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So I just ordered a cheapish bicycle today. Looking at helmets I'm so confused what to get, there are so many different types?
I haven't ridden a bike since I was a teen. Decided to get one mainly do some extra exercise. Also, any other essentials that I should consider getting?
Hi cycling commuter and weekend bike packer here, welcome to the club!
Before we start I just want to warn you that cycling, while a simple hobby is full of money sinks and gear envy. It's very easy to spend 10x more for something marginally better, I only mention this now because it took me way too long to figure this out.
On to gear recommendations:
A good lock - this should be at least 10%the cost of your bike, also make sure to learn to lock your bike properly (not just through the front wheel)
Spare tube(s) - while I agree a patch repair kit is great to have, repairing a tube when you're late, it's cold, and miserable is a hellish experience. especially for newbies, id recommend carrying a spare tube instead and just changing that. That way you can patch your original tube in the warmth of your home with a cuppa, much better experience. Swap it back when you're done and you're gravy.
Gloves - Everyone falls. Everyone. Gloves not only make your ride more comfortable, but they also protect your palms on the event that you scrape them after a tumble (I write this with scraped palms after not following my own advice and falling last weekend)
A basic repair kit - puncture repair, tyre levers, pump, multi tool w chain break, zipties and a metre or so of duct tape
Sunnies - bike specific glasses are a scam (at least for beginners), just have a pair on the bike at all times. This will make riding at dawn/dusk and in the rain more comfortable. Id recommend polarized with a fairly light tint, too dark and it'll be hard to ride in the rain with them.
A bike bag to store it all in - nothing fancy just good to have things off your body and on the bike so wouldn't recommend a backpack. This is the first place where you can spend a lot of money, but a good bike bag is never a bad investment.
The more you ride the more you'll come to realize what you need and don't need, you'll add a bunch to this list but I doubt there's anything you'll remove so it's a good starting place.
Thanks for all the advice. I've been guilty of gear acquisition syndrome in other hobbies before, so I'm definitely going in with a budget mindset. I was also looking at "better" more expensive adventure/touring bikes, but came to my senses to keep it cheaper for now. Now with all these additional things I didn't think about, I'm happy with my decision!
I don't actually need to use it for commuting right now (could always change in future though), mainly for exercise - but I like the idea of the bike bag + repair kit/spare tubes etc.
Ya really gotta try them on, but companies all have slightly different shapes, I believe - like shoes.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different handle bar/grip or seat combinations over time, too (although, getting saddle-sore is unavoidable if riding for periods of time)
Ah really, I'll go into a store once I get it and try some on.
Thanks, I have a feeling I'll get the urge to start swapping bits and pieces out eventually.
Puncture repair kit, and a set of cycle tools. When I was cycling I never left home without the ability to repair a puncture and get back. You won’t regret having them on hand.
Oh that's a good idea! Is there anything in particular with cycle tools that I should look for? I already have a bunch of tools for working on the car and around the house, was hoping that would do for now.
Bike tools tend to be lighter weight than car tools, makes them easier to carry. Find a ring spanner that fits the wheels hub nuts, and one that can adjust the saddle, handlebars, etc. But the tyre levers and puncture kit are a must have in my book. Maybe learn how a puncture is repaired before you need to do it on the road.
That makes sense, I'll shop around for some, thanks!
I should probably get one of those, I only ever do short trips (never more than maybe 3km from home or car). Always figured I could push or carry it that far if I had to.
Any suggestions for a good kit?
I had a set of 3 tyre levers, plus a puncture repair kit with various size patches and glue. Used to ride on gravel tracks a lot, surprising the number of punctures I got. If we were going on a long trip, I’d carry a spare inner tube as well. If your wheel hub nuts are not quick release, carry spanners to suit as well. Of course you need a pump to re-inflate a repair.
Thanks! I think I'll need to practice as well, I have no idea how to change an inner tube or repair a puncture 😆. I only got the bike this time last year, and luckily haven't had any issues.
I think I've caught my wife's COVID - joyyeeee!
Gosh, maybe it's time for some Ren and Stimpy binging
Today we catch the water taxi back to Kaiteriteri, heading home - though we don't actually get home until tomorrow. It's been a fun trip!
And not even missed the kids once?
Oh that's right! I forgot we had kids.
Bubble burst.
Feel like newlyweds
Trying to get back into the whole work thing this week. Still recovering from a bug so just doing wee bits at a time then heading home exhausted.
On the upshot, I worked really hard before Christmas to set this year up well and it has paid dividends, still very little to do yet as I had preloaded everything last year!
Really wanting to prioritise family this year and not continuing to be a consumer whore. Which might mean a paycut, but while the kids are still young I think it's worth it.
I think it's great to be able to be around while the kids are still young (and want to hang out with you). If you can get the right job, being able to knock off early, pick up the kids from school and go to a playground is great.