Buying an entry level road bike

Tigerandahalf

Hey all

Hope you can offer me some help here.

I am looking to get the above. I have had a look in a couple of shops and prices quoted are around €500. With helmet, shorts, pump and few other bits included I am looking at paying around €600. I do a fair bit of running but would like to do a few cycles, explore a few places. I would also be interested in doing some cycle runs/races, nothing too competitive. Maybe a triathlon at some stage in the future, who knows.
I am kind of caught between a hybrid and a road bike. The hybrid would be handy for road trips to explore places and could handle rougher ground. It could also be fitted with mud guards.
For people out there who might have gone through the same decision what would you reckon? I don't want to waste money on a decent bike and end up not getting use out of it, especially in the winter with shorter days.
Also can I ask what should I be looking out for when buying a bike in terms of specs? I believe Shimano parts are good, what about frame type and length. I see 22.5 inch frame, is this from saddle to handlebars? Also 700c wheels? In terms of material should I be looking for an aluminium frame?

Thanks

CamperMan

I have a hybrid and a road bike, hybrid has an aluminium frame, the road bike has a steel frame, I prefer all day long to ride the road bike with it's steel frame, feels much nicer, also, the drop bars give you more positions to put your hands in so less chance of getting numb hands.. the hybrid bike sits in the garage gathering dust as I prefer to ride the steel framed road bike.

http://www.parkersofbolton.co.uk/p-4728-2014-raleigh-gran-sport-16-speed-reynolds-520-chrome-moly-road-bike.aspx

it's equipped with mudguards

Cee-Jay-Cee

If you're considering triathlons then a road bike is more suited and like said above, drop bars offer more positions compared to the single position on a hybrid. A hybrid is fine for commutes and shorter spins but the upright position isn't ideal for longer spins and a road bike will generally be easier to sell on if you decided you didn't like cycling or wanted to upgrade.

Tigerandahalf

Thanks for the replies. The steel framed road bike would be heavier than the aluminium one? If I get a road bike Ill get a half decent one that will last.
I would like to cycle some of our coastline so am thinking I would need a decent bike. Would I be fine carrying a small backpack with a camelback in it when on the roadbike or would I be unbalanced.

Zen0

A decent steel bike is going to cost more than an aluminium alloy one, and even then is likely to weigh more. Stick with alloy in that price bracket, but if you can stretch to carbon forks even better.

Carrying stuff on your back on the bike is a bad idea, your back will be drenched in sweat in no time. Consider getting a road bike with eyelets for a carrier. The Giant Defy range has them I think, and I think some of the Treks do too. Online, some of Ribble's frames have them. Some people don't like them on a road bike, but if you are going to have one do-it-all bike, then they give you a lot of versatility.

Tigerandahalf

When fitting for a bike should your feet be flat on the ground while on saddle?

Jabel

No, when cycling you're leg/s should be slightly bent when pedal is in it's lowest position.

Tigerandahalf

In terms of accessories what should one consider buying?
Pump with gauge, bike pump (hand or one with gas canister?), saddle bag, bottle and bottle carriage, repair kit, spare tubes, oil/lubricant for chains/gears etc?
Anything else?

Thanks

serendip

Tigerandahalf wrote: »

In terms of accessories what should one consider buying?
Pump with gauge, bike pump (hand or one with gas canister?), saddle bag, bottle and bottle carriage, repair kit, spare tubes, oil/lubricant for chains/gears etc?
Anything else?

Thanks

You'll need lights in the winter.

Pumps: A track pump at home, and a mini one for under way.

Tigerandahalf

Are lights still worked through a dynamo system?

arybvtcw0eolkf

If your budget is only €500 then I'd suggest you look at secondhand bikes, you'll likely get a better quality secondhand bike for that money than you will buying new ~ in fact if you'd someone with some knowledge to help your search then you'll defo be putting your €500 budget to a better bike.

Tigerandahalf

I won't be using the bike to commute so realistically I will be doing well to get out twice a week for a spin. With the better weather and longer days now it is easier to get out. I wouldn't have enough knowledge to buy second hand and it is just handier for me to buy in a shop with warranty etc.

I see on other threads people mentioning different pedals, cleats and bike shoes etc. I don't think I would be confident enough to have my feet strapped into the pedal, would be afraid I wouldn't release my feet. Is this an issue and something to consider?

arybvtcw0eolkf

Tigerandahalf wrote: »

I won't be using the bike to commute so realistically I will be doing well to get out twice a week for a spin. With the better weather and longer days now it is easier to get out. I wouldn't have enough knowledge to buy second hand and it is just handier for me to buy in a shop with warranty etc.

I see on other threads people mentioning different pedals, cleats and bike shoes etc. I don't think I would be confident enough to have my feet strapped into the pedal, would be afraid I wouldn't release my feet. Is this an issue and something to consider?

If you see a bike advertised online I've seen some very helpful people offer their advice when said advert is posted in this forum, give it a try?.

As for shoes, pedals etc by the time you'd buy all that stuff you'd be lucky to have the money left over to buy a bike from your budget.

Regarding a warrenty and after care, some shops are better than others & it took me a long time to find a shop I'm confident with so going new with a shop is no guarentee of quality after care IMO.

Tigerandahalf

Thanks for replies.
In relation to helmets do all of them have vents on top. Dont want the crown to get sunburnt. OH has a Giro Skyline helmet around the house so I could use it.

Montgolfier

Have you checked http://touch.adverts.ie/for-sale/sports-fitness/bikes/road-bikes/830/
Not a bad place to start your search.