I picked up a Raleigh Detour today to use for commuting to/from work. Its a short commute, only about 3.75 miles each way, so I'll most likely be doing other rides on a fairly regular basis.

Unfortunately, I've been bike-less for 5+ years - and before that, I used my mom's old beach cruiser that she picked up from a garage sale. (In fact, I took my first ride since then earlier this evening, just a short 1.5 mile one, but, oh, I enjoyed it!)

So.... help? Please?

I have the bike - a hybrid, because of transitioning over grass from road to bike path in some areas (and my recreation would involve levees and the Everglades.)

I got myself a lock... and a tarp for rain protection when I'm not on the bike.

I ordered reflectors for the tires and got myself a helmet.

....I have no idea what else I need, though!

Pros/cons on various lights? Any suggestions? The only cycling I would be doing in the dark (for now) is my commuting, and not much at that since I'm normally mid-shift. The route I'd be taking is very traffic light - the half of the route that has the most traffic also has a bike path, the other has two lanes of traffic that includes a school zone and then just subdivisions on either side.

I plan on picking up a basket and/or pannier eventually (once the $$ I spent on the bike no longer makes me feel terrible) so I can take lunch, clothes, etc. to and from work - and for some light shopping at the close stores.

Is there any gear anybody recommends? I've never done any type of bike maintenance before in my life, so whatever it is would have to be extremely simple.

E