Not owning a car is perhaps the second biggest supersaver tip there is. The first is avoiding fast food and prepared food establishments. The car free or car lite cyclist can spend a little money on bike shorts, surely. If one wanted just one item of bike specific clothing I think that would be it. I don't find a lot of difference between runners tights and non-chamois bike tights. I'll get whichever is cheaper. Usually those are the runners tights. I wear runners long sleeve tops and the New Balance brand have IMO just as much 'tail' as some bike specific designs. I have a J&G Cyclewear jacket but it is urethane coated nylon and even with pit zips wide open it is a sauna. I also have cycling specific shoes: Shimano MT41's without SPD cleats mounted. My attachment system of choice are PowerGrips. If I can get this stuff with my (lack of) income, anyone can. Provided they are car lite (or free) and make the lion's share of their meals at home.

H