Advice for new riders

Here are some pointers for new riders, in totally random order.  Always feel free to ask if you have any questions.

• Hand signals - we will show you.  Here is a nice video if you want to get a head start.
• Headphones - it's your call on what you want to wear.  I argue that situational awareness is more important that your favorite tunes at full volume.  The compromise that I follow is listening to podcasts with a bud only in the right ear when things are quiet, nothing when near traffic.
• Breakfast - I know, its really early when you head out to the ride start.  But try to get some food in you.  A mix of carbs and fats.  Suggestions: bagels with nutella and banana.  A smoothie with protein powder + toast and jam.  Bowl of cereal with fruit.
• Hydration - Make sure you carry at least 2 bottles for any rides greater than about 30 miles.  Drink often, even if you are not thirsty.  If you are thirsty, it is too late.
• Food - Pack some food too - something you will eat, something easy. Power bars, fig newtons, et...  It's never fun to "bonk" or to deplete your glycogen stores. It will manifests itself by sudden fatigue and loss of energy.  Don't think you can ride another foot?  Try eating some food and drinking water and resting for a bit.  You will feel better.  And same with drinking, if you are hungry, it is too late.  Eat a little bit often.
• Tires/tubes/pump - make sure you pack at least a spare tube and perhaps a way to inflate it.  Other riders will be carrying spares too, but make sure you have the size that matches your bike.
• Sunscreen - You all like skin right?  Wear sunblock. Make sure to slather on in the morning, and bring a small tube to reapply as things get hot.  Don't for the love of Pete put sunblock on your forehead.
• Know where you are going - I'll send out details of the ride the week before we ride.  Please familiarize yourself just so you can keep yourself for getting totally lost.
• Bring some cash/credit card -  just for emergencies, also a way to fill up the bottles on long rides.  Good if you bonk.
• Charge your phone - self explanatory - important in an emergency
• Bike tights/chamois/chamois butter - ever wonder why long distance cyclists always seem to be sporting padded tights?  Well, it is for the preservation of your keister.  Trust me, if you are uncomfortable after a ride, this is the best thing you can get to increase your post ride feeling.
• Clips?  Cages?  Flats?   Well, clips will make you a more efficient rider.  But plan on some low speed crashes until it becomes second nature.  In the long run, you will be happy!
• Helmets - absolutely necessary.  All helmets offer the same level of basic protection.  A more expensive the helmet might be more comfortable, cooler, maybe some additional safety features, but any helmet will give you the same baseline safety.
• Know your limits - only ride in the fashion you are comfortable doing.  This is especially true going down hill!  Go as slow as you need to go to keep yourself safe.
• Bike selection - The point of the Bike MS is to get out on a bike and ride.  You will see all kinds at the ride, from mountain bikes, to cruisers, to even a unicycle.  As long as what you are riding has wheels and pedals, you will be okay.  Some bikes are better for long distance riding (that super heavy mountain bike with knobby tires might not be able to go all 100 miles on Saturday), but remember there are many different lengths to chose from.
• Biking clothes - biking jerseys are very practical choices.  All are made of wicking breathable fabric with sun protection.  Most have pockets at the back for stashing phones, food, etc.

Any other suggestions?