What kind of cycling gear/equipment do i need?

Question

Im a first time cyclist looking forward to training for races in the future. Therefore, I would like to look like the best and so forth. Anyways what kind of gear/equipment do i MUST have in order to "be" a cyclist?
ex. Helmet, sunglasses. etc.

Thanks.

Answer 1

List of items to get:
Helmet - (most important - $35 - 150)
Bicycling jersey (3-4) - $26 - 60 @ www.longscycle.com
Shorts - $30 - 130 @ same as above(as many as you can afford 2-7)
Arm warmers/knee warmers for cooler days that could possible warm up as you ride
Rain jacket - $15 - when on sale @ www.voler.com
Gloves - $25 - 60 @ local bike shop
Bike tubes - local bike shop - get 10 -15 for the season carry two with you always
Tire irons/bike pump(minimum tools)
Clipless pedals/shoes($300+) - see local bike shop
Sunglasses - My opinion it really doesn't matter what brand - find something comfortable and blocks UV, etc
Bike socks - keep feet dry and comfy
Energy bars/food - find something you like(test during group rides not races)
Water bottle cages(2)/water bottles(gather as many as possible - always handed out for free at races)
The list could go on. But this is a pretty good starting place. Shop around and you can find deals on things.

Answer 2

you will need a race bike. you can get a good entry level racer for about 1200 dollars. although if you have no budget, and want to blow 5000-6000 dollars on a high-end carbon model then more power to you. i hate elitists that claim carbon should be reserved for top riders - there is no carbon shortage in the world, and the fact is that carbon is the best material to make a bike from. but you must also consider the chances that you will not keep up cycling, and that would be bad if youve just spent your life savings on a bike.

other than that you will need a helmet, bike jerseys/shorts (the number is up to you - i only ever use two sets, even though i own many more. make sure you never wear the same shorts two days in a row without washing them.), clipless shoes and pedals (if youre on a budget, go with Time, if youre spending big bucks, go with Look), gloves, arm and leg warmers, and some bottles. a book on how to repair bicycles. a solid, wide-ranging multi-tool; make sure it has a chain tool aswell. a bunch of spare tubes and 2 STEEL tyre levers.

some extra stuff that helps but isnt strictly neccessary - some killer shades, overshoes, a bike computer, a heart monitor, a saddle bag (although i would remove it for races), a rear light (it will possibly save your life if you ever have a big breakdown and end up cycling home in the dark).

Answer 3

What I ride with:

You might hate lycra, but it works, so shorts and top.

Lid, gloves (Sweety hands lose grip), Clips and shoes are good.

Tools = mini tool + chain tool + Power links + spare link + Pump + Spare tube + tooth paste tube (Tyre wall repairs).

Lights = Halogen front + LED rear.

Hydration pack full of SIS or GO (Carb drink).

Pocket full of Jelly babies + Energy bar.

As for being a cyclist? Lid + Bike.

Luck

Answer 4

to add on to the other guy....
you need a bike an entry level race (not road) bike begins at around $1300...you would getting a aluminum frame with carbon fork and rear stays and a Shimano 105Sc(mid-end) drivetrain. should be good enough to race on once you have the skills and fitness. to invest more, you are just a poseur.

try finding people to ride with...like clubs...also local bike shops will have weekly rides. ride with people better than you, learn from them how to ride fast and ride safe in tight groups and not get you or someone else killed. Good luck.

Answer 5

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Answer 6

well, what you need is all based on personal preference

but helmet, sunglasses, and proper cycling clothing is great
at least 2 water bottles or a Camelback for longer rides
I also carry a pump, extra tube, tube repair kit, multi tool, etc.