These are the mandatory rules around your bike and equipment :

1. No tri bars
2. No paniers
3. Front and back blinkey lights required.  If you are uncomfortable riding in dark-ish light... put a brighter commuter light on the front of your bike.
4. In good mechanical condition
   1. Brake pads in good condition
   2. Tires relatively new and inflated to the right pressure
   3. Drive train working well with no gear skipping or chain problems
   4. Head set tight
   5. Skewers set properly - back one pointed forward or between chain and seat stays, front one facint up along fork or back.
5. Fenders are also a MANDATORY piece of equipment.  If you don't understand this, it will be explained to you on the first wet ride where you don't have any!!!
   1. Fenders must have flaps that extend WELL past the level of the wheel axle. Review the article below.
   2. Ensure your fenders are fitted for your bike and you have put them on successfully a few times so you aren't using someone elses valuable time for your fenders!
   3. Recommended fenders are (available at South Shore Cycle) SKS RACEBLADE or SKS RACEBLADE XL with these type of mounts (not the ones that use the skewer for support):

...and of course, THROW OUT the factory extensions and install some proper length ones per the article below!

Fenders: the Good, the Bad, and the Totally Awesome

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