Bike me
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- blaw0
my brother-in-law gave me his bike today after wrecking and breaking his arm.
not much by the way of the stuff you've been talking about, but it's the first time i've been on a bicycle in years and i can't believe how much fun i had on it.
as far as exercise goes, it beats the hell out of jogging.
- enfocusmedia0
I think the bike that Piers suggested is probably your best bet. A good flat bar (hybrid) is a good compromise if you want a speedy, non-racer bike to get around.
I ride 15kms (one way) to work and I get by with a low-end hardtail with semi-slicks. If you are dodging traffic, jumping curbs, getting sneaky on the footpath and cutting across trails/parks, i think a hardtail MTB is a choice for you. if you are always on the road, riding less than 20 kms one way, get a hybrid or road bike.
if you really think you are going to get into trail riding, i wouldn't even bother witha hybrid/flatbar, go straight to a hardtail.
In general there is a weight/speed difference b/n a hybrid/flatbar and a hardtail MTB. I often get jealous when passed by members of the lycra brigade but i know that a roadbike/hybrid would get smashed if i took it on my normal route to work.
If work is less than 10kms, any bike will work fine, just get one that is comfy.
IMHO, the whole steel vs aluminium thing is a little played out. Unless you're travelling looong distances, have a sensitive baby butt, then it's really going to bother you. get a comfy saddle, wear some knicks under your shorts and you'll be ok. You live near the sea right? Steel rusts too...
- enfocusmedia0
And I'm not sure how it is in the US in Australia, Trek's and Giants generally give you the best deals for your money.
For your first bike, probs best to go to the local bike shop. Buying second hand in person is a good option too. Buying off eBay should be only for those who are 110% sure of what they want.
If you are riding 3-4 times a week to work, try and get a setup with at least, an Alivio Rear derailleur.