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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
Josh Patterson

A beginner’s bike commuting gear guide: what to buy (and skip) before your first ride

Aveton Level 3 Step-Through e-bike
A helmet, bike lights and a bike lock are three essentials for beginners. Photograph: Courtesy of Aveton

Gas prices are rising to the highest levels in four years, and drivers are feeling the pinch. The good news: summer is almost here, and if you have a bike stashed in the corner of your garage or apartment, it’s the perfect time to rediscover the zero-emissions vehicle you forgot you owned.

You don’t need a form-fitting cycling outfit or a brand-new commuter bike to begin replacing car trips with bike rides. Investing in a few key items (like a bike lock and light) and repurposing a few more can make the difference between a frustrating experiment and an addictive new habit that adds regular, low-effort exercise to your day, saves you money and shrinks your carbon footprint.

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