Another newb!

[CyborgQueen]

Essentials - Helmet is number one. A jersey and a padded short. It will feel weird and you will be sore if you're not used to being in a different position. I'm a newbie myself, so I'm going through the same thing.

First thing you want to do is to switch out the saddle....seriously. Almost everyone switch out the stock saddle. Men saddles HURT like you wouldn't believe (at least it was for my case, and I only rode it for ONE day...sore for 4 days..jeez!). Some bike shops are generous, they will "buy" the stock saddle, and give a discount on the new saddle. That's how I saved $50 on my Terry Butterfly Ti.

Some bike shops give free water bottle/cages when you buy a bike from them. I got free bottle cage, and free water bottle (from a group that I joined). So be sure to check out the bike shops extra deals when you buy a bike from them.

As for tires - you'll get used to them. If you want to invest, you can ask about switching out the tires to more durable tires. There's many different types of tires out there, and some of the "thin" tires do have the ability to go over rural roads. Explain this to the LBS that you want a good "all around" tires...they will be more familiar with different types of tires for your area. I live in Las Vegas, so it's VERY hot, and one of the first questions I asked was if I should be worried about my tires and hot hot asphalt. They said no, but I probably need to pump my tires every ride or every other ride.

Gloves, computers, Camelbak, or any gizmos can come later..Christmas is coming up...so ask for those things...plus they tend to be cheaper during the fall.

If you haven't, you should also look into other brand bikes, shop at different LBS and see what they recommend. I went to 4 different shops until I felt really comfortable with having the Pro Fit done and the right bike.

Good luck!! :-)

[CyborgQueen]

Oh yeah,

Anything extra - buy them off eBay...they're seriously good prices. I got a good saddle bag with lights for 6 bucks. I got a couple jerseys for $70 total while it's 70 for just one in the store. Pumps, computers, lights...they have it through eBay. I rather buy stuff like that for cheap...makes me feel better for spending a good chunk of money for my bike!