Originally Posted by chasm54

I'm not aiming to start a debate here (there's plenty of opportunity for that in the A&S forum) but personally I don't wear a helmet, it isn't essential, cycling isn't dangerous. So it would not be on my list if you have a limited budget.

You probably need some shades: they seem an indulgence only until a beetle flies into your eye during a 40mph downhill. And you do need waterbottle, a multitool and probably tyre levers if you haven't mastered the trick of changing tyres without them.

If you buy a decent jersey you can probably do without the seatpack, the pockets will do. Shorts/bibs yes.