So new it's scary.

[Tolkienapostle]

Decided to do something to get back in shape. You know, riding a bike made me happy when I was 3 and it makes me happy watching riders now so I'm jumping in the road bike world. I'm completely clueless as to how to start, heading to a bike shop tomorrow to ask some questions. Any insight on bike brands or models that would be good for a beginner but can grow with me? Willing to invest but not spend a ton.

 

[Tolkienapostle]

I'm sure there is more information that can help but I don't know what it give you guys so ask me some questions if it can help you answer.

 

[Fab Foodie]

I think it helps to have an idea what you want the bike for?

Commuting?
Fitness?
Going to the shops?
Roads only, Roads/Trails/Towpaths?
Mudguards or not?
Rack or not?
Terrain - flat/hilly?
etc, etc .....

There are a lot of good brands. See what the shop says and report back!

 

[jay clock]

Don't be persuaded to buy a "cheap" bike. You want to enjoy it, and any brand new bike under the £250 mark will probably not get much use. If a road bike (i.e. drop handle bar racer) then probably £450+. Just my experience of seeing what happens when people buy cheap.

Go to the shop DO NOT BUY and report back here for further instructions, oops I mean to say what they suggested!

Jay

 

[junglegusset]

Find a good local bike shop and ask them for advice, don't go to Halfords. Some branches might give you reasonable advice but they are very hit and miss.. .. mainly miss. If you give the forum an idea of where you are geographically people might be able to direct you to good shops nearby.

 

[Tolkienapostle]

Using it for fitness and pleasure. Need some thing to help unwind after a day of practicing psychotherapy. Initially I just thought roads, not to many paths here. No racks, and I have a diverse selection terrain available and I plan on
using all of it.

May want to do races in the future

I'm actually in the US, Las Vegas to be exact, and allot our shops are small family owned places. Not sure if that matters.

 

[Saluki]

What sort of budget for bike and associated kit do you have? It all helps with the advice.

As for enjoying riding a bike when you were 3, you might remember being able to whiz up huge hills when you were 3 but you will find it tougher as an adult. I found this out almost immediately when I got half way up my first slight rise (for 10 years) and had to stop for a good wheeze and a sit down.

Where are you based, there might be some locals on here who can point you at the best LBS for your needs.

 

[BigonaBianchi]

Get the right size frame
Get the right length Stem

 

[avalon]

Go to the shop DO NOT BUY and report back here for further instructions, oops I mean to say what they suggested!

Jay

All the conflicting advice you will get here should put you off cycling for life. I suggest you take up running instead.

 

[classic33]

All the conflicting advice you will get here should put you off cycling for life. I suggest you take up running instead.

Can do your knees in, can running!

 

[avalon]

Canoeing?

 

[ScotiaLass]

I can't really advise re your new purchase, but wanted to say that getting back to cycling is the best thing I've done!
I am happier, getting fitter and losing weight but most of all, I enjoy every minute I'm out there!

 

[jazzkat]

Bike fit is the most important thing. If it fits you properly then it'll be more comfortable in the long run and you'll ride more with less chance of injury.
I doubt there are any 'bad' brands -over a certain price point!
Buy a bike you like the look of, you'll appreciate it more and even though you can't see it, it'll make you feel good riding it - so you'll ride more.

If it's a good family owned bike shop then they'll help you much more than some random geezer on the inteweb!

 

[buggi]

if you're gonna use roads get a road bike
if you're going off road get a mountain bike (MTB)
If you're gonna use mostly roads and maybe a few trails get a hybrid or cyclocross
if you get a bike with suspension make sure it locks out (for better ride on the road)
spend at least £500 or whatever that equals in dollars.
after you've chosen the type of bike, buy the colour you love, the bike that sets your heart on fire. That's what will motivate you. You'll look at it and want to ride.

 

[vickster]

Hot in Vegas, get a couple of bottle cages at least!

In the USA, look at trek, specialized, giant and cannondale. They all make good bikes. Avoid Schwinn unless you are going for a cool cruiser type bike