Bicycles and related parts have risen considerably in price since my cycling days as a youth.  Of course bikes can still be purchased in local department stores for less than $200 but these bicycles are not of the quality needed for extended riding.  A quality bike fitted to the specific rider is the best approach for a cyclist to avoid injury.  For information purposes I'm including a list of startup costs that I've encountered.  I hope that anyone interested in starting a regimen of fitness cycling will find this info useful but don't let this keep you away from the sport.  You can certainly find a bike and equipment to fit any budget.

($1721.48)    Bicycle:  This price covers the full purchase price of the bike with a few accessories.  This price includes custom bike fitting prior to frame order as well as shoe cleat alignment after the bike is assembled.  Maurice at Buchica's decided a cyclo-cross frame will be the best fit for my size.  Visit this cyclo-cross website to learn about the bicycle sport of cyclo-cross.  After you visit this site you'll understand why this frame type was chosen as best fit for my size.  It's strength will put up with me and the bike can grow with me as my cycling skills increase.  I'm told it takes at least two years to become a proficient road cyclist.  I'm hoping my motorcycling skills will overlap and assist me in my manual cycling.

($80)    Jersey (2@$40)

($130)    Shorts (2@$65)

($22)    Gloves

($20)    Socks (2@$10)   

($149)    Helmet (Giro)

($95)    Cycling shoes

($99)    Automotive (2) bike rack

($200)  Prescription cycling sunglasses:    Multi-lens sunglasses are vital for cycling and allow eye protection in all weather possibilities, including night and low-light situations.

($791.92)  Polar Cycle Computer:    This satisfies my inner (and outer) GEEK!  Working in Information Technology gives me a preference for technical solutions.  This solution combines a Polar S725 monitor with a Power Output Sensor to monitor speed, distance, cadence (RPM of pedals), power balance on my left and right leg strokes, heart rate, power output in watts, altitude (to measure climbs), and ambient temperature.  All recorded data can then be downloaded to my PC with an Infrared wireless connection and a history and graphical display of my training and performance can be kept.

($99.99)  Blood Pressure Monitor:    As my fitness improves my doctor said my BP medication may bring my BP lower than it should be.  He'll adjust dose as we determine how my cardiovascular system adjusts to improved fitness.  My readings already show that a reduced dose or possible elimination of medication is possible.

($3408.39) Running Total:    The equipment above is not top of the line nor is it low-end.  It is just about midline quality, enough to last with care and provide the necessary protection.

Getting fitter than I've been in all my life and giving myself the opportunity to remain healthier in the years ahead AND allowing me to honor the memory of Noelle at the Trans-NH Bike Ride...

PRICELESS! (For everything else, there's....(well you know!)