Bicycle Guys! (2 Viewers)

[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.

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.

Doesn't appear there is anything even left. Would have for sure considered the Scout 26" for my son who is growing out of his 24" bike

 

[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.

Doesn't appear there is anything even left. Would have for sure considered the Scout 26" for my son who is growing out of his 24" bike

Get in line! My son has the scout 24”, and loves it. Thinking full suspension for him when we go 26”.

 

[Caveman33]

Which Bike?

1. 80s Trek hybrid with Deore front derailleur and Giant tires

80s trek bicycle - bicycles - by owner - bike sale - craigslist

3x6 80s trek with 27 inch tires xl frame too tall for me I'm 6ft1 come check it out if you are interested!

sfbay.craigslist.org

2. 2012 Fuji Roubaix with 105/Tiagra and front axle problem

64 cm Fuji Roubaix 2012 - bicycles - by owner - bike sale - craigslist

This has been sitting in my garage for 7 years, but I put less than 1,500 miles on it before retiring it. Needs a tune and a new front axle but otherwise in good shape. 105 components.

sfbay.craigslist.org

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Which Bike?

1. 80s Trek hybrid with Deore front derailleur and Giant tires

80s trek bicycle - bicycles - by owner - bike sale - craigslist

3x6 80s trek with 27 inch tires xl frame too tall for me I'm 6ft1 come check it out if you are interested!

sfbay.craigslist.org

2. 2012 Fuji Roubaix with 105/Tiagra and front axle problem

64 cm Fuji Roubaix 2012 - bicycles - by owner - bike sale - craigslist

This has been sitting in my garage for 7 years, but I put less than 1,500 miles on it before retiring it. Needs a tune and a new front axle but otherwise in good shape. 105 components.

sfbay.craigslist.org

Probably not the answer you're looking for but it really depends on your use. The Trek has an upright riding position and would be great for casual city and trail rides, commuting, family rides. The Fuji with drop bars has a lower, more aero position that's better for longer faster riding.

 

[the moops]

Which Bike?

1. 80s Trek hybrid with Deore front derailleur and Giant tires

80s trek bicycle - bicycles - by owner - bike sale - craigslist

3x6 80s trek with 27 inch tires xl frame too tall for me I'm 6ft1 come check it out if you are interested!

sfbay.craigslist.org

2. 2012 Fuji Roubaix with 105/Tiagra and front axle problem

64 cm Fuji Roubaix 2012 - bicycles - by owner - bike sale - craigslist

This has been sitting in my garage for 7 years, but I put less than 1,500 miles on it before retiring it. Needs a tune and a new front axle but otherwise in good shape. 105 components.

sfbay.craigslist.org

Probably not the answer you're looking for but it really depends on your use. The Trek has an upright riding position and would be great for casual city and trail rides, commuting, family rides. The Fuji with drop bars has a lower, more aero position that's better for longer faster riding.

Yea totally depends. Also how the hell tall are you @Caveman33 ?

 

[Sand]

Due to component age the Fuji. Never even seen 3x6.

And I hope you're about 6'5", 'cause a 64cm bike is friggin' huge.

 

[Caveman33]

If the Fuji was running, I would definitely go for it. The seller has not responded to clarify what's wrong with the front axle. Alas, if there was no issue, he would probably try to get more than 150. Now that I have ridden the LeMond, I prefer drop handle bars but it looks to me like the frame on the Trek is bigger. I'm 6'7. For $80-100, that looks like a good deal to immediately get me on the road. I've been walking/banditing the bus for the last 6 months, which adds like an hour to my daily commute time. Most trips would be 1-7 miles each way.

 

[the moops]

How about this one?

Specialized Sirrus XL - bicycles - by owner - bike sale - craigslist

Specialized Sirrus hybrid bicycle with an XL (61 cm) frame. In good shape, been in storage for several years. Needs a new tube on rear tire. Great bike for a tall person. 200 obo

sfbay.craigslist.org

 

[Caveman33]

How about this one?

Specialized Sirrus XL - bicycles - by owner - bike sale - craigslist

Specialized Sirrus hybrid bicycle with an XL (61 cm) frame. In good shape, been in storage for several years. Needs a new tube on rear tire. Great bike for a tall person. 200 obo

sfbay.craigslist.org

That looks like a good option. Most modern XL hybrids are only 22-23" so that SIrrus at 61cm is similar to the rare XXL. I just messaged the seller. Based on the ad, I think they will accept $125 but the distance is an obstacle.

 

[Dickies]

If the Fuji was running, I would definitely go for it. The seller has not responded to clarify what's wrong with the front axle. Alas, if there was no issue, he would probably try to get more than 150. Now that I have ridden the LeMond, I prefer drop handle bars but it looks to me like the frame on the Trek is bigger. I'm 6'7. For $80-100, that looks like a good deal to immediately get me on the road. I've been walking/banditing the bus for the last 6 months, which adds like an hour to my daily commute time. Most trips would be 1-7 miles each way.

If it's really just an axle that should be a simple and inexpensive fix. I have no idea what the seller means by needing a "tune-up" on an axle.

I suspect it's an issue with the hub and bearings, which could also be a simple repair or could be a new hub and wheel rebuild which would get costly.

 

[the moops]

I have no idea what the seller means by needing a "tune-up" on an axle.

I think it is supposed to read "needs a tune up and a new front axle"

 

[Dickies]

I have no idea what the seller means by needing a "tune-up" on an axle.

I think it is supposed to read "needs a tune up and a new front axle"

You're right, that is actually how it reads and I'm an idiot.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

 

[arrow1]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Roadie here, and haven't been outside yet. Zwift is getting tiresome...

 

[NutterButter]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Where you live? Conditions have been fine in NJ for over a month I believe. Luckily we didn't get any march snow.

 

[Jaysus]

I have had my mountain bike out a few times this year already... now that DST has kicked in I should be able to sneak in some easy laps at the local high school that I can ride to from my door, so that is nice.

I visited a GB in the mountains for a party this weekend and a different GB and I took our gravel bikes and and had a nice little river ride in the perfect spring weather. Good times!

 

[beer 30]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Roadie here, and haven't been outside yet. Zwift is getting tiresome...

Same, I need to get back to getting outside. I blew it off last year because it's just a PITA around here but I need to touch road again, so much better than Zwifting al the time.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Where you live? Conditions have been fine in NJ for over a month I believe. Luckily we didn't get any march snow.

I'm in the upper great lakes. We got 2ft over the weekend, so we got out and groomed the fat bike trails, but I'm dying to get on my mtb. Snow was almost gone and we were all getting pretty excited. Back to square one. Just makes it that much sweeter when the time comes I suppose. Really reaching for that silver lining.

I usually throw some less aggressive tires on my fat bike for spring break up, but last year i bought a cheap ozark trail gravel bike after reading decent reviews. Haven't ridden it at all yet, but look forward to giving it a try this spring.

 

[matttyl]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Mountain biker here (as is my wife and 9 year old). Love the changing of the season wells happening so we can ride more!!

 

[Mookie]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Mountain biker here (as is my wife and 9 year old). Love the changing of the season wells happening so we can ride more!!

We still have a lot of snow here. Won't get out on the trails for another few weeks, so starting to do tune ups, new Stans in tires, checking equipment etc..

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

I'm definitely more XC as i get older and wiser (more chicken ****), but i still do a bit of downhill and still love techy climbs and features. Picked up a V4 ibis Ripley 2 years ago and absolutely love it, but looking at the new version since it has a bit more travel and i think that would do me better. Probably test one at the next ibis demo to see if it's much different or if i should just stay put. Have an aggressive almost downhill build Ripmo for getting a little more rowdy. And like any good mountain biker a fleet of spares i should probably think about selling, but it's nice to have backups and spares for out of town buddies to ride, so they don't have to bring their own or rent.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Mountain biker here (as is my wife and 9 year old). Love the changing of the season wells happening so we can ride more!!

We still have a lot of snow here. Won't get out on the trails for another few weeks, so starting to do tune ups, new Stans in tires, checking equipment etc..

Same. I have to do something with the summer bikes even if i can't ride them yet. New tires, replace cables, replaced some brakes, ect. Atleast I can still play with them even if i can't ride.

 

[Mookie]

I'm definitely more XC as i get older and wiser (more chicken ****), but i still do a bit of downhill and still love techy climbs and features. Picked up a V4 ibis Ripley 2 years ago and absolutely love it, but looking at the new version since it has a bit more travel and i think that would do me better. Probably test one at the next ibis demo to see if it's much different or if i should just stay put. Have an aggressive almost downhill build Ripmo for getting a little more rowdy. And like any good mountain biker a fleet of spares i should probably think about selling, but it's nice to have backups and spares for out of town buddies to ride, so they don't have to bring their own or rent.

You must have a big garage! Bike storage is a real problem in our house with my wife and I each owning an ebike, an around town cruiser, and XC bikes. We also have my son's bike and his g/f's as they live in a small apartment. We have one stall open in a two car garage and it's a Tetris puzzle every time I want to mow the lawn or take out the garbage.

I had a nasty crash in the wilderness a few years back that led me to scale back my riding style. I now try to go farther and slower, and have abandoned my clip in pedals for flats. I find it's better for my endurance and I can take the time to really enjoy my surroundings. This is especially true during wildflower season.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

I'm definitely more XC as i get older and wiser (more chicken ****), but i still do a bit of downhill and still love techy climbs and features. Picked up a V4 ibis Ripley 2 years ago and absolutely love it, but looking at the new version since it has a bit more travel and i think that would do me better. Probably test one at the next ibis demo to see if it's much different or if i should just stay put. Have an aggressive almost downhill build Ripmo for getting a little more rowdy. And like any good mountain biker a fleet of spares i should probably think about selling, but it's nice to have backups and spares for out of town buddies to ride, so they don't have to bring their own or rent.

You must have a big garage! Bike storage is a real problem in our house with my wife and I each owning an ebike, an around town cruiser, and XC bikes. We also have my son's bike and his g/f's as they live in a small apartment. We have one stall open in a two car garage and it's a Tetris puzzle every time I want to mow the lawn or take out the garbage.

I had a nasty crash in the wilderness a few years back that led me to scale back my riding style. I now try to go farther and slower, and have abandoned my clip in pedals for flats. I find it's better for my endurance and I can take the time to really enjoy my surroundings. This is especially true during wildflower season.

Not big enough, but i have an attached shed that's become my bike shop and storage. It's starting to remind me of George Costanza's wallet and is about to blow, so it's getting time to offload a couple. First world problems but the struggle is real .

I've also survived a crash or two, but the healing process isn't what it used to be and I've developed better sense and sending it for the sake of sending it isn't in me as much anymore. Still ride clipless and haven't made the move to flats just yet. Feels like such an advantage riding chunky rock and root gardens, but I've thought about it for when the reflexes start to slow and getting out quick starts to get harder.

Interesting about the endurance. I've also mostly transitioned into longer and slower rides and also still like to try and get a couple long xc races in a year. I might play around with that and see how it feels this year.

 

[Sand]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Roadie here, and haven't been outside yet. Zwift is getting tiresome...

Roadie here. Been getting out for a few weeks here. Just cancelled my SystemX subscription as warm weather is now here. In fact, last week hit my highest normalized power for one ride that I typically do in a decade. Coulda gone harder, too.

If it makes you feel any better I was planning on a bikepacking trip on the Natchez Trace and a trip with the wife to do Pittsburgh to DC in April and May. Thanks to work both cancelled.

 

[NutterButter]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Where you live? Conditions have been fine in NJ for over a month I believe. Luckily we didn't get any march snow.

I'm in the upper great lakes. We got 2ft over the weekend, so we got out and groomed the fat bike trails, but I'm dying to get on my mtb. Snow was almost gone and we were all getting pretty excited. Back to square one. Just makes it that much sweeter when the time comes I suppose. Really reaching for that silver lining.

I usually throw some less aggressive tires on my fat bike for spring break up, but last year i bought a cheap ozark trail gravel bike after reading decent reviews. Haven't ridden it at all yet, but look forward to giving it a try this spring.

This pains me just reading that.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Roadie here, and haven't been outside yet. Zwift is getting tiresome...

Roadie here. Been getting out for a few weeks here. Just cancelled my SystemX subscription as warm weather is now here. In fact, last week hit my highest normalized power for one ride that I typically do in a decade. Coulda gone harder, too.

If it makes you feel any better I was planning on a bikepacking trip on the Natchez Trace and a trip with the wife to do Pittsburgh to DC in April and May. Thanks to work both cancelled.

This is something I hope to do this year. I have a fat bike all set up for it, but haven't gone yet. I know a bunch of guys that go out on weekend trips, but for whatever reason timing just hasn't worked out. I know they have a blast.

 

[Jaysus]

Any mountain bikers out there? Where I live we're a ways off and still fat biking. Had planned on a trip to Bentonville for March, but my wife got covid and we never made it. I have my bike at the LBS getting a fork and shock service so i can hit the ground running (riding) as soon as this white nightmare ends. Zwift and fat biking is fun and all, but as the sun shines a little more I'm dying to get out and hit some real tech.

Roadie here, and haven't been outside yet. Zwift is getting tiresome...

Roadie here. Been getting out for a few weeks here. Just cancelled my SystemX subscription as warm weather is now here. In fact, last week hit my highest normalized power for one ride that I typically do in a decade. Coulda gone harder, too.

If it makes you feel any better I was planning on a bikepacking trip on the Natchez Trace and a trip with the wife to do Pittsburgh to DC in April and May. Thanks to work both cancelled.

I am doing the GAP and C&O in June

 

[beer 30]

You guys ever loan your bikes out to people to use for races?

 

[Dickies]

You guys ever loan your bikes out to people to use for races?

I loaned my neighbor my Ripley AF to do an XC race that I was also riding in. I rode my hardtail. He wanted to challenge himself by entering the race even though he didn't have a proper mountain bike. He regretted his decision, but my bike came back in one piece which is all that matters.

 

[Sand]

You guys ever loan your bikes out to people to use for races?

Ahem... My thoughts immediately went to my roadie (super old S5) and that answer would be oh, hell no. I'm afraid enough that I'll break it.

 

[beer 30]

You guys ever loan your bikes out to people to use for races?

Ahem... My thoughts immediately went to my roadie (super old S5) and that answer would be oh, hell no. I'm afraid enough that I'll break it.

I've loaned my hybrid out for a race before but trusted the dude that had it. He's been riding a lot longer than me and got me into it.

The situation that just came up was a friend from church is doing his first Ironman and needs a bike. It's a life goal thing and I like that dude, want to help him out so he came over yesterday to check the bike out. He's buying shoes today, never rode clipless, heck never really rode before. I'm a little anxious loaning out the Domane.

 

[Dickies]

You guys ever loan your bikes out to people to use for races?

Ahem... My thoughts immediately went to my roadie (super old S5) and that answer would be oh, hell no. I'm afraid enough that I'll break it.

I've loaned my hybrid out for a race before but trusted the dude that had it. He's been riding a lot longer than me and got me into it.

The situation that just came up was a friend from church is doing his first Ironman and needs a bike. It's a life goal thing and I like that dude, want to help him out so he came over yesterday to check the bike out. He's buying shoes today, never rode clipless, heck never really rode before. I'm a little anxious loaning out the Domane.

I don't know if I would loan a road bike set up clipless to someone who had no experience with it. Let them fall at a red light on their own bike

 

[beer 30]

You guys ever loan your bikes out to people to use for races?

Ahem... My thoughts immediately went to my roadie (super old S5) and that answer would be oh, hell no. I'm afraid enough that I'll break it.

I've loaned my hybrid out for a race before but trusted the dude that had it. He's been riding a lot longer than me and got me into it.

The situation that just came up was a friend from church is doing his first Ironman and needs a bike. It's a life goal thing and I like that dude, want to help him out so he came over yesterday to check the bike out. He's buying shoes today, never rode clipless, heck never really rode before. I'm a little anxious loaning out the Domane.

I don't know if I would loan a road bike set up clipless to someone who had no experience with it. Let them fall at a red light on their own bike

We're going to have a training class before he hops on the real bike. He can practice on my trainer.

Not sure what dude is thinking though. The race is in June and he's never rode. He taint gonna enjoy the first month of acclimation.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

You guys ever loan your bikes out to people to use for races?

Ahem... My thoughts immediately went to my roadie (super old S5) and that answer would be oh, hell no. I'm afraid enough that I'll break it.

I've loaned my hybrid out for a race before but trusted the dude that had it. He's been riding a lot longer than me and got me into it.

The situation that just came up was a friend from church is doing his first Ironman and needs a bike. It's a life goal thing and I like that dude, want to help him out so he came over yesterday to check the bike out. He's buying shoes today, never rode clipless, heck never really rode before. I'm a little anxious loaning out the Domane.

I would probably loan the bike if i trusted the guy. Typically if I'm loaning a bike I'm also along on the ride, but for something like this i think i could roll the dice.

@Dickies is right though, probably swap out those pedals.

Taint going to enjoy getting used to it is an understatement . I would send him a link to a very nice pair of Chamois and chamois butt'r.

​

 

[Jaysus]

You guys ever loan your bikes out to people to use for races?

Ahem... My thoughts immediately went to my roadie (super old S5) and that answer would be oh, hell no. I'm afraid enough that I'll break it.

I've loaned my hybrid out for a race before but trusted the dude that had it. He's been riding a lot longer than me and got me into it.

The situation that just came up was a friend from church is doing his first Ironman and needs a bike. It's a life goal thing and I like that dude, want to help him out so he came over yesterday to check the bike out. He's buying shoes today, never rode clipless, heck never really rode before. I'm a little anxious loaning out the Domane.

I don't know if I would loan a road bike set up clipless to someone who had no experience with it. Let them fall at a red light on their own bike

We're going to have a training class before he hops on the real bike. He can practice on my trainer.

Not sure what dude is thinking though. The race is in June and he's never rode. He taint gonna enjoy the first month of acclimation.

I see what you did there

P.S. let him borrow your bibs too

 

[beer 30]

P.S. let him borrow your bibs too

Mans gots to have boundaries

 

[Sand]

Not sure what dude is thinking though. The race is in June and he's never rode. He taint gonna enjoy the first month of acclimation.

Hopefully it's flat? Otherwise the dude will never finish 112 miles. Assuming he doesn't drown first.

 

[dgreen]

Went out over the weekend for the first time since last Fall. Did my typical 10ish mile route. Last year, I was doing that 2-3 times a week during lunch plus a weekend ride. Now that I’m back in the office, I think I will try to do one evening per week (as long as I’m not exhausted) and a weekend ride.

 

[NutterButter]

Anyone do any bike specific off biking training? I do some in general core work (yoga, planks, abs, etc) and on again/off again leg work (split squats, lunges) but never looked into whether there were exercises that were ideal for biking.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

In the winter i do the big compound lifts, overhead press, bench, deadlift, squat. I do a variation of a 5-3-1 program and add in things like pull ups, lunges, and core. 4 days a week. Takes anywhere from 30-45 mins depending on how motivated I am. And a lot of zwift.

I like to ride punchy techy uphill stuff, tight switchbacks and whatnot. I think it helps hitting the entire body including the traps, delts, lats, chest.

 

[Jaysus]

Anyone do any bike specific off biking training? I do some in general core work (yoga, planks, abs, etc) and on again/off again leg work (split squats, lunges) but never looked into whether there were exercises that were ideal for biking.

No. I actually prefer to suffer while pedaling sometimes.

 

[Sand]

Anyone do any bike specific off biking training?

Yeah, I get on my trainer in the winter.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

I used to do a lot of epics on gnarly mtb trails so i needed to be pretty tuned up. Things like the Marji Gesick. I think those days are over, but i don't want to let myself go. I keep up the weight routine in the off-season and try to keep up with a little cross training (running, which i hate, but the runners high is still there at the end) during riding season. Last year i worked a few races and just watched a few more. Not quite the satisfaction of competing, but still feels good to give back and help out.

 

[Sand]

I used to do a lot of epics on gnarly mtb trails so i needed to be pretty tuned up. Things like the Marji Gesick. I think those days are over, but i don't want to let myself go. I keep up the weight routine in the off-season and try to keep up with a little cross training (running, which i hate, but the runners high is still there at the end) during riding season. Last year i worked a few races and just watched a few more. Not quite the satisfaction of competing, but still feels good to give back and help out.

Get a gravel bike. You can find plenty of opportunity to drive yourself into the ground with epic rides. All you miss from MTB is the opportunity to wrap yourself around a tree.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

I used to do a lot of epics on gnarly mtb trails so i needed to be pretty tuned up. Things like the Marji Gesick. I think those days are over, but i don't want to let myself go. I keep up the weight routine in the off-season and try to keep up with a little cross training (running, which i hate, but the runners high is still there at the end) during riding season. Last year i worked a few races and just watched a few more. Not quite the satisfaction of competing, but still feels good to give back and help out.

Get a gravel bike. You can find plenty of opportunity to drive yourself into the ground with epic rides. All you miss from MTB is the opportunity to wrap yourself around a tree.

I did buy a cheap ozark trail gravel bike last year to ride during spring breakup this year. If the snow ever melts we have a ton of good places to ride it and I am excited try it out and maybe upgrade from there (I'll be honest, I'll upgrade). I'm an mtb bro at heart so that'll probably always be my main focus as long as it can be, but i like the idea of expanding into other disciplines. Channel my inner Tom Pidcock and even give being a roadie a try. The opportunity to wrap myself around a tree is part of the fun/adrenaline and seems better than getting dinged by traffic, but gravel takes both mostly out of the equation and should be safe as long as I can outride any hungry bears.

 

[Sand]

I used to do a lot of epics on gnarly mtb trails so i needed to be pretty tuned up. Things like the Marji Gesick. I think those days are over, but i don't want to let myself go. I keep up the weight routine in the off-season and try to keep up with a little cross training (running, which i hate, but the runners high is still there at the end) during riding season. Last year i worked a few races and just watched a few more. Not quite the satisfaction of competing, but still feels good to give back and help out.

Get a gravel bike. You can find plenty of opportunity to drive yourself into the ground with epic rides. All you miss from MTB is the opportunity to wrap yourself around a tree.

I did buy a cheap ozark trail gravel bike last year to ride during spring breakup this year. If the snow ever melts we have a ton of good places to ride it and I am excited try it out and maybe upgrade from there (I'll be honest, I'll upgrade). I'm an mtb bro at heart so that'll probably always be my main focus as long as it can be, but i like the idea of expanding into other disciplines. Channel my inner Tom Pidcock and even give being a roadie a try. The opportunity to wrap myself around a tree is part of the fun/adrenaline and seems better than getting dinged by traffic, but gravel takes both mostly out of the equation and should be safe as long as I can outride any hungry bears.

That Ozark looks ok for the price. But, yeah, if you like it new bikes are fun. As far as trees vs. cars I've hit the same tree on the same trail three times. Let's just say I'm a hazard on singletrack. I'd also like to channel Pidcock, but I'd have to lose about half my body weight to do that. BTW, I went to the cyclocross championships in Arkansas a couple years back and Pidcock demolished the field. It was awesome.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

I used to do a lot of epics on gnarly mtb trails so i needed to be pretty tuned up. Things like the Marji Gesick. I think those days are over, but i don't want to let myself go. I keep up the weight routine in the off-season and try to keep up with a little cross training (running, which i hate, but the runners high is still there at the end) during riding season. Last year i worked a few races and just watched a few more. Not quite the satisfaction of competing, but still feels good to give back and help out.

Get a gravel bike. You can find plenty of opportunity to drive yourself into the ground with epic rides. All you miss from MTB is the opportunity to wrap yourself around a tree.

I did buy a cheap ozark trail gravel bike last year to ride during spring breakup this year. If the snow ever melts we have a ton of good places to ride it and I am excited try it out and maybe upgrade from there (I'll be honest, I'll upgrade). I'm an mtb bro at heart so that'll probably always be my main focus as long as it can be, but i like the idea of expanding into other disciplines. Channel my inner Tom Pidcock and even give being a roadie a try. The opportunity to wrap myself around a tree is part of the fun/adrenaline and seems better than getting dinged by traffic, but gravel takes both mostly out of the equation and should be safe as long as I can outride any hungry bears.

That Ozark looks ok for the price. But, yeah, if you like it new bikes are fun. As far as trees vs. cars I've hit the same tree on the same trail three times. Let's just say I'm a hazard on singletrack. I'd also like to channel Pidcock, but I'd have to lose about half my body weight to do that. BTW, I went to the cyclocross championships in Arkansas a couple years back and Pidcock demolished the field. It was awesome.

The reviews i saw on it were pretty good for a few hundred bucks and i won't feel guilty if it's not something i use a ton. What does a good mid range carbon frame gravel bike go for? I know what to expect from an mtb bike, but with different components I would think pricing is a little different.

I'm not a stranger to trees, sharp rocks, sliding half way down steep high exposure cliffs, but so far nothing major on the injury front. Just a lot of missing skin here and there. Riding on the shoulder of roads scares the crap out of me with everyone texting and driving though.

I think Tom's about half of me too. I've been watching him race mountain bikes for awhile and hadn't paid much attention to road racing, but watched a series on Netflix about the tour and it kind of got me fired up for it. Watching him bomb the Alpe d'Huez was super cool to watch. Must have been pretty awesome to see him ride in person. Best I've ever seen for pro racing was the lifetime grand prix in Chequamegon last year, which isn't the same caliber, but was still fun to see those guys and gals full gas.

 

[Sand]

What does a good mid range carbon frame gravel bike go for?

2500-3500? Guessing. I built mine using the frame that this place now uses:

State Bicycle Co. - Carbon All-Road v2 - Dusty Merlot - Gravel Bike

The new Carbon All-Road v2 is built for bigger adventures with huge tire clearance, now accommodating up to 700c x 2.2” for maximum versatility on any terrain. A clean cable setup features internally routed cables with external cockpit access, balancing sleek aesthetics with easy maintenance...

www.statebicycle.com

I put it together for $3500 or so. There are others out there that are quite good, as well.

 

[beer 30]

Let's just say I'm a hazard on singletrack.

This is why I gave up mountain biking. Had 4 wipeouts on one ride after riding for about a year. Decided I didn't need to spend my elder years tore up from being in the woods. Always enjoy being on the trails but I'd rather gravel or road at this point.