Originally Posted by
cyclist5
I've heard some people say that all you need is a bike in order to commute. But, to make it a routine thing I say you need much more. For people like me who commute 10-20mi one way I've had to buy things as necessary. The prices are what I assume are low-end. Correct me if I'm wrong.
Bike: a good road bike so you're commute doesn't take too long - $800
Helmet: $50
Panniers: $140
Seat Pack: $20
Patch kit + tube: $20
Clothes (1 set): $100
Winter Gloves: $30
Jacket: $120
Headlights (250lumen x2) : $220
Blinkies (x3): $75
Balaclava: $20
Repair/Maintanence: $???
These are the items I can't do without. I've tried substituting (like clothes) but for longer rides cycling specific gear is a must.
Anything to add or correct me on? And let's just say the other few commuters I've seen seem to have spent way more than what I've listed.
I think your list is pretty good, but...
If you like to bike, then you'll have a bike anyway. Few would buy a bike to commute full time without already owing a bike and most any bike can be used to commute.
That said, to commute you need to change a few things out on that bike. Here's my list of bike commuting specific things:
Rack--$40
Fenders--$50
Trunk bag--$75 (I think a good commuter needs a couple of options, depending on what he's bringing in)
Panniers--$120
Rain gear--$40 (I use a rain cape for bikes)
Lights/blinkies--$100 ( I ride in areas with street lights and don't need the 250 lumen lights)