Epic Parad
Okay, so I really have two questions for this one.
Firstly, my father does not believe that I need a new bike. I am riding about 50-100 miles per week on a bike bought on sale at Walmart. This bike is about a year and a half old. This: http://next-bike.com/models.php?model=pcm is pretty close to the model I ride now. I am a female, though I ride a men's bike at the moment. My biggest problem is that most of the time I am working against the bike while riding, instead of flowing with it. The breaks hardly work even though we have tried to fix them multiple times. It is heavy and uncomfortable, and I have to hunch my shoulders and set my hands very uncomfortably on the handle bars.
Now I have told my dad all of this, but he only said that if I really loved bike riding, he would have already gotten me a serious bike. How do I convince him to buy me a new one? I am not allowed to get a job though I work very, very hard around the house. I get a 15 dollar per week allowence, but my friends often invite me to the movies and such and it's times like these that I want to use the money for. My family is not "tight on cash" in any sense of the word. My dad got a kayak that he has never once used two years ago, just on a whim. He can buy me a bike easily, he just won't. Any ideas on how to convince him that a Walmart bike just doesn't cut it? He doesn't believe that they're any different than the big brands.
Now for my second question.
What sort of bikes would you recommend I look into? I ride on both streets and gravely pathways, sometimes in dirt. I spend a lot of time riding on the side of the road, whether that be on asphalt or in the gutter. I would like something that fits my body- I am 5'7"- and comfort is a huge goal for me. I'm pretty sure I be able to convince my dad on any bike more than $1000, and that is a huge upper limit. What would you suggest and where would you suggest I search for such a bike? I live in the suburbs of Chicago.
I'm sorry if that was long, thank you very very much for taking time to help me.
First of all I meant that I wouldn't be able to convince my dad to buy me a bike more than 1000 dollars, and that I wouldn't want to, not the gibberish that I typed.
Secondly, and this is directed to bad, I didn't mean to come off as self centered. However, the last sentence of your comment was downright rude and there was absolutely no reason to mock me. You don't know me or what I do. It's not as if going a weekend without seeing a movie will buy me any sort of bike, even the Walmart kind. Going for 30 weeks without doing anything with my friends? That's pushing it, wouldn't you say? I'm not a spoiled brat. Up until this point- a few days ago I almost got hit by a car beacuse the brakes weren't working- I haven't been looking for bikes because I didn't want to ask for something so expensive, so of course I wouldn't know what I would/should want. Still, at least you responded with something so I guess I can't complain too much.
Answer
Your questions are reasonable. Furthermore, grammar as proper as yours is seldom seen in questions asked here, especially by teens. What a nice change!
First, a bike is no better than its braking capabilities. If nothing can be done to improve the brakes on your current bike, it's just not safe to ride. It's no secret that the brakes on "department store" bikes are lousy. It's also no secret that the overall poor quality of parts and assembly on these bikes make them poor choices. The bottom end components found on dept store bikes make them very hard to repair and maintain, let alone work correctly in the first place. Besides, it doesn't sound like your current bike fits you well.
Perhaps your dad still thinks of you as a little kid. Rather than riding around in circles in the cul-de-sac, you rely on your bike for transportation. Or perhaps your dad doesn't see the difference in quality between bike purchased at Walmart and bikes purchased at a bike shop.
If you haven't done so already, I would suggest you visit your local bike shops (LBS). Ride your bike if you must, but don't bring dad with you this time. Talk to the staff; tell them about the riding you do and that you intend to replace your current bike with a higher quality bike. Take test rides on bikes that interest you and allow the staff to explain the features of each model. Then make sure you leave the shop with several catalogs featuring some of the models that you test rode or which otherwise interested you. Take the catalogs home and discuss the issue with your dad. Make him promise you to accompany you to the shop so he can see the bikes for himself. Also, if there was a particular staff member that was very helpful or whom you think would be most capable of representing your side to your dad, call in advance to be sure that salesperson will be there when you visit again.
If you want a bike that's good for traveling on paved and [smooth] unpaved surfaces, you'd be best with a hybrid. Depending on the brands your bike shop(s) represent(s), you should find a variety of hybrids from which to choose. Here are a few that would come in below your limit:
Trek 7.3FX WSD $640
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/bike_path/fx/73fxwsd/
Trek 7300 WSD $640
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/bike_path/hybrid/7300wsd/
Specialized Vita Sport $590
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=38459&eid=121
Specialized Women's Globe Vienna 3 $610
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=39276
Kona Dew $450
http://www.konaworld.com/09_dew_u.cfm
Jamis Coda Femme $550
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/street/coda/09_codaf.html
Jamis Allegro 1 $635
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/street/allegro/09_allegro1.html
You'll notice that with the exception of one model (Trek 7300), none of the bikes have a suspension. It's just not necessary for the riding you describe, and getting a decent suspension fork really increases the overall cost. Some "hybrids" have more in common with road bikes than other hybrids; the FX and the Sirrus are two such "flat bar road bikes." You'll find similar bikes from other mfrs, including Marin, Fuji and even Schwinn (not the Target line, though). They're good all around bikes for commuting, fitness riding, bike paths, and smooth trails. Your LBS staff can show you these and other bikes that would work for you. Most important is the fit and comfort, so be sure to take them for test rides. You can get great quality for $500-600. That's more palatable than the $1K limit you mentioned.
Two more points: First, I'm shocked you've ridden your Next for 1-1/2yrs and put on that kind of mileage. Second, don't ride in gutters...ever....for any reason. Not good for you or the bike.
Your questions are reasonable. Furthermore, grammar as proper as yours is seldom seen in questions asked here, especially by teens. What a nice change!
First, a bike is no better than its braking capabilities. If nothing can be done to improve the brakes on your current bike, it's just not safe to ride. It's no secret that the brakes on "department store" bikes are lousy. It's also no secret that the overall poor quality of parts and assembly on these bikes make them poor choices. The bottom end components found on dept store bikes make them very hard to repair and maintain, let alone work correctly in the first place. Besides, it doesn't sound like your current bike fits you well.
Perhaps your dad still thinks of you as a little kid. Rather than riding around in circles in the cul-de-sac, you rely on your bike for transportation. Or perhaps your dad doesn't see the difference in quality between bike purchased at Walmart and bikes purchased at a bike shop.
If you haven't done so already, I would suggest you visit your local bike shops (LBS). Ride your bike if you must, but don't bring dad with you this time. Talk to the staff; tell them about the riding you do and that you intend to replace your current bike with a higher quality bike. Take test rides on bikes that interest you and allow the staff to explain the features of each model. Then make sure you leave the shop with several catalogs featuring some of the models that you test rode or which otherwise interested you. Take the catalogs home and discuss the issue with your dad. Make him promise you to accompany you to the shop so he can see the bikes for himself. Also, if there was a particular staff member that was very helpful or whom you think would be most capable of representing your side to your dad, call in advance to be sure that salesperson will be there when you visit again.
If you want a bike that's good for traveling on paved and [smooth] unpaved surfaces, you'd be best with a hybrid. Depending on the brands your bike shop(s) represent(s), you should find a variety of hybrids from which to choose. Here are a few that would come in below your limit:
Trek 7.3FX WSD $640
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/bike_path/fx/73fxwsd/
Trek 7300 WSD $640
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/bike_path/hybrid/7300wsd/
Specialized Vita Sport $590
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=38459&eid=121
Specialized Women's Globe Vienna 3 $610
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=39276
Kona Dew $450
http://www.konaworld.com/09_dew_u.cfm
Jamis Coda Femme $550
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/street/coda/09_codaf.html
Jamis Allegro 1 $635
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/street/allegro/09_allegro1.html
You'll notice that with the exception of one model (Trek 7300), none of the bikes have a suspension. It's just not necessary for the riding you describe, and getting a decent suspension fork really increases the overall cost. Some "hybrids" have more in common with road bikes than other hybrids; the FX and the Sirrus are two such "flat bar road bikes." You'll find similar bikes from other mfrs, including Marin, Fuji and even Schwinn (not the Target line, though). They're good all around bikes for commuting, fitness riding, bike paths, and smooth trails. Your LBS staff can show you these and other bikes that would work for you. Most important is the fit and comfort, so be sure to take them for test rides. You can get great quality for $500-600. That's more palatable than the $1K limit you mentioned.
Two more points: First, I'm shocked you've ridden your Next for 1-1/2yrs and put on that kind of mileage. Second, don't ride in gutters...ever....for any reason. Not good for you or the bike.
Good to buy a bike?
terse
I am going nuts trying to buy a bike. I am going to bike shops and getting very conflicting information. I don't know if I am getting fed a line of BS because someone is trying to make a commission or what.
My situation is that I am a good athlete that is new to cycling. I had a bike when I was a kid, but haven't been on a bike in years. I am a 30 year old male, 6'2" and 240 lbs. I am not looking to join the X-Games or Tour de France. I want a good bike that I can ride around on for excercise and enjoyment, mainly on pavement, but would also like to be able to go off road a bit. I would ride 3 to 6 days a week. One salesman told me the Trek Navigator 3.0 was the way to go. A different shop told me the Trek 7200 hybrid. Another shop told me to get a Gary Fisher mountain bike. Last shop I went to was hardcore about a Fuji bike. I am trying to educate myself and make a smart purchase, but it is difficult with all of the conflicting information.
A lot of great information here. To add a few notes:
When I am talking about going offroad, I mean a dirt trail in the woods. It is not specifically a bike path. There are some places with rocks and big roots to go over. It is nothing dangerous looking though.
I don't really a pre-set budget. I am not opposed to spending good money as long as I am buying the right thing. Ideally I would like to stay under $2,000, but that is not my main concern.
Is there a certain size bike you suggest? I think it can vary between mountain bikes, hybrids, etc.
Thanks again for all of the great input. If any of you guys that work in bike shops are in the New Jersey area, please let me know. I'd be happy to buy my bike there.
Answer
Very good answers here for a change.
I'll just add a few pieces...
I would personally suggest you go for a mountain bike. The hybrids or cyclo-cross bikes are fine, but seem to do neither terribly well.
The only real problem with riding a mountain bike on the road is rolling resistance. You'll work harder on pavement, but so what. If it is for fitness, who cares.
Moutnain bikes are certainly more comfortable. Later, if you want to do a triathalon, or become a roadie, you can invest in another bike. Mountain bikes are very good all purpose bikes, with good versatility and can take abuse.
You fall into what is affectionately known as the Clydesdales -- a big guy. Still, most anyone under 300 pounds won't have an issue with a frame unless you are dropping off of cliffs, getting big air.
And yes, bike shops absolutely will try to sell you on the their bikes, and disparage their competitors. Margins are slim, and bike sales are flat right now.
Your BUDGET will go a long way toward determining what you need. Do not go for a $200 Wal-Mart or discount bike. But, you don't have to spend $2,000 either. You can probably find a very nice hardtail that would meet all your needs in the $8000-$1100 range, perhaps less.
The vast majority of "name brand" bikes are made within miles of each other in Taiwan. They are all perfectly good, and offer good value. Bikes from Giant, Specialized, Trek, Gary Fischer, Kona, etc are all good choices.
I like Mountain Bike Review (link below). You do get biased opionions, but can at least screen the bikes you are looking at, and see if users have noticed fatal flaws. Read up, and you might be able to narrow your choices.
Try the bikes you are interested in. It's rare these days, but some shops do have demo models you can borrow or rent.
Don't be afraid to ask if they will discount a bike. There is a lot a shop can do to earn your business. Just reward them with your service needs later.
Good luck!
EDIT: Have a shop size you. It's the best way, and you can then feel the difference in person, rather than using the formula from a book.
Very good answers here for a change.
I'll just add a few pieces...
I would personally suggest you go for a mountain bike. The hybrids or cyclo-cross bikes are fine, but seem to do neither terribly well.
The only real problem with riding a mountain bike on the road is rolling resistance. You'll work harder on pavement, but so what. If it is for fitness, who cares.
Moutnain bikes are certainly more comfortable. Later, if you want to do a triathalon, or become a roadie, you can invest in another bike. Mountain bikes are very good all purpose bikes, with good versatility and can take abuse.
You fall into what is affectionately known as the Clydesdales -- a big guy. Still, most anyone under 300 pounds won't have an issue with a frame unless you are dropping off of cliffs, getting big air.
And yes, bike shops absolutely will try to sell you on the their bikes, and disparage their competitors. Margins are slim, and bike sales are flat right now.
Your BUDGET will go a long way toward determining what you need. Do not go for a $200 Wal-Mart or discount bike. But, you don't have to spend $2,000 either. You can probably find a very nice hardtail that would meet all your needs in the $8000-$1100 range, perhaps less.
The vast majority of "name brand" bikes are made within miles of each other in Taiwan. They are all perfectly good, and offer good value. Bikes from Giant, Specialized, Trek, Gary Fischer, Kona, etc are all good choices.
I like Mountain Bike Review (link below). You do get biased opionions, but can at least screen the bikes you are looking at, and see if users have noticed fatal flaws. Read up, and you might be able to narrow your choices.
Try the bikes you are interested in. It's rare these days, but some shops do have demo models you can borrow or rent.
Don't be afraid to ask if they will discount a bike. There is a lot a shop can do to earn your business. Just reward them with your service needs later.
Good luck!
EDIT: Have a shop size you. It's the best way, and you can then feel the difference in person, rather than using the formula from a book.
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Title Post: I would like a new bike, what would you suggest I do?
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Rating: 94% based on 932 ratings. 4,1 user reviews.
Author: Unknown
Thanks For Coming To My Blog
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