Newbie help

[Banjo101]

Hi guys,

I'm a newbie, so please be kind.

Basically I'm a woefully unfit 36 year old who has given up smoking after 20 years, with the lung capacity of a gnat, and am looking at buying a bike.

Basically, I need a road bike. I live in Wales and there are hills everywhere. Honestly I know nothing about bikes, and haven't used one since I was thirteen years old. I'd like to spend less than £500 if possible, but could stretch to £1000 if necessary. I work around five miles away (very hilly drive), and would rather not keel over while my lungs are starting to recover. I was hoping for some recommendations.

Thanks in advance.


Banjo

 

[welsh dragon]

Hi. Welcome to, the forum. Hope you enjoy it. Where abouts in Wales do you live?

sorry i can't help regarding a bike, but someone will be along soon who can point you in the direction.

 

[smokeysmoo]

Banjo, and a massiveon kicking the evil weed

Have a look at the Triban bikes at DECATHLON, they are well regarded*, inexpensive and as they have a triple chainset they're well suited to your local terrain


*the wheels are known to be a potential weak spot, but with some easy preventative maintenance they can last well, and manufacturers always scrimp on wheels anyway, so no surprise there.

 

[Simmer]

Well done giving up the smoking, your lung capacity will improve over time and it does get easier !

 

[Easytigers]

Banjo, and a massiveon kicking the evil weed

Have a look at the Triban bikes at DECATHLON, they are well regarded*, inexpensive and as they have a triple chainset they're well suited to your local terrain


*the wheels are known to be a potential weak spot, but with some easy preventative maintenance they can last well, and manufacturers always scrimp on wheels anyway, so no surprise there.

Got to agree with this...I have a Triban 3 (red) and it's fantastic. There's also the backup that if you don't get on with a road bike, you've not spent that much and will get most of your money back!

 

[SteCenturion]

Hiya Banjo.

For that budget pal - I would try & hit the 'middle ground' if you like & spend £650 to £750 depending on your circumstances.

For this money you will likely find/bag yourself a very nice 2013 bike from a top brand such as Giant or Cube - maybe Specialized or Trek too (but they are a bit mean on the spec for the money).

A 2013 Cube Peloton or even better a Peloton Race or a Giant Defy 2 or better still Defy 1 would make a great 1st 'new roadbike'.

For this kinda money you can expect Shimano Tiagra or (better - 105) & very decent wheels (but not the lightest/stiffest/quickest) but then you won't need to upgrade them until you are the lightest/quickest you have been either.

I wouldn't rule out a Boardman model from Halfords either - especially an on sale/2013 one, but wouldn't bother with Carrera - although their MTB's are o.k.

 

[vickster]

How tall are you? This is a very good deal if 6ft+ (Or maybe a bit more)

http://www.probikekit.co.uk/bikes/forme-longcliffe-3-bike/10818022.html