What's the main difference between your #1 bike and #2?

[Jon George]

Okay, apologises if you haven't yet the funds (or inclination) to acquire two (or more) bikes, but what's the major difference you've noticed in your ride between them if you do? I did a 45 mile route today on my #1 carbon, and was aware of a noticeable reduction in the effort required on the return leg when the body was beginning to protest - the weight differential gave me a terrific psychology boost!

 

[slowmotion]

The most recently bought one is always more fun. To say otherwise would be a horrible admission of personal retail failure. Actually, I think we get a bit better at working out what suits us better. Have fun on your bike.

 

[T.M.H.N.E.T]

Quite a few KG!

 

[slowmotion]

A slightly smaller frame, 54cm rather than 58cm. No different vis a vis the geometry from saddle to pedals or to the bars so it should be the same, but it isn't. The bars are about 50mm narrower and fall more easily on my hands. The best bit of all is that the brake hoods are angled slightly inwards rather than straight ahead. It really made a huge difference to me.

Thank you Cinelli and Campagnolo

 

[mattobrien]

Bike no. 1 is summer, light and carbon. Bike no. 2 is winter and wet, mudguards, disc brakes and alu. Bike no. 2 is also a bit heavier.

I find I can go faster for further on bike no. 1, it is smoother and more comfy, but being plastic melts if it gets wet.

 

[ComedyPilot]

Bike 1 is a drop-barred, ally-framed tourer that I am in the process of getting ready for Audax (if not there already).
Bike 2 is a butterfly-barred ally-framed tourer.
Bike 3 is an old steel-framed MTB that I converted to a tourer.

They all weigh a ton compared to even an entry/mid level racer, but I can ride all day in comfort and am self-reliant (ish) in case of repair.

Saying that, when I ride with others I am always on the heavier bike by at least 5kg.

 

[Garethgas]

My 'normal' bike is a simple but very reliable and tough subway 1. It's about 10 yrs old now but still rides like new and I can do 25+ miles on it comfortably.
Then, there's my Genesis Equilibrium. Even at the wrong side of 50yrs old, I often do 100 miles on it in total comfort.
Most people I know go for the popular makes, Specialized, Giant etc. but having swapped with them on a few rides in the past, they have all commented on it's comfort and handling.

 

[Alex H]

#1 is a tourer

#2 is a tandem

 

[Pro Tour Punditry]

£2,000.

 

[MikeG]

My summer bike is about 2mph faster than my winter bike, but throws water and mud up my back. My winter bike has a saddle I can sit on for more than an hour, though.

 

[morrisman]

No. 1 has 700c wheels and can't go on a train during rush hours
No. 2 has 20" wheels and can go on a train during rush hours

 

[coffeejo]

#1 is my everyday hack - it's my transport though often gets ridden for fun rides if conditions / surfaces don't suit the road bike.
#2 is the aforementioned road bike. It's my fun bike. It's also a lot easier to ride up hills.

 

[Andrew_Culture]

Gears. One has them, t'other doesn't

 

[SatNavSaysStraightOn]

Bike #1 is an custom built off-road touring/expedition bike with Rohloff hub.
Bike #2 is a Btwin Triban 3
Bike #3 is a Specialized Rockhopper SL Comp

All bikes get used all year round. #1 weighs a ton, but requires very little maintenance at all, is tough, robust, reliable but costs £££££'s. #2 is wearing out fast, cost very little and can be safely left unlocked at home (I live rurally and no-one can every find us), and can be left in town/college without issue. #3 is fun.

 

[Big Nick]

My no 1 bike I can lift with one hand

My no 2 I can't lift without risk of serious back injury!!!