Originally Posted by
stapfam
Main thing to buy right now is the bike. Saddle and changing other parts will only be found by riding the thing and can be done in easy stages. I have even known stock saddles to be comfy after the settling in period so I would even stay with that. Tyres and wear out the ones that come with the bike unless they do not suit your style.
What you do need though is the Puncture repair kit in a wedge under the saddle two levers- repair kit and a spare tube is all you need to carry but one extra tube can also be a blessing. Pump and a good one that fits the frame and works. Cheap ones of unknown name do not. Water bottle and carrier and that is about it.
That is all I carry on most of my rides but I also have the capability of extra water in a camelback for the longer rides. (Two bottles and carriers also work) Clothing and helmet is a must. Gloves and Cycling glasses help aswell. Shorts and jersey could come later but most of us want those on any ride of length.
Most people around are looking to save money. Even my LBS knows this and I give them the chance to match the price I can get elsewhere. Most of the time they can and will or at least get somewhere near it. There is an advantage of buying from your LBS but if you can save plenty by shopping elsewhere then at least least you have given the shop the chance to make a sale.
Looks like I have all your bullet points covered at this point - except the pump I have probably won't handle high-pressure tires, at least not without a lot more pumping than I probably want to do. I've always carried a patch kit and extra tube, even though I've never needed them (better than the other way 'round...
). I too like the camel backs for longer rides - I have a "bare" one and one built into a small backpack - both of which get used when the wife goes out with me on a long one. Beyond the capacity, the keep the water cold, even in 90+ degree temperatures! I have two pairs of bib shorts that still fit (the other two are way too baggy) and I'll probably pick up a new set of gloves for this season - the pair I have are pretty well worn out. I only have one jersey I picked up on a tour last year, but usually opt for t-shirts anyway. I'm thinking I might get a new helmet, as I found one that protects the back of the head, and I've been kinda concerned about that. Hate to get a serious head injury at my age...
It's encouraging to hear the advice to wear out the first set of tires - that suggests that most of them are reasonably durable enough to not need constant puncture repair.