Quote Originally Posted by Torrilin View Post
Accessories:

Are you going to ride in the rain? If yes, you need fenders. Also, a rain jacket.

I've got a good "shorter" coat that was too short for walking, so it'll probably work well for riding, it's even a bright yellowish color. I like the idea of fenders regardless ... I do have memories of that splat of mud up the center of my shirt back from riding in damp conditions.

Are you going to ride in the dark? If yes, you need lights. Also, reflectors and reflective tape. Go nuts.

Not sure about this one .. but I would think the reflective items could be good even at dawn and dusk (if I get out at that time ..LOL)

Are you going to fall? If yes, you need a helmet and gloves. (Everyone falls btw). I'm stalling on gloves some while I figure out what I want out of them.

I was planning on a helmet ... is there a brand that's better than others. I understand they all have to pass the same saftety standards, but all they all considered equal? Gloves ... sounds like it's something to learn more about.

Are you going to ride for more than 20 minutes at a time? If yes, you need a water bottle and a way to carry it. (This doesn't mean you need to buy a water bottle cage right away... I refill a cheap 20 oz recloseable water bottle and carry it in my backpack)

Ah ... got lots of bottles from my distance walking ..I think I'm covered, although I do need a way to put them on the bike.

Are you going to get flats? If yes (and everyone who rides will eventually answer yes) you need a spare inner tube and a way to inflate it.

Can I just skip the flat thing? LOL ...

I tend to forget about safety glasses. I wear regular ones and unless I'm doing serious metal shop or chemical lab stuff, they're usually ok. If you don't wear glasses, at least get *something* to protect your eyes.

I've got quite a few pairs of older, prescription sunglasses, I hope they'll do the trick.

All the rest of the accessories can wait til you know what you (and your bike) need.
Thanks for all the info, my husband is going to love the shopping list!