"Zebee Johnstone" wrote:

If you want to get people into cycling, saying "you have to buy all
this specialist **** or you'll get sworn at and called a fool" is
probably not the way to do it.

I think Lotte was having a go at him more for his truly dorky riding
clothes, and self-endangering riding behaviour.

When new motorcyclists ask about riding kit I don't say "Have to get
the right boots" I say "wear something that covers your ankles with
leather - you can buy fancy boots if you want to but it's not
required".

Yep, you don't have to wear 'wannnabe road racer' clothes nor carbon road
shoes. But get some shoes that help your pedalling action, especially if
you're going to be riding any lengthy distance.

Clipless pedals aren't needed to ride a pushbike. Hell, tying your
feet to the bike isn't needed.

Not needed, but if you ride a lot, for longish distances, climb hills or
ride a MTB on forest tracks, they do make your riding an awful lot better.
Your choice, ignore those with experience if you like.

Cheers
Peter