Hey everyone, I have been riding a 70's - 80's le tour II bike for years with no problems but i haven't really pushed it either. I want to get more serious into riding (nice long aggressive rides) and have a lot of questions. I'm 6'6'' and 260lb mostly muscle as I lift weight 4 days a week. I want to spend around a $1000 but i am not sure if i can get an aluminum frame or will I break it due to my weight the same question for a carbon fork? Do I need to get an all steel or titanium bike? I have looked on many bike manufactures sites and none of them say anything about an individual frame's max weight load. I don't want to be hauling ass down the road and have something on the bike fail due to my weight and i go face first into the asphalt. I appreciate any advise anyone can give on what I can use and what I am to big for and also keep it around $1000 if that is even possible. Also I am in sarasota, FL if anyone knows any good bike shops to go to in the area. Thank you in advance -Frank
hi im 6'5 and i have recently purchased the Giant OCR 3 which has done me really well considering i do pretty long hardcore rides, i reacon its a pretty good buy for $800 and im 300 lb so im pretty sure it would be a good buy for you aswell.
honestly, i don't think you're weight is a problem. the geometry of a bike frame makes it able to handle a lot of weight. So as far as frame material (aluminum, titanium, carbon fiber...) i don't think it matters. I have a friend who was a football center through college. He weighed about 270 and we put him on a Giant OCR 3 (same as lhyriel) and he did fine. I think you're main issue will be finding a size that fits you, seeing that you are 6'6. I'm guessing you will ride a 62 or 64 size bike.
Right about the frame. Sturdy wheels might be an issue, so be sure to discuss your options with your dealer.
Due to your weight paying extra for a light weight frame is silly. I suggest a steel frame, a used bike from the 70s / 80s would be fine. Spend your money on parts. If you use a derailer consider Phil Wood hubs. You might consider an internally geared hub to reduce maintenance further.
From what I've read, steel is often considered the best frame material. Take a look at what Rivendell has to say. They have some great articles that may help you get a better idea what you're looking for. Here's a link to the article on frames: www.rivbike.com/article/bicycle_making/frame_materials
