The Cycling Thread

[Quiff Wichard]

you heard that xavier Tondo has died.. or am I behind the times..?

[keithd]

Given that he died at 10 this morning i'd say you're not behind. Awful accident by the looks of it

[Quiff Wichard]

crushed by his electric garage door - between there and his car.. it beggars belief.. RIP


http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/23052011/58/tondo-killed-garage-door.html

[keithd]

Surely its not beyond the capabilities of man to put a safety feature on such doors that if it meets resistance it no longer tries to open/close? terrible accident

[Quiff Wichard]

Surely its not beyond the capabilities of man to put a safety feature on such doors that if it meets resistance it no longer tries to open/close? terrible accident

my mate has a new Porsche 4x4 60 odd K car and the hatch auto closes but THAT doesnt have a resistance sensor.. madness. #


sorry derail.

[maviczap]

Not a good time for cycling, 2 accidental deaths in 2 weeks

RIP Xavier

[krhall]

Took me 45 mins to do my normal 35-38 minute commute this morning because of head wind the whole way, was a real battle. I never realised it would have that significant impact!

Conversely virtually no wind at all on the way home 32 mins...

[maviczap]

Not long now till TDF

Here's a TDF fantasy cycling game run by Halfrauds

http://www.halfordstdfgame.co.uk/?cm_mmc=E-Mail-_-Week_8_c-_-intro-_-game&cm_em=maviczap%40gmail.com.5

[Luckypants]

God my legs are killing me after an epic day's climbing. Only 50 miles but over 5000ft of climbing.

That is all.

[maviczap]

God my legs are killing me after an epic day's climbing. Only 50 miles but over 5000ft of climbing.

That is all.

So are mine, but only due to lack of cycling:(

[Luckypants]

So are mine, but only due to lack of cycling:(:( Thats not good. How come you are not getting out, not an injury I hope.

The chap I went out with yesterday is off to the Pyranees in 6 weeks so is ramping up the hills. I'll be tagging along to improve my climbing as there is a lot of debate as to whether I should change to a 28-11 cassette for our trip in September - currently on a 25-11 which is hard work once you get gradients over 18%

For interest here is a link to my mate's Garmin plot of yesterday.
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/88508536

[maviczap]

No just a very busy work schedule, training event all last week, overseas trip the whole week before.

Apart from a holiday in July and kids summer holidays in August I've not got much on. Plus I've got a week booked off at the end of this month, so I hope the weathers going to warm up a bit.

David Millar was using a 36 rear sprocket for the Giro, although I don't know if he had a compact front?

I'll have to read CW again to make sure it wasn't a 36 front!

[Luckypants]

Blimey! I hope that it was a 36 chain ring, otherwise I'm screwed! Did you see yesterday's climb? That road looks amazing and bally hard work. 9% overall gradient for 18km. I fancy both cycling and motorbike that baby.:cool:

I'm already on a 50-34 compact chainset, so the 25 is still pretty low. I've decided to see what Craig says he needed when he goes. He has a 28-11 on the back but tries not to use the top two (he! he! He did yesterday, I win! :p) 26 and 28 on climbs. If he comes back saying he used his 28 I'll be buying a new cassette.

[fizzwheel]

Mike - you on Shimano or SRAM I cant remember. If on Shimano watch your rear cassette some of the short cage mechs dont cope well with a 28 tooth rear. I have a 12-27 and I used a 50 - 34 for the Tour of Wessex last year I got a 25% climb on that. OK it wasnt easy but I did get up it...

Just something to think about...

[Luckypants]

Thanks fizz, I'll look out for that. I'm on the latest Shimano Ultegra and I think the cage is OK for the 28-11 as it is a standard cassette. I'll check it all out before spending out though.

It's not so much getting up the steep bits (I have managed a fair few 25% climbs this year) but maintaining the effort needed for the length of time needed to get up these big mountain climbs. The Tourmalet will be over 4 hours of climbing for instance and I may not be able to sustain the effort for that length of time on a 25. I'll see how my mates get on in July.

I may be doing the hard side of Bwlch-y-Groes tomorrow, if I don't walk up there then I think maybe I can do it on the 25.....

[maviczap]

Aren't the UK climbs meant to be steeper in gradient than most continental climbs, because of the way we build our roads? I know the foreign ones are longer, but not as steep?

I can't remember, as the last time I was in the Alps was in 1997.

[fizzwheel]

The Tourmalet will be over 4 hours of climbing for instance and I may not be able to sustain the effort for that length of time on a 25. I'll see how my mates get on in July.

Are you sure I didnt think it was that long or steep a climb in terms of average gradient... looking at wikipedia it says... looking at the below text it says only a maximum of 10%.

"The western side, from Luz-Saint-Sauveur, is 19 km long, climbing 1,404m at an average of 7.4 percent with a maximum of 10.2 near the summit. Starting from Sainte-Marie-de-Campan, the climb is 17.2 km, gaining 1,268m, an average 7.4 with a maximum of 10. Each kilometre is marked by the distance to the summit and the average gradient of the next kilometre."

taken from :

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Col_du_Tourmalet

[Luckypants]

I reckon 5 kph may well be my average for that day [-o< 7% average gradient is pretty tough. That mad climb (Colle delle Finestre) yesterday on the Giro was an average 9% for 18km but looked fecking hard - leaving aside the gravel road. The Tour riders take 2 hours to climb the Tourmalet, so 4 for a fat old man seems fair.

The Finestre on Climbybike... http://www.climbbybike.com/climb.asp?qryMountainID=1912&col=Colle-delle-Finestre

The Tourmalet on Climbybike... http://www.climbbybike.com/climb.asp?Col=Col-du-Tourmalet&qryMountainID=26

[Jabba]

Anyone doing The Dragon Ride (http://www.wiggledragonride.com/) next Sunday?

Really unprepared for it, so the aim will be to "get round" :rolleyes:

[fizzwheel]

The Tour riders take 2 hours to climb the Tourmalet, so 4 for a fat old man seems fair.

well when you put it that way :D

I dunno I never thought it was the gradient that made those climbs hard, it was the length of the climb.

I went from a 25 to a 27 on the back and I never really noticed much difference TBH, I wander if you'll find the same with the jump to a 28.

I guess it wouldt hurt though, bear in mind you have a whole summer of climb training to get in, I bet you could do it on the 25 by the time you have your ride planned.

@Jabba - good luck for the dragon next weekend.

[Quiff Wichard]

hi boys n girls.

we saw a bike race today around the shrewsbury/newport/bridgend area..

but-

some were on "normal" race bikes.

some 3 wheelers? but proper race biked up

and one was a 3 wheeler but with two folk on..(would the contestant at the back be blind or something?

me n Mandy were intrigued..

and all power to them - man they were soaked through

[maviczap]

hi boys n girls.

we saw a bike race today around the shrewsbury/newport/bridgend area..

but-

some were on "normal" race bikes.

some 3 wheelers? but proper race biked up

and one was a 3 wheeler but with two folk on..(would the contestant at the back be blind or something?

me n Mandy were intrigued..

and all power to them - man they were soaked through

The first two are quite normal for a round the town race or criterium, I've done a couple, great fun.

But a tandem trike? Never ever seen one, the frame must be something substantial! And in a race aye kayrumba :smt104

[Jabba]

I guess it wouldt hurt though, bear in mind you have a whole summer of climb training to get in, I bet you could do it on the 25 by the time you have your ride planned.

25 rear and compact double on the front should see you right :thumbsup:

@Jabba - good luck for the dragon next weekend.

Cheers fella - beginning to get nervous :pukel:

[maviczap]

Anyone doing The Dragon Ride (http://www.wiggledragonride.com/) next Sunday?

Really unprepared for it, so the aim will be to "get round" :rolleyes:

Yep, good luck Jabba, hope the weather is kind to you [-o<

[Luckypants]

25 rear and compact double on the front should see you right :thumbsup: I reckon so, as Fizz says, plenty of time to train for it.



Cheers fella - beginning to get nervous :pukel:Good luck Jabba, what distance have you entered?

[Jabba]

Good luck Jabba, what distance have you entered?

There's nine of us fatties entered in to the 80-miler. Can't see any of us opting into the longer distance whilst en-route :smt081

[Luckypants]

This amused me.

http://www.velominati.com/blog/the-rules/

Rule #5 (http://www.velominati.com/blog/the-rules/#5) was quoted at my brother by another rider, who quoted Rule #7 (http://www.velominati.com/blog/the-rules/#7) in response.

I think I need to adhere to Rule #5 (http://www.velominati.com/blog/the-rules/#5) and Rule #10 (http://www.velominati.com/blog/the-rules/#10), also known as a Five and Dime :D

[maviczap]

I agree with you and also rules 19,28 & 29

[Jabba]

Rule 55 :thumbsup:

[maviczap]

just read rule 85 :smt023

[fizzwheel]

I've see that before, but I think its changed since last time I read it.

#51 *sniggers*

[Luckypants]

just read rule 85 :smt023:D

[maviczap]

Blimey! I hope that it was a 36 chain ring, otherwise I'm screwed! Did you see yesterday's climb? That road looks amazing and bally hard work. 9% overall gradient for 18km. I fancy both cycling and motorbike that baby.:cool:

I'm already on a 50-34 compact chainset, so the 25 is still pretty low. I've decided to see what Craig says he needed when he goes. He has a 28-11 on the back but tries not to use the top two (he! he! He did yesterday, I win! :p) 26 and 28 on climbs. If he comes back saying he used his 28 I'll be buying a new cassette.

Just seen the pictures of Millars bike and he did have a dinner plate sprocket on the back :p

Front was 52/42 (very old school :cool:) with 11-36 MTB cassette at the back.

I don't know what that equates to in inches on a gear table, i'll go have a look

[fizzwheel]

Front was 52/42 (very old school :cool:) with 11-36 MTB cassette at the back.

What an odd ratio for the lowest gear 42 / 36 that is. I wander if it gives him a better spread for the shallower climbs / flats or its a personal thing and he feels comfy on that.

Decided tonight to do a flat as route as I can get around here, quite pleased with the time and avg speed.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/90857719

[krhall]

Oracles of the cycling thread, I need some advice...not on buying a bike this time, although I still haven't got one yet, but now I have sold the husky I have the money burning a hole...

Since I started doing more cycling my right bo!!ock aches/feels like it is pulling? Any ideas what might be causing this?

Also any advice on getting better?

[maviczap]

Also any advice on getting better?

Rub it better ;)

Dunno, saddle too high, to far forward or too far back. wrong saddle, shorts chaffing

Or a combination of the above

[fizzwheel]

Also any advice on getting better?

Go see your GP and ask them.

[krhall]

not getting better bollock ache, but getting better at riding...

[Luckypants]

Since I started doing more cycling my right bo!!ock aches/feels like it is pulling? Any ideas what might be causing this?

Do you need one of these?

cALMqlFUebI

[Luckypants]

I did my first time trial last Thursday (and probably my last!). It was 10 miler over a fairly flat course so I set myself a target of sub 30 minute and to not be last. I achieved a time of 29:06 and was 44th out of 49 so my modest targets were achieved :D I reckon I can get at least a minute faster now I know better what pace I can sustain, then a bit more if I went for aero-bars etc, so not too shabby. I won't be doing many so not likely to get TT equipment, but I'm happy with the result. Mav, please don't take the mickey out of my time! :smt095

My whole reason for going was that it was my mates 40th birthday and he needed someone to beat (me) :rolleyes: - I jest as he did a 25 and our other mate was in the 22s (not sure of exact times). We then went out for beer and hilarity to mark Craig's passing into middle age, so the evening was not totally wasted... :smt046

What impressed me about the event was the mix of ability, from me to an Olympic champion! Yep I raced against Rebecca Romero!
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_eacB-M4BzwU/SKmqNFkRyuI/AAAAAAAAEgM/JggSFvqUMOs/s400/rebecca-romero-nude.jpg

\\:D/

They are a dedicated bunch as well these time trial types, one chap brought his bike on the back of his Dullsville...

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w111/luckypants_photos/Image0073.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w111/luckypants_photos/Image0072.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w111/luckypants_photos/Image0071.jpg

[fizzwheel]

I achieved a time of 29:06

Well done Mike.

Thats my aim for this year is to try and do a sub 30 minute 10 miler. Trouble is nowhere around here is billard table flat so I'm struggling a little.

Best I've done was 32 minutes the other week so not far off now.

[maviczap]

I did my first time trial last Thursday (and probably my last!). It was 10 miler over a fairly flat course so I set myself a target of sub 30 minute and to not be last. I achieved a time of 29:06 and was 44th out of 49 so my modest targets were achieved :D I reckon I can get at least a minute faster now I know better what pace I can sustain, then a bit more if I went for aero-bars etc, so not too shabby. I won't be doing many so not likely to get TT equipment, but I'm happy with the result. Mav, please don't take the mickey out of my time! :smt095


I never take the mickey out of anyones times, its more about the ride you did and also how well you did against the course record. If it was a fast couse, say a 19min course, then 29mins doesn't look so good, but if the course record was a 21min then 29 is pretty good for a first TT. Our post TT converstaions were always about how our ride was (good,bad etc)

Anyway 10's are a young mans event ;) Its all out, flat out until the finish and judging your pace takes quite a few TT's

Aero bars will take a significanct chunk of time off that 29mins, so doing it without makes 29mins a good time


What impressed me about the event was the mix of ability, from me to an Olympic champion! Yep I raced against Rebecca Romero!


Yep, anyone can enter. Alex Dowsett rode a TT in his Team Sky colours the other month, no surprise he demolished the field.




They are a dedicated bunch as well these time trial types, one chap brought his bike on the back of his Dullsville...

Yes, but there are a few too many stick in the muds in TT's, the old guys who won't bring it into the 21st century. But these are the guys who do the timekeeping and organise the events, so we can't do without them

Trouble is round our way there aren't many young guys & gals racing I understand, so the future isn't great

[454697819]

I thought Id give a little update in this thread following my recent commitment to ride to work, I am aiming for a minimum of 3 times a week.

I bought my 2010 Kona Dew Duluxe about two months ago, and have since covered about 220 miles, its a really good bike abut I think i could have done with the next frame size up, but Ill learn for next time.

I am doing 6.5 miles each way and aiming for 3 times a week, I am on my 12th or 14th day of doing it now and have managed to drop my time from 27 minutes each way to 23 or 24 minutes, and I have lost just over 4kg in a month, including a week in France eating a lot of cheese and bread.
I am using Smartrunner to track my rides which is nice to see the miles stack up and the average times come down as the average speeds go up.

Couple of questions,

I currently have Hybrid tyres on the bike, but i was wondering if a slick centre with a bit of grip at the edge will make a difference as the rolling resistance seems quite high on these tyres...

And how much of a difference do SPD's make? or just shoe clips? as my feet keep slipping and turning the pedals over?

Many thanks All

[fizzwheel]

but i was wondering if a slick centre with a bit of grip at the edge will make a difference as the rolling resistance seems quite high on these tyres...

Go for a full slick, you'll get more grip over what you are looking at and theoretically you'll get less rolling resistance due to be able to run the tyres at a higher pressure. IMHO.

And how much of a difference do SPD's make? or just shoe clips? as my feet keep slipping and turning the pedals over?

IMHO alot, increased comfort and better efficency of your pedal stroke. SPD's are by far the easiest things to clip in and out of so no need to worry about that IMHO.

You dont need to spend alot of money either, but look for a SPD pedal that is double sided so that you dont have to flip it over before clipping in.

[Luckypants]

Regards the tyres, if you are on roads all the time then slick tyres will be faster. You might also look at your pressures, cycle tyres run very high pressures, especially if they are narrower ones. I would run about 60psi in my MTB 2.35" on the road and I run 110-120 in my road bike 700-23c tyres. The high pressure reduces the contact patch and do reduces rolling resistance.

Clipless pedals (there are other types besides SPD) make a big difference to you, especially if you are slipping off the pedals now. Being attached to the pedals allows you to lift on the upstroke, so you give power right around each revolution, you can pedal faster without slipping off and are more comfortable IMO.

[454697819]

Go for a full slick, you'll get more grip over what you are looking at and theoretically you'll get less rolling resistance due to be able to run the tyres at a higher pressure. IMHO.



IMHO alot, increased comfort and better efficency of your pedal stroke. SPD's are by far the easiest things to clip in and out of so no need to worry about that IMHO.

You dont need to spend alot of money either, but look for a SPD pedal that is double sided so that you dont have to flip it over before clipping in.

Ok many thanks,

Trouble is I have 700 x 35 tyres, cant find any slicks...

Ill do another search..

Right off to find SPD's in size 14

[fizzwheel]

Trouble is I have 700 x 35 tyres, cant find any slicks...

Thats fine, you dont need the width with a road based tyre, so you could fit something narrower on it. It depends on the rim, but I'd think you'd get a 28mm tyre onto that OK.

Or you can get a Conti Gatorskin in 35mm see here :

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/continental-gatorskin-road-tyre/

[Luckypants]

Conti Gatorskin is a great tyre, almost puncture proof! However, check the stock level at Wiggle.... :(

[Miles]

I've got Shimano MT32 shoes and Shimano M520 pedals on my training / commuter bike. If you want something that is fairly priced, reliable and easy to use I dont think you could do much better.

Slicks are defo worth having.

Good work on the TTs lads.

I started taking my cycling more seriously at the end of last summer, trained through winter and started road racing at the start of the season. Had some good results and have earnt myself 33 points this year (a win, 5th, couple of 7th's, an 8th and a couple of 9th's in a mix of cat 4, 3/4, 2/3/4 races)

At the end of last year I did a fairly hill 10 in 29.33 (course record 23 min something, also I think its only really a local course). Haven't done it again, but have done a sporting 25 (1.08) and 3 sporting 12.5's (33.33 is the best), on a road bike, which has got me in the top 5 twice out of 25 or so (not when the aerobike lot are out in force).

Its great though, nothing like seeing your performances improve!

[krhall]

I need some more shorts for cycling...any recommendations?

I have soem rubbish ones from decathlon and some from wiggle (bib one) which are ok at the moment.

Bib ones from wiggle are about £30.

[Luckypants]

I have Wiggle's DHB Earley shorts that were just under £50 iirc, comfortable for up to 8 hours (not ridden for longer) but I see these are no longer available and have been replaced by the Aeron Race shorts at just over £50. I'd be willing to give them a try.

Friends who have spent more money and gone for Assos and Sugoi and they swear by them saying they are much more comfortable than DHB, but I find it hard to justify the cost when my DHbs work for me.

EDIT: Always go for bib-shorts for road riding IMHO

[maviczap]

I have Wiggle's DHB Earley shorts that were just under £50 iirc, comfortable for up to 8 hours (not ridden for longer) but I see these are no longer available and have been replaced by the Aeron Race shorts at just over £50. I'd be willing to give them a try.

Friends who have spent more money and gone for Assos and Sugoi and they swear by them saying they are much more comfortable than DHB, but I find it hard to justify the cost when my DHbs work for me.

EDIT: Always go for bib-shorts for road riding IMHO

+1 on the Dhb stuff

Although having worn Assos in the past I can vouch for the comfort, but as LP says its difficult to justify the extra cost.

[Luckypants]

These look a bargain http://www.wiggle.co.uk/dhb-pace-roubaix-padded-bib-shorts/

Might be a little warm though as the Roubaix fabric is thick and 'fleecy' on the inside. I have the Roubaix tights and they are very comfy on the 'arris but do seem to be wearing quite quickly on the saddle area.

[allantheboss]

Maestros and Maestrettes of cycling! I plan to buy a cycle in the near future, and don't really know where to start looking, so I thought I'd ask the pros!

I'm looking for a road bike, maybe slightly racing, but with suspension so I can do kerbs. I am looking to spend up to £300, but am willing to spend more if given a good reason. I'll use it daily for going to uni etc, but not through forests. My only other criteria is that I'm 6'6" or taller... Any brands/specific models or styles of bike I should be looking at? Best places to buy from?

[Jabba]

Guys,

Got back last night from Rhyl-to-Cardiff charity bike ride with 20-odd blokes of a certain age (and all sorts of sizes!). We went here:

Day 1: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/93751363
Day 2: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/93751448
Day 3: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/93751597
Day 4: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/93751886

Some big hills, inc the one before the Horseshoe Pass and the the Pass itself in the pouring rain (but I now know where the Ponderosa is!), some big flippin' git of a thing past/through a forest beginning with "C" (see day 2), the Gospel Pass between Hay-on-Wye and Crickhowell (day 3) and Llangynidr Hill (day 4) which was a complete bastid with false summits.

What have I learned? Need to get fitter (and younger if poss!) and need to down-gear the bike for Lon Las next year (34-25 is too high for me on a long route with whopping hills.

Shameless plug:
If anyone has a couple of spare quid and wants to donate to the Noah's Ark Appeal (Wales Children's Hopsital here in Cardiff) then you can do so online here:
http://www.justgiving.co.uk/whitchurch-dads/

[fizzwheel]

What have I learned? Need to get fitter (and younger if poss!) and need to down-gear the bike for Lon Las next year (34-25 is too high for me on a long route with whopping hills.

You wont get much lower on the front unless you go triple. Might be cheaper if your rear mech will take it, to look at a MTB rear cassette, i.e. something in the 11-32 kind of area. Or failing that you'll get away depending on your rear mech with a 28 tooth on the back.

Kudos for finishing that ride though. Respect !

[Luckypants]

Some big hills, inc the one before the Horseshoe Pass and the the Pass itself in the pouring rain (but I now know where the Ponderosa is!)

That road is known as The Shelf, not a bad climb but a bit mean for the first of the ride!

What have I learned? Need to get fitter (and younger if poss!) and need to down-gear the bike for Lon Las next year (34-25 is too high for me on a long route with whopping hills.

Yep 34-25 is quite hard on steep hills I'm finding. It's easy enough to get 27-11 cassette and shimano short cage dérailleurs will handle it fine. Most of the lads I ride with are on 27-11 (some on 29s!) and we ride steeper hills than that most weekends. I'm still on an 11-25 and do need to put in a hard effort on some steep sections. :(

Chapeau Jabba, that was big ride.

[Jabba]

One of the lads is on 34-28 with a short-cage deraileur - that's 10% lower than me and the difference was obvious when climbing behind him.

Tough weekend, but good fun :-)

[Rai86]

Helloooo

Only a few days left until i start my epic End to End cycle trip! (Arhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh)

Any last minute tips from you lot?

[fizzwheel]

Any last minute tips from you lot?

Yes

1. Dont Panic.
2. Go through your kit list now as you have time to pick up anything you have forgotten.
3. Check your bike over, if you havent already make sure everything is in working order.

What I do before a big ride. OK not in the same league as you is to. I walk around the house, go through my bike box / tools etc and pickup everything I need and put it all into one plastic container, Including shoes, helmet, gloves etc. That way when I walk out the door in the morning to get in the car to go to the sportive or big ride. I only have to pick up 1 thing and I know I have everything I need.

Start off each day slowly and get warmed up and dont go hammering off at the start, you'll pay for it later. Same at the end of each days ride, ride the last bit slowly at a decent cadence and spin the pedals round and warm down / stretch.

A cold bath / shower will help reduce soreness the next day in your legs. The cold water encourages the blood to flow around your muscles which helps deal with the lactic acid build up.

Apart from that, just enjoy the experience and when it gets hard and you feel like getting off, keep going as the days its difficult or are a challenge are the things you'll remember afterwards / stories you take away with you.

[maviczap]

Maestros and Maestrettes of cycling! I plan to buy a cycle in the near future, and don't really know where to start looking, so I thought I'd ask the pros!

I'm looking for a road bike, maybe slightly racing, but with suspension so I can do kerbs. I am looking to spend up to £300, but am willing to spend more if given a good reason. I'll use it daily for going to uni etc, but not through forests. My only other criteria is that I'm 6'6" or taller... Any brands/specific models or styles of bike I should be looking at? Best places to buy from?

Allan you seem to have fried everyones brain with your question, hence why no one's answer.

At 6'6" you are bleedy tall, so you'll need a big framed bike, dependant on your inside leg measurement.

A road bike with suspension? a rare beast within your budget and not many of us would buy such a thing. Perhaps a Hybrid bike, with 700c wheels and something that you'd find with front suspension, but not rear.

You'd probably need a seat post with a shock absorber in it.

Best place to buy, maybe EBAY or Bike Radar (bike forum) for a 2nd hand bike.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Carrera-crossfire-2-mens-hybrid-bike-20-/200619127527?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item2eb5d4f2e7

Halfrauds do Hybrid bikes, plenty of other places do as well.





But they are the gods abonimation of bicycles :p

[northwind]

Forget suspension, you don't need that for kerbs, remember mountain bikes didn't used to have suspension (some still don't, I've got a rigid mountain bike that I use for all sorts). What you want is a tough road bike or a hybrid.

£300... I'd look in Halfords, a big branch, they have about 4 models that might suit

You could do a lot worse than this

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_55 1211_langId_-1_categoryId_165534

It's almost like an old mountain bike set up for road use- makes it pretty damn heavy, but also durable. Their Gryphon is lighter and faster, but a wee bit more road focused and not as tough. The TDF is an entry level "proper road bike", and well regarded, but I think I'd rather have a dose of the crabs than drop bars ;)

[maviczap]

I think I'd rather have a dose of the crabs than drop bars ;)

Begone with you back to your straight bar world in the MTB thread :p

[maviczap]

Helloooo

Only a few days left until i start my epic End to End cycle trip! (Arhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh)

Any last minute tips from you lot?

Maybe always have a post ride protein drink, the protein helps repair muscle damage and refuel your muscles store of energy. It'll help for the next day.

I like the 'For Goodness shakes' for my post ride.

Also don't forget your food to eat during the ride, jelly babies are good, easy to eat under way. But also have something savory like a sandwich or rice cakes, otherwise too much sweet stuff
can make you feel sick.

[allantheboss]

Thanks guys! I know I'm tall... It has it's positives and negatives! I was able to go on the big-boy rides at Thorpe Park ages before anyone else. ;)

I went to Halfords today coincidentally and was told I should just look for a 22" frame in regards to my size. Is that good advice? What are "700c wheels"?

I was also told that I should look for "hybrid" bike as you both suggested, and suspension is no biggie, so I'm fine with getting one of these kinds of bikes you've linked me. They also coincidentally suggested those Carrera models!

Do you think I should not go for Halfords-own? I feel like I will be mocked in that case. Won't Halfords be a bit pricey for what they're worth?

[fizzwheel]

Theres nothing wrong with Carrera's especially given your budget. I'd go with that to be honest. Its alot of bike for not much money. IMHO

[maviczap]

Theres nothing wrong with Carrera's especially given your budget. I'd go with that to be honest. Its alot of bike for not much money. IMHO

+1 perfect for your needs

[yorkie_chris]

but I think I'd rather have a dose of the crabs than drop bars ;)

Northy when I saw your name on this thread, I had to take a look. You scared me that you had gone over to them...

Lucky this comment sets record straight :-P

[Bluefish]

You wont be going far on that bike linked, it's not even got any peddles ;)

[allantheboss]

I'll do it! Thanks guys.

I F*ckin' love this site

[northwind]

Do you think I should not go for Halfords-own? I feel like I will be mocked in that case. Won't Halfords be a bit pricey for what they're worth?

Well... Halfords sell some total crap- Apollo etc. So they get judged for that. Also, a lot of the shops have really ropey service because they don't have properly trained bike staff, so you get the 16 year old from the Ripspeed section trying to sell you a bike, or a half trained mechanic building it. Not so good. But their value can be ridiculously good, frinstance for mountain bikes their £500 Fury was entered into a "£750 bikes test" in one of the magazines and won.

But you do get snobbery, my cross country mountain bike's a cheapy Carrera (with a load of go faster parts mind) and people do react differently then when I'm on one of my cooler bikes. But screw 'em.

[allantheboss]

You have a Carrera for weekdays. You use the 911 Turbo on weekends.

[Luckypants]

More bike porn...

http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/files/px/blogs/original/1ETI6Q33-stealthduraace1000.jpg

I really like the look of TT bikes, just not a fan of the pain and effort involved in making one go fast.

[maviczap]

AAaH too much white, I'm blinded ;)

Rear should be a disc wheel, that one has too many spokes :p

[Luckypants]

You can spec. a disc wheel if you want one. It's also a Triathlon bike and those guys seem to like spokes.

[maviczap]

I think that front would be a right handfull in anything but completely still conditions.8-[

I do like the sound of a disc wheel, even if I'm being caught by someone else. :)

I never used one, there's still time :p

[maviczap]

Old school TT bike, pre tri bars. I still love these ones too

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4046/5146450212_27935bdf7c.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5002/5321169968_f1c22a94af.jpg

[mattSV]

I'll do it! Thanks guys.

I F*ckin' love this site


Allan Allan Allan Allan Steve

Had an email from Halfwits today - sale now on on Carrera Bikes

If you budget is still £300 then have a look at this (http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_27 3257_langId_-1_categoryId_165534#dtab):-

[allantheboss]

OMFG, I just came on here to get consent from some of you pros before I clicked "purchase"!!!

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_27 3257_langId_-1_categoryId_165534#dtab

^^^^I even had the link copied! Wow. 24" frame and £300, 25% off.

Y'all recommend?

[allantheboss]

Allan Allan Allan Allan Steve


I went to Beach Break Live a few days ago, a festival in Wales, and that was the festival joke. I grow bitter at the sound of it now! Haha.. Allan's not a common name either so I always listened out at the calls.. FFS

[maviczap]

OMFG, I just came on here to get consent from some of you pros before I clicked "purchase"!!!

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_27 3257_langId_-1_categoryId_165534#dtab

^^^^I even had the link copied! Wow. 24" frame and £300, 25% off.

Y'all recommend?

Can't fault it for the money realy

[allantheboss]

Ordered, pick-up tomorrow. I'll take loads of sassy pics of me posing on the bike for you all, in return for your advice

[mattSV]

Ordered, pick-up tomorrow. I'll take loads of sassy pics of me posing on the bike for you all, in return for your advice

In lycra?

[allantheboss]

I'll try my best to look almost-as-homosexual as Reeder

[Reeder]

I'll try my best to look almost-as-homosexual as Reeder

****.

[Jabba]

OMFG, I just came on here to get consent from some of you pros before I clicked "purchase"!!!

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_27 3257_langId_-1_categoryId_165534#dtab

^^^^I even had the link copied! Wow. 24" frame and £300, 25% off.

Y'all recommend?

Yes. One of my mates has one and it's a lot of bike for the money. Can't go wrong at that price, too :thumbsup:

[mattSV]

Allan - you got it?

Did a cheeky little 25 miler on my Planet X today, chuffin hot and I struggled on the bigger hills - need to start getting some regular miles under my belt...

[allantheboss]

I got it. Did 30 miles, and I feel like crying. My back kills (I have back spasms(arch in lower back isn't as prominent as it should be)) to the extent I don't even want to ride it again. And it's bumpy as hell, Halford gave me the impression it was a hybrid! It's totally more racing than road! Thought I don't doubt it's a great bike, I've had two significant reasons to not use is on my first ever ride. So unhappy, I was in love at first sight.

I'm goign to Halfords tomorrow to ask if it's too late to exchange. :(

[northwind]

There's a lot you can do to a bike to improve comfort... Move bars around, etc. You could also see if there's space to squeeze in a fatter tyre but 28 is a reasonable size already. Check the pressures in the tyres too, they might be pumped up immensely hard (up to a point harder tyres means going faster/less effort, but on bad surfaces that doesn't always apply and it does mean a rougher ride)

But it is a hybrid, and it's really not that racy. It's on the faster end of hybrids mind.

[Luckypants]

chuffin hot and I struggled on the bigger hills - need to start getting some regular miles under my belt...It certainly was yesterday, my mates Garmin had maximum temp of 31C on our ride.

[maviczap]

I got it. Did 30 miles, and I feel like crying. My back kills (I have back spasms(arch in lower back isn't as prominent as it should be)) to the extent I don't even want to ride it again. And it's bumpy as hell, Halford gave me the impression it was a hybrid! It's totally more racing than road! Thought I don't doubt it's a great bike, I've had two significant reasons to not use is on my first ever ride. So unhappy, I was in love at first sight.

I'm goign to Halfords tomorrow to ask if it's too late to exchange. :(

The main reason your back is killing you is because you've used muscles that you haven't used in a long time, and you've done too much too soon.

Your body needs a bit of time to adjust to riding again, plus maybe your position on the bike isn't right, especially if Halfrauds set it up for you.

Were you wearing padded shorts? Another cause of discomfort.

The OEM saddle may also not be suitable for you, we all have our own favourites.

So don't give up after one ride, you need to sort some of these issues out first

[Jabba]

Might be cheaper if your rear mech will take it, to look at a MTB rear cassette, i.e. something in the 11-32 kind of area. Or failing that you'll get away depending on your rear mech with a 28 tooth on the back.

Did the research and my RD6700 Ultegra rear mech with SS cage will handle the CS6700 28-11 Ultegra cassette. Would be daft if it didn't, i suppose! Interestingly (well, to me at least!) the slightly older Ultegra RD6600 can't cope with the 28-11 cassette. According to Shimano, that is ;-)

Fitted the cassette yesterday but haven't tried it/adjusted the mech yet as I decided to change the chain too. Old chain off but new one not yet fitted. Suspect that not much mech adjustment will be needed.

[Jabba]

The OEM saddle may also not be suitable for you, we all have our own favourites.

So don't give up after one ride, you need to sort some of these issues out first

The OEM saddle on my Carrera was way too wide. Changed for a narrower gel one and all was well.

Agree with set up advice - saddle and bar-height are crucial. The Gryphon has an adjustable stem, yes?

[Quiff Wichard]

oi..

I just sold summat on e bay

the man who came to collect turned up in a flash liveried car all white n black all racked up on the top..

turns out he is a pro cyclist..

christian.. or christopher .. House.. very tall black curly hair- good looking very tanned.. bl00dy good job mandy wasnt in !

u know he?

[allantheboss]

There's a lot you can do to a bike to improve comfort... Move bars around
But it is a hybrid, and it's really not that racy. It's on the faster end of hybrids mind.

Halford man says that the bars aren't changeable, they're part of the steering head. He also said it's not a hybrid. If this isn't racy I feel so sorry for the gooches of racing riders! I could feel every tiny little bump in the road

The main reason your back is killing you is because you've used muscles that you haven't used in a long time, and you've done too much too soon.

Your body needs a bit of time to adjust to riding again, plus maybe your position on the bike isn't right, especially if Halfrauds set it up for you.

Were you wearing padded shorts? Another cause of discomfort.

The OEM saddle may also not be suitable for you, we all have our own favourites.

So don't give up after one ride, you need to sort some of these issues out first

I don't think that's right. I'm pretty fit and do a lot of stretching, my back hurts when I do javelin and even sometimes in basketball. Like I said, I've got back spasms; the lumbar of my spine is misshapen, so unless I undergo severe re-constructive surgery there's little chance of it going away. I wasn't at all tired, but had to stop twice just for my back (and I've got a pretty big pain threshold).

Also "riding again"- I've never been a cyclist per say, but I get your point. I will give it another go, I hope it gets better like you say.

The saddle is quite high compared to the bars, I'd say almost 10 inches higher. The bars can't be raised for the same reason as mentioned above.

I do plan on trying a different seat, but I'm sure I can get used to gooch-pains, it's just the lean-over when I'm riding and how it affects my back.

Thanks for your advice guys, I'll keep at it. Very, very much appreciated!

[maviczap]

oi..

I just sold summat on e bay

the man who came to collect turned up in a flash liveried car all white n black all racked up on the top..

turns out he is a pro cyclist..

christian.. or christopher .. House.. very tall black curly hair- good looking very tanned.. bl00dy good job mandy wasnt in !

u know he?

Yep Christian House is a pro cyclist, can't remember which team he cycles for, maybe Rapha Condor.

You gotta sign at your place saying Pro cyclists welcome :p

[maviczap]

Halford man says that the bars aren't changeable, they're part of the steering head. He also said it's not a hybrid. If this isn't racy I feel so sorry for the gooches of racing riders! I could feel every tiny little bump in the road !

Sorry but the Halfords man is talking complete and utter bollox on both counts. I'd ram the handlebar stem straight down his gob for saying this :mad:

Your bike like most new bikes has an Ahead type steering/headbearing set up. You can change the bars and steering stem. You'll be able to get one with a bit of a rise to help, as the standard one looks almost flat. You can change the bars to ones with bends in them to also give you a bit more height.



I don't think that's right. I'm pretty fit and do a lot of stretching, my back hurts when I do javelin and even sometimes in basketball. Like I said, I've got back spasms; the lumbar of my spine is misshapen, so unless I undergo severe re-constructive surgery there's little chance of it going away. I wasn't at all tired, but had to stop twice just for my back (and I've got a pretty big pain threshold).

Also "riding again"- I've never been a cyclist per say, but I get your point. I will give it another go, I hope it gets better like you say.

The saddle is quite high compared to the bars, I'd say almost 10 inches higher. The bars can't be raised for the same reason as mentioned above.

I do plan on trying a different seat, but I'm sure I can get used to gooch-pains, it's just the lean-over when I'm riding and how it affects my back.

Thanks for your advice guys, I'll keep at it. Very, very much appreciated!

You've been using the 2 biggest muscles in your body, which are directly connected to your back, plus as you say you've been in a streteched out position on your bike as well, neither have helped your back.

The difference in the saddle to bar height could be a factor in your discomfort, which may mean that Halfrauds have set the saddle too high.

The formula I use to calculate my saddle height is to multiply my inside leg from crotch to floor in socks by 0.885 so mine is roughly 33cm (I think :)) x 0.885 = 75.5cm

Transfer this measurement from the centre of the crank to the top of the saddle following the line of the seat tube.

I too have a curvature in my spine & legs of different lengths,

[allantheboss]

Turns out that despite I ordered a 60cm (24") frame Gryphon, I was sent a 21.5 inch. I got a refund...

I think I will look for something a bit less bumpy with bigger tyres.

[krhall]

I am getting a few back issues, but I think that is down to upping the mileage a bit (no car or m/bike at the moment)...

My knacker has stopped aching now I have put the seat up a bit, so I think I am getting it right slowly.

Had a tough 25 miler yesterday, mainly because I was really badly hung over and very hot!

Is there any advice that might help with needing to cycle 5 days a week at the moment...

I had a go of my Dad's new CUBE last week, which felt OK, but is far too small for me so I didn't get to see how much difference a proper bike really makes, but when I stood up and stomped through the gears it really moved.

[maviczap]

Turns out that despite I ordered a 60cm (24") frame Gryphon, I was sent a 21.5 inch. I got a refund...

I think I will look for something a bit less bumpy with bigger tyres.

No wonder your back hurt, Halfrauds they just can't get it right, a 2.5 inch difference between what was ordered and what was delivered, amazing.

Whats worse is the mechanic didn'tr spot it during assembly either :confused::confused::confused:

Just goes to show they don't train their staff properly.

At least you got a refund, alls well I hope