You don’t need tons of expensive gear to start cycling – here are the essentials to keep you safe and comfortable Wesley Doyle, editor of BikesEtc magazine, shares his tips on the minimum investment you’ll need when you start cycling – with a few suggestions for extra comfort. Don’t go without… A HELMET Strangely, not a legal requirement – but I wouldn’t be without one. Top buyGiro Indicator bike helmet, £34.99, HalfordsLIGHTS An essential, especially as the clocks change and nights draw in earlier than you expect. Top buySigma Sport light set, £22, www.sustrans.org.uk/shopHI-VIZ GILET/SASH Be safe, be seen. Wear something bright and reflective, day or night. Top buyYellow reflective waistcoat, £6.99, ww.sustrans.org.uk/shopLOCK More than 1,200 bikes are stolen in the UK every day, so your lock needs to be robust. Don’t be cheap – you should be spending at least 10% of your bike’s value on security! Top buyHiplok Original (V1.50) Wearable Bicycle Chain Lock, around £56, Wiggle Extras that make life easier… MUDGUARDS Not all bikes have them as standard and you don’t want to arrive at work splattered in road muck. Top buyAss Savers Rear Mudguard, £6.49, EvansBAG Go for a snug-fitting backpack, messenger bag or on-bike panier that won’t swing around and unbalance you as you ride. Top buy Deuter Speedlite 10L Backpack, £31.99, EvansRAINPROOF JACKET Choose one that packs away small so you can carry it everywhere and be prepared for changeable UK weather. Top buyCastelli Squadra Long Water Resistant Jacket, £40, WiggleGLASSES Handy to keep the rain, dust or bugs out of your eyes. Top buyUltralight Sunglasses, £14.99, WiggleNeed help choosing a bike? READour tipsPRICES CORRECT AT TIME OF PUBLISHING
