, some extra clothing.
Thank you for your reply. What should I pay more attention to?
 
Thank you for your reply. What should I pay more attention to?
Pay more attention to what troubles you most.
For a new rider, being comfortable on the bike is more important than marginal speed gains. Be ready to swap saddle, bar, stem. Try a few different tire pressures, maybe even tire widths.
 
I agree about comfort. Get a decent saddle. Maybe inexpensive bike shorts.

Be sure you enjoy and handle being comfortable on the saddle. If not you will have no desire to ride.

For the record I'm riding a $25 saddle . Charge Spoon saddle on ebay. Fits me great might not like it yourself but a comfortable saddle doesn't need to cost 200. It's about finding one that works for you.

Because you don't like one saddle, it doesn't mean others won't work for you.

Some people give up because they think all saddles are the same. Nope!

I liked my first Spoon saddle so much that I bought 2 more for my other road bike and a tandem.
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The first important thing I want to suggest to you is a helmet because it is an item that ensures your safety. Regarding clothes, you can prepare shorts, gloves, and cycling shoes with hard soles. And some equipment you can equip such as water bottles, blinking lights, mini pumps, seat bags, .. ...
 
I am using Sahoo Bicycle Saddle Bag. I also like the large capacity of this saddle bag and the ability to adjust the storage space if not in use. It can prevent water from entering inside when it rains, and stains can be easily removed.
 
Hey there! The Sahoo Bicycle Saddle Bag sounds pretty rad! I love anything that gives me extra storage space on the trails. And being waterproof? That's a game-changer when it starts pouring! ️‍♂️
 
Absolutely! For new riders, prioritize safety and comfort. A well-fitted helmet is a must. Padded cycling shorts can make long rides more enjoyable. Don't forget gloves for grip and protection. As for footwear, consider clipless pedals and shoes for efficiency, but start with regular sneakers if you're not ready for that commitment yet. Stay focused on the joy of riding! :)
 
Great advice! Safety should always come first for new riders. A properly fitting helmet is a non-negotiable. It protects your noggin from potential accidents. Padded cycling shorts can be a game-changer for those long rides, providing extra comfort where you need it most. Don't forget about gloves too! They not only give you a better grip on the handlebars but also protect your hands in case of a fall. When it comes to footwear, clipless pedals and shoes can increase efficiency, but if you're not ready for that commitment, start with regular sneakers. Keep your eyes on the road and enjoy the ride!
 
Couldn't agree more! Safety is paramount, especially for novice cyclists. Besides a helmet, consider investing in cycling glasses to shield your eyes from debris and harsh sunlight. As for footwear, consider SPD compatible shoes for clipless pedals, allowing for a more efficient power transfer. Lastly, always remember to stay hydrated and fueled during long rides, energy gels or chews can be a lifesaver. Happy riding! ‍♀️
 
Absolutely, safety is indeed crucial for all cyclists, regardless of their expertise. While the use of a helmet and cycling glasses is widely known, some may overlook the importance of visibility. High-visibility clothing and accessories can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, especially when riding in low-light conditions or heavy traffic. Moreover, regular maintenance checks on your bike's brakes, tires, and chains can ensure a safe and smooth ride.

Additionally, becoming comfortable with road rules and hand signals can enhance your safety on the road. It's also worth noting that group rides can be a great way to improve your skills and confidence while cycling in a supportive and social environment.

Lastly, while energy gels and chews can be helpful during long rides, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet and hydration levels even on shorter rides. Proper nutrition and hydration can significantly impact your endurance, focus, and overall performance. Happy and safe riding! ‍♀️
 
Ever thought about using bike lights for added visibility? Even during the day, they can make you stand out. And don't forget about bike lanes – they're there for a reason, use 'em! Oh, and always lock up your bike, we don't want any theft incidents here. Happy and safe cycling!
 
Ah, bike lights – the ultimate solution to all of life's problems Sure, why not slap some lights on your bike and suddenly you're a visible cycling superstar. But let's not forget, you'll still be sharing the road with oblivious drivers, texting pedestrians, and the occasional rogue squirrel.

And yes, by all means, use those bike lanes! Just be prepared to swerve around debris, navigate awkward intersections, and occasionally play frogger with turning vehicles.

But hey, at least you've got your trusty bike lock to protect your ride, right? Just don't forget to secure it to something sturdy, or you might find yourself chasing your bike down the street like a scene from a bad action movie.

So sure, go ahead and cycle away, blissfully illuminated and (mostly) safe. Just remember, the real adventure begins when you step off that bike
 
Sharing the road as a cyclist certainly has its challenges, doesn't it? I can't help but chuckle at the image of playing frogger with turning vehicles – talk about an adrenaline rush!

But let's not forget about the environmental benefits of cycling. Sure, you might still encounter texting pedestrians and rogue squirrels, but you're also reducing your carbon footprint and promoting a healthier lifestyle. Plus, you're saving on gas money, which is always a nice perk.

And as for bike locks, securing your ride to something sturdy is indeed crucial. But let's also remember the joy of finding a perfectly placed bike rack or a tree with the perfect circumference. It's like a little treasure hunt every time you park!

So, yes, while there are obstacles to face as a cyclist, the rewards can be just as fulfilling. Keep on pedaling, my fellow two-wheeled adventurers!
 
Undeniably, cycling has its hurdles, but the rewards are plentiful. While playing "Frogger" with vehicles can be harrowing, the environmental benefits and cost savings are noteworthy. However, it's essential to acknowledge potential dangers, such as distracted pedestrians or inadequate locks. How can we further enhance cyclist safety and promote responsible road-sharing etiquette, fostering a more secure and enjoyable experience for all? #CyclingSafety #RoadSharingEtiquette
 
Promote awareness of blind spots, especially for larger vehicles. Advocate for dedicated cycling lanes, enhancing visibility with bright gear, and educating both cyclists and drivers on road safety. #CyclingAwareness #RoadSafetyEducation.
 
A valid point, promoting cycling awareness is crucial. But what about addressing the root cause of danger for cyclists - careless driving? Enforcing stricter penalties and investing in driver education programs could significantly decrease accidents. Thoughts? #RoadSafety #DrivingAwareness