My first post! I've been stalking the forums and reading lots of great info, but I finally got up the nerve So here goes...

I can understand biking on a budget.
I like performancebike.com because they have a lot of really good sales. The performance bike brand itself is usually not too expensive, and they have some good fits that aren't too form-fitting (it that's what you're concerned about).

Food! What I love is multigrain flat bread (or pita - your choice) with some PB&J. I cut the pita into a semicircle first so I can make 2 (it's easier to eat if it's a smaller package) and wrap each one in foil.

I hope you found an accessible place for your food. If you're really strapped for $$, maybe you could make your own musette bag with some old cloth.