Hi there!

My advice is to keep it simple. I'm 45, about 70 lbs overweight, and have had my bike for 7 years, but just started riding seriously this year (I used to commute on it and then didn't use it at all). I have a Trek 7300 Hybrid, and it has been completely adequate for my needs. I ride with the Light group of my local club (go Oakland Yellowjackets!), and they have taught me all the basics to keep me safe and make riding more fun- proper stopping/starting technique, hills (up and down), etc. This summer I've gone from sweating out a flat 20 mile ride, to 40 miles with 3000 ft. of elevation. For me riding with a group is really helpful- I've met other beginners and gotten great coaching, so don't be afraid to ride with a club. You don't have to be good before you go. Most have beginners' groups, and even the great cyclists with all their flashy gear are very nice and supportive of me.

So about gear- I'd say keep it really simple. I've been buying things as I need them. Start with a bike, helmet, and padded bike shorts. Get platform pedals (not clips or clipless), and just get used to your bike. Go to a store where they can fit you properly. You should be able to stand flat-footed on the ground, straddling the cross-bars of your bike. Also note that when you stop, you should always get off your seat.

Bike, helmet and shorts is what I had at the beginning of the summer. Since then I've added in the following order:

1. Camelbak (I was having serious dehydration problems, and the solution was to buy a 100 oz. Camelbak- makes me drink much more)
2. Electrolyte replacement (see number one)
3. A bike shirt. I wanted to look cool like the other kids in the club!
4. Clipless pedals and bike shoes- it got to the point where I realized that not having clipless pedals was making my cycling really inefficient, and I was ready to get them.

Next purchase: Road Bike, but probably not for a couple of months.

Honestly, I'd say just get the basics, that will cover you for short rides, and once you get into it, you can start buying additional stuff you need.

Have a fantastic time!

-Amy