Is choice a good thing ?

[SlowJoe]

Way to go slow Joe

Thanks all for taking the time and very informative it is too. I don't think I'm quite ready for the race bike route . I think a good hybrid is the way to go , there seems to be some reassurance about aluminuim. Of course there is no reason that in the future I can have two bikes. A hard tail MTB seems a reasonable bet. And i do like this style of bike

Overall I think that a hybrid is the way to go , it provides options, from what has been said a good one will handle the rougher bits of the canal and will be reasonable on the tarmac. I understand canal person who replied , it;s not all about speed but enjoying the ride .

Thanks for giving me some brands to look at all also as this does narrow things down somewhat. Usually instinct takes over and i'm sure I'll get the feel when on the right bike.

just to add to your worries , tires ? kevlar worth the effort ?

 

[SlowJoe]

Bottoms up

Mr oates , check out comfortsaddle .com or spider flex , both especially good for us blokes if you know what I mean !

 

[jonny jeez]

just to add to your worries , tires ? kevlar worth the effort ?

I have a set of Spesh "armadillo" (the ones with the neat red piping along the tyre wall.

cost around £25 each but do seem to hold up really well. I cycle around 100-120 miles a week and in 9 weeks have only picked up one puncture!

I notice othere picking them up far more frequently.

Not sure Kevlar will help any more tho.

of course if you really dont want the hassle of a flat you can look at solid tyres...one or two of the guys here can offer opinions on those.

Remember, sorry to repeat...choose your frame well...cheap bikes with good components WILL have a crap frame...components come off and upgrade really easily...the frame is the skeleton of the bike...try changing your own skeleton when you realise its not up to the job, very messy and not very practical..just ask wolverine!

 

[Brain_biter]

Personally I would recommend the Raleigh Royal if you want something with ram bars or a Trek Soho. The Raleigh comes with everything you can want in a commuter but the Trek has hub gearing, hub brakes and a belt drive so no oil required it is a totally weather proof and almost maintenance free design. Although you will need to buy a rack if you want one.

I have used a Raleigh royal for about 3 years now and it is still going strong but I am switching to the Trek as my new commute is over 20 miles, 18 of which are on an old railway line. Also the Raleigh paint seems to be prone to chipping at the slightest impact, like leaning it against a lamp post. I purchased the Trek through the Cycle to Work scheme which I am sure you know knocks a huge amount of the cost.

As for tyres you can't go wrong with a pair of Schwable Marathon Plus's, I use the 32's but there is a 38 if you want the extra cushion or a 25 if you want a skinnier option.

 

[SlowJoe]

Hello Everyone,
Just to update you on the humdrum world of bike choice . I have taken all the view points in mind and I think I'm going to plump for a Specilized crosstrail comp (test ride booked. It seems to offer all I want , decent components and handle a bit of roughstuff.

Have recently graduated to a bit of road riding and now appreciate some of the posts on here more now !!! It was however enjoyable (I don't RLJ lol. ) Like many things in life it's the attitude that counts , I give respect to other road user and expect the same in return also I've found that the thrill of riding , like a good downhill pelt can make you act unsafe , best saved for the track or events etc .

I think we have to face the fact that the road is dangerous and it's up to us to be alert , keep ourselves safe and make others (PEDS) are safe also .

Incidentally does anyone know of cycle lobby groups ? Together we are strong , up the revolution