Cycling is a sport where equipment is essential. It can be daunting for a beginning cyclist, particularly if you bury your head in magazines or elitist articles recommending expensive equipment.

As a beginner, you can afford to get good quality equipment that isn't flashy or top of the range but does the job. Follow our checklist to see if you've got everything you need.

The bike

The most important aspect of the bike is that it fits you well. A badly fitting bike can be dangerous.

In terms of price, consider how often you will use the bike to justify your expense. You should never buy a top of the range bike at first, unless you have a lot of spare cash!

In terms of picking the right kind of bike, consult the table below which shows what kind of bikes are available.

 The X means bike is not suitable for purpose.

The best plan for picking a bike is to go to the shop and get the assistant to fit you as well as give you the rundown on the available models. Better bikes are generally lighter with stronger frames but in some cases, anything with a sturdy frame will do.

Clothing and other equipment

• Helmet - a helmet is essential (and law in the UK). The helmet should fit properly - i.e. no slippage or room to move on your head.
• Water bottle - it's important to stay hydrated if you're cycling for any length of time or especially on hot days. Get a cage that can hold your bottle and make sure it's stocked every time you go out to ride.
• Hand pump - needed in case you get a flat tyre or slow puncture whilst out. This will pump the tyre up enough to get you home without ruining the wheel.
• Repair kit - this would include a patch kit, small inner tube, tyre levers and some kind of multitool for cycles.
• Padded gloves - these stop your hands getting blistered, absorb bumps from the handlebars and stop your hands getting too scuffed should you come off the bike.
• Padded seat - saddle pain can be annoying for beginners - it does get easier but a gel-padded seat will help you get through the early "John Wayne" stages.
• Sunglasses - important when riding after work if the sun is low - this could block your vision and be dangerous. Also could stop bugs getting in your eyes when riding fast!
• Shoes & pedals - cycling shoes and pedals help lock your feet in meaning more efficient pedalling. However these can be expensive and aren't essential for beginners. Try before you buy.
• Lights - to see when it's dark - street lights won't be enough.
• High-visibility clothing - for the same reason you need lights. Don't give motorists an excuse to hit you.
• Waterproof clothing - consider this if you're cycling in the rain. Might slow you down though!
  
• Suntan lotion - cycling for long periods of time in bright sunshine can put you at risk of skin cancer. Don't take that risk.