How should I get started

Apart from the bicycle itself no other specialist equipment is really needed. However, there are a few things that you may want to consider that will make your cycling so much more enjoyable, and a couple of things that you shouldn’t leave home without:

• Helmet

There are lots of different models around at varying prices. Best advice is to go for a respected brand and buy the cheapest one that fits properly and looks good. The latter may seem a little vain, but if you're happy with the way you look in your helmet, you're more likely to wear it! Hang it on your handlebars when you're bike's at rest - then you're less likely to 'just pop out' without it.

You'll find a whole heap of statistics on either side of the helmet argument. But, like them or loathe them, if you're going to go to ground, you'll be wanting some protection between your skull and the tarmac.

• Pump

Sounds a bit obvious this, but a good pump that actually pumps tyres up hard with relative ease is the one to go for! Spending a bit extra on a good pump will save you money in the long run as it will be more reliable and last longer!

Most tyres have the recommended pressure on them, try getting a pump with a pressure guage so you can inflate it correctly as this will save you from countless numbers of punctures!

• Spare Tube and Repair Kit

Plus the skills to know how to use it. There are two main valve types these days, Presta (the skinny one) and Shraeder (the car type). Make sure you get the right valve type to fit your rims and/or pump. When you're out on the move it is easier to put a new inner tube in than try to find a tiny hole and patch it up with a repair kit. So, you'll need tyre leavers, a pump and tube as a minumum.

• A Multitool

A basic penknife style multitool will sit innocently in your bike bag until called upon, at which point you'll be forever in it's debt. If your handlebars come loose at the top of a descent half way around a trail, what are you going to do? At a minimum it should have: 2 - 6mm Allen keys (8mm is nice too) plus a flat blade and Phillips screwdriver. That will cover 90 percent of the fasteners on your bike and probably all the parts of the bike that a non- mechanic is likely to tackle.

• Cycle Training

Cycle training can help you develop your skills and confidence so that you can cycle whenever you want or wherever you want to safely. To find out more about local cycle training opportunities read on.....

Nice if you can get it:

• Waterproof and breathable cycling jacket

A jacket that is cut for cycling, keeps the elements at bay and lets the sweat out is at the top of the wish list for all year round use in the UK. A cycling specific cut means short at the front and long and the back, to prevent bunch and keep the kidneys warm. However a lot of shorter general outdoor jackets will have this cut too if you don't like the 'I'm a cyclist' look.

• A Wicking base layer

A non cotton t-shirt or base layer under your riding jacket is a great investment. Avoid cotton shirts and t-shirts and banish clamminess forever.

• Warm, thin, grippy gloves

Gloves make cycling so much more comfortable from around November through to March. Again, cycling specific isn't essential but a good cut with grippy palms, allowing you to operate the brakes and gears and hang on tight is pretty important.

To get more cycling tips then log on to British Cycling's Everyday Cycling site.