The Cycling Thread

[maviczap]

Any of these bikes that are specc'd for Sportive rides should have sufficient clearance to fit mudguards and this time of year I wouldn't be them, so consider this when making a purchase.

Carbon forks & seatpost might seem a bit OTT, but they do take the buzz out of the road = more comfort + slightly lighter bike

If your bike has clearance for mudguards, then you can fit bigger tyres = more comfort.

But don't expect the plush ride of a Rolls Royce

[Dipper]

+1 for mudguards, even if you don't ride in the rain the roads are often wet this time of year and they'll save your drivetrain from a load of crud.

If you've got stuff to carry you may want to consider whether you want a rack, lots of bikes dont have mounts, some people are happy with a backpack and some prefer the load on the bike.

[maviczap]

Originally Posted by Dipper

+1 for mudguards, even if you don't ride in the rain the roads are often wet this time of year and they'll save your drivetrain from a load of crud.

If you've got stuff to carry you may want to consider whether you want a rack, lots of bikes dont have mounts, some people are happy with a backpack and some prefer the load on the bike.

Another point in favour of a sportive frame, it will usually have rack mounts brazed on the rear triangle.

Tbh I normally carried a rucksack when I was on the SV/ Daytona etc but always had it in the back of my mind the damage caused in an off so may have to look into a rack

[fizzwheel]

I use a rucksack on my commute.

My mobile phone and keys go in it, along with my socks, boxers and T-shirt or work short and thats pretty much it.

Heavy awkward stuff I leave under my desk. i.e. Shoes and Jeans so that I dont have to carry them in and out each day so I keep the weight down thats on my back.

[Dipper]

Originally Posted by fizzwheel

Heavy awkward stuff I leave under my desk. i.e. Shoes and Jeans so that I dont have to carry them in and out each day

Same for me I carry very little, my commute is 11 miles and found that my back would get really sweaty with even a light pack, which I found uncomfortable. As soon as I got the rack I found I was pushing harder on the ride in, enjoying it more and was more comfortable, it really is a matter of preference.

If you're not having a shower when you get to work and just a quick wash - get a rack.

A backpack will make your back sweaty (but I use one as I have a shower at work).

Oh and if anybody would like to join me signing up for the Wild Wales Challenge.

[maviczap]

Originally Posted by Luckypants

I can recommend the Wild Wales sportive though, but it is a bally hard route this year! Luckily for me it is after the trip to the Alps, so maybe the climbs won't feel quite as bad!

Join Mike on it, I can't because I'm working that weekend and I can't book any holiday during the Olympics & Paralympics period.

Originally Posted by maviczap

Join Mike on it, I can't because I'm working that weekend and I can't book any holiday during the Olympics & Paralympics period.

That's a shame. It looks like an epic ride and as a major hill sufferer I'm looking forward to the challenge.