Gear, Revisited

After a couple of rider questions, I'm wondering how thoroughly people on my Bike & Build trip are worrying about gear. Though we can sit here and debate the best things to get for years on end, the fact of the matter is, you can't ride unless you have a few very important items, besides your bike. Here's a Top 10 list.

1. Three pairs of comfortable cycling shorts.
2. Bicycling shoes and socks.
3. Bicycling gloves.
4. A 70-75 liter (4500 cu in) bag to hold all of your crap.
5. Protection: helmet, sunscreen, glasses, gloves.
6. Cold and weather riding gear: arm warmers, gloves, cycling cap, long base layer, rain jacket.
7. Toiletries, since clean is happy.
8. Water bottles, hydration pack.
9. Tools to fix your bike on the road: patches, tire levers, hex keys, portable pump.
10. Things to sleep on: sleeping bag, sleeping pad (provided).

It looks like a lot, but it's not that bad! The minimalist in me says that this is about enough to get you on the road. Just go for the best price, whether you ask a local shop for a discount, or go with an official sponsor deal.