aspiringcyclist wrote:One more thing, when buying a bike can you exchange a saddle for a more comfortable one for you before buying? Or do you have to pay for the bike with the existing saddle and then buy a new saddle?
Assuming you're buying new – yes you can, and if it's done at the point of sale you might get a discount . I bought through the bike to work scheme a few years ago and, on my request, the shop very kindly swapped the saddle for a Brooks, the tyres for Marathon Plus and the quick release skewers for security skewers (requiring a specific key) for the wheels. These were all at additional cost, but they gave me a discount on the tyres.
Regarding lights – there are also USB rechargeable ones that can plug into your laptop during the day. This is the one I have, although I don't use tow tow paths/unlit roads at night. If I were, I'd be inclined to invest in a more suitable front light.
http://www.rutlandcycling.com/153500/pr ... light.aspx
Vorpal wrote:If your seat post has a quick release, replace it with a bolt that requires tools, or take the saddle with you and put it in a locker, or something. Same with any detachable lights or other equipment.
+1. I always take a quick release seat post with me if I'm in central London for the day - there's generally somewhere to store it, and I can be sure of a comfortable ride home