Cycling help

[hilljack13]

I'm thinking of getting a bike so just starting to do some research. Other than a BMX I had when I was younger I have never done any real riding. I am not able to run like I used to so I think riding would be a good option.

I have found a few sites with good info (bicycle-guider & cyclistshub) but with all the info I was hoping to get some real world thoughts on recommended brands to look at and options to consider. Most of the riding would be on roads, but I would like to go on dirt trails as well. I know price is always a big deal so since I am new to this I don't think anything over 2K is needed. I don't want low end either so I would start around ~1K. Depending on options those numbers are fluid. Thanks for feedback!

 

[Brewin’&Qin’]

Another good site to get info is Bike Forums. There are a lot of good info shared there. Not sure how much riding you are looking to do because you are looking at two different type bikes for those activities. You can get a cross bike, but that can ride on the road and light trails. If you are looking to do any significant miles on the road (25+ miles per ride) you probably want to look for a pure road bike. There are so many choices out there. I have a Specialized bike with Shimano 105 gearing and brake package. It is a mid range entry bike. It has been a great bike for me and comfortable riding up to 100 or so miles in a day, and for a normal 30-40 mile ride it is great ride. However I would not take it on ant trails. Good luck with your search.

 

[PCABrewing]

I took a similar journey several years ago for similar reasons.
You can find a decent bike to get started for ~1K. Any of the well-known manufacturers (Trek, Giant, Specialized) will have something in that price range. I chose a "mountain" bike (no suspension) back then with no intention of going off-road but a desire to have a sturdy bike in case I had to climb a curb to avoid getting mowed down by a car.
Since then I've discovered trail riding where the cars aren't an issue and I love it.
Most important thing I'd say is make sure the bike fits you right.
And try to avoid getting sucked in by bling.

 

[hilljack13]

Thanks. For some reason the thought of going 25+ miles seems daunting. Probably because I have never done that. It does sound like a good day out and much more involved than just doing a quick run. About how many calories would a 25 mile ride burn? No joke, I need to shed about 50lbs....

Coincidence, I was just looking at Trek, Giant, and Specialized. Lots of decisions to figure out. I need to find a local store to get some hands on.

 

[PCABrewing]

Thanks. For some reason the thought of going 25+ miles seems daunting. Probably because I have never done that. It does sound like a good day out and much more involved than just doing a quick run. About how many calories would a 25 mile ride burn? No joke, I need to shed about 50lbs....

Coincidence, I was just looking at Trek, Giant, and Specialized. Lots of decisions to figure out. I need to find a local store to get some hands on.

Much like brewing, try to find a good local shop.

 

[hilljack13]

Much like brewing, try to find a good local shop.

There is a Trek shop about 20 miles out. Funny I got really excited when I found out!

 

[PCABrewing]

Thanks. For some reason the thought of going 25+ miles seems daunting....

No joke, I need to shed about 50lbs....

Try to focus on riding and enjoying it, not so much on the distance to start. Otherwise you'll burnout quickly.
When I started I would ride 5-6 miles (street riding in the neighborhood) each night when I got home from work, sometimes less, but it added up and weight started coming off within a month or so. Be patient.
After a while I discovered rails to trails and would ride those on the weekends. They were more enjoyable for me.
As Brewinquin suggested, a gravel bike is a decent option for multi-use (road and trail) that did not exist when I started. But for me I now like single-track riding and chose a mountain bike to handle that.

 

[betarhoalphadelta]

No joke, I need to shed about 50lbs....

My take is that one of the things driving up bike costs is reducing weight. Sounds like you're a big guy (as am I).

I figured I could spend thousands of dollars for a 10 lb lighter bike, but what's the point?

1. As a percentage of my bodyweight, 10 lbs is nothing.
2. Eat a few less cheeseburgers, and I can shed 10# off MY frame a lot cheaper than I can off a bike frame

So I opted for a cheaper bike.

 

[hilljack13]

Sounds like you're a big guy (as am I).

The problem is I am really not. 150-160 is my normal. My current BMI puts me over 30. Getting older isn't helping

 

[PCABrewing]

My take is that one of the things driving up bike costs is reducing weight. Sounds like you're a big guy (as am I).

I figured I could spend thousands of dollars for a 10 lb lighter bike, but what's the point?

1. As a percentage of my bodyweight, 10 lbs is nothing.
2. Eat a few less cheeseburgers, and I can shed 10# off MY frame a lot cheaper than I can off a bike frame

So I opted for a cheaper bike.

Agree on the weight price driver though I do recommend an aluminum frame as a starting point today. There are other factors that can be worth paying for if you really get into it as a hobby.
Like paying more for better group-sets, but while they really do work better, the stock stuff is normally good enough to get started. Local bike shops usually won't steer you to junk.
When I chose my bike I chose it for exercise value.
So I didn't care that it might be a little harder to pedal due to weight or MTB tires having a higher rolling resistance. I considered that a benefit.

 

[tracer bullet]

Also agreed to visiting a shop. Do you have one anywhere nearby that you think you could trust?

Not all shops are equal, but some are indeed outstanding. I think if you try out a few bikes you'll find one you like, I know that's how it works for me. A couple bikes are "it's fine, I think it could do" but one is "this feels like home". And yeah, a grand or so should be a decent road bike.

Center pull lever brakes grabbing the rim are A-OK. Don't need a lot other than it being comfortable.

Do be sure the shop will help you set up the seat correctly. Find one the right width for you and also set its height, forward / back position, things like that. Prevent sore knees ahead of time.

 

[PCABrewing]

The problem is I am really not. 150-160 is my normal. My current BMI puts me over 30. Getting older isn't helping

Haa! I remember 150-160, it was before I got an office job...

 

[bkboiler]

"gravel" biking is a thing now for mostly road but sometimes trail, but since it's popular it's $$$ .
I'd suggest a used MTB tho and replace with a rigid front fork and upgrade all the old components and get a new seat and a proper fit (let the bike shop fit you to a bike for $100 and pay for a fitted saddle there while you're at it...). Then go and buy a used bike of that size and bring it back to get the components upgraded or replaced that need doing...

Wide smooth or "gravel" style tires will do well at road or trail and you'll have a good sturdy frame with mid-level components. I bet all in you'll be riding a not "sparkly", but high performing bike that will be very durable and comfortable for $1500.

Or some vendors retail used bikes like trek if that's more your speed to buy from a dealer.

 

[hilljack13]

Or some vendors retail used bikes like trek if that's more your speed to buy from a dealer.

I found a trek store local. Also looked at some of the used on their site. I like the idea of getting one used, seem to hold up well

 

[hilljack13]

Haa! I remember 150-160, it was before I got an office job...

We'll, this is brewing forum and beer likes me...a lot.

 

[Brewin’&Qin’]

As someone mentioned earlier, don’t start out thinking you have to ride 25 miles. Start with just a few miles a day. If you find you enjoy it you will also find yourself riding more and soon you will be taking those longer rides like they are nothing. If you have a bike shop local take advantage of it so you can try different bikes and different saddles/seats to find one that is comfortable for you. Being comfortable on the bike is key.
Unless you are getting a high end bike builders like Trek/Specialized/Cannondale all have similar bike styles and frames and they all use the same components and to an extent wheels etc. just find a bike that is comfortable and ride it.
Warning though. Just like brewing, getting all the additional add on goodies as you is addicting and can get expensive. Hahahah. Happy riding.

 

[betarhoalphadelta]

The problem is I am really not. 150-160 is my normal. My current BMI puts me over 30. Getting older isn't helping

Ah gotcha. I'm 6'5" and currently 250, but with a build that I wouldn't want to go below ~240...

 

[tracer bullet]

I found a trek store local. Also looked at some of the used on their site. I like the idea of getting one used, seem to hold up well

Reminds me, unless I missed it twice, we didn't establish if you were thinking mountain bike or road bike?

If mountain bike, I might up the 4$'s. My slightly overpriced Specialized was like $1500 a decade ago and it wasn't all that Special.

 

[hilljack13]

Reminds me, unless I missed it twice, we didn't establish if you were thinking mountain bike or road bike?

If mountain bike, I might up the 4$'s. My slightly overpriced Specialized was like $1500 a decade ago and it wasn't all that Special.

I like the idea of the hybrid. I don't plan on doing any tough terrain but want the option to hit a dirt road once in a while.

 

[smcinco]

Sorry if I missed it. How high do you like getting your heartbeat? Road cycling IMO is by far the best workout of the cycling disciplines if you push yourself. If you like working out hard, I've found mountain biking to be lacking. I feel like it's really difficult to push hard on loose and/or difficult terrain. Fun yes, hard workout, no. Gravel is nice because you can dabble in both.

 

[passedpawn]

I like the idea of the hybrid. I don't plan on doing any tough terrain but want the option to hit a dirt road once in a while.

Typical hybrid is a straight bar and more upright setup, but street friendly tires (25mm). They are best for shortish rides ( < 25m) in low-wind situations. Look at Specialized Sirrus for a good example ( I have one of these). I don't think they are dirt-road friendly at all - I've had several hybrids and I can't imagine any sort of wide wheel on them.

I also have an all carbon road bike, and that is an aggressive bike that wants to be ridden hard. It's fairly compact, not really comfortable for a short ride with the wife. But if you don't mind getting low in the drops, it's awesome for speed over a long distance. TBH, I don't ride it much anymore cause getting old :{

I love both of those bikes.

 

[PCABrewing]

Sorry if I missed it. How high do you like getting your heartbeat? Road cycling IMO is by far the best workout of the cycling disciplines if you push yourself. If you like working out hard, I've found mountain biking to be lacking. I feel like it's really difficult to push hard on loose and/or difficult terrain. Fun yes, hard workout, no. Gravel is nice because you can dabble in both.

Wow, I've found exactly the opposite. I find a day riding good single-track gives a more complete workout because it includes the upper-body and shifting the weight around to maintain balance and traction.
Perhaps you're confusing the elevated heart rate you get after a near miss by a car as exercise.

But seriously, go ride 5 miles on your road bike, should take less than 20 minutes, and then go ride 5 miles with a standard mountain bike on some good single-track. I'm not talking rails-to-trails, I mean real single track. Probably take 40 minutes or so. The rolling resistance alone results in more exertion and cardio benefit and chances are you won't have one near-miss by a car. And the scenery is definitely better, less exhaust too.

 

[PCABrewing]

Typical hybrid is a straight bar and more upright setup, but street friendly tires (25mm). They are best for shortish rides ( < 25m) in low-wind situations. Look at Specialized Sirrus for a good example ( I have one of these). I don't think they are dirt-road friendly at all - I've had several hybrids and I can't imagine any sort of wide wheel on them.

I also have an all carbon road bike, and that is an aggressive bike that wants to be ridden hard. It's fairly compact, not really comfortable for a short ride with the wife. But if you don't mind getting low in the drops, it's awesome for speed over a long distance. TBH, I don't ride it much anymore cause getting old :{

I love both of those bikes.

My Giant TCR One has also fallen into the wall art status for similar reasons.
But getting it up to speed was really a thrill back when I was still comfortable in the drops.

 

[passedpawn]

My Giant TCR One has also fallen into the wall art status for similar reasons.
But getting it up to speed was really a thrill back when I was still comfortable in the drops.

LOL.

 

[PCABrewing]

LOL.
View attachment 852522

Mine is a few years older, team Once version. It's full Ultegra too.
It's aluminum and it is light, I can only imagine how light that baby is.
I love it but it is not comfortable any more, not the bike's fault.

 

[Deadalus]

Wow, I've found exactly the opposite. I find a day riding good single-track gives a more complete workout because it includes the upper-body and shifting the weight around to maintain balance and traction.
Perhaps you're confusing the elevated heart rate you get after a near miss by a car as exercise.

But seriously, go ride 5 miles on your road bike, should take less than 20 minutes, and then go ride 5 miles with a standard mountain bike on some good single-track. I'm not talking rails-to-trails, I mean real single track. Probably take 40 minutes or so. The rolling resistance alone results in more exertion and cardio benefit and chances are you won't have one near-miss by a car. And the scenery is definitely better, less exhaust too.

Using equal distance is not the way to characterize the potential difference in cardio. You can set your road difficulty as much or as little as you like, same for mountain biking. I've got a five mile ride to a mountain overlook right outside my door, newbie won't be doing that in 20 minutes. I can't do it in 20 minutes on my best day!

Once you start road riding some, 20-25 miles is not far at all. A 10 mile road ride is going to be about a 30 minute workout. It's a bit like swimming. Across the pool and back seems like a lot but if you swim regularly, you start doing laps.

There are roads everywhere. I won't say they are all road bikeable, with some even being downright dangerous. If you live in a more rural area, finding nice routes is not particularly difficult. I've got a nice 20 mile route that follows a stream just about the whole 10 miles in and then 10 back. Mountain biking, there are going to be limitations, dependent on the local trail system. If you are are looking to use this as an exercise program, you are better off with a road bike, as you will more often be able to get to your routes faster. It's also more sustained exertion. Road biking is a little more mechanical in that you are on the road and not on trails. It's a lot better than being stuck in the gym, but not as much fun as being on trails.

A hybrid is ok for city conditions or more casual riding but you won't go as far on the fatter tires and you won't get the same amount of joy as your range increases. You get new routes when you bump up the mileage. You'll be able to ride 20 miles in pretty short order, and then 30, 50, 75, even 100 miles are all possibilities with some training.

 

[PCABrewing]

Mountain biking, there are going to be limitations, dependent on the local trail system.

As there are for road...

If you are are looking to use this as an exercise program, you are better off with a road bike, as you will more often be able to get to your routes faster.

Absolute statements are easy to poke holes in. You (and me) don't know anything about the OP's road or trail options.

Here's what the OP said:

"I was hoping to get some real world thoughts on recommended brands to look at and options to consider."​

 

[Deadalus]

As there are for road...

Absolute statements are easy to poke holes in. You (and me) don't know anything about the OP's road or trail options.

Here's what the OP said:

"I was hoping to get some real world thoughts on recommended brands to look at and options to consider."​

I stand by that last statement, there are vastly more road than mountain biking opportunities in the US as a whole. Chances of a mt bike trail within starting distance from one's house, very low probability (that's not absolutist). Putting the bike on a bike rack and driving to the trailhead, down goes the chance to take that ride for exercise. As it is, biking in general has a serious weather dependency, rain and winter for much of the US. If a person doesn't exercise regularly, minimizing reasons not to is very important to making it a habit. Gym's too far, people don't go.

I was thinking the OP was in AL but it does say from AL so not sure about location.

 

[PCABrewing]

I stand by that last statement, there are vastly more road than mountain biking opportunities in the US as a whole. Chances of a mt bike trail within starting distance from one's house, very low probability (that's not absolutist). Putting the bike on a bike rack and driving to the trailhead, down goes the chance to take that ride for exercise. As it is, biking in general has a serious weather dependency, rain and winter for much of the US. If a person doesn't exercise regularly, minimizing reasons not to is very important to making it a habit. Gym's too far, people don't go.

I was thinking the OP was in AL but it does say from AL so not sure about location.

My brother lived on a farm.
Nothing but gravel roads all around him, we're talking barely suitable for farm implements. A road bike would be worse than useless, it would be dangerous even with no traffic.
I relate this simply to illustrate that there are areas where one or both modes of riding may not have a viable option.
That's why I suggested OP try to get in touch with a local bike shop. They should know what works in the area and that may mean putting the bike on the back and driving.

As for weather issues, I absolutely agree. The local managed single track trails by me have been closed more than open this year, either due to freeze/thaw cycles or lately rain, and my road bike won't work for me any more.
But I do ride my mountain bike through winter (off road) as well.
Cheers

 

[bkboiler]

seems like most bikes go about 3 years before a minor technological upgrade (possible to retrofit, but may need more than one component to change) and about 10 years between major technology change (i.e. may need a new frame such as for disc brakes on a carbon bike).
In those cases though, an older bike can be had for a significant discount and usually upgraded to ride quite well.
Steel bikes are very useful in the sense that many are not double /triple butted and can be retrofitted quite well with brazing or welding.

The basic technology of a bike has not changed in around 100 years or more, so used makes a lot of sense, especially with how easy it is to upgrade components on a bike compared to trying to stuff an LS motor in a Miata.