I want to start biking...where do i start?

A walking/biking/hiking trail has recently been finished close to my house and i want to start biking. There are easy, med, and experienced sections of each trail so i thought it would be a good place to start. i don't know a thing about bikes though and i'm the kind of person who would probably walk into a bike shop and tell them this info and end up buying the most expensive products just because it was recommended. So i want some info before i start shopping. What kind of bike do i need or would you recomend? What accesories are essential to someone who bikes?

Best thing you can do is locate a local bike shop where you walk in and you feel comfortable. Not like an outsider or fresh meat. Be wary but no need to be overly intimidated. You don't have to buy anything!

Choose one that will let you test ride and go for it. Also choose a shop that offers bike service, because...

You don't have to buy your bike there -- you could get an idea of style or type and then look for a good used one. Remember you are a potential service customer later so even if they don't sell you a bike --- you could be back if they treat you right.

My local bike shop - I probably wouldn't buy a bike from them... too expensive... but their service is unbeatable and easy so I'm a regular. Oh I bought some gloves once I guess... and bike parts... anyway...

Please avoid the department stores... you'll likely end up with a "toolshed bike" -- one you buy, ride for a little while and then it falls apart and takes up space in your toolshed.

This is the start of a new adventure for you so you deserve to be pampered in person and treated with respect. So get out there and try them out!!!

On the side: I think you would fall in love with any entry level Trek bike and they make a whole series of rugged multi-purpose bikes - some are designed specifically for ladies. Check out their website!

1. bike appropriate for type of riding you'll be doing
2. helmet
3. cycling shorts
4. water bottles & cages or camelbak

those are the essentials.

5. gloves
6. cycling jersey
7. sunglasses (prefferably with multiple lenses for various light conditions), actually essential..
8. clipless pedals/cycling shoes
9. maintenance kit - pump or C02 inflator, multi tool, spare tubes
10. light kit
11. computer
12. energy gels, snacks, water, gatorade, etc.

as to the bike get something you are comfy with thats lightweight and stable... are you riding on pavement or off road?? just tell the guy what you want to do and how much you want to spend.as to equipment..a helmet...we don't need scrambled brains do we???....a camel pack if your doing long rides...need water.....start off easy you can always upgrade to better bike and things as you go...JUST NOT YOUR HELMET..get the best you can.

Personally, I have a bike I got from a garage sale.
You can get super cheap bikes there. Otherwise, just check out stores and get a bike. Since it sounds like your no BMX pro, just get a fairly simple bike. 10 gears are good, water bottle holders are nice.
as far as essentials, helmets are good esp. if your worried about crashing
other than that, just water and workout clothes

Good Luck :D

Is the trail paved or unpaved? Will that be the only place you ride? Many people buy commuter or hybrid bikes that fall somewhere between a pure road or mountain bike.

Do you plan to ride slowly up and down the path forever without advancing your skill or fitness level? If you imagine you'd like to move forward then I'd avoid hybrids and go for a road or MTB depending on the type of riding you want to do.

The previously posted list of things you need was pretty thorough. Go to your local bike shop and tell them what you want. If they steer to you a bike that's beyond what you want to spend, go to a different shop. Most places will treat you right but do some shopping online and get an idea of what you want to spend first. I recommend NOT buying a bike online. Your local shop offers fitting and many other services that can't be found at a website.