You've already received a lot of good information in the replies posted before mine, so I won't repeat those. I have a couple of things to add though. Make sure you carry identification, including health insurance information and who (name and phone number) to contact in case of an emergency. I've always carried my drivers license as ID and my health insurance card with me, but until recently I didn't carry emergency contact information. I had a bicycle crash recently where that information would have been extremely useful. Luckily I was able to give the emergency personnel the information, but given my condition at the time it could have been a while before my family was notified.

Enjoy cycling!

--- Denise
www.denisegoldberg.com

Don't get scared off by my mention of my crash - denise2004crash.crazyguyonabike.com - I've ridden for years and never had anything this serious happen to me before!