What to put in a starter kit. Im JUST getting started
 

Hi all, I JUST bought my first roadie (2011 Allez Comp) and I wanna know what Im gonna need (equipment/gear-wise) to get started. I currently have a helmet, shoes/cleats/pedals and a bicycle...no bottles,cages,shorts,bibs,pump,tubes,bell, lights,tools or anything. Im looking to start going on group rides in the next two weeks or so...what should I have with me and at home before I set out? Help :)

You NEED a pump, a spare tube, SOME sort of inflator (CO2, frame pump, etc. I recc'd CO2), and tire levers.

You basically NEED bottle cages and two water bottles, and bibshorts.

You should have sunglasses, real biking jerseys, and cycling fingerless gloves.

You don't need a bell, a light (Well, you decide that one, most don't,) fenders, etc.

I recommended the Sugoi RS bibshorts. Buy cheap, buy twice.


I'm positive I'm forgetting some stuff, but that's a good start.

everything you just listed that you don't have yet :)

Besides water bottle & cage, add pump, multitool, tube, tire lever, patch kit, and cell phone.

Bare necessities are:
Gloves
helmet
glasses
cycling-specific shorts/pants
extra inner tube
pump with tire lever
water bottle and cage (if not, a camel-back or equivalent)
ID with some cash

Useful extras:
Multi-tool with hex sizes you need
chain tool with extra chain links
bandages or first aid kit
speedometer/heart-rate monitor (if you're serious about training)
pepper spray
knife
gun

Usually the LBS does a deal on these things when you buy the bike.

Go see them.

What does Bob Roll say on the Road ID commercial? "Helmet, shoes, Road ID, bazooka, set."
All kidding aside, I would suggest looking into getting a Road ID. Much better for me than carrying a wallet, or carrying just my license and then forgetting to put it back into my wallet when I get home. A couple of dollars is a necessity as well.

And the knowledge of how to use them.