A good helmet is a must - I know it's 'only' riding on a road, but from experience when you hit the tarmac at speed (down hill) it can be pretty nasty, I've done more damage on a road bike than I ever have riding off road - broken teeth, lots of stitches/road rash etc... without a helmet it could all be so much worse!
Lycra feels stupid at first but it makes a big difference, DHB Earnley shorts & jerseys are pretty good and not to pricey - alternatively you can buy padded under shorts to wear under baggys.
You will get addicted to it eventually!