Hybrid advice wanted

[Tony Rickard]

As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling again for fitness.

Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes inherited from my father.

This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though I remember my Dad saying that
Claud Butlers dropped in quality after he had one in the 50s !!

I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be comfortable - I bought a cheap Peugeot
racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my cycling interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and
never got on with it at all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...

I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face, though I do know I don't like
twist grip shifters.

Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good basis for some exercise whilst
taking in some countryside (rather than the inside of a gym).

Any advice would be most welcome

Thanks Tony

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003

 

[Dreamlx10]

"Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling again for fitness.
>
> Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes inherited from
my
> father.
>
> This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though I remember my Dad saying that
> Claud Butlers dropped in quality after he had one in the 50s !!
>
> I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be comfortable - I bought a cheap Peugeot
> racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my cycling interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and
> never got on with it at all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
>
> I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face, though I do know I don't like
> twist grip shifters.
>
> Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good basis for some exercise whilst
> taking in some countryside (rather than the inside of a gym).
>
> Any advice would be most welcome
>
> Thanks Tony
>
> My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike with
road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or Dawes run away.

Graham
>
>
> ---
> Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
> Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003

 

[Tim Dunne]

"dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...

> My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike with road tyres fitted or by
> a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or
Dawes
> run away.

Yeah, right. Might I trouble you to ask why?

Tim (proud Ridgeback hybrid user)
--
Sent from Birmingham, UK... Check out www.nervouscyclist.org 'When you're under the USA, someone
rings a bell and it's all over'
- David Bowie, 'Day In, Day Out'. My 'reply to' address is valid, mail to the posting
address is dumped

 

[Smudger]

"dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...
>
> "Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling again for fitness.
> >
> > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes inherited from
> my
> > father.
> >
> > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though I remember my Dad saying that
> > Claud Butlers dropped in quality after he
had
> > one in the 50s !!
> >
> > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be comfortable -
I
> > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my cycling interest and found it
> > terribly uncomfortable and never got on with it at all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> >
> > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face, though
I
> > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> >
> > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good basis
for
> > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the inside
of
> > a gym).
> >
> > Any advice would be most welcome
> >
> > Thanks Tony
> >
> > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike
with
> road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or
Dawes
> run away.
>
> Graham
> >
> >
> > ---
> > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003
> >
> >
>
>

Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of these makers other than snobs
sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that have won accolades for a few years. They are also very
keenly priced.

 

[Dreamlx10]

"Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...
>
> "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> >
> > "Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > news:[email protected]...
> > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling
again
> > > for fitness.
> > >
> > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes inherited
from
> > my
> > > father.
> > >
> > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though I remember my Dad saying
> > > that Claud Butlers dropped in quality after he
> had
> > > one in the 50s !!
> > >
> > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
comfortable -
> I
> > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my cycling interest and found it
> > > terribly uncomfortable and never got on with it
at
> > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > >
> > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face,
though
> I
> > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > >
> > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good basis
> for
> > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the
inside
> of
> > > a gym).
> > >
> > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > >
> > > Thanks Tony
> > >
> > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike
> with
> > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or
> Dawes
> > run away.
> >
> > Graham
> > >
> > >
> > > ---
> > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
> Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of these makers other than snobs
> sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that
have
> won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.
>
> Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about 40lbs !

Graham

 

[Nc]

"dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...
>
> "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> >
> > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > news:[email protected]...
> > > ........ If anybody mentions Ridgeback or Dawes run away.

> > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of these makers other than snobs
> > sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that have won accolades for a few years. They are also
> > very keenly priced.
> >
> Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about 40lbs !

Almost every cycle below £500 is made in the same small collection of SE Asian factories, as are the
majority of those under £1000. Doesn't matter what it says on the badge - Orange (UK for there
expensive models, Asia for the entry models), Specialized, Giant, Ridgeback, Trek, Raleigh,
Dawes...... There are differences in specification of the bikes and frames for each "brand", but
they all come from the same few places.

As for weight, suggest Graham gets some new scales, a typical Ridgeback hybrid would be below 30lbs.

NC

 

[Tony W]

"dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...

> Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about 40lbs !

What has the location of the manufacturing plant got to do with the quality of the product? Wake up,
smell the coffee, the days when Made in England was a watch word for quality have long gone -- if,
in truth they ever existed.

The truth is that most bikes are manufactured in the Far East, many for the biggest, most
prestigious names in the industry, from the finest raw materials using the most modern
manufacturing plant.

Our original poster needs to consider what type of riding he wants to do.

Only then can he decide if he needs suspension or not. If yes, then he should try to pay the premium
associated with decent kit -- not be seduced by a poor quality, heavy supermarket bike.

Best would be to hire or borrow a few bikes and ride them.

I do not have a Ridgeback though they appear well made and well priced. I cannot comment on the
weight because I have no spec. I do ride a Dawes -- but it is so old as to be irrelevant.

I find riding an MTB (a Specialised Rockhopper so mid range) on road or well surfaced path for any
significant distance less pleasant than riding a rigid ATB of Indian origin (manufactured from
scaffolding poles and considerably heavier than 40lbs with seriously **** componentry) which is, in
turn, less pleasant than a 20 year old Dawes Galaxy tourer. Add some rough stuff and my preference
order reverses very rapidly.

We seem to be having a spate of postings from people who have swallowed the marketing hype. Believe
me -- bounce is not always best.

T

 

[Peter Fox]

Following on from Tony Rickard's message. . .
>As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling again for fitness.
>
Talk to your LBS. If you get the impression they want you as a customer rather than just want your
custom then that's a good sign.

There are so many shades between full-sus and road bike that definitions are not very helpful when
dealing with one person' specific need.

Points:
* Right size
* Comfy saddle
* A mountain bike is for cross country...
* ...while it is only really a road bike that can't handle off-road cycle facilities. (ie council
maintained trails designed for getting around)
* Braze-ons are needed if you'll be using it as a utility bike for rack and pannier.[One of the best
investment I ever made - detachable panniers]
* Get the shop to fit mudguards as they are a pain to fit yourself later.

--
PETER FOX Not the same since the deckchair business folded

Witham Cycling Campaign www.eminent.demon.co.uk/wcc.htm East Anglian Pub cycle rides
www.eminent.demon.co.uk/rides

 

[Smudger]

"dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...
>
> "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> >
> > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > news:[email protected]...
> > >
> > > "Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling
> again
> > > > for fitness.
> > > >
> > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes inherited
> from
> > > my
> > > > father.
> > > >
> > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though I remember my Dad saying
> > > > that Claud Butlers dropped in quality after
he
> > had
> > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > >
> > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> comfortable -
> > I
> > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my
cycling
> > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on with
it
> at
> > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > >
> > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face,
> though
> > I
> > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > >
> > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good
basis
> > for
> > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the
> inside
> > of
> > > > a gym).
> > > >
> > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > >
> > > > Thanks Tony
> > > >
> > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike
> > with
> > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or
> > Dawes
> > > run away.
> > >
> > > Graham
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > ---
> > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of these makers other than snobs
> > sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that
> have
> > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.
> >
> > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about 40lbs
!
>
> Graham
>
>

Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I think you're making it up.

 

[Dreamlx10]

"Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...
>
> "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> >
> > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > news:[email protected]...
> > >
> > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > news:[email protected]...
> > > >
> > > > "Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling
> > again
> > > > > for fitness.
> > > > >
> > > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes
inherited
> > from
> > > > my
> > > > > father.
> > > > >
> > > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though
I
> > > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality after
> he
> > > had
> > > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > > >
> > > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> > comfortable -
> > > I
> > > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my
> cycling
> > > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on with
> it
> > at
> > > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > > >
> > > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face,
> > though
> > > I
> > > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > > >
> > > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good
> basis
> > > for
> > > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the
> > inside
> > > of
> > > > > a gym).
> > > > >
> > > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > > >
> > > > > Thanks Tony
> > > > >
> > > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain
bike
> > > with
> > > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback
or
> > > Dawes
> > > > run away.
> > > >
> > > > Graham
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > ---
> > > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > > (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
> > > > > 24/04/2003
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of
these
> > > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that
> > have
> > > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.
> > >
> > > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about
40lbs
> !
> >
> > Graham
> >
> >
>
> Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I think you're making it up.
>
> I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs yeah
right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first place.

Graham

 

[Smudger]

"dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...
>
> "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> >
> > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > news:[email protected]...
> > >
> > > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > news:[email protected]...
> > > >
> > > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > >
> > > > > "Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start
cycling
> > > again
> > > > > > for fitness.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes
> inherited
> > > from
> > > > > my
> > > > > > father.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.
Though
> I
> > > > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality
after
> > he
> > > > had
> > > > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> > > comfortable -
> > > > I
> > > > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my
> > cycling
> > > > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on
with
> > it
> > > at
> > > > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the
face,
> > > though
> > > > I
> > > > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good
> > basis
> > > > for
> > > > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the
> > > inside
> > > > of
> > > > > > a gym).
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Thanks Tony
> > > > > >
> > > > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain
> bike
> > > > with
> > > > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback
> or
> > > > Dawes
> > > > > run away.
> > > > >
> > > > > Graham
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > ---
> > > > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > > > (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
24/04/2003
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of
> these
> > > > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes
that
> > > have
> > > > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.
> > > >
> > > > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about
> 40lbs
> > !
> > >
> > > Graham
> > >
> > >
> >
> > Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I
think
> > you're making it up.
> >
> > I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs yeah
> right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first
place.
>
> Graham
>
>
Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.

It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks, stem and seat post. 21.5 pounds
but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great bike, I'm very very happy with it
and it doesn't have any girly suspension either.

 

[Dreamlx10]

"Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...
>
> "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> >
> > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > news:[email protected]...
> > >
> > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > news:[email protected]...
> > > >
> > > > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > >
> > > > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start
> cycling
> > > > again
> > > > > > > for fitness.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes
> > inherited
> > > > from
> > > > > > my
> > > > > > > father.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.
> Though
> > I
> > > > > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality
> after
> > > he
> > > > > had
> > > > > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> > > > comfortable -
> > > > > I
> > > > > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my
> > > cycling
> > > > > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on
> with
> > > it
> > > > at
> > > > > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the
> face,
> > > > though
> > > > > I
> > > > > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a
good
> > > basis
> > > > > for
> > > > > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than
the
> > > > inside
> > > > > of
> > > > > > > a gym).
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Thanks Tony
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a
mountain
> > bike
> > > > > with
> > > > > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions
Ridgeback
> > or
> > > > > Dawes
> > > > > > run away.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Graham
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > ---
> > > > > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > > > > (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
> 24/04/2003
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of
> > these
> > > > > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes
> that
> > > > have
> > > > > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.
> > > > >
> > > > > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about
> > 40lbs
> > > !
> > > >
> > > > Graham
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > > Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I
> think
> > > you're making it up.
> > >
> > > I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs yeah
> > right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first
> place.
> >
> > Graham
> >
> >
> Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.
>
> It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks, stem
and
> seat post. 21.5 pounds but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great bike,
> I'm very very happy with it and it doesn't have any girly suspension either.
>
> Another one bites !

Graham

 

[Dreamlx10]

"Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...
>
> "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> >
> > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > news:[email protected]...
> > >
> > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > news:[email protected]...
> > > >
> > > > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > >
> > > > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start
> cycling
> > > > again
> > > > > > > for fitness.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes
> > inherited
> > > > from
> > > > > > my
> > > > > > > father.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.
> Though
> > I
> > > > > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality
> after
> > > he
> > > > > had
> > > > > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> > > > comfortable -
> > > > > I
> > > > > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my
> > > cycling
> > > > > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on
> with
> > > it
> > > > at
> > > > > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the
> face,
> > > > though
> > > > > I
> > > > > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a
good
> > > basis
> > > > > for
> > > > > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than
the
> > > > inside
> > > > > of
> > > > > > > a gym).
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Thanks Tony
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a
mountain
> > bike
> > > > > with
> > > > > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions
Ridgeback
> > or
> > > > > Dawes
> > > > > > run away.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Graham
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > ---
> > > > > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > > > > (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
> 24/04/2003
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of
> > these
> > > > > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes
> that
> > > > have
> > > > > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.
> > > > >
> > > > > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about
> > 40lbs
> > > !
> > > >
> > > > Graham
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > > Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I
> think
> > > you're making it up.
> > >
> > > I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs yeah
> > right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first
> place.
> >
> > Graham
> >
> >
> Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.
>
> It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks, stem
and
> seat post. 21.5 pounds but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great bike,
> I'm very very happy with it and it doesn't have any girly suspension either.
>
> What a waste of good carbon fibre !

Graham

 

[Tony Rickard]

"Peter Fox" wrote:

> Following on from Tony Rickard's message. . .
> >As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling again for fitness.
> >
> Talk to your LBS. If you get the impression they want you as a customer rather than just want your
> custom then that's a good sign.

Thanks, Peter. I was just being my usual impatient self wanting advice on a Sunday evening!

> There are so many shades between full-sus and road bike that definitions are not very helpful when
> dealing with one person' specific need.

Yes it is a bit baffling, especially the seemingly minor differences between categories.

> Points:
> * Right size
> * Comfy saddle
> * A mountain bike is for cross country...
> * ...while it is only really a road bike that can't handle off-road cycle facilities. (ie council
> maintained trails designed for getting around)
> * Braze-ons are needed if you'll be using it as a utility bike for rack and pannier.[One of the
> best investment I ever made - detachable panniers]
> * Get the shop to fit mudguards as they are a pain to fit yourself later.

Hey, when I was a kid mudguards really weren't cool and were for old men - oh that'll be me then...

Cheers Tony

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003

 

[Tony Rickard]

"Tony W" wrote:

> Our original poster needs to consider what type of riding he wants to do.

Road use only. Mainly fair weather and no need to carry stuff. Even if I do feel inclined to ride to
work I can leave all the stuff I need there and just carry waterproofs.

The aim is to improve fitness and the jaunts out with the kids.

Comfort is important - I don't want to be put off because of getting sore or have an aching back
just by sitting on the thing for 5 mins.

> Only then can he decide if he needs suspension or not. If yes, then he should try to pay the
> premium associated with decent kit -- not be
seduced
> by a poor quality, heavy supermarket bike.
>
> Best would be to hire or borrow a few bikes and ride them.

Rode a mate's Claud Butler Urban 200 today - felt pretty comfortable (around the work car
park anyway!)

> I do not have a Ridgeback though they appear well made and well priced.
I
> cannot comment on the weight because I have no spec. I do ride a
Dawes --
> but it is so old as to be irrelevant.
>
> I find riding an MTB (a Specialised Rockhopper so mid range) on road or
well
> surfaced path for any significant distance less pleasant than riding a
rigid
> ATB of Indian origin (manufactured from scaffolding poles and
considerably
> heavier than 40lbs with seriously **** componentry) which is, in turn,
less
> pleasant than a 20 year old Dawes Galaxy tourer. Add some rough stuff
and
> my preference order reverses very rapidly.

Makes sense...

> We seem to be having a spate of postings from people who have swallowed
the
> marketing hype. Believe me -- bounce is not always best.

That is why I came here

Cheers Tony

---
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Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003

 

[Smudger]

"dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> >
> > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > news:[email protected]...
> > >
> > > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > news:[email protected]...
> > > >
> > > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > >
> > > > > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in
message
> > > > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start
> > cycling
> > > > > again
> > > > > > > > for fitness.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes
> > > inherited
> > > > > from
> > > > > > > my
> > > > > > > > father.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.
> > Though
> > > I
> > > > > > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality
> > after
> > > > he
> > > > > > had
> > > > > > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> > > > > comfortable -
> > > > > > I
> > > > > > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle
my
> > > > cycling
> > > > > > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got
on
> > with
> > > > it
> > > > > at
> > > > > > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the
> > face,
> > > > > though
> > > > > > I
> > > > > > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a
> good
> > > > basis
> > > > > > for
> > > > > > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than
> the
> > > > > inside
> > > > > > of
> > > > > > > > a gym).
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Thanks Tony
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a
> mountain
> > > bike
> > > > > > with
> > > > > > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions
> Ridgeback
> > > or
> > > > > > Dawes
> > > > > > > run away.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Graham
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > ---
> > > > > > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > > > > > (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
> > 24/04/2003
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either
of
> > > these
> > > > > > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made
bikes
> > that
> > > > > have
> > > > > > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly
priced.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh
about
> > > 40lbs
> > > > !
> > > > >
> > > > > Graham
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > > Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I
> > think
> > > > you're making it up.
> > > >
> > > > I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs
yeah
> > > right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first
> > place.
> > >
> > > Graham
> > >
> > >
> > Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.
> >
> > It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks, stem
> and
> > seat post. 21.5 pounds but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great bike,
> > I'm very very happy with it and it doesn't
have
> > any girly suspension either.
> >
> > What a waste of good carbon fibre !
>
> Graham
>
>
So sad.

 

[Andrew Chadwick]

On Mon, 28 Apr 2003 08:36:56 +0100, NC <[email protected]> wrote:
> "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> ("Graham") trolled in message
> news:[email protected]...
>>
>> Weigh about 40lbs !
[...]
> As for weight, suggest Graham gets some new scales, a typical Ridgeback hybrid would be
> below 30lbs.

Mine -- a fairly average Ridgeback Velocity -- tips the scales at 18kg laden with panniers, bungee
cords and seat pack, 15kg unladen. Both figures include lights, SON hub dynamo, wiring, rack, pump,
unsprung leather saddle, and aftermarket oil, dirt and grime. That's about 33lbs unladen unless I'm
reading from the fathom column or something daft.

Hope these figures are useful to someone.

--
Andrew Chadwick <NOT LEGAL FOR TRADE> Erm, it said on the scales, that is.

 

[Tony W]

"Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> Road use only. Mainly fair weather and no need to carry stuff. Even if I
do
> feel inclined to ride to work I can leave all the stuff I need there and just carry waterproofs.

Carrying capacity never goes amiss though.

> The aim is to improve fitness and the jaunts out with the kids.

Noble reasons. You may even enjoy it -- and so might the kids.

> Comfort is important - I don't want to be put off because of getting sore or have an aching back
> just by sitting on the thing for 5 mins.

Comfort comes from several factors. The right size frame, a 'relaxed' geometry and a comfortable
saddle (which is NOT the same as a comfy saddle). A comfy saddle may look nice & comfy but can
destroy your **** in an afternoon. Something that looks like a tourture device can fit your bum just
right and be wonderfully comfortable. Many good LBS have a library of saddles you can borrow to
test. Well worth it!!

> Rode a mate's Claud Butler Urban 200 today - felt pretty comfortable (around the work car park
> anyway!)

Longer would be better. Buy him a couple of beers if he lets you borrow it for a couple of hours!!

> > We seem to be having a spate of postings from people who have swallowed
> the
> > marketing hype. Believe me -- bounce is not always best.
>
> That is why I came here
>
> Cheers Tony

Cheers

Tony!!

 

[Tony Rickard]

"Tony W" wrote:

> Something that looks like a tourture device can fit your bum just right and be wonderfully
> comfortable.

Heck, I think I am on the wrong newsgroup

> > Rode a mate's Claud Butler Urban 200 today - felt pretty comfortable (around the work car park
> > anyway!)
>
> Longer would be better. Buy him a couple of beers if he lets you borrow
it
> for a couple of hours!!

I need the bike to get fit - a couple of hours would probably kill me right now!

> > Cheers Tony
>
> Cheers Tony!!

Cheers Tony!!!!

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003

 

[Dreamlx10]

"Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message news:[email protected]...
>
> "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> >
> > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > news:[email protected]...
> > >
> > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > news:[email protected]...
> > > >
> > > > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > >
> > > > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Smudger" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "dreamlx10" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> > > > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Tony Rickard" <[email protected]> wrote in
> message
> > > > > > > > news:[email protected]...
> > > > > > > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start
> > > cycling
> > > > > > again
> > > > > > > > > for fitness.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes
> > > > inherited
> > > > > > from
> > > > > > > > my
> > > > > > > > > father.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.
> > > Though
> > > > I
> > > > > > > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in
quality
> > > after
> > > > > he
> > > > > > > had
> > > > > > > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> > > > > > comfortable -
> > > > > > > I
> > > > > > > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle
> my
> > > > > cycling
> > > > > > > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got
> on
> > > with
> > > > > it
> > > > > > at
> > > > > > > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in
the
> > > face,
> > > > > > though
> > > > > > > I
> > > > > > > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing
a
> > good
> > > > > basis
> > > > > > > for
> > > > > > > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather
than
> > the
> > > > > > inside
> > > > > > > of
> > > > > > > > > a gym).
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Thanks Tony
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a
> > mountain
> > > > bike
> > > > > > > with
> > > > > > > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions
> > Ridgeback
> > > > or
> > > > > > > Dawes
> > > > > > > > run away.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Graham
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > ---
> > > > > > > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > > > > > > (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
> > > 24/04/2003
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with
either
> of
> > > > these
> > > > > > > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made
> bikes
> > > that
> > > > > > have
> > > > > > > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly
> priced.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh
> about
> > > > 40lbs
> > > > > !
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Graham
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds.
I
> > > think
> > > > > you're making it up.
> > > > >
> > > > > I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs
> yeah
> > > > right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first
> > > place.
> > > >
> > > > Graham
> > > >
> > > >
> > > Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.
> > >
> > > It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks,
stem
> > and
> > > seat post. 21.5 pounds but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great
> > > bike, I'm very very happy with it and it doesn't
> have
> > > any girly suspension either.
> > >
> > > What a waste of good carbon fibre !
> >
> > Graham
> >
> >
> So sad.
>
> Your telling me, carbon fibre is expensive and that guy is putting it on a
ridgeback. Someone wants to have a word with him.

Graham