Hello,

I just bought a new Giant Escape from my LBS. This is my first 'real' bike. I'm looking to get some accessories to make my ride to college a bit easier and more safe.

I am looking at two different Kryptonite bike locks, The New York Fahgettaboudit U-lock and the Evolution Mini-5. I think I am going to go with the Evolution Mini. I don't see too much of added protection with the New York Fahgettaboudit. If someone is going to use a power grinder, then you might as well fahgettabout your bike with either lock.

I want to get a rack for the back of the bike, so I can strap my backpack to it. I am concerned with the stability of my backpack on the rack because my laptop will be inside. Could someone recommend a good bike rack and how to strap my backpack securely to it?

I will be riding home after dark, so I need a rear blinking light and a lamp for the front. Any recommendations?

Is there anything I am forgetting?

Thank you for your advice.

I think with the Mini Lock, you limit the amount of places you can actually lock your bike because the u-bar wouldn't be as big as the NY. It really depends on where you might find yourself locking most of the time.

Rear light, go with Planet Bike Superflash or Portland Design Works Radbot 1000. Head over to the electronics sub-forum for more ideas on which lights to get.

I bet your dealer might've allowed you a discount at the time you bought your bike, with that there are a lot of choices. If there are a lot of street lights on your route, you don't need much for lighting and you won't have to spend much. Best light I ever had was a Schwinn branded one I bought at Walmart for cheap. Unfortunatly, I used it as a flashlight also and now it is where all lost flashlights wander off to.