I'm getting back in the saddle after about 35 years and feel that my old Mercian needs replacement!
During my twenties, (40+ years ago) I frequently rode about 50 hilly miles a day including in Wales, Scotland and Ireland. Used to live in Cheltenham but moved to Stroud January 2020. Got the bike out of a (dry) back bedroom, did basic repairs so as to extend exercise range during lockdown, discovered I could still ride it and regained a lot of fitness. Found that I still enjoy riding around hilly country lanes. Typically ride for several hours 3 times a week, average about 8mph riding some hills and walking others.
What I want to do
Carry on riding around the area, probably up to 25 miles in an afternoon. Occasionally use for shopping and social journeys. Unlikely to use it for multi-day trips but wouldn’t like to rule out that out. Have never cycle camped and unlikely to start. Not really a “mountain biker” but I do enjoy “sensible” off road riding. I never enjoyed having to carry the bike
What I think I need/want
I'm wondering what my best way forward is?
Thanks!
During my twenties, (40+ years ago) I frequently rode about 50 hilly miles a day including in Wales, Scotland and Ireland. Used to live in Cheltenham but moved to Stroud January 2020. Got the bike out of a (dry) back bedroom, did basic repairs so as to extend exercise range during lockdown, discovered I could still ride it and regained a lot of fitness. Found that I still enjoy riding around hilly country lanes. Typically ride for several hours 3 times a week, average about 8mph riding some hills and walking others.
What I want to do
Carry on riding around the area, probably up to 25 miles in an afternoon. Occasionally use for shopping and social journeys. Unlikely to use it for multi-day trips but wouldn’t like to rule out that out. Have never cycle camped and unlikely to start. Not really a “mountain biker” but I do enjoy “sensible” off road riding. I never enjoyed having to carry the bike
What I think I need/want
- Something that weighs under the 13kg of the Mercian
- Wheels stronger, more comfortable and grippy (especially on rough roads) than my current 27 x 1.25" "high pressures"
- Disk brakes. Current centre-pull brakes are scary down these hills - even when dry.
- Gears. Currently use 2x5 but I still hate double clangers. Wondering about 1x11 25" to 100"?
I'm wondering what my best way forward is?
- Go around local bike shops with a detailed spec. and spend an hour at each ?
- Try for a totally made to measure bike?
- Or buy something standard and get it modified?
Thanks!