5-6 mile commute what bike + lots of questions.

[Robson3022]

Hi,


I know I know newbie asking the same question but that's all part of the fun!

Vital Stats

6ft
14.5 stone

Commute can be all road with lots of inclines or dirt track with one big incline (as in 2 miles worth) is that even regarded big???

Currently using a MTB but would love a road bike.

I've done it 3 times and takes about 40 mins I'm not particually tired at either end as the last 3 miles is pretty much all down hill. Does this seem reasonable. Id like to think I'm quite fit I play football 3 times a week and run lots around that.

Do we think road bike or hybrid?
What kit do I really need to be buying first . I've got some padded shorts and gloves but that's it?

 

[wheres_my_beard]

You could try some slick or semi slick tyres on your bike to start with that'll be a cheap way to get a lot more out of it.

Saying that I think you should follow your heart and go to your local bike shop and try out some lovely shiny road bikes and see how you get on. Don't take a half measure with a nasty ol' hybrid!!

 

[vickster]

Budget? If wanting a roadbike, i.e. drops, and riding on road and rough stuff, a Cyclocross bike is a good option, starting around £600. Edinburgh Bike Company do a reasonable one

Kit wise, lights, possibly mudguards and pannier racks, helmet (if you want to wear one), a waterproof jacket, a windproof jersey...the list is pretty endless really!

 

[annaspanna]

I do a 7 mile commute and bought a hybrid for that (while since id cycled regularly).. Wasn't long before I got roady-envy tho and now I've got one I'm riding it as much as I can before the bad weather comes :-D if you only need to carry that days work clothes (which you can take in a back pack) then jump for the roady!

 

[Robson3022]

Sorry meant to put my budget was thinking £800-£1000 for the bike but is it really needed?

Got a bit of a dreamy image of me flying in a road bike


Links to anything suitable would be greatly aprieciated.

 

[Robson3022]

This is my other issue. I'll have to bike in the bad weather too so will a road bike be abut much for this?

 

[annaspanna]

Have you got a decent local bike shop you can go to? I've just got a Cube Axial for £900 and I love it. Everyone has their own personal favourites tho so worth going in to the shop and sitting, looking, chatting with the guys in their.

 

[annaspanna]

This is my other issue. I'll have to bike in the bad weather too so will a road bike be abut much for this?

not sure.. My hybrids got slightly wider tyres and bikes a bit more 'there' under me.. Determined to keep cycling thro winter so will prob swap and change

 

[Robson3022]

I'm based in Seaham in Co. Durham there's a few bike shops about but not sure if there any good?

 

[vickster]

If you want a road oriented bike for all weathers - Ribble Winter bike - online only but

You can also put slick tyres on a CX for the summer, and something more rugged for the winter, plus the guards and rack

 

[Lee-p]

Have a look in Strawberry cycles in peterlee.....Trek main dealer and nice lads as well

 

[Robwiz]

If you want a road oriented bike for all weathers - Ribble Winter bike - online only but

You can also put slick tyres on a CX for the summer, and something more rugged for the winter, plus the guards and rack

I agree that Ribble's winter trainer is an excellent option. But buying online and making component/sizing choices can be a can of worms. For a first road bike it's probably safer to use a good LBS to ensure fit/set up is good.

 

[Sittingduck]

Keep your MTB if you fancy the dirt road option but go with your heart and get a road bike! See what they have at your LBS and when you see it you will know Budget sounds decent and buy the best you can afford... go for the one with the best frame (Giants are good, as are Cannondale).