killflash

Hi all, I just put a deposit to order my Giant Defy 5. I'm pretty excited and can't wait to get it fitted and riding in about a week. Here's my first question, should I invest in shoes and clipless pedals or put my money towards something else? I will be mainly be using my bike for transportation to and from work, roughly 5 miles round trip with a nice hill towards work and mainly downhill coming home. If not pedals, shorts, gloves, computer? I've been mainly riding on a cheap department store knockoff road bike. Thanks again in advance for the help!

-Mark

Snakepit

Nice. I just got started riding about three weeks ago with just my new Cannondale, a helmet and a wireless Cateye computer to track my mileage and speed. After my first 13 mile ride, I realized that I had to get padded shorts, a wicking shirt/jersey, gloves and a seat bag for my cell phone and wallet. I've put 105 miles on my 3 week old bike since then as those accessories have made my rides just so much more enjoyable. Go out and ride your new Defy and you'll be able to decide what you need as you go.

chil2makefun

I don't think I'd get myself shorts etc. for only a 5 mile loop but I'd definitely get myself some shoes and pedals if I were you. Here's the thing though, there's quite a big chance that you'll use your bike for a lot more than simply commuting so you might as well get yourself shorts and everything else for those longer weekend rides.

Farhat

Get a tube and tires levers. never know when you'll get a flat.

f4rrest

I vote for shorts first, because you'll inevitably want to go on longer weekend rides.
And full finger gloves, in case you crash you'll save your fingertip skin.

When you get clipless pedals, consider installing them on your old walmart bike for a few days until you're used to them. This way, you won't risk tipping over on your new bike and scratching it. When you're comfortable, transfer them to your new bike.