What type of bike
Posted by: Mick P on 15 March 2004
Chaps
I am only a couple of weeks away from retirement and as such will need a mode of transport. I am trying to avoid buying a second car and would like to buy a bike to do relatively short journeys of say up to 5 or 6 miles. Mainly as an aid to returning my body to its previous Greek God proportions.
I will be going to the gym between 8.00am and 10.00am most weekday mornings and a bike would be a good way of getting there.
Swindon has a good cycle path infrstructure and I have no interest in cyling up mountains or mud tracks. It there is no tarmac, I shall not go, so to speak.
So what sort of machine should I be looking at and is it better to buy from a national chain such as Halfords, a local chap or via the net.
Many thanks
Lycra clad Mick
I am only a couple of weeks away from retirement and as such will need a mode of transport. I am trying to avoid buying a second car and would like to buy a bike to do relatively short journeys of say up to 5 or 6 miles. Mainly as an aid to returning my body to its previous Greek God proportions.
I will be going to the gym between 8.00am and 10.00am most weekday mornings and a bike would be a good way of getting there.
Swindon has a good cycle path infrstructure and I have no interest in cyling up mountains or mud tracks. It there is no tarmac, I shall not go, so to speak.
So what sort of machine should I be looking at and is it better to buy from a national chain such as Halfords, a local chap or via the net.
Many thanks
Lycra clad Mick
Posted on: 17 April 2004 by Dan M
Well it has taken me a while to plow through the last 5 pages of posts -- very entertaining. It is surprising just how many of us are bike nuts. So, to respond in a somewhat random fashion to various comments:
My seat is at least an inch higher on all my rides. It's slightly lower on my mtb and 'cross bike which makes for easier running remounts. However, keeping approximately the same relative position on all bikes leads to working the same muscle groups no matter if you're on or off road.
I believe a higher seat position distributes weight more evenly between seat, pedals, and bars. On flat terrain it's better to always be pedaling, so your feet do take a fair amount of your weight all the time. YOu can therefore get away with thin saddles that make most people whince. If you like to pedal-pedal-coast-pedal-pedal-coast, then a big wide armchair-style seat is probably better.
Ludders, IF are sweet rides. I remember when the Excel catalog had them (and Ibis's (?Ibi)) -- much drooling was done. Ah, the Hakalugi in that great green color.
Matthew -- that bike will take a bunny hop no probs, it has carbon seatstays.
Hardtail steel bikes are where it's at -- mine is a Gunnar Rock Hound. A great climber. Tig welded air-hardened Reynolds 853 from the same makers as Waterford bikes. See gunnar site for more picks. I also have their 'cross frame. The Rock Hound retails for only $750. I'd vote this as the Naim of frames -- nothing fancy to look at but it gets the job done.
If I were to get bike number 5, I think it would be the Epic -- I hate bobbing around on climbs, and as far as I know this is the only bike with THE BRAIN. I've done a few mountain bike races at Winter Park and a full suspension rig would have been very nice 2 hours in.
It's sacrilege to put Dura-Ace on a Colnago.
cheers
Dan 4-bike M
My seat is at least an inch higher on all my rides. It's slightly lower on my mtb and 'cross bike which makes for easier running remounts. However, keeping approximately the same relative position on all bikes leads to working the same muscle groups no matter if you're on or off road.
I believe a higher seat position distributes weight more evenly between seat, pedals, and bars. On flat terrain it's better to always be pedaling, so your feet do take a fair amount of your weight all the time. YOu can therefore get away with thin saddles that make most people whince. If you like to pedal-pedal-coast-pedal-pedal-coast, then a big wide armchair-style seat is probably better.
Ludders, IF are sweet rides. I remember when the Excel catalog had them (and Ibis's (?Ibi)) -- much drooling was done. Ah, the Hakalugi in that great green color.
Matthew -- that bike will take a bunny hop no probs, it has carbon seatstays.
Hardtail steel bikes are where it's at -- mine is a Gunnar Rock Hound. A great climber. Tig welded air-hardened Reynolds 853 from the same makers as Waterford bikes. See gunnar site for more picks. I also have their 'cross frame. The Rock Hound retails for only $750. I'd vote this as the Naim of frames -- nothing fancy to look at but it gets the job done.
If I were to get bike number 5, I think it would be the Epic -- I hate bobbing around on climbs, and as far as I know this is the only bike with THE BRAIN. I've done a few mountain bike races at Winter Park and a full suspension rig would have been very nice 2 hours in.
It's sacrilege to put Dura-Ace on a Colnago.
cheers
Dan 4-bike M
Posted on: 17 April 2004 by ErikL
quote:
Originally posted by Dan M:
Ludders, IF are sweet rides. ...Ibis's... Ah, the Hakalugi in that great green color.
Now that Ibis is out of biz my dream rigs are an IF cross and hardtail. Of course you gotta go for the hand cast silver head badges too!
quote:
Hardtail steel bikes are where it's at -- mine is a Gunnar Rock Hound. ...from the same makers as Waterford bikes.
I used to ride a Waterford 1200 road bike (Reynolds 753, Hank James lugs, stainless dropouts, incredible paint, Chorus, Wheelsmith... yes I miss it). The coolest part was talking to Richard Schwinn when I'd call with questions. He's a great, great guy and a real champion of steel. I checked out Gunnar mtb frames, but budget will probably have me on a Rocky Mountain Hammer next go around (still a decent hand-built steel hardtail). I've had a few aluminum hardtails but they just don't deliver the goods for me. Hey- post a pic of your Gunnars! First Brazil, then Waterford/Gunnar, what next?
Posted on: 17 April 2004 by ErikL
Two-Sheds
Either of those bikes seems fine for the riding you describe. Regarding brands, Gary Fisher's now a Trek brand. Think Honda of bikes- great engineering, solid build, and unexciting looks- a safe bet. I think all frames are still made in Wisconsin. Rocky Mountains are hand-built for rugged use, and usually include fancier parts and/or frame materials. IIRC every frame's made in Vancouver, BC, not just the top of the line.
Ride both and see what feels better.
Either of those bikes seems fine for the riding you describe. Regarding brands, Gary Fisher's now a Trek brand. Think Honda of bikes- great engineering, solid build, and unexciting looks- a safe bet. I think all frames are still made in Wisconsin. Rocky Mountains are hand-built for rugged use, and usually include fancier parts and/or frame materials. IIRC every frame's made in Vancouver, BC, not just the top of the line.
Ride both and see what feels better.
Posted on: 18 April 2004 by Dan M
quote:
Originally posted by Ludwig:
First Brazil, then Waterford/Gunnar, what next?
But then there's the thick/thin pizza issue...
Posted on: 18 April 2004 by Steve G
I've been playing around with a helmet mounted "bullet" video camera and here is my first footage, of the Pentlands Black Hill track.
It's just over 5 minutes long and 10Mb in size and shows the sort of riding I'm lucky enough to have access to in the hills behind my house.
It's just over 5 minutes long and 10Mb in size and shows the sort of riding I'm lucky enough to have access to in the hills behind my house.
Posted on: 18 April 2004 by Steve G
quote:
Originally posted by Two-Sheds:
I went to a local shop and they recommended two bikes, the http://www.fisherbikes.com/bikes/bike_detail.asp?bike=Marlin&strAns=533,535,537,541,545,547&sttypeID=dirt&stgender=527 is about $200CAD cheaper than the other bike which I think was the http://www.rocky-mountain.com/bikes/2004/sport/fusion.aspx.
I'm not too sure of the exact rocky mountain model, but I think it was the fusion. Any knowledge of either brands would be useful since the last time I really looked at bikes was 5 to 10 years ago.
They both look reasonable bikes. Both are only 24 speed (which is ok but 27-speed is preferrable), the Marin has better forks (the Judy TT's on the RM bike are pretty crap) but the biggest specification difference is the brakes, with the Marin having decent hydro disc brakes fitted. The RM will probably have a better frame.
Rocky Mountain bikes (in the uk at least) while having excellent frames tend not to be the best value component wise. I'd recommend also looking at bikes like the Specialized Rockhopper. If possibly a Deore level 27-speed drivetrain would be good, as would hydro disc brakes.
Posted on: 18 April 2004 by Two-Sheds
Steve G - The Marlin doesn't have disc brakes, nor does the RM, although the RM has wheels (or hubs I) that can take discs wheras the Marlin doesn't. This doesn't matter to me too much at the moment because I'll need them just yet.
cheers for the specialized option, I'll look around and see if I can find a dealer round here.
cheers for the specialized option, I'll look around and see if I can find a dealer round here.
Posted on: 21 April 2004 by Alex S.
Still no bike Mick?
People who say you don't need a proper bike for a few miles a day miss the point since casual cyclists like me just won't do it unless its enjoyable.
I've recently upgraded to a Specialized Sirrus Comp (I'll change the wheels and the cassette next week). It has a few things which make my 8 mile round trip fun which you might like to think of in your new bike:
A good frame for the money (Yes, equivalent Treks are very good too).
Carbon fibre seat post and carbon fibre front forks - the forks make a big difference on London's crap roads, don't suppose Swindon's are much better.
Shimano 105 rear shifters - I found anything less (like Tiagra) annoying.
A riding position which gives some speed but also stops you getting squashed.
Alex
People who say you don't need a proper bike for a few miles a day miss the point since casual cyclists like me just won't do it unless its enjoyable.
I've recently upgraded to a Specialized Sirrus Comp (I'll change the wheels and the cassette next week). It has a few things which make my 8 mile round trip fun which you might like to think of in your new bike:
A good frame for the money (Yes, equivalent Treks are very good too).
Carbon fibre seat post and carbon fibre front forks - the forks make a big difference on London's crap roads, don't suppose Swindon's are much better.
Shimano 105 rear shifters - I found anything less (like Tiagra) annoying.
A riding position which gives some speed but also stops you getting squashed.
Alex
Posted on: 21 April 2004 by Alex S.
And because I don't have mudguards I'm about to get my ass soaked in Deptford.
Posted on: 26 April 2004 by Rico
On a slightly unrelated topic, Mick I thought you would like to know that you are famous downunder, in a fashionable sort of way.
We were taking a well-earned rest recently, and while bargain spotting at a nearby Kathmandu store saw these:
... which just goes to prove that Mr Parry will be seen as an arbiter of great taste - must be so when the rag trade are naming clothing ranges after him. Just remains to be seen if there will be a chalk-stripe fabric in the line.
Cheers!
Rico - SM/Mullet Audio
We were taking a well-earned rest recently, and while bargain spotting at a nearby Kathmandu store saw these:
... which just goes to prove that Mr Parry will be seen as an arbiter of great taste - must be so when the rag trade are naming clothing ranges after him. Just remains to be seen if there will be a chalk-stripe fabric in the line.
Cheers!
Rico - SM/Mullet Audio
Posted on: 26 April 2004 by Mick P
Rico
Discounting a quality product is never right..it devalues them.
I bet if they were put up for sale at say $200.00, they would go like hotcakes.
I have been ultra busy running around since I retired and have been riding Mrs Micks bike but I intend to order something next week without fail.
Regards
Mick
Discounting a quality product is never right..it devalues them.
I bet if they were put up for sale at say $200.00, they would go like hotcakes.
I have been ultra busy running around since I retired and have been riding Mrs Micks bike but I intend to order something next week without fail.
Regards
Mick
Posted on: 13 May 2004 by Mick P
Just a quick update to let you know that a Pashley was delivered to my door today.
This is it. http://www.pashley.co.uk/products/classic/paramount/specification.html
It is a gorgeous machine and I did a couple of miles without any effort at all. The 5 speed gearbox is a joy to use.
One last question.
I am thinking of riding the bike to the office as a keep fit aid. What sort of clothing is best for bad wather. I would rather not wear any of this tight fitting Lycra.
Regards
Mick
This is it. http://www.pashley.co.uk/products/classic/paramount/specification.html
It is a gorgeous machine and I did a couple of miles without any effort at all. The 5 speed gearbox is a joy to use.
One last question.
I am thinking of riding the bike to the office as a keep fit aid. What sort of clothing is best for bad wather. I would rather not wear any of this tight fitting Lycra.
Regards
Mick
Posted on: 13 May 2004 by Rico
This will keep you dry, Mick.
product link or www.macpac.co.nz
...still, not exactly in keeping with the pashley. OTOH, looking modern and keeping dry and comfortable is likely better than soggy tweed.
Rico - SM/Mullet Audio
product link or www.macpac.co.nz
...still, not exactly in keeping with the pashley. OTOH, looking modern and keeping dry and comfortable is likely better than soggy tweed.
Rico - SM/Mullet Audio
Posted on: 13 May 2004 by matthewr
Surely the only thing to wear when riding that bike is a Harris Tweed sports jacket with matching trousers and a pair of sturdy hobnail boots.
Matthew
Matthew
Posted on: 13 May 2004 by Steve G
quote:
Originally posted by Mick Parry:
Just a quick update to let you know that a Pashley was delivered to my door today.
This is it. http://www.pashley.co.uk/products/classic/paramount/specification.html
Very cool. I'm looking forward to the pictures from the Naim "street" riding festival already.
quote:
One last question.
I am thinking of riding the bike to the office as a keep fit aid. What sort of clothing is best for bad wather. I would rather not wear any of this tight fitting Lycra.
Trust me Mick, we'd also rather you didn't wear any tight fitting lycra either.
More seriously if you visit your local bike shop they should be able to show you overtrousers such as the Enduro Weatherpant which are excellent. Endura and Altura are good makes to check out for jackets and other gear.
Regards
Steve
Posted on: 13 May 2004 by Mick P
Many thanks
Mick
Mick
Posted on: 13 May 2004 by John G.
quote:
Originally posted by Mick Parry:
I am thinking of riding the bike to the office as a keep fit aid. What sort of clothing is best for bad wather.
Regards
Mick
Riding to the office , I thought you retired?
How far will you be riding and what do you consider bad weather?
The bike shop owner where I bought my bike set me up with a set of clothes that has covered me in weather from 30 degrees on up. When it's in the 30's I wear a coolmax long sleeve base layer, a long sleeve zippered layer over that and then a windproof jacket for the outer layer. All these are purpose built for cycling and made by Nike. For my head I have a windproof helmet cover and a skull cap that also covers my ears that can be worn comfortaby under the helmet. For my hands I have windproof full length gloves that can be fitted over my regular riding gloves. For my legs full length lycra pants that can go over lycra riding shorts and if it's really cold fleece pants that can go over that.
I've been riding on 6 to 10 mile rides with this gear since March and have a real good idea of what to wear to maintain a comfortable body temperature when riding. I've managed to keep out of the rain and never ride if it's raining, I'm not that hardcore. IMO having the right kind of clothes is essential if you want to ride most of the year. You want clothes that's designed to wick moisture away from your body.
Posted on: 14 May 2004 by Rockingdoc
What a bunch of wimps you Yanks must be. Over 30 degrees we hard Brits wear nothing but shorts and t-shirts 
Posted on: 14 May 2004 by Rico
Oh, I forgot to mention: Macpac is available in the UK from quality outdoor outfitters, you'll find more detail on their website. Really is top quality, durable, has a fantastic warranty - definitely worth a look. There's a couple of other riding jackets also.
I'll second what John said about layering and wickability - I gave up riding in old cotton t-shirts years ago, not particularly comfortable once the body starts to evacuate moisture from the pores, little use when a wind comes up or you hit a downhill after climbing up the other side, or when you stop. These modern fabrics really do make a difference to ones riding comfort, although generally not found in Saville Row.
Visibility to boot - tweed is more like an old-worlde version of desert storm camoflage.
Did I mention a decent helmet? Gotta protect those brains Mick, I suggest you get a decent brain bucket to keep you safe in the event of an offage.
Rico - SM/Mullet Audio
I'll second what John said about layering and wickability - I gave up riding in old cotton t-shirts years ago, not particularly comfortable once the body starts to evacuate moisture from the pores, little use when a wind comes up or you hit a downhill after climbing up the other side, or when you stop. These modern fabrics really do make a difference to ones riding comfort, although generally not found in Saville Row.
Visibility to boot - tweed is more like an old-worlde version of desert storm camoflage.
Did I mention a decent helmet? Gotta protect those brains Mick, I suggest you get a decent brain bucket to keep you safe in the event of an offage.
Rico - SM/Mullet Audio
Posted on: 15 May 2004 by Alex S.
Isn't a decent helmet overkill?