New to cycling

[Sam_Boss260]

So, on doctors orders I need to drop some kilos and exercise. Running is out due to my calves, so I am really keen on cycling.

Tonight I gt the old mountain bike out and went for a ride, and thought I was going to die. Man am I unfit.

My question is more around those cyclists out there, what difference does a bike make? There are guys at work who are right into it and spend thousands on their bikes but you can pick it up with two fingers. So does a decent road bike make the difference? I mean my bike is old and is like a hybrid mountain bike, but on track today, there were guys pedaling the same as I was but they were justing taking off.

So does a good bike really help?

[geckoGT]

I guess the best way to put it is a Ferrari really quicker than a F100?

A good bike makes a lot of difference, rotating mass (wheels, tyres etc) more than static mass (frame).

I have a carbon fibre Eddy Merckx and it is a dream to ride, could not imagine doing a long ride on a hybrid.



The important thing is how much do you want to get into it? That 1 question dictates how much money you poor into the hardware.

[gtfpv]

Originally Posted by geckoGT

I guess the best way to put it is a Ferrari really quicker than a F100?

A good bike makes a lot of difference, rotating mass (wheels, tyres etc) more than static mass (frame).

I have a carbon fibre Eddy Merckx and it is a dream to ride, could not imagine doing a long ride on a hybrid.



The important thing is how much do you want to get into it? That 1 question dictates how much money you poor into the hardware.

i love that bike gecko , what's it worth to buy new . ????

[geckoGT]

Originally Posted by gtfpv

i love that bike gecko , what's it worth to buy new . ????

Difficult to answer that question as many of the components are quite old. The groupset is a 2004 Durace, 2004 FSA carbon cranks, 2004 Campag Eurus wheelset etc.

The frame is a 2007 model Eddy Merckx Carbon that I bought as NOS this year. It was brand new, never built up or ridden but a 4 year old model sold at a clear out price. It would have been worth over $4000 new as a frame, fork and seat post, I got it for $1500. If I was to build that bike with the modern equivalents of all the gear on it at todays prices, it would total at over $9000.

Buying NOS frames and components at clear out prices and then getting it built can be a great way to get top quality gear at moderate quality prices if you know what you are doing. I would not suggest that for the novice but when you get on that level gear it makes a massive difference to the riding experience.

For the novice to the sport after a good entry level bike to fulfill their requirements and feed their enthusiasm, I would suggest the quality aluminium frame, 105 components combo that has been mentioned before. That is a good place to start and will even see you through to entry/mid level competition if the bug really bites. That is what my daughter is on (a Specialized) and she is quite a keen club level racer.

[Scott]

Sam, a different approach...

Losing kg's is about the effort you put into the miles, not the miles you cover. A better bike will help you work less than a heavy old clunker over a set time period.

[Big Bird 17]

I just replaced my $160 bike with a $700 bike,so much better to ride.

[sudszy]

Originally Posted by Scott

Sam, a different approach...

Losing kg's is about the effort you put into the miles, not the miles you cover. A better bike will help you work less than a heavy old clunker over a set time period.

totally agree, as long as your bike is mechanically sound and the seat, handlbars and frame suitable for your personal frame then you can cut a lean figure on any bike regardless of how much it weighs or how much resistance it offers, provided you apply the same effort on the pedals.

though there is the pyschology of going faster and feeling good about being an a slick newer model machine that may make a difference in how long you keep at it.

[geckoGT]

In theory, but not entirely true in practice.

The heavy clunker is less enjoyable to ride, so you ride less. Also the heavy bike increases the resistance, which causes more difficulty climbing hills or riding into head winds. That increased resistance can cause an increase in the utilisation of anaerobic energy sources instead of more efficient and health beneficial aerobic energy systems.

[Sam_Boss260]

Originally Posted by geckoGT

In theory, but not entirely true in practice.

The heavy clunker is less enjoyable to ride, so you ride less. Also the heavy bike increases the resistance, which causes more difficulty climbing hills or riding into head winds. That increased resistance can cause an increase in the utilisation of anaerobic energy sources instead of more efficient and health beneficial aerobic energy systems.

Yeah, it just feels like I am peddling my *** off and getting exhausted quickly, especially up slight hills. So this is where i wonder if a better bike makes a difference. I don't want to go faster, just be able to ride better and tackle hills etc.

That is what I mean.

[96paddywagon]

Originally Posted by Sam_Boss260

Yeah, it just feels like I am peddling my *** off and getting exhausted quickly, especially up slight hills. So this is where i wonder if a better bike makes a difference. I don't want to go faster, just be able to ride better and tackle hills etc.



That is what I mean.

If it’s making your heart rate go up it’s good for you , maybe you need to change gears . Cycling has come along way my father is 80 & was a pro but still rides 50 k daily he reckons all kids should start with a fixed wheel, but even for adults exercising it’s important to keep pedaling even if it’s uncomfortable. Racing & training are different


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[au350hp]

Not currently a bicycle owner, used to own a Colnago & a Puch in the 1980's if anyone remembers those bikes. My reason for posting was an article I read regarding bicycle laws. I understand that $70,000 in fines for this breach alone this year. I believe this figure is for NSW as there is reference to $65,000 for the same issue going to State treasury last year. The fine for reckless riding in NSW is $425 & no bell or lights, $106. I know it was a long time ago but I don't recall ever seeing any road riders with bells on their bikes. Have times changed?

[GTpilot]

Originally Posted by Roostercam

Not currently a bicycle owner, used to own a Colnago & a Puch in the 1980's if anyone remembers those bikes. My reason for posting was an article I read regarding bicycle laws. I understand that $70,000 in fines for this breach alone this year. I believe this figure is for NSW as there is reference to $65,000 for the same issue going to State treasury last year. The fine for reckless riding in NSW is $425 & no bell or lights, $106. I know it was a long time ago but I don't recall ever seeing any road riders with bells on their bikes. Have times changed?

20 yrs ago you could ride without a helmet. These days it’s a fine of about $400. Over time society and laws change. Yep bells and lights are a requirement too.

[sgt_doofey]

Check to see if there are any cycling groups near by. They might be able to assist with keeping you motivated.
The train I catch in to work is going to shut down for 7 months, so I'm going to use this time to start riding in to work. I'll be doing it with other guys from work so that'll help me keep doing it.

As for the bike, yes a good one makes a difference. But some small things make a difference too. Make sure the tyres are pumped up to their maximum pressure to reduce rolling resistance. Perhaps think about getting your bike serviced first to see if it makes a difference.

[kocho]

Sam, I'm a bit of a weekend warrior. I just do it for a bit of a look outside, out in the fresh air, but I do try relatively hard. No Lycra or road bike shoes, but I do have a road bike and still have my Hybrid which I purchased before it.

In your case, I'd be getting a Hybrid aka Flat bar road bike. They're more comfortable than a road bike, a bit 'harder' and a good starter bike. Overall the type of bike, clothing, shoes etc all makes a huge difference. If you're out on the road and people are passing you, I wouldn't be too concerned. A mountain bike isn't going to be easy on the road. Even the width of the tyres makes a difference.

Climbing hills is hard. Head winds are hard. Sidewinds are even harder (IMO)! No doubt about it... and for everyone who isn't anything more than a weekend warrior. With cycling, you want to feel like you go through the gears much like a car and it's important to change gears at the right time. If you do it when you feel like you'll be on the verge of getting tired, go to an easier gear and vise versa.

I recommend getting a wind trainer ($100), sticking your bike (ideally a Hybrid for you but anything would be fine) and getting some k's into the legs to start. Do interval training just to build muscles which you wouldn't usually use in your legs. Do it in front of the telly even and perhaps cycling at a certain amount of k's during the show time and slowing down over the duration of the ads.

Also, it's important not to cycle like a bull at a gate. You don't want to burn yourself out too early.

[Sam_Boss260]

Good point sgt doofey... I might enquire about getting the trusty bike serviced, before I buy anything.

[kocho]

Originally Posted by Sam_Boss260

Good point sgt doofey... I might enquire about getting the trusty bike serviced, before I buy anything.

All well and good with this too. Servicing a bike is relatively cheap until parts come into it. Make sure you inquire about how much parts will cost because they generally are very expensive. A decent Hybrid can be purchased for around $400 or so...

Just something to consider.

[blueoval]

Im still relatively new to cycling. did indoor spin classes every week for a year and a half to start with. lost about 8-10kg of body fat and added lean muscle to my legs. only in the past 3 months have i bought a flat bar road/hybrid bike and love being outdoors more. i spent about 800 for my kona dew plus which had good components which i was told was very important. found cycling for me is easier due to having a strong back ground already due to indoor cycling. it will take some time to get used to but over time your legs, and sit bones will get used to it. work through the pain and continue to push yourself overtime

[sgt_doofey]

Originally Posted by blueoval

Im still relatively new to cycling.

Shav, if you're interested, a couple of good rides coming up soon. Amy's Ride which allows you to ride the length of the Southern Expressway and then in to McLaren Vale is pretty good. Shortest ride is 30kms, then 60kms, then 100kms. You pick which one you want. I've done it the last two years.

Also, the Bupa Community Challenge for the Tour Down Under is another great ride to do. The distances there are this year are 33kms, 79kms, 102kms or 138kms. Done this three times now.

I'm going to be doing the 79km ride in the TDU. Haven't signed up for Amy's Ride yet, but will most likely do the 60km one.

[ratter]

Assuming you have knobbys on the bike still, if so replace them with mtb slicks when you get the bike serviced, it will allow the bike to roll easier on hard surfaces and feel smoother, also keep the tyre pressure high to help eliminate some rolling resistance, you may need to purchase a floor pump to do this though.
Keep your cadence (leg rpm) high, most beginners use to low a cadence and that's bad for knees and takes the strength from your muscles quickly.
Have the bike set up for you, correct fit is important to comfort and strength, there are plenty of websites that will give good info about bike fit, there are professional people out there that can fit you up, but it may cost more than a cheap bike with some of them, but people swear by them.
Find people in your area to ride with to keep you motivated.
A bike computer can help you perform better as you can track your ride info and challenge it to do better.

Good luck

[blueoval]

Originally Posted by sgt_doofey

Shav, if you're interested, a couple of good rides coming up soon. Amy's Ride which allows you to ride the length of the Southern Expressway and then in to McLaren Vale is pretty good. Shortest ride is 30kms, then 60kms, then 100kms. You pick which one you want. I've done it the last two years.

Also, the Bupa Community Challenge for the Tour Down Under is another great ride to do. The distances there are this year are 33kms, 79kms, 102kms or 138kms. Done this three times now.

I'm going to be doing the 79km ride in the TDU. Haven't signed up for Amy's Ride yet, but will most likely do the 60km one.

Mate, Im about to sign up for Amy's ride. Thinking of tackling the 30km ride with the mrs as she isn't as mad as me. But seriously considering the BUPA challenge for the TDU as well in Jan.

I've been keeping close eye on the Adelaide Cyclists forum for details and what not. So it's been good.

But yeah Amy's for sure. 60% sure on the BUPA challenge hoping my flat bar roadies is ok with it.

With the BUPA challenge am thinking of the Tanunda to Tanunda route with my business partner. He is soon to get himself a bike so he doesnt want to go nuts.

I reckon I could handle the 60km one as a good challenge.

[XR6_661]

Originally Posted by blueoval

Mate, Im about to sign up for Amy's ride. Thinking of tackling the 30km ride with the mrs as she isn't as mad as me. But seriously considering the BUPA challenge for the TDU as well in Jan.

I've been keeping close eye on the Adelaide Cyclists forum for details and what not. So it's been good.

But yeah Amy's for sure. 60% sure on the BUPA challenge hoping my flat bar roadies is ok with it.

With the BUPA challenge am thinking of the Tanunda to Tanunda route with my business partner. He is soon to get himself a bike so he doesnt want to go nuts.

I reckon I could handle the 60km one as a good challenge.

I just signed up for a half iron man challenge...I'm on the bike leg. 90km.

I'm pretty sure I'm going to die...going to have to avg about 30kph I'm thinking. At least it'll be on a nice light road bike and not a great hulking piece of metal with knobbies. haha

[roKWiz]

Watched the Tour Down Under telecast yesterday and was so nice to hear Phil Liggett on commentary with Robbie McEwen and Jens Voigt.

[prydey]

Originally Posted by roKWiz

Watched the Tour Down Under telecast yesterday and was so nice to hear Phil Liggett on commentary with Robbie McEwen and Jens Voigt.

I think Liggett sounds tired and I'm convinced he is still emotionally affected by the death of his good mate and co commentator for many years. I realise he would have agreed to commentate, but I just think I can feel that he is just a bit subdued.

I actually liked the TDF commentary. Its like most sports. Eventually you have to bring fresh guys in that have been in and around the sport more recently.

I enjoy the commentary, but I won't miss him when he hangs up the microphone, as there are many others that have already proved they can step in.

[Ben73]

I have been riding for years. First BMX and now mountain bikes.
My downhill bike weighs about a tonne and is terrible when you are not doing down hill.

Work bought us a few bikes to keep out at barracks, one of them is a pretty nice road bike. I could not believe how light and fast it was. It was so easy to pick up speed, which makes you want to ride more and ride fast.
So I'd say spend the money and get the better bike. It will be worth it because it will make you want to ride.

[wrongwaynorris]

Originally Posted by Sam_Boss260

So, on doctors orders I need to drop some kilos and exercise. Running is out due to my calves, so I am really keen on cycling.

Tonight I gt the old mountain bike out and went for a ride, and thought I was going to die. Man am I unfit.

My question is more around those cyclists out there, what difference does a bike make? There are guys at work who are right into it and spend thousands on their bikes but you can pick it up with two fingers. So does a decent road bike make the difference? I mean my bike is old and is like a hybrid mountain bike, but on track today, there were guys pedaling the same as I was but they were justing taking off.

So does a good bike really help?

In a word Sam YES

[jimmyxr6t04]

You don't need to spend a fortune though. I recently started riding to drop some weight and for something else to do with the wife/kids.

Bought myself a $500 Giant MTB. Does the job for me. I usually do a 20km ride (down to the lake, around it and back home). Not huge hills, but a couple of small inclines.

Usually takes me about 50mins to do the 20km circuit. During the cooler days, i jump on the exercise bike, and will usually cover 25kms in an hour. Sometimes closer to 27km, sometimes a little less. Depends on the level i set it at (usually a medium level).

A good diet is also very important. I was aiming to consume about 1200-1500 calories a day. Some of my rides were using about 800 calories! I basically ate normal food, but really watched my portion sizes. Still enjoyed a few beers, but was more conscious of the fact that each beer is about 150cal. Started drinking xxxx summer bright, it only has 98cal, so i could squeeze a few extra in!

As you can imagine, i dropped weight pretty quick. Lost 20kgs in no time (between 2-3 months), and during the winter i have just done weights, no riding. Still maintaining my weight, but getting more lean mass.

Started riding again now it's getting warmer. I have another 10kgs or so to lose in order to rip up a bit.

I find riding a great way to drop weight, and it's not strenuous on the body.

Sometimes i have to tow the kids in the bike trailer, and the extra resistance that creates is massive... Gives me a great work out!

[XR6_661]

If you're riding up hill, you're going the wrong way.

Get a downhill bike, and get on some mountains! Not only will your fitness improve, but coordination, strength, etc

[Ben73]

Originally Posted by XR6_661

If you're riding up hill, you're going the wrong way.

Get a downhill bike, and get on some mountains! Not only will your fitness improve, but coordination, strength, etc

So true.

You hear ignorant people say " You wont get fit riding downhill, all you do is roll."

If only it was that easy.

[Dr Jekkyl]

Cheap, light, strong..............choose 2.

And yes, quite often you do get what you pay for.

Giant bikes have a good reputation in terms of value for money.

[kazawaki]

Originally Posted by Dr Jekkyl

Cheap, light, strong..............choose 2.

And yes, quite often you do get what you pay for.

Giant bikes have a good reputation in terms of value for money.

The 2 best researched bikes available Are TREK and Specialized .They are the geometry masters Giants are really the commodores of the bike world.
Yes I know what im talking about, over 35 years in this trade mainly as importer and wholesaler to the trade and specification designer for a number of bikes and models.