  |
|
|
|
| it's too nice not to be outside here in nj.. and no plans today.. so guess what i'm doing..
|
|
|
|
| wow.. that's great.. i really need to start making more time for that now that school's over (for now).. too much crap to do thought.. and when it's finally done, it's nighttime..
|
|
|
|
| I like to get out about twice a week on my bike. Usually a shorter 1-2hr HIIT session then a good 60-80mile adventure on the weekend.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| so besides the tours, does anyone know of any decent biking in canada? any canadians on here?
|
|
|
|
yeah, we're driving up there.. renting is a good idea, but if i can get our bikes on our car, then i'll be fine.. then once we get there, i can lock them in the car.. at least that's what i thought..
.. but the mrs. has squashed that.. so there goes $80ish (its isn't all that much, but it's the principle).. =)
|
|
BADSCALEBAD
4/27/08 6:43 P
|
|
|
|
| If you are flying, I would rent since you are just leisure riding and it would probably be cheaper to rent than transport it. If driving, you might want to think about how much of a pain it will be to lug them around. If it is not a bother, I would go ahead and bring it. It is nice to ride your own bike.
|
|
|
|
| so i've got a decision to make.. it probably shouldn't be.. but i'm going to canada for a 1 week vacation, and the wife and i are going on a couple of bike tours.. should i bring my own? or rent there? anyone have any experience?
|
|
|
|
| i concur.. bike rentals are a good idea.. overall, it's the way the bike feels under you.. what may be exhaulted by someone else may just feel so-so under you.. so like girls, the more you test, the better of an idea you'll have towards what suits you..
|
|
BADSCALEBAD
4/13/08 4:11 P
|
|
|
|
I'm glad some others chimed in. I'm kind of a gearhound and my figures were probably a bit inflated. After reading the others remarks, I looked at the web and was impressed with what you can find around that $500 range. Definately better than my first mtn bike.....or second.
Rolland is right. You shouln't overlook hard tails. You can get a lot better bike for the money. Full suspension is more of a luxury than a necessity. Plus they (hardtails) teach you to be a better rider.
MSEYWERD made a great point too. As long as you make sure you are getting a good frame, components can be upgraded down the road. Although if you think you are going to go upgrade crazy, you are probably better off spending the money upfront.
Where I live there are a lot of shops that rent bikes. You can get a great deal on their used rental bikes which have been maintained regularly by competent bike mechanics.
|
|
|
|
| Get something a little cheaper to start with...$500 is a good starting point...if u like it...magically u sink lots of money into upgrades or nicer rides. I tried to get started into it "cheap"...bought a $500 ride...my second season I sank $700 into it on upgrades for everything.
|
|
|
|
.. and after you figure out what kind of (the majority of) riding you want to do, breakdown the bike.. and components/feature you'd like the bike to have.. and do some serious research.. come up with a couple options, and know how that affects the overall price.. all so that you don't get screwed in the end for overpaying for something you should'nt have..
.. i'm still on a $500ish hard tail, and loving every minute of it.. granted, i haven't ridden much yet this warm weather streak.. but there are some technical trails around here that i manage to get through just fine..
|
|
BADSCALEBAD
4/12/08 2:17 P
|
|
|
|
Get ready for sticker shock!!!!!!! It really depends on the type of riding you want to do. If you want an all-around trail bike you are going to want full-suspension. To get a decent one, you should plan on spending at least $1,000. I haven't shopped around in a while so I might be off, but I remember that being the entry point for a decent bike. It is easy to spend a lot more as you rationalize stepping up a grade or two. I think my newest bike was $2200 and I would consider it a "middle of the road" trail bike. There are some really expensive boutique brands out there. If you are just starting out, you may want to consider looking for a used one or renting a couple to see if you like the sport and to try different bikes. Other than that, you will want to consider clipless pedals and shoes, a good helmet, gloves, a few tools, etc.
Then again, there are probably people riding $500 bikes that are having as much fun as I am. I'm not sure if my figures are out of wack, but where I live and ride that seems to be the cost of the bikes I see on the trails.
|
|
REDREDSTEVE
4/10/08 10:06 A
|
|
|
|
| There's is a huge park with a ton of great trails practically right outside my back door. I've been interested in mountain biking but am not sure what kind of investment it takes. How much is a decent bike on average?
|
|
SNAPBACK_NZ
4/9/08 6:20 P
|
|
|
|
Yeah, crazy is a word...
I personally wasn't doing the full 12 hours, I was set up in a team of 3, so you kind of relay it, do a couple of laps, then rest while someone else does some, then get back on and so forth. Disappointing though, the weather was crap so it got called short, we only ended up doing 8 hours. The track turned to a total mud bath, so much fun! There definitely were some hard outs there though, doing the full time solo and going a hell of a lot faster than I could ever dream of! I assume seeing all you are itching to get out on the bikes that you're from the states? I have to opposite problem, we are just bout to enter into winter here, so I'm going to have to live vicariously through you guys while I dream of warmer weather and carving up some sweet single track.
Have a good day all!
Shane
|
|
|
|
My one speed conversion is ALMOST DONE!!!! It is going to be simplistic-delicious. I'll get some pix set up on Spark peeps once its ready.
Snow is gone now...yeh. Trails started drying out...2-3 weeks and I'll be gettin' jiggy with it!!
|
|
|
|
12 hours of riding straight!?!?!? shows you how much out of the loop i am.. actually, i've heard of it.. the thought of it is just crazy to me.. especially those adventure races that last that long, but go through killer trails.. and to do that at night.. damn.. there are a helluva lot better men and women than me..
.. yup, crazy.. but killer fun.. if i ever get my stamina/skill up to that, i think i'd be willing to try it.. at least once.. =)
hmmm.. should i take a break from studying/writing a couple papers and hit the road/trails? hmmmmm..
|
|
SNAPBACK_NZ
4/2/08 7:51 P
|
|
|
|
Hey every body,
I just wanted to say sup and how are we all doing. I have only really rekindled my use of sparkpeople and thought I should join some forumns, and when I saw this one... wicked! I have just in recent months become an avid mountain biker, I enjoy it so much, we have some really good single tracks where I live with awesome down hill sections and decent oxygen sucking climbs. Infact I am entering my first mountain bike race this weekend. It is a 12 hour night/day race, I'm doing it as a team, so you kind of relay it. I'm not up to doing 12 hours of riding straight yet! What kind of mountain biking is everyone into? Does anyone have some good skill advice, although I enjoy mtb I have to admit my bike control lacks something to be desired.
Anyway peace out everyone!
May all your riding be kick a$$
|
|
MOUNTAINBIKER1
4/2/08 5:49 P
|
|
|
|
| YOu don't want to just get into DH or freeride. Those bikes are heavier and not made for normal XC riding. A good downhill bike will weigh upwards 40lbs, and cost an easy 2000 dollars or more. Heck 2K is probably an entry level DH bike. That does't include all the extra safety gear required, Body armor, full face helmet etc. I rode my Kona down a downhill trail once, scared the devil out me (hahaha). I gave myself no choice was too far in the woods and to pooped to pedal back the same way. Nothing like doing about 30 mph down a hill with the brakes locked up. I'm too old for that, I'll leave that up to the kiddies that have bones that heal easier. Best of luck to all you mountain bikers out there, and remember being careful and having fun are oxymorons!
|
|
|
|
hell yeah..
this sucks.. with work being busy, and school deadlines quickly approaching, AND the weather being so hit or miss in the lovely garden state, i haven't been able to satisfy my itch..
anyone here ever do those long tours (straying off of pure mountain biking) like up and down the country's coast? i'm finding myself wanting to do something like that more and more..
|
|
|
|
see ro...its all about knowing the lingo. you're already cooler than u thought u were!!
Peace dude.
|
|
|
|
hmmmm.. coool.. that means i've done it too.. parts of the trail that i ride is through thin trails through trees.. actually, most of it is through thin trails.. hmmmm..
.. i can't wait to get out there for real..
|
|
|
|
Single track is a term refering to the width of the riding trail. Really all it means is a trail that is as wide as a narrow walking path in the woods (2-3 feet). There's usually only enough room for one bike to ride one way. Tends to be the most fun one can have with their clothes on when you encounter a good stretch of it.
|
|
|
|
| so what exactly is singletrack? i've read about it, but i'd like to hear someone's own definition of it.. and how it compares to other styles (downhill, xc, freeride, etc)..
|
|
|
|
Rock on V-dub man...my dream car is to have a restored 1970 bus.
Besides that...get on the TRAILS! Talk about good mojo. mmmm...single track.
|
|
|
|
Hey, guys!!! I've been thinking about trying to get out on the trails this spring. I made one ride last year and realized how hard it truly is. I have been hitting the treadmill trying to get some strong cardio gains. A new bike is also one of my rewards... but that will probably be this summer.
Here's to warmer temps soon!!!
|
|
|
|
Warming temps have prompted me to get my bikes in order!!! The full suspension rig is ready to go and the hard tail is in pieces with a pending conversion to single speed. Its amazing how easy it is to work on a bike when u take out a bunch of pieces.
|
|
|
|
| it's 53 out today.. i'm hitting the road in a little bit.. anyone out there as fortunate as me today?
|
|
|
|
after i finish a self-study cd, and run some errands, i'm planning on hitting the road (it's supposed to get up to a whopping 40 degrees sometime today).. =)
anyone else been out lately?
|
|
|
|
| yeah.. i'm definitely finding more and more truth in your wisdom..
|
|
|
|
Well I put on my running shoes today because we had a big rain (0.39 of an inch in 24 hours). Hah hah, well that's about as big of a rain we get here - most parts of the country would call it a drizzle.
As we do not get rain often, it lifts the road oil up, the southern California drivers can't handle the slippery streets and I didn't want to be sharing the road with them on my mountain bike.
Maybe tomorrow I'll go mud whamping on my bike.
Rolland - maybe you should be like me - I never grew up!
Carl
|
|
|
|
yup.. so it's still not warm enough here.. actually, i could, but another excuse for me not biking (recently) is dealing with a bit of an irritated leg.. my left knee has been feeling kinda week at times.. can't explain why.. oh well.. i figure to just rest it up..
.. and oh yeah.. 2 grad school classes are going on for me, so the bike ride to work might mess up my ability to study later on in the day..
*sigh* i hate being grown up..
|
|
|
|
No mountain biking for several days. Daughter is visiting and we need to do the San Diego Thing. Tomorrow the zoo, but if we get back early I might try to get in a few milesanyway.
Mseywerd, I checked out the weather in MN on the net. Yikes - does your beer have antifreeze in it?
Umm Mseywerd, one other question - do you have chains that fit your mountain bike tires?
Ya might not want to check out the weather for San Diego - it's so good that I feel a little guilty when seeing the rough winter that's goin' on N/E of here. Bet you folks don't talk much about "global warming" with the record cold winters.
Fat Tire is GOOD both in a glass and on a MTB. Har har.
Some of my favorite after bike ride brews (and sometimes before bike ride and sometimes with no bike ride) are: Peroni, Smithwicks, Steinlager, Fosters, Dos Equis Amber, Samuel Adams Black Lager, Samuel Adams Scotch Ale and last but not least Stella Artois.
Ride on,
Carl
|
|
|
|
| P.S.- THe temp doesn't make me feel any better...we're fixing for a dive down to -30 or something ridiculous like that...check the weather channel for MN.
|
|
|
|
Beer and fishing is good. Beer and single track is BAD...especially if u have difficulty staying upright. Wait a minute....
Save the suds till your done I'm partial to Mojo from the Boulder Brewing Co, or Fat Tire (mmm). Nice way to end a good evening ride in the parking lot.
|
|
|
|
No I haven't been riding in Arizona. Don't get out east very often. Also don't ride on single track trails too much. I'm such a spaz (as in spastic) I crash a lot on single track trails. You're probably not old enough to have watched "Laugh In" on T.V., anyway, they had a bit on there where a rider stops and then just falls over to the side - that's what I'm like on single track trails!
Now I probably shouldn't mention this on a diet website, but I will anyway Rolland, fishing does have one big advantage over biking - it's a lot easier to drink beer while fishing!
This should make you guys feel a little better about the weather - here it is 7:30 p.m. and the temperature has dropped down to 55 degrees - Brrrr!
|
|
|
|
yeah.. i'm not that into fishing either.. i'd rather be on a bike in solitude than on a boat (or side of a pier, etc)..
have i mentioned that i can't wait for this weather to warm up just a smidge more?
|
|
|
|
I'm embarrassed to say I don't fish. Makes me an outcast of sorts. With work and kids free time in the warm weather goes to riding.
Say Grube, u been riding in AZ at all? Went to undergrad there and am happy to say I plundered many miles of single track there.
|
|
|
|
yes, i too am very jealous.. this winter season has been horrible for me.. yeah, i've gotten to ride a couple times.. but days that are ideal workwise for me to commute, are bad weatherwise.. and it just hasn't lined up yet.. =(
but i can't wait til it warms up a little bit more..
|
|
|
|
| I usually bike in the Del Cerro, Allied Gardens and San Carlos areas, plus in Mission Trails Regional Park and on the Lake Murray Maintenance Road.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MSEYWERD,
Although I live about 15 minutes from the ocean, I don't surf. Surf fish yes - surf no. I'm such a wimp when it comes to cold water it may have something to do with my no surfing. Locals use shorty wetsuits most of the year, as even during summer the ocean temp barely hits the low 70's.
There are some surfers that use mountain bikes or beater bikes with hooks to carry their boards or wheel attachments to tow their boards. I suspect they're hard core surfers and can't afford a car. Hah! Hah!
Now - you being from The Land of 10,000 lakes - certainly you do fish?
I rigged a box with rod holders for my mountain bike and even have a (brand name "Bob") trailer that can be towed with my bike - just in case I need to bring home a big fish!
Later,
Carl
|
|
|
|
ooops...sorry...surfing question was directed at monsieur grube. my bad.
|
|
|
|
-9 is cold. But u know...once it drops below 15 its all just damn cold and u stop noticing. Just need to cover up the skin or it'll freeze...no really, it'll freeze.
San Diego is a cool town. U surf too big_cd? I wish we could do that up here in MN.
|
|
|
|
BIG_CD,
Ouch!!! -9 degrees! Yikes I can't imagine how freakin' cold that is. I suppose ya all had a wind chill factor that took it down from there.
Don't be jealous, if I hadn't bought property in San Diego a zillion years ago, I wouldn't be able to live here because of the cost. Guess that's one of the advantages of being ancient.
Well I do have to tell you that I had to wear a coat and long pants today. Found out later that I was over dressed at the funeral services - no one wore shorts, but I probably coulda got away with it.
Have a happy Super Bowl Day.
Carl
|
|
|
|
| I am jealous beyond words. It is however warming up here. It's -9 today!
|
|
|
|
MSEYWERD,
Mostly road riding. I use the bike a lot for short transportation hops.
I do have to admit though that it was so cold I had to put on a "T" shirt!
Carl
|
|
|
|
| mucho jealous. trail or road?
|
|
|
|
Back in San Diego after a week in Reno. Just rode my mountain bike for 86 minutes - wearing shorts!
Much much better here than Reno.
|
|
|
|
| Have I mentioned I really want to get out and start cycling again?? Today we got a Blizzard with -45 windchill... I think I'll wait till it warms up a bit.
|
|
|
|
i can't wait to have kids, just so i can get them into doing outdoor stuff.. and mountain biking..
.. so i'm slowly going broke with buying stuff for winter cycling.. got these cool blinky shoe covers.. winter cycling gloves.. i've actually been out a couple times, and it feels nice.. once you get past the burn in your lungs.. =)
but i can't wait to try out the shoes on a trail.. being out on the road is nice during the winter, but i need to test myself on a trail, so like most of you, i'm itching for it to warm up and stay dry for a little while..
.. hmmm.. talking about biking, i've just gotten the itch to maybe bike to work sometime this week (currently, the forecast for the rest of the week is sunny with average highs of 45ish)..
|
|
|
|
Tell me about it...spin classes are fun and all...enough pretending already!
My bikes are talking to me in the garage...and they're NOT saying nice things. I tell them to be patient. They're getting jealous of the skis and running shoes.
|
|
|
|
| I just can't wait to get back in the 'saddle' and start riding again. These long winters really wear on a person!
|
|
|
|
In Reno too cold to ride - besides that I don't have my bike. Tomorrow home in San Diego. Hope there isn't too much mud 'cause I'm having mountain bike withdrawal symptoms and gotta ride.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| a Cyclathon is like a marathon on bike. Two years ago i did a 125 Km cyclathon, last year 75 Km, with my two kids in tow 1/3 of the way. This year I'm shooting for the 75 KM stretch.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| I've done some and am trying to get in shape so that I can get better at it. I do a road cyclathon every spring and this year I'm not sure I will be able to do it. I need to drop a good 20 pounds to be able to do it this year. LEt's hope.
|
|
|
|
| my weekend started early, and healthily with a bike ride this morning.. go figure that it would've been nice enough after a nite full of snow/rain.. this damn weather.. snow's nice and all, but i love me my bike rides.. =)
|
|
|
|
| Was out trail running today. 3 degrees out...minus 10 with windchill. Riding would not have been good...although I did see tracks from a biker. Someone is obviously more core than I...
|
|
|
|
| it's going to snow tonight.. so i'm trying to get a ride in later.. anyone else out to brave cold weather on a bike?
|
|
DRUMMER8280
1/12/08 2:14 A
|
|
|
|
| Clipless peddles are the only way to go
|
|
|
|
| Everyone says that about good shoes and clipless pedals.
|
|
|
|
yeah.. the weather is gorgeous... yesterday, it peaked at around 60.. today is forecasted around 70.. i have heard, however, that in PA, the ski season is going great..
so yeah.. i went biking for lunch yesterday in the nice weather.. i picked a route that makes for an easy 5 mile loop around campus.. to make a long story short, it was a mile of slight downhill, and 4 miles of moderate uphill.. i was beat.. but it felt good.. and i tested me with the shoes yesterday.. sure feels good.. why in the world didn't i convert til now!?!?!?!?
oh oh.. yes, i'm in on the east coast (nj).. with this weather, however, you'd think i was in the midwest.. craziness..
|
|
|
|
| I'll be curious to hear how it goes Ro. U'r on the east coast right? So u r up to eye teeth in snow right? I'll be out skiing this weekend...got some new boards that im breaking in and getting used to.
|
|
|
|
ha ha.. 'bettys' cracks me up for some reason.. karatemama isn't the only one here, right?
i'm taking the bike out hopefully on mon and tues when there will be spring-like weather (a break between 10 degree weather - weird ! !)..
|
|
|
|
Right now I am dealing with my belly; in this bent over position I actually feel like I am really struggling to relaxe and breathe normally.
I went riding yesterday and noticed that most of the guys on the trail were in a more relaxed upright position. Their handle bars were raised and were more even with their seat heaght.
I am ordering an stem extender to raise mine up; once I loose some more of this belly I wll probably end up lowering it back down.
And by the way what are you waiting on to modify your bike; no slackers on this site Brother! (LOL)
Nice to meet you; hope you have a great start to your new year.
Brian
|
|
|
|
Rock on Brian...welcome to the mostly dude section. Couple o' hardcore bettys who lurk (hello karate mama).
I think u just sorta ignore the sensation after a while. Maybe tolerance to discomfort just comes up higher. stretching helps a lot...aerobars do too.
Gotta brag...my wife bought me a sweeeet bike tool kit for xmas. Now I can get off my butt and do the single speed conversion I've been talking about (feel free to give me crap about not doing it)
|
|
|
|
Man, I am glad to find out where you Dudes hang out; I thought this site was mostly of the female persuasion.
It is good to finally be around some testosterone (don't laugh at my spelling, should be close).
I started cycling back the first of August 07; my longest ride is 37 miles. I have been riding a comfort bike w/ 18 speed and have been pushing that heavy bike for five months now.
I just bought my first road bike and am heading out to our local bike trial (Silver Comet Trail, Georgia) for my first ride of any length.
It is a new experience riding in a bent over position from the upright position I am used to.
Any of you road cyclist tell me how long it took you to get used to this position when you first started?
Sorry to ramble, I guess I am excited to find this
part of the forum.
Brian
|
|
|
|
I think it ultimately depends on how your feet feel in the shoe. I've talked to numerous people who love the Specialized shoes. Personally, my wife and I love our Sidi Dominator 5's. Chances are, you're bike shop will let you at least wear them around your house, then return them if they don't fit your needs.
matt
|
|
|
|
| anyone have any opinions about specialized shoes? i've got an offer i can't refuse at the bike shop where my bike is at the moment.. and i'm picking it up after work (in 4 hours).. i'll be checking back here before i leave, but if not, looks like i'm settling for these shoes - despite issues with the buckles on the older model (i think the ones i tried on are 2008)..
|
|
|
|
funny you say that.. i was going to test layered clothing out when biking in cold weather yesterday before i devoured some turkey.. and i was thinking that biking in 35 degree weather would be a decent test/feeler, but it warmed to ~50 when i was out there (got up to 60ish by the end of the day)..
if you want to learn more about wintertime cycling (icebiking), check out this website.. http://www.icebike.org/
.. this is what i've been looking a lot at lately.. and has gotten me more into the idea.. =)
.. i haven't gotten to the equipment section yet, but that would inevitably add to my list of things to buy (shoes, stem, seat, batteries for lights, vented jacket, rain pants, etc) - like i need to add more, huh?
|
|
|
|
Hey Ro, I've done some, but I've actually found that right around this time I actually get (*gasp*) burnt out on riding. Perfect timing to dig out my skis...heh, heh.
If you're on roads, they make decent metal studded tires that help cut down on ice mishaps. If your going out on trails, I've seen some people out in the dead of winter with some really wonky looking wide tires....like I'm talking 6" wide (ok maybe i'm still exagerating...but they're really wide and goofy looking).
Power to ya bro if yer going out.
|
|
|
|
| anybody here do any wintertime biking? i'm looking into it.. once work dies down a little, i think i'm going to try biking to/fro work..
|
|
|
|
i've been wanting to get out there these last couple of weeks, but just haven't been able to (worked all of the previous weekend, and i was sick this past weekend (and continue to be)).. so have a good ride whenever you get out..
.. once i'm back up to speed, i'd really like to try to get into biking to work.. looks like i'll have to get shoe covers to go with my new shoes (when i finally order them)..
|
|
|
|
| Yep...I'm planning on getting out today. I'm in Minnesota. Temps are sitting right around freezing right now. Kinda sucks though when the snow gets too deep. Plus they close the MTB trails and turn them into XC ski trails.
|
|
|
|
i've decided on getting lake shoes.. they seem to be one of a few that come large..
ahhh.. but no, i haven't bought them yet.. like with everything else, i've been dragging my feet..
so does anyone bike in cold weather here?
|
|
|
|
| Rolland...didja decide on shoes yet?
|
|
|
|
| Good day Woefels. People in this place definitely know how to spread the mojo!
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
11/4/07 11:42 A
|
|
|
|
Welcom Woefels!
You're right, this site ROCKS!
|
|
|
|
| hey woe.. welcome to sparkpeople.. and this post.. do you bike anywhere nice?
|
|
WOEFELS...
11/4/07 3:59 A
|
|
|
|
Hi everybody!! I'm new to Sparkpeople and just want to say HI..hope you all have a wonderful day and this site rocks...
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
10/11/07 11:24 A
|
|
|
|
I have a Thomson seat post. It seems to be pretty sturdy as I've had a few pretty serious crashes this year and it's still in one piece! Plus it's fairly light as well.
I also just picked up some Dangerboy Hayes Gripped replacement brake levers, in pink of course, because I'm such a girl, and they're awesome. I would highly recommend them! My next want are these really cool Chris King, hot pink hubs that weigh literally ounces; however, my DH figures they're waaayyy too expensive. Which he's right about, of course! A person has to have dreams.....
|
|
|
|
| that's what i've been gathering, but what posts/seats does everyone use?
|
|
|
|
Don't buy a cheap one...I snapped one off one time on a particularly treacherous and technical downhill...no harm done, but I coulda been ripped a new one
Any advice out there on catching more air off of a table top jump? I'm only clearing 1-2 feet, my dream is to get clear over the whole jump...I just can't get any more vert.
|
|
|
|
| does anyone have opinions on seat posts? i think i need to get a longer one, and in searching around, it looks like thomson's are the best.. any tips/advice?
|
|
|
|
got the pedals.. and would've installed them, but the shoes were tight.. so those i'll be returning.. so now i'm looking at a pair of older sidi's that are cheap, i assume, because of them being larger and older ('04).. i've got big and relatively wide feet.. does anyone know off the top of their head if the sidi's are narrower than usual?
but i went on a bit of a thrill ride last night.. not much daylight left, and a trail through the woods.. makes for quite an exciting time.. and not knowing all the paths made for an even more exciting time.. i made out with just a couple scratches on my arms (damn sticker bushes)..
|
|
|
|
| i'm patiently awaiting the arrival of my stuff.. i got the shimanos i was talking about.. and a pair of cannondale roam shoes..
|
|
MOUNTAINBIKER1
9/22/07 10:26 P
|
|
|
|
| I have been using clip ins for about 4 years now, I love them. They are a little weird at first, but after riding a while in them they are second nature. Getting in is somtimes harder than getting out just twist your foot to release.
|
|
|
|
is nashbar good about their return policy? i'm on the website, and haven't seen the link regarding this..
oops.. just found it..
|
|
|
|
| buy them. if they don't fit return them.
|
|
|
|
| so yeah.. STILL haven't bought anything.. but it's not like i haven't been trying.. i haven't been trying hard.. but just the other day, i finally saw a shoe that's my size.. out of curiousity, has anyone found that you have to order outside of your size to get the right fit (regarding cycling shoes)? i've got 14's, but i have managed to fit in 13's and 14.5's.. this is a constant concern of mine..
|
|
|
|
Excellent link, went and checked it out. I can pretty much get myself "downgraded" That will be my winter project!!!
Conversion is gonna be pretty simple.
|
|
CRAZY4BLUES
9/14/07 4:34 P
|
|
|
|
MS, you can buy a chain tensioner for a SS. You could even use, gag, a derailleur! Here's a link: http://www.jensonusa.com/store/product/CS611B00-Gusset+Single+Speed+Conversion+Kit.aspx
Also, I think my improvement comes from getting a little stronger, but mostly by using proper climbing technique--keeping upper body quiet, letting the arms rest inward, keeping my thumbs resting on top of the grips, concentrating on smooth spinning, and just breathing.
It's funny, it was about this very time last year that I actually completed that same climb for the first time. In May '06, I weighed 210 lbs. and had trouble riding a bike more than seven miles on a flat road. Now I'm at about 170ish, and I can complete a 25 miler with about 3000 ft. of climbing(with some rest/food stops) w/o too much trouble. At 40 years old, I'm much fitter than I was at 30. Feels great, and mountain biking is a huge part of that!
|
|
|
|
Hey Crazy man...ripping ride you had huh? Nice job, thats a tremendous improvement over the course of a season. I'm impressed...u eat uranium for breakfast the day u did that?
Yeah, my fork was new at the beginning of the season, and I'm about due for a once thru at the shop...I'll keep y'all posted.
Question...anyone know anything about 1 speed conversion kits? My hardtail isn't set up for me to tension the chain out properly...SO HOW DO YA DO IT?!
|
|
CRAZY4BLUES
9/14/07 11:50 A
|
|
|
|
Hey, all! A couple of updates.
1. New rims! American Classic 26. Very light and strong and very free-rolling. While climbing is a little easier, I have found that I can go much faster on flats, and I can also stop much more quickly to correct lines and such.
2. This week, I had my fastest climb ever! I did a 2.6 mile ascent (1500 ft) in 36.5 minutes. When I started doing this climb in January, it took me 50 minutes, so I'm pretty jazzed about that.
MSEYWERED: is your fork new? It could be "normal", but I'd get it checked out at your bike shop.
|
|
|
|
rock on riding to work...good way to squeeze in a little extra. I was out hammering on the trails this weekend...mmm, tasty.
is it bad if suspension forks ooze a couple of drops of schmeg? any ideas if this means a blown seal...or is it just a "normal" thing? There is not stuff all over the place, it just happened once.
|
|
|
|
ha ha.. cute.. yeah, so i haven't bought them yet.. yes, you all can flame me.. but i really do want to buy them.. especially with my new kick of biking to work.. i did it last friday and it sure felt good..
.. so that's partially justifying it more for me to get shoes/clips.. =)
|
|
|
|
i'm the voice on your shoulder. Buy the shoes & pedals, do it, do it...its soooooo easy.
|
|
|
|
seeing this mountain bike thread always has me thinking that i will go and buy those pedals and shoes.. like with everything else in my life, i really need to just go to a site for an hour, and figure out what in the hell i'm going to do.. argh..
maybe i'll get the chance to ride a little this coming weekend.. keep your fingers crossed..
|
|
|
|
i haven't been on one in a while.. i actually have been riding the stationary bike in the gym frequently.. but i should take advantage of my week off, and pick my bike up from the squad.. maybe i'll do that tomorrow (as a break from day 1 of tiling the basement)..
ms.. thanks for the heads up.. i keep forgetting about that shoe (i've seen it before).. i'll have to do a search for it in large sizes.. yay for big feet..
|
|
|
|
My poor old iron Horse has been sitting with a flat, staring at me in an evil fashion for ignoring him. His day is coming soon though... it's been down in the sixties here a couple days this week and that's when I get the biking fever and forsake the gym and it's A/C and regular routine. I love fall weather!
|
|
|
|
Both of my bikes are busted right now. Had to order parts so my rides are on hiatus till I get the schwag. I bent a brake rotor on my main ride...translation, wheel won't turn. Hopefully I will have that stuff in a day or two.
Ro, I thought of u yesterday, was thumbing thru one of my bike catalogs and found a "patrol" shoe thats made by Diadora. Might be worth it for u to check. I think the catalog was Nashbar.
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
8/22/07 10:08 A
|
|
|
|
I was out last week for a really good ride. Had a couple little sketchy (silly) wipe outs and some road rash as a prize but overall it was awesome. We did some cool stuff. Even tried to go UP a set of stairs. A couple of the girls made it. I only tried 3 times and was sooooo close but will conquer those in the future. Plan to go out again tomorrow.
|
|
|
|
| has anyone been out lately? it's been raining like crazy around my ways..
|
|
|
|
| .. i'm especially a fan of the no bugs part.. i get eaten up like crazy when i'm out..
|
|
|
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
7/31/07 9:19 A
|
|
|
|
| Ahhhh, that's a beautiful visual! So, so true.
|
|
|
|
The Reason Why I ride...for all of u dirt fans. Visualize with me if u will:
75 degrees outside, no bugs, 7:00 in the evening with 10 miles of damp well packed single track just calling your name. One last check to make sure the quick release is tight on your seat post and your front wheel. U get on the seat and two solid clicks let u know you're engaged on your steed.
Hit play on the Ipod and the first chords of Led Zeppelin's Kashmir fill your ears. A gentle breath out and u drop into into the folds of the forest and the trail.
U shift into a lower gear and your bike does it like it was tuned by God himself. Your warmed up now and u slither thru the woods feeling like your bike is an extension of u. Up, down, swerve, swerve, lift up over the rock, bounce over logs....ahhhhh.
Your done now, u pop out of the forest. You're legs are spent, your heart is pumping, your camelbak is empty and the sun is just kissing the horizon. Life is good...and this is why I ride.
|
|
|
|
i guess my only hope is a bike store.. practically no store has my size.. hmmm.. if this is true in the shops, this'll be my reason for not getting clipless pedals, huh?
anyway, thanks for all the good advice..
|
|
|
|
| mtbr has a ton of links to online stores if you don't want to go through your local bike shop. Online I've used Nashbar and Universal Cycles before; both have been good.
|
|
|
|
| yeah, this is a favorite of mine too.. but i was looking to see if anyone knew of any other sites out there that sold bike shoes.. rei and nashbar have shoes, but none in my size (at least the ones that are more in my pricerange)..
|
|
|
|
| mtbr has helped me soooo much. from fixing bikes to choosing what parts/bikes/accessories to buy. great site!
|
|
|
|
www.mtbr.com
reviews and comparisons of e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g in the bike world
|
|
|
|
thanks for the all the advice.. i think i'm going to go ahead and doing the half platform/ half pedal scenario.. either the shimano m324's or the
so now my limiter is where do i get shoes from.. i'm a size 14 (15 sometimes).. and my european counterpart has me as a size 49 or 50.. anyone have any suggestions on where to go for shoes that look/function more like hiking boots/shoes?
|
|
|
|
If you're going to be getting on and off your bike, platforms will be easier to use. It is is very easy to clip in and out of the shoes, especially if you use "less angle". Less angle means you turn your foot less to un-clip.
In regards to comfort...I have a pair of Sidi Dominator 5 shoes that is as comfortable as any shoe I own. But they do retail at $249. If you can get a deal on them you'll thank yourself beyond belief.
Candies vs Smarties.....Smarties are much "cheaper" pedals. They can't be rebuilt like a Candy pedal can. The Candy line can be rebuilt very easily, much cheaper than buying a new pedal if you break a piece.
Two sets of pedals is a good idea, but if you're like most of us, you'll get tired of switching the pedals. If you're not climbing many hills or having to "throw your bike around" while turning tight corners, you'll be just fine with platforms.
|
|
CRAZY4BLUES
7/12/07 3:57 P
|
|
|
|
Rolland:
When you describe the type of riding you do, I am wondering if platforms wouldn't be the best for you. The reason people get clipless pedals is because they provide greater power-transfer effeciency by keeping your foot at the best leverage point on the pedal at all times. This is ideal when you are doing a lot of climbing and you want to maximize your effort or staying in the saddle and pedaling over long distances.
It sounds like the kind of riding you do is slower speed through crowds, so pedaling efficiency isn't really the priority. I should think platforms would be best here.
However, if your patrol bike doubles as your trail bike (i.e., when you're not working but just on the trail working out/having fun), then, maybe MSEYWERD's idea of having two sets of pedals is ideal. In that case, I'd go with the candies and start by setting up the cleats on the 15 degree setting. Once you get used to getting in and out of the the pedals, switch the cleats to the 20 degree setting. When you're working, swap 'em out for the flats.
|
|
|
|
| Why don't u get 2 sets of pedals? Get a good platform pedal for when u have to work and then get a set of clipless for when u fun ride. Go talk to your local bike mechanic about learning a quick way to get the pedals off of your bike. With the right wrench u can get the job done in 2 minutes (3 if you're slow).
|
|
|
|
about the shimano m324's.. i had seen these before.. and they look pretty cool.. but they don't look like you can clip in on both sides of the pedal..
the candy c's look cool.. and they look like you can clip in on both sides.. but now that i think about it, getting around on bike is how we get places and through crowds, but ultimately, i'll be treating patients on my feet, so i'd want comfort when walking.. so i think i'm opting towards something like the shimanos (or a pedal on one side, clip on the other).. in checking out the crankbrother's website, the candies and smarties both seem to act the same, but the candies are a little lighter.. does anyone know if either is larger than the other?
so here's a question.. how easy is it to clip in? and is more angle better or worse (or is it preference)?
|
|
|
|
As mentioned before. I use the Candy SL...it's an Eggbeater with a platform built around it. I love it because of the versatility. Much better than plain old platforms. I'm not quite confident enough on downhills to go with a straight eggbeater. I think Crank Bros makes the best pedals out there!
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
7/11/07 4:50 P
|
|
|
|
Hey, glad to hear you're having fun riding the trails. I was out mt. biking 3 days last week and went downhill riding 2 days.
I also had my 5 and 6 year olds on some single, rooty track a couple of weeks ago. The 6 year old wanted to lead and off he went off the granular and into the single-track. It wasn't my plan, but we followed anyway. My 5 year old had to lead too. It was too cute..."my turn to lead...come on guys, follow me". They did awesome. Mind you, they've been behind a bike since they were babies either in the Chariot or on the trail-a-long. We have a single and a double and they've been extremely useful.
So you both like the egg beaters? I only used them once when I borrowed someone's bike and shoes so it's hard to tell if I really liked them because the bike was a little too big as were the shoes. As well, it was REALLY muddy so I was out of them more than I was in. I guess I'll have to give them a try sometime. Thanks for the posts about that.
|
|
CRAZY4BLUES
7/11/07 12:58 P
|
|
|
|
| Mseywerd, that's great to hear. I can't wait to get my daughter on the trail!
|
|
|
|
Get the egg beaters...oooo. Then just ride!!!! Sorry for the delay there mamabear in getting back 2 u. My ride (and all others since then have been just insanely cool).
Check this out everyone...I was out riding and came up on a dad who was out with his 4 year old son (a dirt squirt!) and was teaching him how to ride single track. HOW COOL IS THAT!?
|
|
CRAZY4BLUES
7/10/07 11:52 A
|
|
|
|
Right now I'm running Egg Beaters, made by Crank Brothers. They have a model called the Mallet, which is a platform/clipless type of pedal also. Shimano clipless are pretty adjustable and well proven.
Egg Beaters, some people love 'em, some people hate 'em. I'm finding that they are just fine once you get used to them (like anything else). I also have the cleats adjusted to the 20 degree exit angle, which keep you hooked in securely. The 15 degree option allows you to unhook a little too easily. The advantage of Egg Beaters over Shimano is that they are generally lighter and shed mud really well.
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
7/8/07 6:56 P
|
|
|
|
| I know Shimano makes a dual entry clipless platform pedal meaning that you can clip in on either side of the pedal (rather than just on 1 side) but you have a wider platform as well so that you can wear regular shoes. The Shimano M324 clipless platform would be an example of these. I have a pair of similar kind and they work great.
|
|
|
|
rehashing old topic.. so can anyone suggest (and give reason) a pedal to buy/use?
.. some background, besides going on personal rides, i also use my bike for ems bike maneuvering where i'll be riding through crowds and possibly jumping off - so i wasn't sure about committing to going clipless.. previously when i posted about this, i wanted a clipless pedal with a platform on the other side (so i had options)..
.. does anyone have any other opinions? currently, i've got my eyes on atac z's..
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
6/29/07 9:51 A
|
|
|
|
| Hey, I went on a great ride last night! How was yours?
|
|
|
|
All that stuff is cool and enhances. But u all know it that nothing beats an epic ride. Thats me tonight
I'd love to say it was on a Santa Cruz...but alas it is not. Rip it anyway!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
6/27/07 5:39 P
|
|
|
|
Hi Blues, ah yes, Santa Cruz...makes life good.
In addition to the HIIT, I too am weight training and this goes part and parcel together with the whole spark concept. Those squats, lunges and squat jumps go a heck of a long way to building strong cycling muscles!
|
|
CRAZY4BLUES
6/27/07 5:00 P
|
|
|
|
Hi, Kara. I LOVE My BLUR LT! One of the coolest things about Santa Cruz is that they don't feel the need to jump onto every trend. Notice, they have no carbon or titanium frames? No 29ners either. They don't even sell a complete single speed. Instead, they just concentrate on proven platforms and continue to tweak them. I'm not knocking the latest trends in MTbiking, but I think it's very interesting that SC doesn't feel the need to get into the flavor of the month thing.
As for building up the fast twitch muscles, I haven't done much HIIT lately, but I have been doing weights twice a week, and that helps, too, especially now that I'm starting to encrease the weights a little for each exercise.
|
|
|
|
| yeah...i just started some of that interval training this week...oof. Can u say pounded? i'll let u know about the results in a month or so
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
6/27/07 2:36 P
|
|
|
|
| Running HIIT sprints (High Intensity Interval Training) sprints at about 80%-90% of your maximum level incrases your anaerobic capacity (VO2 max) and conditions fast twitch muscles which should help when you need those sudden bursts of muscle energy for uphill climbs and speed. It also helps to increase your overall endurance. I've been training this way for a couple of months now and have noticed an improvement in both mountain biking and running.
|
|
|
|
i'm sure running helps.. pedalling through technical hills employs more of the musculature surrounding the quads/hamstrings/calves.. and forces you to strengthen those muscles at different positions in the pedal-stroke..
besides running, other exercises like skiing will help..
|
|
|
|
| do u find running ups the riding performance? hitting the different muscle groups while running really helps to get me faster on the bike. hill climbing for some odd reason gets easier if I keep running thru the riding season.
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
6/20/07 9:54 P
|
|
|
|
| Yup, I hear ya. 20 year old stationary bike at home (not even a "real" spin bike or fluid trainer that I can use my own bike) twice a week if I can and running for x-training. Just crank up the tunes and push hard. Yes, got to make the real outings worth it.
|
|
|
|
| Schweet! I've been missing out on more riding convo! I feel your pain there mamabear...once a week seems to be what I'm able to do as well (between work & kids). I find I'm only able to squeeze in x-training & the stationary (ick) bike the rest of the time. packing gear and taking time to get to an urban riding site just stinks. Gotta make that once a week count!!!
|
|
KARATEMAMABEAR
6/20/07 4:11 P
|
|
|
|
What's not to like about "guys" and "lounging"?
I luv my Santa Cruz. I just wish I could get out more often than once a week.
|
|
|
|
Actually, there is a big team devoted to cycling and not just a thread in the men's group like here. You can find it at the following URL or just do a search in Spark Teams:
http://www.sparkpeople.com/myspark/join_group_confirm.asp?groupid=1670&strGroupcode=FC4IB5ELAA1RAPY8V7X1XPNJWUAP6A
|
|
|
|
| The Santa Cruz bikes r getting a good representation here!!! how do u like urs?
|
|
|
|
hmm...maybe there would be more ladies on the site if it weren't under the Men Only part of the site (i'm just guessing). Rock on to the ladies who go into it anyway...
|
|
|
|
| i always thought that this lacked proper women representation.. you girls gotta represent..
|
|
