Newbie addicted to speed...and of course questions

[litgirl84]

Hi ladies!

Just wanted to jump on here and finally say hello! I have been lurking on here for months, but neglected to sign up until I got my road bike. I got my new speedy machine yesterday, and I am super excited to get started.

I have been an avid indoor cyclist for several years, and I decided that I needed to get outside and live a little!

Of couse, I have a billion questions, but I will only pick the collective mind here for a few! Thanks in advance for all yall's help! What a great resource for active women!

What are the gear necessities I need? Essentially, all I have is a bike. And of course, I'm on a budget (librarians are not rollin in it) ;)
Brain bucket suggestions?
How did yall learn to ride? A book? A riding group?

[murielalex]

Welcome. We need bike pics!

Definitely get one or preferable two pair of quality, not cheap bike shorts. If you don't already have cages for water bottles, they are a must. Gloves are good.

EDIT: Helmet!!! I didn't put it at first as I assumed it was a given, but just in case.....

[litgirl84]

EDIT: Helmet!!! I didn't put it at first as I assumed it was a given, but just in case.....

Yea for sure! Do you have any suggestions? Will a nice Bell cut it?

[emily_in_nc]

Yea for sure! Do you have any suggestions? Will a nice Bell cut it?

You need to go to a LBS and try some on. Some folks seem to have "Bell heads" and others "Giro heads", and of course there are other brands as well, and a bevy of colors and styles.

Aside from what has already been suggested, either a Camelbak or a couple of water bottles and cages so you can hydrate on rides. And either an under-seat bag or jersey with rear pockets (or both) so you can carry a snack, cell phone, a replacement tube. A multi-tool and tire irons are good to have too. Even if you don't know how to use it all (yet), oftentimes someone you're riding with or a passing cyclist can help. A bandanna for wiping sweat and/or blowing your nose (if you get drippy like me when you ride). Decent sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Welcome to TE!