Poor Cyclist

[Starfish]

Also, really use the For Sale forum right here on TE. Proactively ask for the things you want/need, and let folks know your price range.

Not long ago, I posted there asking if anyone had a certain saddle used that they wanted to sell. A TE member contacted me and said I could have it free for the price of shipping. It would have been a $100 saddle new. It is in great shape, and I love it.

Recently, I had two other saddles I wanted to let go. Because of the generosity of that first TE member, I decided to let them go, also just for the price of shipping, in order to "pay it forward" so to speak.

Ask for what you want and need, and who knows what might come to you!

[surgtech1956]

Ebay, Ebay, Ebay. I just bought a pair of Bike Nashbar Thermal Tights for $18.00(includes shipping) - they are like brand new. Also, REI and Campmor.

[onimity]

yes, cycling is definitely expensive. You have some great advice for finding things on a budget. I just want to reiterate that it's not the bike or the gear that makes you a cyclist. Get the things that will make you safe (and don't be shy about telling other cyclists you know what you are looking for...many of us have purchased things and then upgraded later and still have the old ___ sitting around).

And remember that riding a bike that is not the newest/fastest/greatest is a good way to get in great shape. I commute a little over 20 (hilly) miles RT on a heavy mountain bike. I was painfully slow at first but now pass bikes of all sorts (including some really expensive ones!) even loaded down with groceries/books/etc. I just got a road bike and feel like the hills just melt under me.

Good luck and most importantly have fun!
Anne