New road bike for me.
Thread started by
Coe at 05.20.08 - 8:33 pm
I don't know what to buy. I looked at previous threads, but am still unsure.
I'm planning on a road bike. (preferrably something light)
I want to ride easy/fast/up hills.
Any suggestions as far for frame (aluminum, steel) etc?
I'm 5'1 female. noob.
Thanks
(slap my hand=repost)
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The big question is how much do you want to spend?
And fixie or geared?
Saw this on Craigslist while looking for a bike for a friend. She's 5'4". I know nothing about this brand or anythng, but for 100 bucks and 10 bucks worth of cleaning supplies/bar tape/chrome polish, it might be a cherry ride. If you check it out, tell em you have 70 cash on you right now.
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/bik/685408767.html
Who can say no to "Bonderized" tubing?!?!
DetroitRider05.20.08 - 8:54 pm
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the more difficult thing will be finding a bike that fits you...that doesn't have 26 inch wheels. You should try to get a bike with 700s. That limits your possibilities a bit.
Next....what's your price range? Can you live with a used bike?
If you are looking hill climber...weight is the key. But, you might not want a really expensive frame / component set, if you are gonna be using your bike as a go everywhere vehicle. There are some fairly nice aluminum bikes with carbon forks and seat stays...with a decent component set, you're looking at $1500 dollars plus. It's pretty hard to find a new, quality, light steel frame that isn't fairly expensive. Only a handfull of companies still make them. But, steel is very comfortable for long distances...it absorbs bumps way better than aluminum. I could sit here and write for hours on this subject. If you can pick up a nice classic steel bike, with a top end component group....you'd be getting the most for your money. Thats what I did for my current bike. I an '80's MASI with a top end campagnolo group for $600 bucks. (it was a GREAT deal, I could sell the frame for more right now, even after riding it for thousands of miles.). But, the deals are out there.
Well, what is your price range?
tern05.20.08 - 9:05 pm
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What's bondersized tubing?
Ive saved $$ for this moment. I truly want to get a good bike.
I dont want to spend over 1000, nor get too close... but would.
Coe05.20.08 - 9:05 pm
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also, id prolly stick with gears.
I don't know much about fixed.
thanks for the help :)
Coe05.20.08 - 9:08 pm
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You should get a used bike...you will get way more bike for a thousand bucks.
tern05.20.08 - 9:11 pm
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go get a trek1000 or whatever the womens specific model is.
ruinedbyidiots05.20.08 - 9:11 pm
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Bondersized = Fun!!
If you're looking for a real nice bike to put some long miles on at a good pace, possibly training, then I would personally consider going to a shop and getting fitted. I only say that because at you size, you might need to really dial in whats comfortable since you have less room for error. For 1000 bucks, you should be able to get a carbon fork, carbon downstays, 105 components and maybe even pedals.
If you already know what size you need and have a bike in mind, google it and look under the shopping area. I've seen some good deals for some '08 Scotts.
DetroitRider05.20.08 - 9:14 pm
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yeah +1 what Detroit rider said about getting fitted.
and....try to find a bike that has 700's and not 26 in. wheels if you can.
tern05.20.08 - 9:19 pm
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Yea, I will get a used bike. :)
I went on bikedirect.com and saw some bikes on there... checked out craigslist, ebay...
So i'll be looking for a steel bike..
what are top end component groups?
i ought to take a bike101course.
Coe05.20.08 - 9:20 pm
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ohhhhh ok ok.
Will do.
So wait, haha... where do you get fitted?
im assuming at a bikestore
Coe05.20.08 - 9:22 pm
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Go to a good shop that has a varied selection, and get fitted there.
Where do you live?
kyber05.20.08 - 9:24 pm
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top component groups for a used steel bike.
Campagnolo:
chorus+
c record++
record+++
Shimano:
600 + or -
105+
Ultegra++
dura ace +++
tern05.20.08 - 9:24 pm
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a pro fit will cost you a couple of hundred bucks....but that isn't in your price range...so go to a really good shop...they will hook you up.
tern05.20.08 - 9:26 pm
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I live a few blocks S from westwood village.
@ Tern:
thank uuu
Coe05.20.08 - 9:26 pm
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If it's not obvious....the more +'s the grupo has, the better the components are as according to Tern's Grupo Hierarchy.
kyber05.20.08 - 9:28 pm
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my friend tony got a really nice '03 (I think) klein with some sort of proprietary alloy and dura ace, with really nice wheels for 800 bucks on craigslist. The bike is like 16.5 lbs. That is a GOOD deal.
...and take a bike savvy friend along with you to look at bikes....some people will sell you a bill of goods.
tern05.20.08 - 9:29 pm
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haha, i just figured that out (++)
cool. so do you suggest i look on craigslist first? Any shops?
Right now I have a KHS urban express. Not sure what the frame is or any details like that. (it was a gift) It's from bikeattack
Coe05.20.08 - 9:36 pm
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ask elswhere for shops...I live way east. Who knows a quality (road focused) shop in the area that can hook up some good non-selling point sizing and advice for coe?
tern05.20.08 - 9:44 pm
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actually....I don't really have a good sense of what 'kinky' means. It sounds like a good thing to say about my reaction to pot, though.
But really, I bug out...a bit much. That's the facts, jack.
But, I love the slogan: "no tern unstoned!"
tern05.20.08 - 9:52 pm
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oops. wrong thread.
tern05.20.08 - 9:53 pm
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lol.
k.
ill have to get a bike savvy friend to come with then.
Coe05.20.08 - 9:53 pm
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Coe,
I live in the Westwood area. For new, Geared Roadbikes, you should visit Helen's on Gayley (West side of street) and Helen's in Santa Monica (on Broadway). There is also Performance on Broadway in S.M. Then there is Palms Cycles on Motor in Culver City and Bikeology on Lincoln in Marina Del Rey. There are a couple others, but they are more 'specialized'(pun intended) and have a smaller selection and less price flexibility. If you want a fixie type, then others here can make better suggestions.
Remember, the shops i've mentioned above, will let you test any bike for free and will give you a free fitting for your bike. Don't buy your bike at Target/Walmart, or other big box store.
Alternatively, you can get your's used around town via CL or here, etc. but you might just want to build or buy one at BikeroWave in Santa Monica.
Good luck.
stevo405.20.08 - 10:00 pm
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What made you want to spend some good money on a bike? Lemme ask tomorrow at my work if anyone knows a good place for fitting/sales on the westside. I'm working at the publication company for Road Bike Action so I'm sure the editors know unless someone else posts up here before tomorrow.
I'll gladly offer to come if you don't have anyone else. I need to buy a new cassette, chain and tires anyways.
DetroitRider05.20.08 - 10:02 pm
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are you why rba covered the wolfpack century?
what about the rider from ojai in the first issue?
ruinedbyidiots05.20.08 - 10:03 pm
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Detroitrider:
yaay thanks. Let me know what ur schedules like..
Coe05.20.08 - 10:09 pm
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No, it's a new gig to me. All the editors on the magazine are spandex junkies so it's kinda odd to me why Wolfpack got the coverage. Have to ask one of them. Some of the BMX Plus guys are into the MR scene though, so maybe from them?
Coe: I work M-F until 5, home around 5:30. You tell me and I'll be glad to make a run down there from the valley. Just gimme a shout - (two.four.ate) 3-eight-8-ohh-nine-9-six
DetroitRider05.20.08 - 10:24 pm
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:)
will do. I could also come out there... (i sprinkle my time there thro-out the week,depending)
maybe monday next week?
Coe05.20.08 - 10:33 pm
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Monday is Memorial Day, so I'm not sure what shops might be open....damn our patriotism?
DetroitRider05.20.08 - 10:49 pm
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lol
tues i dont get off till 8 but im free b/t 9 and 4.
but i could go wed evening wen ur off work..
my schedule is pretty open next week
Coe05.20.08 - 11:02 pm
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Wednesday is no good for me - performing a triple by-pass...in the dark....with one hand.
Nah, Wednesday should be fine. You got my number =)
DetroitRider05.20.08 - 11:06 pm
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k doc. ill cal u on tues. my name is Nicki by the way.
Coe05.20.08 - 11:07 pm
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I recommend buying a new bike.
I used to have a steel vintagey Peugeot, and while I miss it sentimentally, I don't miss what a pain in the ass it was to find parts for and dealing with friction shifters. Index shifting RULES.
I hate to disagree with Stevo (again) but Helen's in Westwood has a so-so selection and their prices are offensive. 7 dollars for a patch kit?? Please. All the Helen's are pricey for that matter.
Bikecology, Wheel World, and Performance are the shops on the Westside I suggest without reservation. I bought my bike at Performance, and they've been really good about service on it. Yeah, it's really corporate and all that...but they're charging $200 less for the same machine-welded Asian-made bikes that Helen's carries.
I'm going there tomorrow night around 7pm and I live in Westwood. Drop me a line if you'd like to go.
hatehills05.20.08 - 11:15 pm
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Call me Ishmael.
Or Erik.
Yanked from Wiki, best to worst in each group:
Shimano - 2007
* Dura-Ace (10)
* Ultegra (10)
* 105 (10)
* Tiagra (9)
* Sora (8)
* 2200 (8)
Campagnolo - 2007
* Record (10)
* Chorus (10)
* Centaur (10)
* Veloce (10)
* Mirage (10)
* Xenon (10)
Campagnolo is also offering 3 new triple chainring offerings from 2007 (for steep hill-climbing). Ordered from the highest to the lowest quality, these are:
* Comp Triple (10)
* Race Triple (10)
* Champ Triple (9)
DetroitRider05.20.08 - 11:17 pm
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"I'm working at the publication company for Road Bike Action so I'm sure the editors know"
Don't let them know you hang out with
atheists Satanists, they might try to perform an exorcism on you.
toweliesbong05.20.08 - 11:18 pm
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I've always gotten decent prices from Helens. $7 for a patch kit? I think i pay $2. Performance is known for having more specials on parts and stuff but they also have a mail order company. And i was just listing the stores in her area, not advising on where to buy. But if one place doesn't have her size in stock, she can visit another store (the one on gayley being the closest to her) just to visit or demo.
Signed,
Jerry's child
stevo405.20.08 - 11:31 pm
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@hatehills
What time are you going?
I have class today until 4pm.
ahhhh... im torn as to wheather i should get a new or used.
I'll look around a bunch before i buy tho.
Coe05.21.08 - 8:32 am
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HH or Jacque or whatever ;-) , i thought you'd never say those words!
Nikki, there are soooo many threads on here and other bike boards debating the new vs. used route. A lot of it comes down to $$. Its certainly possible to get a great deal on CL and save bucks but you then need to spend some money on a proper bike fit, assuming you are serious about riding. Otherwise, you could end up with repetitive motion injuries and other fun stuff like that. Plus, you'll enjoy your bike a lot more climbing hills. There is a lot of intangible value in buying a bike from a local shop (LBS). You now have a relationship with them and they can help you out alot with stuff that comes up. If you buy from an individual, you get the deal, but you don't have the support of a shop to help you if something goes wrong, as far as warranty goes).
I'm sure that JC/HH will totally suggest the exact opposite hahaha.
Try the search feature here and i'm sure you'll get a ton of different perspectives but ultimately its up to you and what you need and want out of your bike. But Bike FIt & $$ should be top priority.
stevo405.21.08 - 9:05 am
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I made this, maybe it will help:
Learn To Buy A Bicycle
Personally, with your budget, I'd get new. Whatever you do, go to a bikeshop and look around. That way, you can see several bikes all at once and ask questions of experts. Afterwards, even if you decide to get a used bike from an individual, you'll be able to make a more well-informed decision.
Just remember, ALL the advice you get on the Internet falls short of actually going out and looking at new bikes in person. So, do that. Good luck and enjoy the new wheels!
MikeyWalsh05.21.08 - 9:13 am
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As for roadie shops, I like I Martin and InCycle.
I Martin is near the Beverly Center, and InCycle (the one I went to) is in Pasadena.
Personally I like both of these shops because they have a good variety of manufacturers. Going into a shop that only has trek and giant can be kind of lame sometimes. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but wouldn't you rather have a larger overall selection to start with? I know I would.
kyber05.21.08 - 9:16 am
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Cyngergy on Santa Monica (near Helens Santa Monica) is really really good for fitting advice. I went there with my sister and even though we told them that we were just looking and we wouldn't be buying anything that day, they spent probably 90 minutes with us and let her ride probably 6 or 7 bikes, even a $3000 specialized. Their prices for bikes are kinda high though.
Helen's on the other hand, I think you need to walk around in Lycra with an AMEX Black taped to your forehead for them to even notice you.
stevestevesteve05.21.08 - 9:30 am
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Best bang for the buck: get an aluminum frame road bike with carbon fork, with at least 105 or Veloce level components (I prefer campy). If you look around, you could get that for not much over $1000.
Specialised Dolce Elite is around $1250. I also highly recommend Cannondale bikes. Prices are competitive.
0gravity05.21.08 - 10:07 am
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I'm heading to Performance about 7pm. They close at 8. If you want to go, my number's 310.4six7-4onetwo5
hatehills05.21.08 - 10:24 am
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performance has good prices (esp. on their own-brand stuff like scattante) but crappy sales guys.
stevestevesteve05.21.08 - 10:44 am
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Scattante is also a really really low end bicycle.
kyber05.21.08 - 10:46 am
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Nice, thanks for the input.
I am super excited to start looking. Has anyone here ever bought from bikesdirect.com?
@Hatehills:
I can meet you, and will call.
Just incase..my number is 310-435-six7zero1
Coe05.21.08 - 3:38 pm
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Coe:
Don't buy online.
2 Reasons:
1. You need to be fitted in person to assure you get a bicycle that fits you properly. Improper fitting will make your life on the bike absolute hell.
2. Support your LBS (local bike shop) instead!!!
kyber05.21.08 - 5:17 pm
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If you're planning to race seriously, you'll want carbon, but for any other application steel is the best.
How about a nice newer steel frame with a carbon fork? These newer frames made from wondersteels like Reynolds 853, 953, and True Temper OX Platinum or S3 are the bee's knees. You can build a fast and stiff 18.5-pound bike around these frames (with no weight-weenie shit) that will ride as well or better and last longer and cost way less than a carbon bike.
cabhauler05.21.08 - 5:29 pm
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My advice. You might want to get a older steal frame 80's road bike to start, if you don't have anything that is a road bike already. You can pick one up for 120-$220 on CL. They will have old index shifters, but they are usually nice frames, 27" wheels and ride nice.
The one thing I have noticed about road bikes, they are like stereo, no matter how good the sound system sounds, your ear get accustom to the sound, and road bikes are the same. Our own meandmybluebike Annie rides an 80's centurion (centurion are great frames) she goes on many of the evening training/go fast rides, and she has developed her riding ability by the miles she put on, she is a great and fast rider. So not having a newer fancy bike will not hold you back. It you who is going to take you up the hill or not, the bike will make a little different but it won't hold you back from developing your strength, endurance, and riding skills
You can purchase something like this to get you going, and having something to ride. Then you can take your time and search for something you really like. You can try out a bunch of bikes at the stores, and you can ask people if you can take a spin on their bike when you are out on the rides. Most people are cool enough around here to let you. You can see the difference and talk to -people about what is and isn't, why this is good and why it isn't. You will get many opinions, but you actually riding on it, will be the true test of what works for you. This will give you time to find something that is worth the $1000 you are going to spend. You might also eventually find what you are looking for used on CL and save some $money$.
You are somewhat fortunate, In my experience I have found that there are more smaller and larger frame bikes for sell on CL, because they are not the average of most people are looking for. They tend to sit on CL for a long period of time
On getting fitted, I would wait until you have the bike you want to get fitted to. If you go with aluminum frame, I would suggest you get it fitted to your body, aluminum is unforgiving and rough on your body, next find the seat you love. I'm a little heavier then I should be and found that people that are heavier, sometimes love the brooks leather saddles, I do, they are comfy. They are not comfortable (from my observation) to skinnier people.
I got fitted from nate loyal, he rents a spot upstairs at Helen's on Broadway in SanMo. He charges $160 and it was the best $160 I ever spent on a bicycle.
Good luck with whatever you do
examples
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/bik/680084061.html
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/bik/690123168.html
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lgb/bik/687603518.html
this one looks bitchin
I don't know what size you take, and remember it is a range of a couple of centimeters depending on the geometry of the frame
You may have long, short or average length leg in portation to you body.
You will have to sit on the bikes to find out
I have short legs, I'm 5'11" and ride a 52cm to 54"
most bike shop a Holes insist that I ride a 56cm or 57cm, and those are always riding up my ass, (too big of a frame for me)
sexy05.21.08 - 8:36 pm
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Sexy - That's why I would personally go to a shop, expect to spend an hour or so just hopping on a few different frames and letting them fit a bike to you based on what feels comfortable right away. If I was going to spend 1000 or so on a bike, I'd want to make sure that I had a second, expert opinion. I know enough about geometry that I know what I'm looking for, but when I'm dropping that cash I want to make sure I don't have to do too much to it to dial it in for me.
For a first good bike, it's hard to buy a frame off CL that is really going to fit. My brother rides a 54 Trek and it feels totally shorter and the stem feels too high up, like it's got a larger front wheel almost. I wouldn't know that though until I knew what I was looking for. But I might think, "Well, that's probably just how it's supposed to feel?" or else I would then have to go get fitted, spend the 100+ bucks and then start buying parts for it.
I'm ALL for building up a bike, but when you don't know what you're looking to build to fit you, it's tough. For a chill, cruiser bike, anything can work as far as geometry as long as the stand-over is good. But if you're gonna be doing some long rides or just want something you don't have to do a lot of repairs to, a new bike is probably a better idea. Or even if you don't know what you wanna use it for, I'd go new and hopefully alleviate any concerns.
DetroitRider05.21.08 - 9:03 pm
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it a fucking bike! get one ,ride it, tell people you love it and thats it. i really love my new bike and i bought it when i was drunk!.test rode it for a minute and i said ill take it.youll spend years trying to find THE PERFECT bike.theres no such thing.lets move on here people.
mandingo05.21.08 - 9:14 pm
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Thanks for the input. very helpful :)
Coe05.21.08 - 9:43 pm
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Dingo...
You just say that because you have that fancy Pinarello....
Here's my two cents:
There are a couple of companies out there that are putting out a lot of frames especially designed for women...
Calfee and Giant and Specialized all have large selections of bikes designed for women...the hard part is to find someone who carries the specific frame you're looking for!
Calfee is probably a little too expensive for your budget, but a Giant or a Specialized would definitely be in your price range. Getting fitted is a good thing to do...because everyone is a little different...but paying a lot of money to get that done, kinda sucks in my book...
adrian05.22.08 - 2:24 pm
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That Fuso is totally sick. Good thing it's not my size!
cabhauler05.22.08 - 7:31 pm
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For sure. Dave Moulton is the man behind FUSO, and there's some great literature about him and his bike online. It's worth a read.
Eric Hair05.22.08 - 7:35 pm
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Yup, I've been looking for a Fuso or custom Dave Moulton for some time now that I can build up with Super Record.
The late 80s and early 90s is my favorite period for road bikes. All the old school and new school stuff coexisting, and SunTour and Mavic still making components! I loved how in the pro peloton you had top guys still rocking toe clips and downtube shifters.
cabhauler05.22.08 - 11:11 pm
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Hello Coe,
did you get a bike yet? I am in the same boat with a smaller budget and I am getting really anxious looking at bikes on ebay and craigslist all day.
Has anybody bought a bike without testing it that turned out to be the right size? What did you do to ensure that it would be the right fit?
I tested a few bikes and my only way of knowing whats right is trying to find the exact one that fit, but that cancels out so many other choices that it just doesn't seem logical.
shadylane05.27.08 - 11:06 pm
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cabhauler, I have had some contact with Dave Moulton. I have his contact info, if that would help you. He, of all people might know where to pick up a Moulton or Fuso.
Just send me an email.
darkcenturyride@gmail.com
tern05.28.08 - 12:10 am
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shadylane, yeah! I bought my road bike (the one I'm obsessed with) online without testing it... which was rather risky I suppose, but the price was right and they had a great return policy. There's a bunch of websites that will tell you how to measure yourself like
this one, but I don't remember which one I used exactly. Anyway, that's how I ordered the frame size, then once I put the bike together I got it professionally fitted at Budget Pro Bicycles in Eagle Rock (I love those guys)... and I've been enamored ever since.
Anyway, that's my love story.
canadienne05.28.08 - 12:21 am
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What about a chopper bike? I can see ya riding one of these:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=qEOCQ85YO2M&feature=related
speedybrian200005.28.08 - 1:02 am
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@ Shadylane:
No, I havent gotten a bike yet.
Still looking. It's been difficult finding places that have my size (so I can test it) as well as what im looking for in my budget.
Where r u looking?
I've checked craigslist, but came to the conclusion that craigslist is not a great source for short peeps!
Coe05.28.08 - 2:55 pm
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I am 5'2" and I tried some bikes at Helen's for the sake of it and they had one that was a perfect fit. They seemed to have a good amount of small bikes actually. You might wanna go try them just for fun. I like the Trek WSD 1.2 (SO NICE!) Buuuut Helen's people are butts and they totally overlooked the one on sale for $500 and I didnt bother asking about it because of the weird vibe in the place.
Craigslist does suck for small bikes, try ebay! This week there seems to be a lot more small bikes than usual.
shadylane05.28.08 - 3:41 pm
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Nice. I'll go there and check em out.
I went to Bike attack and was almost talked into a bike waaaaaaaay outta my budget. Yea... not so into sales peeps.
Im going to a shop in the valley with my friend this weekend. If you wana come, let me know!
Coe05.28.08 - 4:05 pm
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Go to a shop that can do a fit-kit on you (Hollywood Pro Bicycles comes to mind). The fitkit will tell you exactly what dimensions you are looking for in toptube, seat tube, toptube + stem, crank length, etc. This allows you to then look at the measurements of any frame (and all current manufacturers have a breakdown of each dimension in each size on each frame on their websites) and decide which frame fits you best. Being small, odds are very good that you'll be forced to buy a bike without a proper test ride, and using fitkit is just about the only way to ensure that you order to the right frame, no matter which manufacturer. More importantly, fitkit measurements can tell you whether a particular frame is right for you even if the stem that is installed puts the bars in the wrong place. Stems are cheap in the grand scheme of things, but a bike with the wrong stem can feel incredibly wrong.
ideasculptor05.28.08 - 4:46 pm
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At many bike shops the staff are elitist snobs and make you feel like you are buying a pile of stinkin garbage if you are looking at anything under $1,000.
I like the Pasadena Cyclery. It's a small bike shop in Pasadena but they have a good selection (they keep more stock in a warehouse) and their prices often beat what you see online. They also have women on staff both in sales and repair.
marino05.28.08 - 5:03 pm
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To Coe
I would love to come, but I dont know if I have time. When are you planning on actually going?
my emaill- andreatea@gmail.com
shadylane05.29.08 - 12:58 am
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I actually perused cl for about a month looking for a roadbike and decided to go check out bikes with this guy who had a garage full of them and just loved to restore them. He suggested the frame size and pulled out about 5 bikes for me to try and I picked the one I liked best. Probably could have found a better price on cl, but it was worth trying the bikes. I've been loving my bike since then. Unfortunately he was all the way in orange county.
sezdaniel05.29.08 - 1:46 am
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@shadylane
I'm not sure yet.
I'll know my work schedule Fri, and def. let you know.
Maybe we can also check out that place in Pasadena.
Like you, I'd like to get my bike ASAP!
on that note,
I tried riding a fixie yesterday... it was fun. I'm considering that too.
Coe05.29.08 - 10:11 am
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