I need advice!

[beth236]

Hi folks,
I'm loving cycling around the Somerset lanes, and want to replace a pretty basic Ridgeback with something better. I have a budget of around £800. I have hypermobilty syndrome, which means my joints are unstable and get easily damaged, so comfort matters. Also the facility to change position easily would be good. I rarely go off road, but its hilly enough round here to need a good gear range. I'm typically doing three 10-15 mile rides each week, but want to keep increasing that. Any thoughts? All contributions would be very welcome! Thanks

 

[vickster]

Have a look at a cyclocross, rugged with the advantage of drops

The important thing will be making sure it fits you properly

Something like this, it's over budget, but spend £32 on British cycling ride membership, you'll get 10% off

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/..._productId_991994_langId_-1_categoryId_165710

Apex typically comes with an 11-32 cassette which I was told is good for hills. Personally I'm a sram fan, nice shaped hoods for smaller female hands

 

[Cycleops]

Well, you can't get anything that is more comfortable than a tourer! The Ridgeback Voyage is dead on your budget. Relaxed angles on the frame means a bike which is built for comfort not speed, plus you get a wide spread of gears. Wider more comfortable tyres as well and you get mudguards which you don't get on a cyclocross. You also get a rack so you can carry some stuff if you need it. The Dawes Galaxy is probably the best known tourer and comes in a variety of configurations and prices, there is even someone on here who is selling one for £600, 48cm size. Check it out.
http://www.cyclechat.net/threads/dawes-galaxy-2012-model-48cm.154483/
Whatever you choose good luck but I think what I have suggested would suit your needs very well.

 

[beth236]

Thanks both...lots of helpful information. Now to hit the bike shops and start test riding...

 

[Cycleops]

Be aware there aren't too many places that do test rides, not even Halfords. If someone knows of places that do please let beth236 know. Problem is they might not be near where you live.

 

[vickster]

Evans do, need photo ID and a debit/credit card. They are pretty much all over now