Fifty Plus (50+) - basic accessories for my new bike?

I'm polling the cycling intelligentsia on the 50+ forum and see what basic accessories I need for my new bike. It's not here yet, but I want to be ready.

I am pretty sure I am going to recycle (haha, little pun) my crank bros pedals from my hybrid and put them on the new bike. It makes sense in two ways, one I don't have to learn to use a new pedal system and risk falling like I did innumerable times while learning to use the crank bros, two, I can keep my same shoes. Later when I recover from the bike expense, I can get better pedals and shoes.

I will need a computer, just a basic model is fine. I'd like some kind of bag or pack, nothing too obtrusive. Can you put a seat post rack on a carbon seat post? I will need some sort of mirror.

Anything else? Whattya think?

Colleen

I

You don't want to hear from me, as it just wouldn't be right for you to look like a Frieda on a Serotta.

Hey mom,
Kudos on your new bike. In addition to a mirror, I have a small bag under my saddle containing money, spare tube, tire irons, and gas to fill.On the handle bar I carrry a can of halt, when I remember. That and a couple of bottle cages pretty much takes care of the necessities for me. Sunglasses and a bit of food easily fit into a jersey pocket.

I will need a computer, just a basic model is fine. I'd like some kind of bag or pack, nothing too obtrusive. Can you put a seat post rack on a carbon seat post? I will need some sort of mirror. Anything else?

Wouldn't recommend seat post rack on carbon post. Maybe a post mounted rear fender.
Computer is non-essential, but they're cheap.
Mirror is definately non-essential.
Small under seat bag for spare tube, CO2, tire lever, multi tool.

You got the pedals and helmet (I assume).
Wool jersey is a must.
How about a rain jacket, pants & booties?
How about a second set of lighter weight wheels for fast days?

You don't want to hear from me, as it just wouldn't be right for you to look like a Frieda on a Serotta.


Oh I will probably look more Fredwina than OCP, but that's just the way it goes! As a wise philosopher (my mom) once said, like it or lump it :D

Negative on the seat post rack and carbon seat post combo. The carbon isn't set up to take the stress of the rack mount.

Isn't the female version of a Fred is a Doris?

One "accessory" I might suggest is an increase on your credit limit of your favorite credit card.

You've got to have bell to get those slowpokes out of your way (or to make the kids in the yards you pass smile).

One "accessory" I might suggest is an increase on your credit limit of your favorite credit card.
And we'll be happy to help you spend it! :D


I like my Cateye Enduro 8 computer, it's basic and not expensive.

I have two bottle cages in case there's no place to stop for water.

That's a beautiful bike you're planning to get.... which color did you chose?

Isn't the female version of a Fred is a Doris?

There are conflicting references.

Whoever authored the Wikipedia article on "Freds" says it is "Doris."

But the multi-year effort to build the "Dictionary of Roadie Slang" says it is Freida.
http://members.tripod.com/geert_pc/slang.htm

Is that sweet looking bike, or what? Of I'm hoping you got the blue
The assumption seems to be CO2 but, if you don't want to go that route, you'll need a frame pump. The make nice, lightweight carbon pumps. Really nice looking, too. Water bottle cages (and bottle to go in them) are a must. I use a Specialized Turbo computer. Simple. Pretty darned cheap and it works

If you lived in Seattle, rain gear might be important. But, I lived in Amherst, Ohio for a few years and you do not need rain gear in Lorain County.

I would want a cell phone, a new tube, a pump of some type, a multi-tool with tire lever, a cycle computer, lights (if I planned to ride at night), water bottle(s), a helmet mounted mirror, personal indentification, a house key, and possibly a heart rate monitor. Many of these things can be worn on your person. Since you are over 50 in age, a pair of glasses for close-up work might be a good thing.

The only other thing I carry that hasn't already been mentioned is a chain tool, short length of chain, and a replacement pin (if Shimano) or Powerlink (if a SRAM chain). Might also carry some duct tape (can wrap just a little around a piece of cardboard)--if a spoke would break, then you can use the tape to hold the loose spoke to another so it doesn't cause further damage (happens more on mtn.bikes than road, but it can happen!)

A flat repair kit and/or spare tube, and a bicycle multi-tool are essential. I believe a mirror is essential on a road bike, (sorry Wildwood). Remove the reflectors, unless you do any riding after dark. Forget the rain gear - if it looks like rain, stay at home - if you get caught in a sudden thunder storm a little water isn't going to hurt you. You might look into a small messenger bag in lieu of the wedgie, but a light wedgie bag will do just fine to carry your kit.

I think a bright blinking tail light is a good thing for a road bike, even during the daylight hours because the cars closest to you are approaching from behind. The kind that sort of random strobe like police lights seem to have the best chance of attracting attention.

Clothespins (spring type) and playing cards. :)

I don't like the idea of a big ol' seatpost rack on a fleet, elegant road bike. Ick! And it's really not needed except for commuting or touring.

My basic accessory kit:

I carry a spare tube, patch kit, multitool, and tire levers in a wedge seat bag.

If I need to carry leg/arm warmers, vest, or rain gear for iffy/changeable weather, they go in a fannypack.

Frame mounted pump.

Eyeglass mounted mirror.

Lights, front and back.

Computer.

Bottle cages (two).

Wallet, keys, cellphone and snacks go in the jersey pockets.

Floor pump (carried in the car during riding season).

I can't see needing more for urban/suburban rides within 20 miles or so from home. I might add a bell though.

Well, I never even consider a Silver & Black bike for much the sort of reasons ;)
I use a helmet mounted mirror and have for over a year. It wasn't hard to adjust to at all, really, and I would feel quite lost without it.

I think a bright blinking tail light is a good thing for a road bike, even during the daylight hours because the cars closest to you are approaching from behind. The kind that sort of random strobe like police lights seem to have the best chance of attracting attention.

+1 on the "blinkie". No bike leaves my driveway without one, day & night !!!!!
If you're out after dark (why do we say "after dark"...it's during dark), so if
you're riding during dark, you should put a blinkie and a headlight on the front
also, not so much for your vision needs but so as to be certain to be seen.

Enjoy the new bike.

Yeah, no yaller bikes for me because of those pesky insects at the North Ave. Trade School in Hotlanta. WOOF
Many multi-tools include a chain tool.
You know you don't really want to scratch the paint on your top tube by snapping the cables on it. It would never ring like an Incredibell anyway.

In some places the law requires a headlight to ride during dark.

Many multi-tools include a chain tool.
You know you don't really want to scratch the paint on your top tube by snapping the cables on it. It would never ring like an Incredibell anyway.

excellent point, I'm already fretting about scratching my bike and I don't even have it! I'll get a bell (+1 for the Fredwina look)

So far, here's what I need to buy: (other stuff that's been mentioned I have already)

multi tool w/chain tool

wedge seat pack for tubes, etc

replacement chain link and a pin

blinkie

fanny pack or messenger bag or small backpack (in lieu of attaching a rack and a pack) for extra clothing if the weather demands

computer (probably the Planet bike aero wireless on sale at Performance for $30)

a bell

two bottle cages

A second set of lighter wheels would be nice, but not necessary

The shop said the frame would be here the third week of August, that would be next week right? I will exercise great restraint and refrain from calling and asking about it (for now)

A bike that sexy should be ridden in a bikini

Just sayin

Don't forget the road ID!
http://www.roadid.com (http://www.roadid.com)

A bike that sexy should be ridden in a bikini

Just sayin

If I ever get such a sexy bike I'll do so. And I'll send you a picture. :D

excellent point, I'm already fretting about scratching my bike and I don't even have it! I'll get a bell (+1 for the Fredwina look)

So far, here's what I need to buy: (other stuff that's been mentioned I have already)

multi tool w/chain tool

wedge seat pack for tubes, etc

replacement chain link and a pin

blinkie

fanny pack or messenger bag or small backpack (in lieu of attaching a rack and a pack) for extra clothing if the weather demands

computer (probably the Planet bike aero wireless on sale at Performance for $30)

a bell

two bottle cages

A second set of lighter wheels would be nice, but not necessary

The shop said the frame would be here the third week of August, that would be next week right? I will exercise great restraint and refrain from calling and asking about it (for now)

Serottas are like Porsches. The only thing a woman needs with her Porsche is a pair of stilettos and a cell phone. She can summon anything else she needs.;)

Don't forget the road ID!
http://www.roadid.com (http://www.roadid.com)

I have one in my helmet, unless I'm beheaded in a very unfortunate accident (in which case, getting medical help would be a moot point) I should be OK....

as for the stilettos, what kind of pedals do you recommend :rolleyes: ?

I don't know if any of you have ever seen or ridden w/Pansy Palmetto (i met her on BikeJournal) but I believe she has actually ridden w/stilettos. At the least, she was photgraphed on her bike, in a bikini, wearing stilletos, and she totally could get away with it because she looked really good! She's pretty amazing. (whoosh...........that is the sound of all the men reading this logging on to bikejournal to look up her profile):p

I have one in my helmet, unless I'm beheaded in a very unfortunate accident (in which case, getting medical help would be a moot point) I should be OK....

as for the stilettos, what kind of pedals do you recommend :rolleyes: ?

I don't know if any of you have ever seen or ridden w/Pansy Palmetto (i met her on BikeJournal) but I believe she has actually ridden w/stilettos. At the least, she was photgraphed on her bike, in a bikini, wearing stilletos, and she totally could get away with it because she looked really good! She's pretty amazing. (whoosh...........that is the sound of all the men reading this logging on to bikejournal to look up her profile):p

And she looks good on that Schwinn!!! :beer:

Since you are going to be getting ready for your century ride - I might suggest a Polar bicycle computer that includes a Heart Rate monitor.

Jim

I have one in my helmet, unless I'm beheaded in a very unfortunate accident (in which case, getting medical help would be a moot point) I should be OK....

as for the stilettos, what kind of pedals do you recommend :rolleyes: ?

:lol:

I was suggesting by analogy that a woman does not need a lot of equipment with a Serotta.:D i.e. Fredwina stuff. You might want to ask the clueless but not clipless gang what they would recommend for stilettos.;) Maybe Jimmy Choo http://www.jimmychoo.com/pws/Home.ice with Look Carbon titanium Keos? I do not know how well they would work but would look fantastic.:D

And we'll be happy to help you spend it! :D


I like my Cateye Enduro 8 computer, it's basic and not expensive.

I have two bottle cages in case there's no place to stop for water.

That's a beautiful bike you're planning to get.... which color did you chose?

I'd go for a cadence computer, like the Cateye Astrale 8 or the Sigma 1606 (I think). I have both, and like the Sigma better.

Road Fan

I like the idea of a fanny pack as opposed to a rack, thanks! When it gets cold, and we do longish rides with a lunch stop, I like to change out of my sweaty top base layer and replace it with a dry one. That means being able to pack at least a shirt and since I'm a female, a sports bra.
Perhaps to be in keeping with a particular Seinfield episode (the Man-Bra concept by Kramer and George's father), I'm also wondering how to carry layered clothing that gets peeled as you heat up. Another possibility to compete with a fanny pack could be a handlebar bag. While foregoing the mandatory macho-persona that we guys must maintain ... I did read on a women's biking forum that the ladies liked the purse-like qualities that handlebar bags can offer.

Two drawbacks I suppose to a handlebar bag: (1) You may tend to carry too much stuff and add weight. (2) I suppose it could add to wind-drag, and reduce road efficiency (?) ... if others could expand on whether handlebar bags effectively reduces road efficiency because of wind-drag, it would be interesting to know.

One good thing about a handlebar bag, if it has external loops or rings ... you can mount stuff onto the handlebar bag. If you ride solo in new urban areas, I found a great thing from REI to put a folded map in ... the "Omniseal Wallet Holder". Transparent, waterproof, big enough to carry a pocket notebook with riding directions written on it ... and a hole to lanyard onto either your handlebars or your handlebar bag: < http://www.rei.com/product/492963 >

A mirror is an essential. I use the "Take A Look" that attaches to my glasses. It is easy to use and has saved my bacon several times. Enjoy the new bike.

Going off a bit of a tangent here, not sure if these books qualify as "accessories"...

• Bicycle: The History by David Herlihy
Interesting history of the bicycle, good for those long winter evenings when there's a raging blizzard outside and you can't ride.

• Effective Cycling by John Forester
John Forester opines on many different cycling related subjects. Included are recipes for homebrew chain lube and his treatise on MUPs & bike lanes. Not sure about his recommendation on using kerosene as a degreaser, my Dad preferred gasoline...

• Zinn and the Art of Road Bike Maintenance by Lennard Zinn
I like to do my own maintenance. There a lots of good books on bike maintenance, I just happened upon this particular one by chance as I desperately needed to update my Glenn's.

Going off a bit of a tangent here, not sure if these books qualify as "accessories"...

• Bicycle: The History by David Herlihy
Interesting history of the bicycle, good for those long winter evenings when there's a raging blizzard outside and you can't ride.

• Effective Cycling by John Forester
John Forester opines on many different cycling related subjects. Included are recipes for homebrew chain lube and his treatise on MUPs & bike lanes. Not sure about his recommendation on using kerosene as a degreaser, my Dad preferred gasoline...

• Zinn and the Art of Road Bike Maintenance by Lennard Zinn
I like to do my own maintenance. There a lots of good books on bike maintenance, I just happened upon this particular one by chance as I desperately needed to update my Glenn's.


Hey, what's the matter with "Zinn and the Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance".

Just pullin your leg. Actually the two books are very similar and Zinn's style is easy to read.

If you want to carry all the things that people suggest for a bike- then you might aswell put the kitchen sink in somewhere so you can wash your hands after a repair.

All I carry on the bike is a pump- water bottle and a wedge that has a repair kit, 1 tyre lever, 1 tube and a small multi tool. In the pockets of my jersey I have my wallet- a cereal bar and mostly the camera and a phone.

Now if you are doing something serious- Like a singlehanded- unsupported trip across the desert- then you may need all these things- but all I want to do is ride. I will- subject to extra cereal bars and possibly clothing- Do centrty rides with nothing extra to this. Now the Tandem is a different matter. Tandem spares are not easy to get hold off and the Tandem breaks things. On that I don't quite take the kitchen sink but I do carry a lot of spares that are often needed

As To the accessories- A computer is all I have extra on the bike that I consider an accessory, and when the battery runs flat I do not even take that.

Here is a link to a complete list/suggestions:
http://www.oklahomabicyclesociety.com/ecnotes/ecn37.htm

Hey, what's the matter with "Zinn and the Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance".

My Mt Hood predates index shifting :cry: everything is covered in Glenn's. And the Road version of Zinn's was on sale.

I have a front light with blinky mode, a rear blinky, a $10 schwinn computer from Wal-Mart, a frame pump, and a wedge pack with basic tools and a spare tube.

I use the lights when visibility is impaired.

My Mt Hood predates index shifting :cry: everything is covered in Glenn's. And the Road version of Zinn's was on sale.

Alright.......On sale is a valid choice........

Hey, what's the matter with "Zinn and the Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance".

Just pullin your leg. Actually the two books are very similar and Zinn's style is easy to read.

I've read "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zen_and_the_Art_of_Motorcycle_Maintenance)". Does that count? :p