[beariebird]

I just impulsively bought a used bike... It's a Univega Supra Sport and it seems stable and sturdy and happy
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/princetonmagic/bikes/Univega_big.jpg
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/princetonmagic/bikes/Univega_front.jpg
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/princetonmagic/bikes/Univega_rear.jpg
This is my first bike after my 7-speed bright pink Huffy. First things first, I'm a little confused about the gears... I've ridden bicycles where the gear shift is done on the handle by your thumbs, but this bike seems to have little levers on the frame below the handlebars.
What kind of stuff should I buy? Oil? A more comfortable seat? Biking gloves? Handlebar foam? Like most other people posting to this forum, I'm a little lost...

Thanks everyone!

 

[beariebird]

WOW that shows what a newb I am... I just realized this is a mountain biking forum, and I bought a tour bike. Sorry everyone!!!

 

[LordOpie]

Touring bike might very well be the best overall bike. They're typically more durable than road bikes, more suited for long distance riding than mt.bikes.

Plus, with the longer chain stays, you can put luggage/panniers/racks on them with less chance of hitting your heel on the bags.

The shift levers are still popular with some people, so no big thing.

Gloves are a good idea as they'll help keep you comfortable and if you go down, you'll put your palm on the ground, so added protection is a good idea.

Keeping your drive train clean and lubed is a good idea.

Shorts+saddle will make your bum happy, but there is no strict guideline on it. Some like more padding, some like less, you'll have to experiment.

A touring bike is close to a roadbike, so post up in the road bike forum too