In article <
[email protected]>, "Trailgalore"
<
[email protected]> wrote:
> I've a chance to buy a new 2002 Trek 1100 (650cc), discounted $350 to $750 from a LBS I 'm a 65 yr
> old, and only interested in amateur TT's and RR's against people in my own age group (Senior
> Olympics). Would this be a type bike to use for this? If not, what brand and model in this price
> range be a better buy?
Just make sure the bike *really* fits you. People who would never consider buying a discounted pair
of shoes that were too small or too big often think nothing of buying a bike that's the wrong size
because it's on sale.
You can ride an 1100 for races. Would you be faster on a more expensive bike? Probably somewhat. Do
you want to pay all that extra for a little more speed? Probably not.
Just be sure it really fits. Oh, and don't let them tell you they do bike fittings and then have
them "eye you up." Go to a place that can do a "fit kit," where they actually measure you using
funky gizmos. If this bike shop doesn't do it--and if they do, it should be free with a bike
purchase--go somewhere that does before you buy and get measured. They can tell you what size you
need, then you can return with the bike to have them do the adjustments.
Oh, and finally, expect to spend a lot more than $750. You'll probably end up buying clipless pedals
($100), cycling shoes ($100), a pump ($30), bottle cages and bottles ($15), etc., etc., etc.
--Harold Buck
"I used to rock and roll all night, and party every day. Then it was every other day. . . ."
- Homer J. Simpson