new to cycling

[CindySue48]

I have been trying for over a year now to get the $$ together to buy a bike. Now, due to a bonus at work, I'm finally going to be able to buy one!!!!

I'm 51 yrs old and haven't ridden since high school....except for a quick spin once on my kid's bike!

I'm 5'8" and want an "all purpose" bike. I'll initially be riding mostly in the neighborhood, but eventually would like to go on some of the trails around here. I'm in Durham NC.

I know not to buy a cheap bike....or I'd already have one....but I also don't want to spend a small fortune! I have back and neck problems, so I think I'll need a bike that will allow me to sit more upright.

Also, I have NEVER ridden a bike with hand breaks and speeds.....any advice on where I can read up on this?

Any and all advice greatly appreciated!

 

[CindySue48]

I should also add that I have pretty long legs, with an inseam of about 34 1/2".

 

[MoBentRdr]

I'm 5'8" and want an "all purpose" bike. I'll initially be riding mostly in the neighborhood, but eventually would like to go on some of the trails around here. I'm in Durham NC.

I know not to buy a cheap bike....or I'd already have one....but I also don't want to spend a small fortune! I have back and neck problems, so I think I'll need a bike that will allow me to sit more upright.

Also, I have NEVER ridden a bike with hand breaks and speeds.....any advice on where I can read up on this?

Any and all advice greatly appreciated!

With back & neck problems, you may well want to consider a recumbent type of bike. For more information on recumbents, see www.bentrideronline.com . Cyclegenius (www.cyclegenius.com) and Suncycles/easy racers (www.easyracers.com , EZ line) both make decent bikes at a somewhat reasonable price (keep in mind, that recumbents tend to be more expensive than the traditional Diamond Frame (DF) bikes). If looking at recumbents, take a close look at the Compact Long Wheelbase category. Also, use the buyer's guide on the bentrider web site (enter CLWB under the configuration box). These are probably the best for your situation, considering your physical issues and limited riding experience.

If you prefer to get a traditional Diamond Frame type, you should focus your search on what are known as hybrids.

These recommendations are assuming the trails you plan to ride are mild ones, and not hard core mountain bike trails.

 

[CindySue48]

With back & neck problems, you may well want to consider a recumbent type of bike. For more information on recumbents, see www.bentrideronline.com . Cyclegenius (www.cyclegenius.com) and Suncycles/easy racers (www.easyracers.com , EZ line) both make decent bikes at a somewhat reasonable price (keep in mind, that recumbents tend to be more expensive than the traditional Diamond Frame (DF) bikes). If looking at recumbents, take a close look at the Compact Long Wheelbase category. Also, use the buyer's guide on the bentrider web site (enter CLWB under the configuration box). These are probably the best for your situation, considering your physical issues and limited riding experience.

If you prefer to get a traditional Diamond Frame type, you should focus your search on what are known as hybrids.

These recommendations are assuming the trails you plan to ride are mild ones, and not hard core mountain bike trails.

Thanks for the info....I really can't see myself on a recumbent bike....lower back I think would protest too much.

I have a stationary bike and have no problems on that....as long as the handlebars are up high enough.

I have been thinking hybrid....but not sure what size to get. Are there certain brands to stay away from? I know it's going to cost me, but I'd like to keep it as inexpensive as possible.

Currently one of the bike shops has a sale going on....but I won't have the $$ for anotehr 2-4 weeks!

Now....any advice on helmet? other gear I should have?

Thanks again, Cindy

 

[MoBentRdr]

Thanks for the info....I really can't see myself on a recumbent bike....lower back I think would protest too much.

Now....any advice on helmet? other gear I should have?

Thanks again, Cindy

I, and a number of others, switched to a recumbent because of back problems. Certain styles of recumbents give a lot of back support.

Helmets are a must. Water bottles are also important. After you get started, you body will tell you if you need other stuff like gloves, shoes, cycling shorts, jerseys, etc. I wouldn't bother with them until after you start riding.

Check to see if there is a local bike club (the bike shop can tell you) for Diamond Frame advice. I've been away from Diamond Frame bikes too long to give much help here, although Trek is considered a good name. To keep cost down, consider a good used bike (used bikes usually costs 35 - 70 cents on the dollar to new bikes, depending on age and usage).

 

[CindySue48]

I, and a number of others, switched to a recumbent because of back problems. Certain styles of recumbents give a lot of back support.

Helmets are a must. Water bottles are also important. After you get started, you body will tell you if you need other stuff like gloves, shoes, cycling shorts, jerseys, etc. I wouldn't bother with them until after you start riding.

Check to see if there is a local bike club (the bike shop can tell you) for Diamond Frame advice. I've been away from Diamond Frame bikes too long to give much help here, although Trek is considered a good name. To keep cost down, consider a good used bike (used bikes usually costs 35 - 70 cents on the dollar to new bikes, depending on age and usage).

Thanks again!

I know most people with back problems say the recumbent bikes are better....but I don't have "normal" back issues. There are several things I can do that I "shouldn't" be able to do.....and other things that should be OK, but cause pain. If I could find a recumbent for a few hundred, I might consider trying one.....but the prices, I think, are way out of my ball park!

Good idea on the bike club....Im sure there are a few, since biking seems to be pretty popular around here.

On the "regular" bikes.....is there a site to go to that tells you how to get the right "fit"? I've been told to go to a bike shop and let them decide.....but a year ago when I started this, I went to 2 different shops and they each recomended 2 totally different fitting bikes! One guy had me up so high in the seat that I couldn't touch ground, even with my tip-toes.....and then said the seat was too low! The other had me in a much more reasonable position (to me), but I don't know what's right and what's not!!!!!! Last thing I want is to get a bike and then not be able to ride it because of poor fit! Both shops were supposed to be "excellent".

 

[Eden]

I have been trying for over a year now to get the $$ together to buy a bike. Now, due to a bonus at work, I'm finally going to be able to buy one!!!!

I'm 51 yrs old and haven't ridden since high school....except for a quick spin once on my kid's bike!

I'm 5'8" and want an "all purpose" bike. I'll initially be riding mostly in the neighborhood, but eventually would like to go on some of the trails around here. I'm in Durham NC.

I know not to buy a cheap bike....or I'd already have one....but I also don't want to spend a small fortune! I have back and neck problems, so I think I'll need a bike that will allow me to sit more upright.

Also, I have NEVER ridden a bike with hand breaks and speeds.....any advice on where I can read up on this?

Any and all advice greatly appreciated!

Some more information that might be a bit more about your goals - what sorts of distances do you see yourself doing. Do you want to work up to organized rides or looking to be able to run errands around your neighborhood.
There are several types of bikes you might look at:

cruisers / comfort bikes - these are heavier and definitely meant for leisure / neighborhood errand type riding. The pluses are that they are often a bit less expensive than a good road or hybrid bike and they are less techinical to learn to ride. Bikes like the Electra Townie have an upright position (with electras you can even put your feet on the ground when seated on the saddle), coaster brakes and internal shifting hubs. They are definitely not meant for long distances or hills and may only have 3 or 7 speeds.

hybrids - hybrid bikes have an upright position much like a mt. bike, but are generally less heavy and can be outfitted with slick tires that make riding on pavement easier. They are usually a little heavier and slower than your typical road bike, but can be fine for riding fairly long distances once you are used to it.(the upright postition may put a little more than the desired pressure on your tushie for a long ride)

modified road bikes - bikes like the Trek Pilot and Specialized Sequoia are much closer to regular road bikes, but have a somewhat more upright riding position for people who have a hard time with tradtional road bike geometry. These are generally lighter and more responsive than the hybrids, but the position is definitely less upright. If you can tolerate the riding position this type of bike it might be a good choice for working up to longer orgainized riding or touring.

Good luck with your search and welcome - bicycling is a great sport!

 

[CindySue48]

Some more information that might be a bit more about your goals - what sorts of distances do you see yourself doing. Do you want to work up to organized rides or looking to be able to run errands around your neighborhood.
There are several types of bikes you might look at:

cruisers / comfort bikes - these are heavier and definitely meant for leisure / neighborhood errand type riding. The pluses are that they are often a bit less expensive than a good road or hybrid bike and they are less techinical to learn to ride. Bikes like the Electra Townie have an upright position (with electras you can even put your feet on the ground when seated on the saddle), coaster brakes and internal shifting hubs. They are definitely not meant for long distances or hills and may only have 3 or 7 speeds.

hybrids - hybrid bikes have an upright position much like a mt. bike, but are generally less heavy and can be outfitted with slick tires that make riding on pavement easier. They are usually a little heavier and slower than your typical road bike, but can be fine for riding fairly long distances once you are used to it.(the upright postition may put a little more than the desired pressure on your tushie for a long ride)

modified road bikes - bikes like the Trek Pilot and Specialized Sequoia are much closer to regular road bikes, but have a somewhat more upright riding position for people who have a hard time with tradtional road bike geometry. These are generally lighter and more responsive than the hybrids, but the position is definitely less upright. If you can tolerate the riding position this type of bike it might be a good choice for working up to longer orgainized riding or touring.

Good luck with your search and welcome - bicycling is a great sport!

Thanks for the info Eden.

At this point, all I know is that I want a bike that I can initially ride around the neighborhood, but as I get more comfortable and in better shape, I'd like to go on longer rides. At the advice of another poster I'm going to check out the local bike clubs too.

There are several bike paths within 5 miles or so of my house....some are paved, others aren't. Once I get where I feel ok on the bike I'd like to check out a couple of the paths. Beyond that? who knows! I do live in a fairly hilly area, and while I want to work at riding....I don't want to be killing myself either!

I've been leaning towards the hybrid, simply because I figure it's the best choice for now. You mentioned with the cruiser I'd be able to put my feet on the ground.....that isnt' the case with the hybrids? or Mt bikes?

You mentioned the seat....I've heard also that it's very important to wear bike shorts? even if they're worn under other pants.....to prevent chafing? Is that true? I've overweight, but not by that much (well, not as much as I was ).....but I understand butt padding has little to do with seat comfort?

Thanks again!
Cindy

 

[Eden]

Thanks for the info Eden.

At this point, all I know is that I want a bike that I can initially ride around the neighborhood, but as I get more comfortable and in better shape, I'd like to go on longer rides. At the advice of another poster I'm going to check out the local bike clubs too.

There are several bike paths within 5 miles or so of my house....some are paved, others aren't. Once I get where I feel ok on the bike I'd like to check out a couple of the paths. Beyond that? who knows! I do live in a fairly hilly area, and while I want to work at riding....I don't want to be killing myself either!

I've been leaning towards the hybrid, simply because I figure it's the best choice for now. You mentioned with the cruiser I'd be able to put my feet on the ground.....that isnt' the case with the hybrids? or Mt bikes?

With most bikes you will need to either dismount or at least lean the bike to put one foot flat on the ground when stopped, but still have the proper amount of leg extenstion when pedaling. With bikes like the Townie the saddle is lower, but further back so that stopped you can sit on the saddle with both feet flat on the ground, but still have the right amount of leg extension (not all cruisers have this design). If the bike isn't meant to be ridden this way and you just put the saddle too low you risk hurting your knees. It sounds like a hybrid is a good choice at this time for you. It can grow with you more than a cruiser style bike would, and you can get a decent one for less than a road bike would cost. Unless you want to ride on unpaved trails try to get the shop to swap out the tires for ones without a lot of tread (slicks). They might do it for free when you buy the bike.

If they fit into your budget you might check out Marin's line of city bikes
http://www.marinbikes.com/bicycles_2006/html/bikes/bike_series/bikes_ser_city.html

They have a more upright line too under "comfort"
http://www.marinbikes.com/bicycles_2006/html/bikes/bike_series/bikes_ser_comfort.html

You mentioned the seat....I've heard also that it's very important to wear bike shorts? even if they're worn under other pants.....to prevent chafing? Is that true? I've overweight, but not by that much (well, not as much as I was ).....but I understand butt padding has little to do with seat comfort?
Cindy

bike shorts definitely make riding any kind of distance much more comfortable, but short rides in street clothing are usually fine. The padding is pretty much less about the amount of pressure on your butt (getting the right saddle has more to do with that), than it is about creating a nice seamless area to sit on, though you can get shorts with varying thickness of pad in them. Thicker ones are not necessarily better - they tend to feel kind of like wearing a diaper.....
Do be careful about what you put on overtop - if the top layer has a big seam that you can feel through the shorts it won't be very comfy either!

 

[CindySue48]

I forgot about the leg extension.....should my leg be straight on the down swing of the pedal? or almost straight? On the stationary bike my leg is very bent....but seat is as high as it will go. But on that I don't really go for very long.....maybe 20-30 min....too boring (one reason I want a real bike!)

Those bikes you sent links to are within my budget....well some are anyway. I've been figuring $300-400.....hoping for less, but ready to pay that high for a good bike!

I've not heard that about the tires....I want less tread on the roads? I know it will be a while before I go onto unpaved paths.....but there is at least one I want to get to! Is it difficult to switch out tires? Or is there a "hybrid" tire that I could switch to once I start going for the trails?

 

[CindySue48]

Well, I got my check and I've been to the bike shops.

I have my choices:
1. Schwinn Comfort bike....not sure of model.
2. Specialised Expedition (wide tire hybrid) or 3. Crossroads (narrow tire hybrid)
4. Treks (?sp) 7200 or 5. Nav 100.....both are hybrids....one is wide tire, other is narrow tire.

They're all around the same price, I've seen the specialised and Schwinn (didn't like at all), going to check out the Treks tomorrow.

The stores that sell the specialised and treks are two in a chain. Either can get the bike I want, and both will service it. Comes with 1 full tune up after purchase, free basic service, abd discounted tuneups for lile.

Any comments? recomendations?

You've all been a lot of help! Thanks again!

Cindy

 

[carolinak]

Well, I got my check and I've been to the bike shops.

I have my choices:
1. Schwinn Comfort bike....not sure of model.
2. Specialised Expedition (wide tire hybrid) or 3. Crossroads (narrow tire hybrid)
4. Treks (?sp) 7200 or 5. Nav 100.....both are hybrids....one is wide tire, other is narrow tire.

They're all around the same price, I've seen the specialised and Schwinn (didn't like at all), going to check out the Treks tomorrow.

The stores that sell the specialised and treks are two in a chain. Either can get the bike I want, and both will service it. Comes with 1 full tune up after purchase, free basic service, abd discounted tuneups for lile.

Any comments? recomendations?

You've all been a lot of help! Thanks again!

Cindy

I just bought a Trek bike. I looked around for quite a while before I made my purchase. I looked at Specialized, Raleigh and the Trek. In the end I bought a Trek7100. The major difference between the 7100 and 7200 was the gear shifting. I couldn't tell that much of a difference and the cost was almost $100.

Like you I bought it to ride around town and hopefully eventually on some bike trails etc. I don't plan on doing any racing etc. Also with the Trek hybrid you can have the handle bars adjusted so you are sitting more upright or leaning further down, whichever is more comfortable for you back.

So far I am really enjoying my bike and am happy with the purchase.

 

[CindySue48]

I just bought a Trek bike. I looked around for quite a while before I made my purchase. I looked at Specialized, Raleigh and the Trek. In the end I bought a Trek7100. The major difference between the 7100 and 7200 was the gear shifting. I couldn't tell that much of a difference and the cost was almost $100.

Like you I bought it to ride around town and hopefully eventually on some bike trails etc. I don't plan on doing any racing etc. Also with the Trek hybrid you can have the handle bars adjusted so you are sitting more upright or leaning further down, whichever is more comfortable for you back.

So far I am really enjoying my bike and am happy with the purchase.

Thanks for your help. How long have you been riding? How's it going?

Are you in NC? I'm in Durham....you?

Cindy

 

[carolinak]

Thanks for your help. How long have you been riding? How's it going?

Are you in NC? I'm in Durham....you?

Cindy

I haven't been cycling too long. Just really took it up, although I used to ride much more years ago. I am trying to live a little bit heathier and this is part of my attempt at that. I would also like to trim down a bit.

I don't like in NC I live in TX...outside of Dallas.

 

[RickF]

Well, I got my check and I've been to the bike shops.

I have my choices:
1. Schwinn Comfort bike....not sure of model.
2. Specialised Expedition (wide tire hybrid) or 3. Crossroads (narrow tire hybrid)
4. Treks (?sp) 7200 or 5. Nav 100.....both are hybrids....one is wide tire, other is narrow tire.

They're all around the same price, I've seen the specialised and Schwinn (didn't like at all), going to check out the Treks tomorrow.

The stores that sell the specialised and treks are two in a chain. Either can get the bike I want, and both will service it. Comes with 1 full tune up after purchase, free basic service, abd discounted tuneups for lile.

Any comments? recomendations?

You've all been a lot of help! Thanks again!

Cindy

I just came across this thread today while searching for information on the Specialized Sequoia. I usually do not browse the Women's Cycling forum. I was curious as to what you decided to get. I have a Specialized Crossroads Elite, my wife has a Trek 7200, and one of my (adult) daughters has a Specialized Expedition Sport. When we were buying our bikes, we had also considered the Trek Navigator, so I am familiar with most of the bikes you were considering.

You will enjoy the American Tobacco Trail. I cannot wait until the Chatham County portion is completed so we can bike from our house in Cary to our daughter's appartment in Durham. Since the American Tobacco Trail is a rails-to-trails project, there are no steep hills. It is perfect for beginning cyclists. The paved portion in Durham County is suitable for any bike. The Wake County portion is granite screenings and horse biscuits. The hybrids work very well, but I would not recommend trying that portion with a road bike.

 

[CindySue48]

I just came across this thread today while searching for information on the Specialized Sequoia. I usually do not browse the Women's Cycling forum. I was curious as to what you decided to get. I have a Specialized Crossroads Elite, my wife has a Trek 7200, and one of my (adult) daughters has a Specialized Expedition Sport. When we were buying our bikes, we had also considered the Trek Navigator, so I am familiar with most of the bikes you were considering.

You will enjoy the American Tobacco Trail. I cannot wait until the Chatham County portion is completed so we can bike from our house in Cary to our daughter's appartment in Durham. Since the American Tobacco Trail is a rails-to-trails project, there are no steep hills. It is perfect for beginning cyclists. The paved portion in Durham County is suitable for any bike. The Wake County portion is granite screenings and horse biscuits. The hybrids work very well, but I would not recommend trying that portion with a road bike.

Hi Rick. Haven't bought one yet. Neck decided to start acting up, so I've been limited in what I can do the last few weeks. I'm glad it happened when it did....I would have blamed the bike if it had acted up after I started riding!

I found a new bike store today....The Green Machine in Carrboro. It's right near the butcher I go to for bones, etc for my dogs, so it's convenient, even tho it's in CH and I'm in N Durham (county, right outside city)

The salesperson at GM was very nice, knew a lot about bikes, reassured me that they'd have me test-ride, and all adjustments would be made. I've also tried 2 other The Bicicyle Chain stores, in CH and Durham....I really didn't find their sales people very helpful. It was like they expected me to know what I want! Performance ignored me, so they're out.

The bike at GM is a Gary Fisher. Tuburon S. I just came online to see if I could find out any info on these bikes.

You mention the Tobacco Trail....is this safe for a lone rider? Lone female rider? I don't currently have any friends that ride, so until I'm comfortable enough and a bit more physically fit so I can join a riding club, I'm on my own. I originally wanted to teach my dogs to ride with me....but a friend who is a triathelete warned against it. She does it, but only after years of riding and working with her dog in other areas. I'm not the paranoid type, and usually feel quite comfortable wherever I am (even downtown Durham! lol), but i also avoid situations that can put me in a compromising position.

Thanks for posting!

Once I figure this out and get going I'll be a lot happier! With the weather getting nicer I'm really looking forward to riding!

 

[unicos]

I don’t know what your budget is but I would recommend the Trek 7.X or 7XXX. The 7000’s have a front shock and the 7.X’s don’t. Both should do what you are looking for and provide a price range to meet the budget. I would say you will need a 17.5” or a 20” frame. Basic strategy is that a larger frame is more comfortable, and a smaller frame is more maneuverable. Have the LBS fit you. Most people don’t fit a frame perfectly and are between two sizes. You will then need to pick the one that feels best to you. They should let you take them for a little spin; at least around the parking lot. It’s amazing what you can get from a parking lot test ride.

 

[CindySue48]

I don’t know what your budget is but I would recommend the Trek 7.X or 7XXX. The 7000’s have a front shock and the 7.X’s don’t. Both should do what you are looking for and provide a price range to meet the budget. I would say you will need a 17.5” or a 20” frame. Basic strategy is that a larger frame is more comfortable, and a smaller frame is more maneuverable. Have the LBS fit you. Most people don’t fit a frame perfectly and are between two sizes. You will then need to pick the one that feels best to you. They should let you take them for a little spin; at least around the parking lot. It’s amazing what you can get from a parking lot test ride.

I've been looking at the Trek 7000 and 7100 online and think I agree that it might be a good fit.

I'm a bit agravated in that when I go into the bike shops they're pointing me towards comfort bikes when I clearly specify hybrid. They say "the lines are blurring" between the categories, but reading the manufacturers sites it seems to me that there's a big difference!

I am overweight....one of the reasons I want a bike. Maybe that's one reason they're so big on selling me those?

Also, I'm about 5'8", but with long legs and arms. Can't find my tape measure, but I've always needed at least 34-35" inseams for jeans, etc....and have a lot of trouble finding women's long-sleve shirts that are long enough. I'm not sure if I should go for a "women's" bike or not. Thoughts?

 

[unicos]

I've been looking at the Trek 7000 and 7100 online and think I agree that it might be a good fit.

I'm a bit agravated in that when I go into the bike shops they're pointing me towards comfort bikes when I clearly specify hybrid. They say "the lines are blurring" between the categories, but reading the manufacturers sites it seems to me that there's a big difference!

I am overweight....one of the reasons I want a bike. Maybe that's one reason they're so big on selling me those?

Also, I'm about 5'8", but with long legs and arms. Can't find my tape measure, but I've always needed at least 34-35" inseams for jeans, etc....and have a lot of trouble finding women's long-sleve shirts that are long enough. I'm not sure if I should go for a "women's" bike or not. Thoughts?

Based on height and inseam I don’t think a WSD is necessary. It doesn’t hurt to try one if it’s available. I think you would be at the top of the available frame sizes in WSD. My thought would be a standard frame. I don’t understand why the LBS would be steering you towards the comfort bikes unless you are talking about going on a lot of unpaved paths. The wider tires, on the comfort bikes, would be much better for that. If you are going to stay on the road and paved paths then the 7 series Treks would be best.

 

[gclark8]

Try the Giant FCR range: http://www.giant-bicycle.com/us/030.000.000/030.000.006.asp?range=254