Pick your route by what is good for you and the bike. An extra mile or two is worth it if you have more comfort or less hassle.
Don't run over things. You know, glass, manhole covers, piles of leaves, unknown items. You will have fewer flats. I chose my route for roads that are cleaner, and have fewer flats that way.
Wear a helmet.
wear a helmet.
wear a helmet.
Take lights even if you think you will never be riding in the dark. blinkies (red taillights) and LED headlamps can be gotten cheaply, and may save your bacon.
Reflective vest, fenders and a rack are the other minimum for me, I hate dirty water up my back, and my gear would make me sweat if it is on my backpack. And I want to be SEEN.
If you have any questions that are not answered in these posts, try the search feature of the forum... it is pretty easy, and very helpful.
ride on!!
Last edited by Jessica; 02-27-05 at 11:30 AM.
Reason: I forgot this item:vest