Originally Posted by stevo
for the recreational ride, all you really need is the tools necessary to change a flat, and the time necessary to ride the thing.
bring water accordingly.
Best advice I have seen yet in this thread. You are just starting and there is no need to go into accessory shock buying stuff that more 'seasoned' riders think of as bare necessities right off the bat.
My recommendations:
1. water cage and bottles - Polars are insulated, which you might appreciate.
2. a handlebar, frame or under seat bag to store keys, wallet/id, cell phone, stuff, tools, munchies, etc.
That is enough to go out and enjoy a ride in the neighborhood or the local bike path. Tools, tire levers, patch kit, frame pump, spare tube, etc. are good to have, but only if you can use them! IMHO both the tools and learning to do basic bike maintenance is highly recommended, but should not stop you from enjoying your bikes now. Don't forget helmets, if you feel the need to wear one.
From there, if you become a regular cyclist, you will find gobs and gobs of stuff that you will want to have and spend money on including; chamois-padded shorts or undies, rain gear, jerseys, shoes, clipless pedals, racks, panniers, lights, cyclocomputer, better components, a better bike, better stuff, more stuff, different stuff, OMG it never ends!!!!!!!!!