Bicycle Guys! (3 Viewers)

[Sand]

My commuter bike was stolen a couple weeks ago.

Damn bike thieves.

 

[3C's]

My commuter bike was stolen a couple weeks ago.

Damn bike thieves.

Sometimes I lock my bike to the carrier and then I remember I only paid $150 for it years ago so they can have it if they want it that bad. (I'd be pretty pissed though)

 

[CletiusMaximus]

My commuter bike was stolen a couple weeks ago.

Damn bike thieves.

I don't want to relive all the details as to how it happened but will say I'm deep into my 50s and nearly cried that night. The level to which it affected me was surprising. But I'm past it now.

 

[Sand]

My commuter bike was stolen a couple weeks ago.

Damn bike thieves.

I don't want to relive all the details as to how it happened but will say I'm deep into my 50s and nearly cried that night. The level to which it affected me was surprising. But I'm past it now.

I'd be totally devastated if my road bike was taken. That bike is either locked inside my house, locked inside my car, or being ridden.

On a happier subject I've built up a new gravel/all road bike. 9.05kg with middle of the road components - GRX 600 2x, HED emporia wheels, Redshift stem, 4iii power meter. It has room for 2.1" tires, though right now I have 32mm GP5000s mounted on there. Stem spacers will get removed and the bars will come down, but I was paranoid about cutting too much to start. For now it's serviceable and rides just fine. Pic 1, Pic 2, Pic 3.

 

[Jaysus]

you can get this one for $600 with the $100 coupon for signing up for the newsletter https://www.poseidonbike.com/products/x-ambition-flatbar?variant=44113675223268

This still a solid cheaper first bike option?

I can get it for about $500

I'd be riding mostly around the neighborhood

That would be great for cruising around the hood, you could leave it as is and get a bit rowdy with it, or you could put a but of a rise on the bar to make it cozy

 

[the moops]

The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

I guess that depends on what you think of Microshift. The Giant has middle of the road, closer to entry level, Shimano Deore components. And some (maybe all?) of them are 10 years old. The Poseidon has top level AdventX.

Either bike will be great, just depend son whether you may want to hop on some mountain trails at some point or whether you want a newer bike with new components

 

[matttyl]

Never thought I’d do it, but finally took the e-bike plunge. Not for myself, but for my wife - got her a Trek fuel Exe. From a distance you can’t tell that it’s an e-bike at all (you don’t see too many full suspension e-mountain bikes anyway). She loves it, can fully keep up with me and our 9 year old now. Would recommend for totally family harmony on group trail rides.

 

[3C's]

The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

I guess that depends on what you think of Microshift. The Giant has middle of the road, closer to entry level, Shimano Deore components. And some (maybe all?) of them are 10 years old. The Poseidon has top level AdventX.

Either bike will be great, just depend son whether you may want to hop on some mountain trails at some point or whether you want a newer bike with new components

Inquired about a local Norco gravel bike today but yeah, maybe I should probably rethink things. Going from my tug boat of a bike (33lb) that I bought for $150 to about anything would be an upgrade. It doesn't shift well, its heavy, tires are almost bald, it wears me out which isn't necessarily bad but I would like to ride farther more comfortably and faster. Maybe after hip surgery I will find a drop bar more comfortable, dunno. For now flat bar it is though. The Triton sure looks interesting though (but not sure about slick tires ETA: seems no problem). https://www.poseidonbike.com/products/poseidon-triton?variant=43904640286948

 

[belljr]

So I know this is a no name blah blah blah but I picked this up at a local bike shop for $400 It's still probably too much money but whatever

I tried a bunch of different ones and the guy was super cool with advice. He let me ride them around the parking lot
For my neighborhood rides light trail, maybe. He talked through a bunch of options but I ended up with this nonamer -

Head Bike USA UR Fast Nexus 7 Urban Bike 700c

Highlights Frame/Fork: Aluminum frame and fork Tires/Wheels: Kenda 700x32c, aluminum double wall wheels (max 40c) Drivetrain: Shimano Nexus 7 speed, Gates Carbon Drive Brakes: Hydraulic disc...

www.tuckahoebikeshop.com

The belt drive was pretty sweet imo. Needs new pedals for sure

 

[beer 30]

The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

I guess that depends on what you think of Microshift. The Giant has middle of the road, closer to entry level, Shimano Deore components. And some (maybe all?) of them are 10 years old. The Poseidon has top level AdventX.

Either bike will be great, just depend son whether you may want to hop on some mountain trails at some point or whether you want a newer bike with new components

Inquired about a local Norco gravel bike today but yeah, maybe I should probably rethink things. Going from my tug boat of a bike (33lb) that I bought for $150 to about anything would be an upgrade. It doesn't shift well, its heavy, tires are almost bald, it wears me out which isn't necessarily bad but I would like to ride farther more comfortably and faster. Maybe after hip surgery I will find a drop bar more comfortable, dunno. For now flat bar it is though. The Triton sure looks interesting though (but not sure about slick tires ETA: seems no problem). https://www.poseidonbike.com/products/poseidon-triton?variant=43904640286948

Pretty sure that's what bike I have on my trainer, the Poseidon. It was around $700 when I bought it new a few years ago. Solid enough bike, hate the saddle but too lazy to figure out what I need to replace it. Look at the tire clearance size and get whatever the biggest you can fit on it with some treads if you want it as a sort of a hybrid. I thought about turning mine into a gravel bike but it won't fit the tires I want to put on it.

I'll say this, I have a Trek Hybrid something with a flat bar. Great bike and was my first when I started down the bike path. Rode the **** out of it but didn't realize how bad it was hurting my wrists and hands until I got a road bike with a drop bar. Makes a huge difference if you're riding more than 20 minutes or so.

 

[belljr]

Does anyone have a recommendation for one of those stand that let you pedal inside (make it like an exercise bike) - my plan is in the winter to just pedal in the basement or garage. Don't want to break the bank but amazon is all over the map

 

[Jaysus]

Needs new pedals for sure

I do not have them, but people seem to love the Race Face Chester pedal. Should be able to find them in the $25 range in a bunch of fun colors.

 

[beer 30]

Does anyone have a recommendation for one of those stand that let you pedal inside (make it like an exercise bike) - my plan is in the winter to just pedal in the basement or garage. Don't want to break the bank but amazon is all over the map

This is what I have so probably not a good advisor for what you are looking for

For what you want to do, you need to decide if you want to go cheap (wheel on) or mid range (wheel off). If you just want to pedal, a magnetic wheel on unit is probably ok. If you're going to put hundreds of miles on it, I'd consider going with a wheel off mid range unit. You're looking at $100ish for cheap, $400-$500 for mid range. You can get into smart trainers for $700 that are more than adequate for the casual rider if that's in the budget but you're getting pretty pricy when you start talking "smart" technology.

▷9 Best Bike Trainers from Low to High-End (2024)

Wheel-on, direct-drive, budget, or premium, I cover them all.

www.cyclistshub.com

 

[belljr]

Yeah I have my bad back and I'm just trying to get back into exercising more and I enjoy riding the bike so I probably would only be doing like a half hour clips at a time in the garage. So definitely I'm not going to be doing thousands and thousands of miles but I appreciate it

 

[matttyl]

The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

I guess that depends on what you think of Microshift. The Giant has middle of the road, closer to entry level, Shimano Deore components. And some (maybe all?) of them are 10 years old. The Poseidon has top level AdventX.

Either bike will be great, just depend son whether you may want to hop on some mountain trails at some point or whether you want a newer bike with new components

Inquired about a local Norco gravel bike today but yeah, maybe I should probably rethink things. Going from my tug boat of a bike (33lb) that I bought for $150 to about anything would be an upgrade. It doesn't shift well, its heavy, tires are almost bald, it wears me out which isn't necessarily bad but I would like to ride farther more comfortably and faster. Maybe after hip surgery I will find a drop bar more comfortable, dunno. For now flat bar it is though. The Triton sure looks interesting though (but not sure about slick tires ETA: seems no problem). https://www.poseidonbike.com/products/poseidon-triton?variant=43904640286948

Pretty sure that's what bike I have on my trainer, the Poseidon. It was around $700 when I bought it new a few years ago. Solid enough bike, hate the saddle but too lazy to figure out what I need to replace it. Look at the tire clearance size and get whatever the biggest you can fit on it with some treads if you want it as a sort of a hybrid. I thought about turning mine into a gravel bike but it won't fit the tires I want to put on it.

I'll say this, I have a Trek Hybrid something with a flat bar. Great bike and was my first when I started down the bike path. Rode the **** out of it but didn't realize how bad it was hurting my wrists and hands until I got a road bike with a drop bar. Makes a huge difference if you're riding more than 20 minutes or so.

Get a basic bike fitting done. Most local shops can do a very basic one for little or no cost. My wife and I had a professional one done (with lasers) a few years back and it made a world of difference on my wrists, neck, shoulders and lower back.

 

[3C's]

The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

I guess that depends on what you think of Microshift. The Giant has middle of the road, closer to entry level, Shimano Deore components. And some (maybe all?) of them are 10 years old. The Poseidon has top level AdventX.

Either bike will be great, just depend son whether you may want to hop on some mountain trails at some point or whether you want a newer bike with new components

Inquired about a local Norco gravel bike today but yeah, maybe I should probably rethink things. Going from my tug boat of a bike (33lb) that I bought for $150 to about anything would be an upgrade. It doesn't shift well, its heavy, tires are almost bald, it wears me out which isn't necessarily bad but I would like to ride farther more comfortably and faster. Maybe after hip surgery I will find a drop bar more comfortable, dunno. For now flat bar it is though. The Triton sure looks interesting though (but not sure about slick tires ETA: seems no problem). https://www.poseidonbike.com/products/poseidon-triton?variant=43904640286948

Pretty sure that's what bike I have on my trainer, the Poseidon. It was around $700 when I bought it new a few years ago. Solid enough bike, hate the saddle but too lazy to figure out what I need to replace it. Look at the tire clearance size and get whatever the biggest you can fit on it with some treads if you want it as a sort of a hybrid. I thought about turning mine into a gravel bike but it won't fit the tires I want to put on it.

I'll say this, I have a Trek Hybrid something with a flat bar. Great bike and was my first when I started down the bike path. Rode the **** out of it but didn't realize how bad it was hurting my wrists and hands until I got a road bike with a drop bar. Makes a huge difference if you're riding more than 20 minutes or so.

I have a couple of saddles, including the supposed "king" of saddles, Brooks. Butt hurts after a while with any of them. The flat bar doesn't "hurt" my hands/wrist but sometimes I do have some numbness. Drop bar is out at least until my torn up hip is replaced since I can't get in a more "aerodynamic" bend.

 

[matttyl]

Does anyone have a recommendation for one of those stand that let you pedal inside (make it like an exercise bike) - my plan is in the winter to just pedal in the basement or garage. Don't want to break the bank but amazon is all over the map

As mentioned above the first thing to consider is if you want a wheel on or wheel off trainer. I’ve had both. Wheel one was easier to switch between bikes and such, but not as accurate and EATS UP TIRES (get a specific trainer tire if you go this route). A wheel off trainer is more expensive, but a much smoother ride and much more accurate with its metrics. I have a Saris H3 trainer in my basement that my wife and I can both use for Zwift.

 

[the moops]

Does anyone have a recommendation for one of those stand that let you pedal inside (make it like an exercise bike) - my plan is in the winter to just pedal in the basement or garage. Don't want to break the bank but amazon is all over the map

As mentioned above the first thing to consider is if you want a wheel on or wheel off trainer. I’ve had both. Wheel one was easier to switch between bikes and such, but not as accurate and EATS UP TIRES (get a specific trainer tire if you go this route). A wheel off trainer is more expensive, but a much smoother ride and much more accurate with its metrics. I have a Saris H3 trainer in my basement that my wife and I can both use for Zwift.

Also - there are thousands like me that during covid thought we would use our indoor trainer extensively only to realize that being outside riding is the enjoyable part of biking. So there should still be a decent used market for something like the Saris or similar

 

[3C's]

I bought a cheap (really cheap) Lemond Revmaster for the indoor/bad weather riding. Suits the need.

 

[Dickies]

Thinking about buying one of these, listed on CL. https://www.bikeroar.com/products/giant/xtc-advanced-27-5-3-2014/specs

I don't really "need" a mountain bike since most/almost all of my riding will be on paved trails but there is the occasional gravel path, wooden bridges on one trail that are really rough (front shock helps there), and wooden bridges on another that are really slick if there's the slightest bit of moisture (1 crash there). And there's always the very slight chance I'll hit off road trails again. Current bike is a heavy hybrid, 32/33 lb Fuji traverse. Can't find details on how much the Giant weighs, seen everything from 19-27 lbs, but it would surely be less than the Fuji (hoping it's closer to the 19lb 1 person said) and I'm looking for a lighter bike with flatbar. A road bike would fit my needs/desires (need for speed) mostly but I 1) don't think I want a drop bar and 2) think the skinny tires could be a problem. Should I buy that bike?

How much money?
I wouldn't get a dedicated mountain bike if it was just an occasional gravel path. And while the front suspension will help, I would lean away from that too just for cost and weight savings. Something like the Poseidon bike listed above would be a good choice IMO

Listed at $900 which is pretty good for that bike. Current bike, while not MB, is a hybrid so pretty similar (front shocks). Thinking this one will weigh quite a bit less though. The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

But yeah, I've been passing over MB for sure due to weight. This one kind of grabbed my attention though. And I think I want to avoid skinny little road bike tires. Which leads to "gravel" bikes. Also, no drop bars...but maybe that'll change after surgery.

Screenshot

FYI, the bike in the picture has skinny road bike tires.

 

[3C's]

Thinking about buying one of these, listed on CL. https://www.bikeroar.com/products/giant/xtc-advanced-27-5-3-2014/specs

I don't really "need" a mountain bike since most/almost all of my riding will be on paved trails but there is the occasional gravel path, wooden bridges on one trail that are really rough (front shock helps there), and wooden bridges on another that are really slick if there's the slightest bit of moisture (1 crash there). And there's always the very slight chance I'll hit off road trails again. Current bike is a heavy hybrid, 32/33 lb Fuji traverse. Can't find details on how much the Giant weighs, seen everything from 19-27 lbs, but it would surely be less than the Fuji (hoping it's closer to the 19lb 1 person said) and I'm looking for a lighter bike with flatbar. A road bike would fit my needs/desires (need for speed) mostly but I 1) don't think I want a drop bar and 2) think the skinny tires could be a problem. Should I buy that bike?

How much money?
I wouldn't get a dedicated mountain bike if it was just an occasional gravel path. And while the front suspension will help, I would lean away from that too just for cost and weight savings. Something like the Poseidon bike listed above would be a good choice IMO

Listed at $900 which is pretty good for that bike. Current bike, while not MB, is a hybrid so pretty similar (front shocks). Thinking this one will weigh quite a bit less though. The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

But yeah, I've been passing over MB for sure due to weight. This one kind of grabbed my attention though. And I think I want to avoid skinny little road bike tires. Which leads to "gravel" bikes. Also, no drop bars...but maybe that'll change after surgery.

Screenshot

FYI, the bike in the picture has skinny road bike tires.

Skinny like this. https://qph.cf2.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-218c46c7502945178b1364f6da85bef2.webp

 

[dgreen]

Finally got into regular rides after buying a bike probably about 10 years ago. I've been doing 2-3 rides per week at around 10-12 miles per ride. I work from home and usually do them during my lunch break. Ride about half way and take a little break and then head back home. The first two times I went about 10 miles, my legs were total jello. I literally thought I was going to fall walking up the stairs to take a shower when I got back. It's definitely a lot easier now and I should probably look into longer rides soon (I went about 14 miles this past weekend). Also after those first rides, my butt was really sore so I've purchased some bike shorts. I think I might do some gloves soon and, who knows, maybe some day I'll do bike shoes.

The main problem is I don't have any great trails near my house. I have one route that I like (actually, I like the destination more than the route) but it gets old. I have a bike rack that attaches to a hitch that I used a couple times years ago on my old Pilot, but we got rid of that last year. I just have an Accord right now. I want to look into ways to get my bike to more interesting locations. My wife and I were walking in DC recently and we were talking about how nice it would be to bike there.

I have even done some minor repairs! I changed out a tire tube and adjusted the front brakes on a bike. The brakes aren't perfect, but they work after not working at all before. I have one bike that isn't catching the gear when switching from 2nd to 1st on the bigger front gear, so I'm going to look into how to fixt that. It's kind of fun working on them.

 

[Dickies]

The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

I guess that depends on what you think of Microshift. The Giant has middle of the road, closer to entry level, Shimano Deore components. And some (maybe all?) of them are 10 years old. The Poseidon has top level AdventX.

Either bike will be great, just depend son whether you may want to hop on some mountain trails at some point or whether you want a newer bike with new components

My brother has the Poseidon X flatbar version. The Microshift drivetrain is very much on par with Shimano Deore or SRAM Eagle in how it shifts. He doesn't ride as much as me, so I have no idea if it falls out of adjustment easier or more often, but when I've ridden his bike the shifting is crisp. Where I have issues with his Poseidon are the brakes (absolute trash) and the saddle is the most uncomfortable saddle I've ever sat on. Even with quality padded shorts it was intolerable.

@3C's I probably push this bike a lot because I own one, but I absolutely love it and feel like it checks a lot of boxes for those of you looking for a casual bike that can hit pavement and the occasional gravel trail. Look into the Kona Dew. I have the Dew Deluxe and the 1x drivetrain is fantastic, the brakes work well, but it's really the wide tire clearance and the tires they equip on the bike that set it off. They roll fast on pavement, can handle gravel and off-road riding, and due to the volume they eat up all of the road vibrations and bumps better than any suspension fork you'll find on low end hybrid bikes without the sacrifice to pedaling efficiency that those forks often carry.

 

[Dickies]

Thinking about buying one of these, listed on CL. https://www.bikeroar.com/products/giant/xtc-advanced-27-5-3-2014/specs

I don't really "need" a mountain bike since most/almost all of my riding will be on paved trails but there is the occasional gravel path, wooden bridges on one trail that are really rough (front shock helps there), and wooden bridges on another that are really slick if there's the slightest bit of moisture (1 crash there). And there's always the very slight chance I'll hit off road trails again. Current bike is a heavy hybrid, 32/33 lb Fuji traverse. Can't find details on how much the Giant weighs, seen everything from 19-27 lbs, but it would surely be less than the Fuji (hoping it's closer to the 19lb 1 person said) and I'm looking for a lighter bike with flatbar. A road bike would fit my needs/desires (need for speed) mostly but I 1) don't think I want a drop bar and 2) think the skinny tires could be a problem. Should I buy that bike?

How much money?
I wouldn't get a dedicated mountain bike if it was just an occasional gravel path. And while the front suspension will help, I would lean away from that too just for cost and weight savings. Something like the Poseidon bike listed above would be a good choice IMO

Listed at $900 which is pretty good for that bike. Current bike, while not MB, is a hybrid so pretty similar (front shocks). Thinking this one will weigh quite a bit less though. The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

But yeah, I've been passing over MB for sure due to weight. This one kind of grabbed my attention though. And I think I want to avoid skinny little road bike tires. Which leads to "gravel" bikes. Also, no drop bars...but maybe that'll change after surgery.

Screenshot

FYI, the bike in the picture has skinny road bike tires.

Skinny like this. https://qph.cf2.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-218c46c7502945178b1364f6da85bef2.webp

Nevermind, I'm an idiot, the 27.5" version is actually just shy of 2" wide, so they aren't super skinny like the 29" tires.

 

[beer 30]

Get a basic bike fitting done. Most local shops can do a very basic one for little or no cost. My wife and I had a professional one done (with lasers) a few years back and it made a world of difference on my wrists, neck, shoulders and lower back.

Ha! I know what I need to do, I'm just too lazy to do it. And I hate taking it off the trainer. I have a Trek Domane that I've rode ultra's with and never had any kind of pain from the saddle. It's like sitting a recliner. Problem is that saddle doesn't work on the Poseidon, at least the post doesn't. Not sure if I can just pull the saddle off and swap it but again, that lazy thing. I don't usually ride for more than an hour or so which is when it really starts getting to me so it works. Maybe someday...

As mentioned above the first thing to consider is if you want a wheel on or wheel off trainer. I’ve had both. Wheel one was easier to switch between bikes and such, but not as accurate and EATS UP TIRES (get a specific trainer tire if you go this route). A wheel off trainer is more expensive, but a much smoother ride and much more accurate with its metrics. I have a Saris H3 trainer in my basement that my wife and I can both use for Zwift.

Yea forgot to mention that. I've never owned a wheel on trainer but the knock is always they kill tires. Gotta get a trainer tire if anyone goes that way.

Also - there are thousands like me that during covid thought we would use our indoor trainer extensively only to realize that being outside riding is the enjoyable part of biking. So there should still be a decent used market for something like the Saris or similar

Yea man I love riding outside but I just can't around here anymore. There is so much traffic it's just not worth it and to get out into the areas were there isn't traffic, it's loading everything up and heading south about 30-40 min to get in the sticks. Last time I was on the road was this time last year. Been riding Zwift since, turning into a ***** in my old age.

 

[matttyl]

Finally got into regular rides after buying a bike probably about 10 years ago. I've been doing 2-3 rides per week at around 10-12 miles per ride. I work from home and usually do them during my lunch break. Ride about half way and take a little break and then head back home. The first two times I went about 10 miles, my legs were total jello. I literally thought I was going to fall walking up the stairs to take a shower when I got back. It's definitely a lot easier now and I should probably look into longer rides soon (I went about 14 miles this past weekend). Also after those first rides, my butt was really sore so I've purchased some bike shorts. I think I might do some gloves soon and, who knows, maybe some day I'll do bike shoes.

The main problem is I don't have any great trails near my house. I have one route that I like (actually, I like the destination more than the route) but it gets old. I have a bike rack that attaches to a hitch that I used a couple times years ago on my old Pilot, but we got rid of that last year. I just have an Accord right now. I want to look into ways to get my bike to more interesting locations. My wife and I were walking in DC recently and we were talking about how nice it would be to bike there.

I have even done some minor repairs! I changed out a tire tube and adjusted the front brakes on a bike. The brakes aren't perfect, but they work after not working at all before. I have one bike that isn't catching the gear when switching from 2nd to 1st on the bigger front gear, so I'm going to look into how to fixt that. It's kind of fun working on them.

You’re in NoVa, right? Lots of great mtb trails in our area, hit me up for some specific suggestions.

 

[dgreen]

Finally got into regular rides after buying a bike probably about 10 years ago. I've been doing 2-3 rides per week at around 10-12 miles per ride. I work from home and usually do them during my lunch break. Ride about half way and take a little break and then head back home. The first two times I went about 10 miles, my legs were total jello. I literally thought I was going to fall walking up the stairs to take a shower when I got back. It's definitely a lot easier now and I should probably look into longer rides soon (I went about 14 miles this past weekend). Also after those first rides, my butt was really sore so I've purchased some bike shorts. I think I might do some gloves soon and, who knows, maybe some day I'll do bike shoes.

The main problem is I don't have any great trails near my house. I have one route that I like (actually, I like the destination more than the route) but it gets old. I have a bike rack that attaches to a hitch that I used a couple times years ago on my old Pilot, but we got rid of that last year. I just have an Accord right now. I want to look into ways to get my bike to more interesting locations. My wife and I were walking in DC recently and we were talking about how nice it would be to bike there.

I have even done some minor repairs! I changed out a tire tube and adjusted the front brakes on a bike. The brakes aren't perfect, but they work after not working at all before. I have one bike that isn't catching the gear when switching from 2nd to 1st on the bigger front gear, so I'm going to look into how to fixt that. It's kind of fun working on them.

You’re in NoVa, right? Lots of great mtb trails in our area, hit me up for some specific suggestions.

Yeah, I'm familiar with there being good trails (although, I don't mtb - I have a hybrid), they just aren't easily accessible to me without having to drive my bike to the trails.

 

[3C's]

Thinking about buying one of these, listed on CL. https://www.bikeroar.com/products/giant/xtc-advanced-27-5-3-2014/specs

I don't really "need" a mountain bike since most/almost all of my riding will be on paved trails but there is the occasional gravel path, wooden bridges on one trail that are really rough (front shock helps there), and wooden bridges on another that are really slick if there's the slightest bit of moisture (1 crash there). And there's always the very slight chance I'll hit off road trails again. Current bike is a heavy hybrid, 32/33 lb Fuji traverse. Can't find details on how much the Giant weighs, seen everything from 19-27 lbs, but it would surely be less than the Fuji (hoping it's closer to the 19lb 1 person said) and I'm looking for a lighter bike with flatbar. A road bike would fit my needs/desires (need for speed) mostly but I 1) don't think I want a drop bar and 2) think the skinny tires could be a problem. Should I buy that bike?

How much money?
I wouldn't get a dedicated mountain bike if it was just an occasional gravel path. And while the front suspension will help, I would lean away from that too just for cost and weight savings. Something like the Poseidon bike listed above would be a good choice IMO

Listed at $900 which is pretty good for that bike. Current bike, while not MB, is a hybrid so pretty similar (front shocks). Thinking this one will weigh quite a bit less though. The quality of parts on this bike is much> than the Poseidon IMO.

But yeah, I've been passing over MB for sure due to weight. This one kind of grabbed my attention though. And I think I want to avoid skinny little road bike tires. Which leads to "gravel" bikes. Also, no drop bars...but maybe that'll change after surgery.

Screenshot

FYI, the bike in the picture has skinny road bike tires.

Skinny like this. https://qph.cf2.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-218c46c7502945178b1364f6da85bef2.webp

Nevermind, I'm an idiot, the 27.5" version is actually just shy of 2" wide, so they aren't super skinny like the 29" tires.

Yeah, current bike is 700x38 (28x1.75 ish) so that's what I'm used to.

 

[3C's]

For sake of info, I'm "near" (15 min) the trail I usually ride on (Capital Trail), don't really hit the actual streets anymore since people are idiots. I usually ride 1-2 hours, 15 miles is a "short" ride and 30 is a good ride (by then my butt has had enough). At the end of the rainbow ride is a brewery and on Wednesdays if I get a ride in I get a beer. Being that it's Wednesday and the weather is perfect, I'm outta here.

 

[3C's]

For sake of info, I'm "near" (15 min) the trail I usually ride on (Capital Trail), don't really hit the actual streets anymore since people are idiots. I usually ride 1-2 hours, 15 miles is a "short" ride and 30 is a good ride (by then my butt has had enough). At the end of the rainbow ride is a brewery and on Wednesdays if I get a ride in I get a beer. Being that it's Wednesday and the weather is perfect, I'm outta here.

Did 20 miles, which is my minimum to allow myself a beer.

But I didn't get a beer.

 

[Fat Nick]

I had luck posting here a bit ago for recommendations for my son's new bike (Thanks again @the moops for the Diamondback recommendation). Now I'm looking for something for my daughter - She's 7 and good at handling her current bike, but it's small and looking for something a little bigger than her starter bike. I don't need gears or anything fancy, and really just want something that will get her through the next few years until she gets a more serious bike.

Any thoughts on what to avoid or focus on?

 

[Sand]

I had luck posting here a bit ago for recommendations for my son's new bike (Thanks again @the moops for the Diamondback recommendation). Now I'm looking for something for my daughter - She's 7 and good at handling her current bike, but it's small and looking for something a little bigger than her starter bike. I don't need gears or anything fancy, and really just want something that will get her through the next few years until she gets a more serious bike.

Any thoughts on what to avoid or focus on?

You need to figure out sizing - maybe 20" or 24". The cheap bikes in this range can be boat anchor heavy, so budget is another consideration. There is light stuff like Woom Off Air ($600) or cheaper as they get heavier. My youngest is now 6' tall, so I'm a bit removed from being able to help from any experience...

 

[Sand]

On another note I am pretty excited for Christmas this year. Santa is getting me a Wheeltop electronic groupset for my S5. This is an old bike, so rim brakes. Shimano and SRAM are so hellbent on only making disc brake stuff that nothing modern is made for old bikes. They do make rim brake groupsets, but if memory serves it's only older Ultegra and Force level stuff and usually comes with mandatory crankset, etc. - i.e. super expensive. I (ahem... Santa) bought it on Aliexpress during the 11-11 sale and got it for $375. Shifters and derailleurs. The system is tunable from 3-14 gears, so also snagged an 11-34 12 speed cassette to go with it. My current mechanical 10 speed setup sucks - drags, ghost shifts, etc. Bike shop (who are very, very good) and I couldn't get it terribly smooth. So upgrade it is.

So after Christmas a bit of bike surgery to replace the chainrings, cassette, shifters, handlebar, and derailleurs is in the plans.

 

[Jaysus]

Does anybody have thoughts or comments about Jamis bikes? I'm really interested in the new Renegade S2.

UPDATE: I picked up the new New Renegade last week

Now I have to sell my old bike - I am not looking forward to that.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

After a couple weeks of bitter cold up here in the upper midwest it was 42 this morning when I was getting dressed for work, so I pivoted and got in what will likely be my last day of bike commuting to work until Spring. Great to get a December commute in. It used to be the norm but I'm older now and not as eager to face the cold in the morning or the ride home in total darkness.

 

[Fat Nick]

I had luck posting here a bit ago for recommendations for my son's new bike (Thanks again @the moops for the Diamondback recommendation). Now I'm looking for something for my daughter - She's 7 and good at handling her current bike, but it's small and looking for something a little bigger than her starter bike. I don't need gears or anything fancy, and really just want something that will get her through the next few years until she gets a more serious bike.

Any thoughts on what to avoid or focus on?

You need to figure out sizing - maybe 20" or 24". The cheap bikes in this range can be boat anchor heavy, so budget is another consideration. There is light stuff like Woom Off Air ($600) or cheaper as they get heavier. My youngest is now 6' tall, so I'm a bit removed from being able to help from any experience...

I landed on 20" for size - I found a Specialized Jett 20 single-speed that seems decent. It's $199 on sale. I saw the Woom Off Air - and weight was a concern, but I'm not paying $600 for a bike she'll outgrow in a few years.

I struggle because it's been 20 years since I bought a bike for myself, and there are so many brands now - I don't know what's legit vs. a Temu bike. I figured Specialized was a known name, and it should at least be decent, and it was on clearance.

 

[Sand]

After a couple weeks of bitter cold up here in the upper midwest it was 42 this morning when I was getting dressed for work, so I pivoted and got in what will likely be my last day of bike commuting to work until Spring. Great to get a December commute in. It used to be the norm but I'm older now and not as eager to face the cold in the morning or the ride home in total darkness.

I'll start in the 40s, but 42 is pushing the willpower to get out the front door. I finished a ride last week at about 45 degrees and really regretted forgetting toe covers.

 

[the moops]

I had luck posting here a bit ago for recommendations for my son's new bike (Thanks again @the moops for the Diamondback recommendation). Now I'm looking for something for my daughter - She's 7 and good at handling her current bike, but it's small and looking for something a little bigger than her starter bike. I don't need gears or anything fancy, and really just want something that will get her through the next few years until she gets a more serious bike.

Any thoughts on what to avoid or focus on?

You need to figure out sizing - maybe 20" or 24". The cheap bikes in this range can be boat anchor heavy, so budget is another consideration. There is light stuff like Woom Off Air ($600) or cheaper as they get heavier. My youngest is now 6' tall, so I'm a bit removed from being able to help from any experience...

I landed on 20" for size - I found a Specialized Jett 20 single-speed that seems decent. It's $199 on sale. I saw the Woom Off Air - and weight was a concern, but I'm not paying $600 for a bike she'll outgrow in a few years.

I may have mentioned this but kids bikes really hold their value. They generally do not get ridden as much as parents and kids think they will, and they outgrow them so fast that there isn't even time for them to get too beat up. Good chance that $600 bike is worth at least $450 in a few years

 

[Dickies]

I had luck posting here a bit ago for recommendations for my son's new bike (Thanks again @the moops for the Diamondback recommendation). Now I'm looking for something for my daughter - She's 7 and good at handling her current bike, but it's small and looking for something a little bigger than her starter bike. I don't need gears or anything fancy, and really just want something that will get her through the next few years until she gets a more serious bike.

Any thoughts on what to avoid or focus on?

You need to figure out sizing - maybe 20" or 24". The cheap bikes in this range can be boat anchor heavy, so budget is another consideration. There is light stuff like Woom Off Air ($600) or cheaper as they get heavier. My youngest is now 6' tall, so I'm a bit removed from being able to help from any experience...

I landed on 20" for size - I found a Specialized Jett 20 single-speed that seems decent. It's $199 on sale. I saw the Woom Off Air - and weight was a concern, but I'm not paying $600 for a bike she'll outgrow in a few years.

I may have mentioned this but kids bikes really hold their value. They generally do not get ridden as much as parents and kids think they will, and they outgrow them so fast that there isn't even time for them to get too beat up. Good chance that $600 bike is worth at least $450 in a few years

I really recommend buying kids' bikes used as they outgrow them so fast and they don't weigh enough to really beat the bikes up like an adult can.

Woom is a good option, and around me there are a number of them on FB marketplace for $200-250. They are known for being light weight, which is important on kids' bikes as the rider to bike weight ratio is wildly different compared to adults, and even then shaving a few pounds off of a bike feels noticeable.

That Specialized Jett looks like a pretty solid choice as it appears to have a lower stand-over height and it looks like it has a lighter weight, less beefy frame than a lot of other kids' bikes.

Cleary makes higher quality bikes with steel frames, which are still lighter than all of your major brands like Specialized and Trek, but tend to have higher end components and are known for holding up well.

 

[Tick]

I’m trying to lose some weight and hit the trainer hard this winter - goal is to hit the spring running and ride the Dragon trail - 45 mile single track loop. https://www.thedragon.us/the-dragon-trail/trail-map/

 

[Gatorade]

Looks like a nice ride Tick. Those days are over for me. Now I only ride my beach cruiser to the beach or around the neighborhood.

 

[Sand]

I’m trying to lose some weight and hit the trainer hard this winter - goal is to hit the spring running and ride the Dragon trail - 45 mile single track loop. https://www.thedragon.us/the-dragon-trail/trail-map/

How hilly is that? Could be flat or brutal - I know nothing about middle Michigan.

 

[3C's]

After a couple weeks of bitter cold up here in the upper midwest it was 42 this morning when I was getting dressed for work, so I pivoted and got in what will likely be my last day of bike commuting to work until Spring. Great to get a December commute in. It used to be the norm but I'm older now and not as eager to face the cold in the morning or the ride home in total darkness.

I'll start in the 40s, but 42 is pushing the willpower to get out the front door. I finished a ride last week at about 45 degrees and really regretted forgetting toe covers.

I hadn't ridden in weather below 60 until a month ago but I always ride in shorts and a T-shirt. I now have gear to ride in colder weather so I did a ride in the lower 50s and it was good. I'll probably ride into the 40s also but definitely not below that. And even in the lower 50s I needed more on the feet than socks and very breathable running shoes so I bought toe covers.

 

[Tick]

I’m trying to lose some weight and hit the trainer hard this winter - goal is to hit the spring running and ride the Dragon trail - 45 mile single track loop. https://www.thedragon.us/the-dragon-trail/trail-map/

How hilly is that? Could be flat or brutal - I know nothing about middle Michigan.

I rode 5 miles out then back a couple of years ago in one section and it was hilly enough - lots of gorges in that section to drop down and climb back up.

I can find an elevation profile for a 38 mile section of it, it's mostly 100 foot climbs over and over again.

It's been about a decade since I last rode 25 miles of single track in a day. We'll see how the trainer goes, I might end up dropping a car at a camp site and making it 2 days... but I'm hoping to feel up to the whole thing in a day.

 

[Jaysus]

I’m trying to lose some weight and hit the trainer hard this winter - goal is to hit the spring running and ride the Dragon trail - 45 mile single track loop. https://www.thedragon.us/the-dragon-trail/trail-map/

How hilly is that? Could be flat or brutal - I know nothing about middle Michigan.

Elevation looks pretty minimal for that distance.

The Dragon

41.7 mi, +1488 ft. Bike ride in Big Prairie, MI

ridewithgps.com

 

[Dickies]

I’m trying to lose some weight and hit the trainer hard this winter - goal is to hit the spring running and ride the Dragon trail - 45 mile single track loop. https://www.thedragon.us/the-dragon-trail/trail-map/

How hilly is that? Could be flat or brutal - I know nothing about middle Michigan.

Elevation looks pretty minimal for that distance.

The Dragon

41.7 mi, +1488 ft. Bike ride in Big Prairie, MI

ridewithgps.com

Yea, that seems pretty mild. I can’t ride 10 miles of single track out here without doing that much elevation.

 

[matttyl]

I had luck posting here a bit ago for recommendations for my son's new bike (Thanks again @the moops for the Diamondback recommendation). Now I'm looking for something for my daughter - She's 7 and good at handling her current bike, but it's small and looking for something a little bigger than her starter bike. I don't need gears or anything fancy, and really just want something that will get her through the next few years until she gets a more serious bike.

Any thoughts on what to avoid or focus on?

You need to figure out sizing - maybe 20" or 24". The cheap bikes in this range can be boat anchor heavy, so budget is another consideration. There is light stuff like Woom Off Air ($600) or cheaper as they get heavier. My youngest is now 6' tall, so I'm a bit removed from being able to help from any experience...

I landed on 20" for size - I found a Specialized Jett 20 single-speed that seems decent. It's $199 on sale. I saw the Woom Off Air - and weight was a concern, but I'm not paying $600 for a bike she'll outgrow in a few years.

I may have mentioned this but kids bikes really hold their value. They generally do not get ridden as much as parents and kids think they will, and they outgrow them so fast that there isn't even time for them to get too beat up. Good chance that $600 bike is worth at least $450 in a few years

I really recommend buying kids' bikes used as they outgrow them so fast and they don't weigh enough to really beat the bikes up like an adult can.

Woom is a good option, and around me there are a number of them on FB marketplace for $200-250. They are known for being light weight, which is important on kids' bikes as the rider to bike weight ratio is wildly different compared to adults, and even then shaving a few pounds off of a bike feels noticeable.

That Specialized Jett looks like a pretty solid choice as it appears to have a lower stand-over height and it looks like it has a lighter weight, less beefy frame than a lot of other kids' bikes.

Cleary makes higher quality bikes with steel frames, which are still lighter than all of your major brands like Specialized and Trek, but tend to have higher end components and are known for holding up well.

Cleary went out of business a month or two back. My son still rides (and loves) his cleary.

 

[Al Czervik]

I’m trying to lose some weight and hit the trainer hard this winter - goal is to hit the spring running and ride the Dragon trail - 45 mile single track loop. https://www.thedragon.us/the-dragon-trail/trail-map/

Some guys I ride with in the Detroit area were talking about taking a trip out there next summer to ride the Dragon. Hopefully we get our stuff together to get over there.

 

[Dickies]

I had luck posting here a bit ago for recommendations for my son's new bike (Thanks again @the moops for the Diamondback recommendation). Now I'm looking for something for my daughter - She's 7 and good at handling her current bike, but it's small and looking for something a little bigger than her starter bike. I don't need gears or anything fancy, and really just want something that will get her through the next few years until she gets a more serious bike.

Any thoughts on what to avoid or focus on?

You need to figure out sizing - maybe 20" or 24". The cheap bikes in this range can be boat anchor heavy, so budget is another consideration. There is light stuff like Woom Off Air ($600) or cheaper as they get heavier. My youngest is now 6' tall, so I'm a bit removed from being able to help from any experience...

I landed on 20" for size - I found a Specialized Jett 20 single-speed that seems decent. It's $199 on sale. I saw the Woom Off Air - and weight was a concern, but I'm not paying $600 for a bike she'll outgrow in a few years.

I may have mentioned this but kids bikes really hold their value. They generally do not get ridden as much as parents and kids think they will, and they outgrow them so fast that there isn't even time for them to get too beat up. Good chance that $600 bike is worth at least $450 in a few years

I really recommend buying kids' bikes used as they outgrow them so fast and they don't weigh enough to really beat the bikes up like an adult can.

Woom is a good option, and around me there are a number of them on FB marketplace for $200-250. They are known for being light weight, which is important on kids' bikes as the rider to bike weight ratio is wildly different compared to adults, and even then shaving a few pounds off of a bike feels noticeable.

That Specialized Jett looks like a pretty solid choice as it appears to have a lower stand-over height and it looks like it has a lighter weight, less beefy frame than a lot of other kids' bikes.

Cleary makes higher quality bikes with steel frames, which are still lighter than all of your major brands like Specialized and Trek, but tend to have higher end components and are known for holding up well.

Cleary went out of business a month or two back. My son still rides (and loves) his cleary.

Didn't know that, bummer.

 

[matttyl]

I had luck posting here a bit ago for recommendations for my son's new bike (Thanks again @the moops for the Diamondback recommendation). Now I'm looking for something for my daughter - She's 7 and good at handling her current bike, but it's small and looking for something a little bigger than her starter bike. I don't need gears or anything fancy, and really just want something that will get her through the next few years until she gets a more serious bike.

Any thoughts on what to avoid or focus on?

You need to figure out sizing - maybe 20" or 24". The cheap bikes in this range can be boat anchor heavy, so budget is another consideration. There is light stuff like Woom Off Air ($600) or cheaper as they get heavier. My youngest is now 6' tall, so I'm a bit removed from being able to help from any experience...

I landed on 20" for size - I found a Specialized Jett 20 single-speed that seems decent. It's $199 on sale. I saw the Woom Off Air - and weight was a concern, but I'm not paying $600 for a bike she'll outgrow in a few years.

I may have mentioned this but kids bikes really hold their value. They generally do not get ridden as much as parents and kids think they will, and they outgrow them so fast that there isn't even time for them to get too beat up. Good chance that $600 bike is worth at least $450 in a few years

I really recommend buying kids' bikes used as they outgrow them so fast and they don't weigh enough to really beat the bikes up like an adult can.

Woom is a good option, and around me there are a number of them on FB marketplace for $200-250. They are known for being light weight, which is important on kids' bikes as the rider to bike weight ratio is wildly different compared to adults, and even then shaving a few pounds off of a bike feels noticeable.

That Specialized Jett looks like a pretty solid choice as it appears to have a lower stand-over height and it looks like it has a lighter weight, less beefy frame than a lot of other kids' bikes.

Cleary makes higher quality bikes with steel frames, which are still lighter than all of your major brands like Specialized and Trek, but tend to have higher end components and are known for holding up well.

Cleary went out of business a month or two back. My son still rides (and loves) his cleary.

Didn't know that, bummer.

They’re liquidating everything off their site. If you’re in the market, or will be in the market, for a kids bike, get it now.