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Bike for work

  • 06-04-2010 2:24pm
    #1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 511
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    Thinking about getting this bike,It would be for going and coming home from work.So about 50 miles a week,I will cycle a bit for fun as well.I havent cycled in a while so not sure If this would be a good choice.Any help would be great,thanks lads!
    http://www.xxcycle.com/matts-tfs-trail-100-d-2010,,en.php


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Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,313 07Lapierre
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    Thinking about getting this bike,It would be for going and coming home from work.So about 50 miles a week,I will cycle a bit for fun as well.I havent cycled in a while so not sure If this would be a good choice.Any help would be great,thanks lads!
    http://www.xxcycle.com/matts-tfs-trail-100-d-2010,,en.php

    Do you intend going "Off-Road"? If Yes.. a MTB is a good choice. If NO, a MTB is a BAD choice.

    Personally 'd go for a road bike, but if MTB's are your preferred style, this is a better option.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 511 RickyBobby1
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    07Lapierre wrote: »
    Do you intend going "Off-Road"? If Yes.. a MTB is a good choice. If NO, a MTB is a BAD choice.

    Personally 'd go for a road bike, but if MTB's are your preferred style, this is a better option.

    Hi Lapierre,
    No Its really for on road only.Thats a pity I really liked the look of this one.Any road bike you would recommend?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,313 07Lapierre
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    Hi Lapierre,
    No Its really for on road only.Thats a pity I really liked the look of this one.Any road bike you would recommend?


    Somethingh like this ( though if you wait long enough, you'll get a lot more recommendations). Its a standard entry level road bike. I imagine its lighter than the MTB you were looking at and the dropped bars will help on windy days. The narrow road tyres also offer less rolling resistance.

    The main thing to look for when choosing a bike is weight. you'll notice the more expensive the bike, the lighter it is.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 511 RickyBobby1
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    07Lapierre wrote: »
    Somethingh like this ( though if you wait long enough, you'll get a lot more recommendations). Its a standard entry level road bike. I imagine its lighter than the MTB you were looking at and the dropped bars will help on windy days. The narrow road tyres also offer less rolling resistance.

    The main thing to look for when choosing a bike is weight. you'll notice the more expensive the bike, the lighter it is.
    Thanks,I like that one as well.I would prefer not to go for a racer..I sometimes get back pains.So Ideally something with the handlebars up higher but still that would be an option,thanks mate


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 68,317 seamus
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    If you're not looking to go off-road at all, then a road bike with drop bars is the way to go.

    Speaking as someone who rode bikes for years but only first got on a road bike last September, I can tell you that they are far and away the quickest and most enjoyable way to get around on the roads. Unless you buy a BMX, but they're really slow and if you're over 30, you'll look silly.

    Initially, you'll find the steering and balance a little odd on the skinny tyres, narrow bars and short wheelbase, but you'll be well used to it in about 3 hours riding time. The ride is unforgiving on Ireland's crappy roads, so if comfort is more important than speed, then go for a hybrid as linked to above.

    Yes, MTBs might look cool but on windy weeks like this one, you'll be cursing the bike.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 511 RickyBobby1
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    seamus wrote: »
    If you're not looking to go off-road at all, then a road bike with drop bars is the way to go.

    Speaking as someone who rode bikes for years but only first got on a road bike last September, I can tell you that they are far and away the quickest and most enjoyable way to get around on the roads. Unless you buy a BMX, but they're really slow and if you're over 30, you'll look silly.

    Initially, you'll find the steering and balance a little odd on the skinny tyres, narrow bars and short wheelbase, but you'll be well used to it in about 3 hours riding time. The ride is unforgiving on Ireland's crappy roads, so if comfort is more important than speed, then go for a hybrid as linked to above.

    Yes, MTBs might look cool but on windy weeks like this one, you'll be cursing the bike.
    Hit the nail on the head there Seamus.I found with my old bike that It was nice looking but If it was windy It was unbearable,not to mention the horrible hill I go up to get home.
    I dont think I will be going off road,will be mainly just going and coming home from work.
    So Ideally get a nice comfortable bike with decent speed and pereferably a cool looking design.Not asking for much I know :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,939 Russman
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    +1 on a road bike. I switched from a hybrid about 4 months ago and the difference is night and day.
    Plus you can get them set up so there's no strain on the body. I had to do that and its been fine.

    There's a thread on here somewhere about relaxed geometry bikes with some examples that are slightly more upright than a "race" bike.

    Happy buying !


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 511 RickyBobby1
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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,939 Russman
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    To be honest I don't really see the point of that one unless you're going off road....? I'm no expert though :-)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,995 blorg
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    That could be a good option, cyclocross bikes are generally quite relaxed and have clearance for big tyres.

    That one also had mudguard/rack mounts. You have to be careful with cross bikes as full-on race ones will often lack even bottle mounts never mind the rest.

    The only downside really is that many cross bikes are very very heavy compared to a road bike and the braking is IMO compromised compared to calipers. Even a very light cross bike will tend to have a fair bit of weight over a comparable road bike. Generally lighter than a MTB though.

    Very versatile bikes though, I have three myself which I use for different things (touring/commuting/cross racing.)

    If you do get a cross bike make sure to swap the tyres for slicks, cross tyres are very slow on the road.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 932 DualFrontDiscs
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    @RickyBobby1

    As your bike is principally for commuting, make sure you factor in mudguards and a rear rack. You'll need to factor that in both in terms of the bike you choose and the cost of buying them (if they're not fitted to the bike you buy).

    Personally, I think a rear rack is an essential commuting item. You can use panniers rather than a rucksack and thus carry your stuff more comfortably. And even if you don't need panniers, a rear rack is handy if you want to pick up a pint of milk, 6-pack, massive box of Viagra, etc.

    You'll want a lock too, maybe even two or three. Factoring in 10-15% of the bike price is a reasonable rule of thumb. Lights too.

    DFD*.

    *Don'tFeedDrivers.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 31,222 Lumen
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    I think a cyclocross bike is a valid way to get into road cycling. Generally relaxed position and you can stick fat slicks on it to take the sting out of the potholes. Certainly more interesting than a hybrid.

    I've taken mine on club spins with skinny road tyres and had no trouble keeping up (well, no more than usual). I may well end up using it as a wet race bike. It's actually more sensible for racing than commuting, as you don't often need to brake hard in races.

    Though if I could only own one bike it probably wouldn't be a cyclocross bike. Brakes are too fiddly to adjust given my lack of mechanical aptitude.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 932 DualFrontDiscs
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    Lumen wrote: »
    I think a cyclocross bike is a valid way to get into road cycling.
    Fair point, but the OP may not be looking to get into 'road cycling'. Commuting and cycling for fun doesn't necessarily equate as a desire to get into road cycling. Not trying to be contentious, honest.

    DFD*.

    *DisagreeingForDimes.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 511 RickyBobby1
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    Cheers for the advice so far lads Its really helping.This Is my first proper bike Im buying so I need all the advice I can get.I noticed there with the Giant tck2 that pedals are not included that seems a bit strange?
    At the moment its between Defy 3....http://www.cyclesuperstore.ie/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=35&idproduct=31168
    aND THE TCK2...http://www.cyclesuperstore.ie/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=0&idproduct=30625.
    But If anyone can recommend me a more suitable bike that would be great!

    Its mainly for commuting about 50 miles a week,with a few rides on my days off, all on road.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,644 SerialComplaint
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    DOn't rule out the possibility of mixing off-roading with commuting. My commute route has a couple of off-road stretches, which keep me away from cars. This is a win-win for the cars and for me. Have a think about any routes on your commute over grass that would be safe and interesting for you. Most suburban parks are off-limits.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,313 07Lapierre
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    Cheers for the advice so far lads Its really helping.This Is my first proper bike Im buying so I need all the advice I can get.I noticed there with the Giant tck2 that pedals are not included that seems a bit strange?
    At the moment its between Defy 3....http://www.cyclesuperstore.ie/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=35&idproduct=31168
    aND THE TCK2...http://www.cyclesuperstore.ie/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=0&idproduct=30625.
    But If anyone can recommend me a more suitable bike that would be great!

    Its mainly for commuting about 50 miles a week,with a few rides on my days off, all on road.

    Remember what i said about weight? Can't tell what weight the TCX is, but I'm pretty sure it'll be heavier than the Defy 3.

    Will you be carrying anything during your commute? ( I bring everything i need into work by car on a Monday, cycle to work Tuesday,Wednesday and Thursday, and bring everything home by car on Friday, This means I only carry a spare tube, pump, wallet, phone and keys).

    The Defy 3 will take mudguards and carrier if needed, not sure about the TCX (doubt it as the cantilever brake cable is in the way and theres no eyelets on the frame)

    Pedals are not included as there are different types of pedals/shoes etc. If your just starting off, might be an idea to get a set of cheap "platform" pedals, which will allow you to cycle in standard trainers, as opposed to cycling shoes. At 50 miles per week, thats a short commute if you cycle every day. so cycling shoes can be purchased later if you "catch the bug". (which you will).

    Don't forget a helmet!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,995 blorg
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    07Lapierre wrote: »
    The Defy 3 will take mudguards and carrier if needed, not sure about the TCX (doubt it as the cantilever brake cable is in the way and theres no eyelets on the frame)
    Cantis don't get in the way of guards/carriers (most touring bikes are set up this way.) The TCX seems to have the required eyelets to me.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 511 RickyBobby1
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    Cheers lads,I have actually emailed Nigels cycles,going to go out and try some bikes out there.Hopefully they will have the 2 giant bikes for me to try out.I am a bit nervous buying something online without trying it out first.

    Yes I probably would have a small bag on my shoulders.I would rather have it on my back to be honest,just incase it fell off the carrier.I will try and get some cheap bike shoes maybe on ebay or something.I might as well get everything I need.So any more recommendations on the shoes or anything would be welcome!:D


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,313 07Lapierre
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    Cheers lads,I have actually emailed Nigels cycles,going to go out and try some bikes out there.Hopefully they will have the 2 giant bikes for me to try out.I am a bit nervous buying something online without trying it out first.

    Yes I probably would have a small bag on my shoulders.I would rather have it on my back to be honest,just incase it fell off the carrier.I will try and get some cheap bike shoes maybe on ebay or something.I might as well get everything I need.So any more recommendations on the shoes or anything would be welcome!:D

    Make sure you come back and let us know what you buy. best of luck with it.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,995 blorg
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    Yes I probably would have a small bag on my shoulders.I would rather have it on my back to be honest,just incase it fell off the carrier.
    Stuff doesn't fall off a carrier if properly secured. Panniers are best, they just clip on. Only thing I wouldn't put in there would be a laptop, due to the vibrations. Some people do though and it works fine for them.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,133 Explosive_Cornflake
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    blorg wrote: »
    Stuff doesn't fall off a carrier if properly secured. Panniers are best, they just clip on. Only thing I wouldn't put in there would be a laptop, due to the vibrations. Some people do though and it works fine for them.

    I think I went through 2 HD's in my laptop for that reason lately.
    I had no padding around the laptop though. I reckon with a padded skin for the laptop it should be ok.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,676 Gavin
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    SSD !


  • Moderators, Motoring & Transport Moderators Posts: 14,093 monument
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    Thanks,I like that one as well.I would prefer not to go for a racer..I sometimes get back pains.So Ideally something with the handlebars up higher but still that would be an option,thanks mate

    Try a city bike type hybrid, like these:

    http://www.cyclesuperstore.ie/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=32&idproduct=30539

    http://www.cyclesuperstore.ie/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=32&idproduct=30529

    More here:

    http://www.cyclesuperstore.ie/shop/pc/showsearchresults.asp?idCategory=32&order=3

    I'm just posting to this site because I've looked at it before, but most shops in Ireland will have these types of bikes.

    Avoid the likes of Halfords -- you can get better bikes, made by well established brands, in well established often for around the same or just a little more. As above links show.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 511 RickyBobby1
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    Hi guys,

    Thanks for all your help!I am picking up my bike Saturday from Nigels cycles,really looking forward to it now.Here is the bike I am getting for you guys who might be interested....http://www.trizone.ie/index.php/cycling/road-bikes/lapierre-audacio-400.html


  • Posts: 1,427 [Deleted User]
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    Very nice! Great to see another person saved from the horrible fate that is commuting on a knobbly tyred mountain bike. Happy cycling!


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