As some of you may know I signed up with Team in Training to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma society as well as train for an endurance race. I am going to be doing the 100 mile ride around Lake Tahoe in June. I have a bike that I bought slightly used this past August. It is a 2009 Scott Speedster S30(see link).
http://www.bikesale.com/2009-scott-speedster-s30.aspx I am looking to get some gear and upgrade some things since the bike is 100% stock other than I have a set of clipin pedals that I added from my mountain bike. The tires are race tires I think and have no tread design. Since I am a beginner and in the NW I thought I should get some new tire. I think I have decided on the Continental Gatorskin folding tires. Are these ok or is there something else I should look for that is a better value? I would say durability is my main concern.
I also need to get some riding shoes as my buddy just had an old pair that he let me use and I don't think they fit all that great. Should I be sticking with straight road bike shoes or am I fine getting mountain bike shoes? Some of the other people with my team said it doesn't matter too much and the mountain bike shoes are easier to walk in but what are your thoughts? Whatever shoe I get I don't need it to be some ridiculously expensive shoe. I would like to keep it as something that is going to be comfortable but a good value. Are these style clipins fine or should I go with a different style pedal and cleat?
http://www.biketiresdirect.com/pshm54/shimano_pd-m540_spd_clipless_pedals/pp.htm