I've been road biking for like 3 years and to tell you truth to this day I ride in jeans or whatever I have on. I've gone 50 mile rides in a pair of jeans. I use toe clips not shoes yet because It's not a priority of mine to go out and buy them. Obviously water bottle cages. Two of them are the best idea. Helmets are a great idea because on certain hills you can hit 40. I hit 46 once on a windy day and my bike being super light felt like it was going to get airborne. I actually had to hold on for dear life. Pack a small backpack for long treks. Other than that stuff, the other flashy garb is all a preference. If you want too look like you're riding Le Tour then go out and buy yourself some jerseys and spandex. Make sure you have a thin but comfortable seat, and I wouldn't start trying to make super-sharp Lance Armstrong turns too early or you'll crash bad. Anything else is up to you. Hope this helps.