First Bike, any thoughts? [Archive] - Women's Cycling Discussion Forums

Jenn

02-27-2007, 07:22 AM

IFjane

02-27-2007, 07:47 AM

Jenn - pick up a copy of the Bicycling Magazine Buyer's Guide. I just got mine in the mail and it has a selection of entry-level bikes along with women's specific designs that you could research. If nothing else, it might give you something to look for when you go shopping.

As for the rude LBS's....Keep looking for a NICE shop!

missymaya

02-27-2007, 07:58 AM

Hey Jenn,
Glad to hear your getting into the sport! I would suggest getting fit for a bike as well. By getting fit for a bike, it might help you make choices on the bike that's most appropriate for you.
As for the arrogant LBS, well just ignore them. The same thing happens to me and my BF and I just go on my way, getting what I need without their hoighty toighty attitudes:p

BleeckerSt_Girl

02-27-2007, 08:49 AM

Jenn,
Many women have shorter reach than men and will not be comfortable going long hours on a bike designed for a man, like your husband's (DearHusband's, DH's) bike. You might want to try test riding some women-specific bikes at any bike shop near you. Forget whether they are courteous or not- just go in and test ride their bikes anyway it will help you decide what you need. You don't need to buy the bikes, just try them out. It's almost impossible to know which type of bike will be great unless you have ridden others to compare it with.
Just because your dh's bike is a perfect fit for him doesn't necessarily mean that type of bike will be a perfect fit for you- your proportions are DIFFERENT- he doesn't know what it feels like to be in your body on a bike. Try some bikes out, riding around and around the block at nearby bike shops.

LBTC

02-27-2007, 08:55 AM

Welcome to a great sport and a fabulous forum, Jenn!

Like the other girls have said - a properly fitting bike is the most important thing. If it fits well, it feels good and if it feels good, you will ride it! Hopefully you can find a bike shop (BS) with a good attitude, but if not, as the girls say, ignore the way they act and test ride lots of bikes. You want to feel the difference in real life before making the purchase. Look at lots of brands and lots of styles and when you figure out the dimensions (or if you can have a professional tell you which dimensions to look for after a proper bike fitting), you can narrow down your choices...then you can look at things like which BS you want to deal with and choose the brand that way, or you can make your choice based on the best components for the money, or even use colour as your deciding factor. :p

Fit first. The rest will come.

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

Jenn

02-27-2007, 11:22 AM

Thank you all so much! I'm so happy to have found this forum! There is sooo much wonderful information here!
We get the cycling magazine and I looked through all the reveiws and there are some that I like and want to go try and ride. Being a stay at home mom with a 1 year old on military pay, my budget is somewhat limited so that narrows the margin in a BIG way. Not to mention, everything else I have to get. I was pretty big into mountain biking in my single younger days but I definately enjoy road biking more now. Until I find one, I'll just keep spinning, which I like but it's better to be outside.
Thank you all again for the advice, we are going to go to some different shops this weekend, maybe we'll get some better sales people. That is what they are there for right?? To SELL not to chase off...:p
Thanks again!
Jenn

kt004

02-27-2007, 01:22 PM

Take a look at the new womens specific Raleighs...

http://www.raleighusa.com/items.asp?deptid=15&itemid=380

http://www.raleighusa.com/items.asp?deptid=15&itemid=379

The 2.0 goes for around $900 and the 1.0 for $625. Raleigh is trying to get into the women's market and they are pretty decently priced for the specs.
We've had a couple of them in our shop and we can't keep them in stock.

KSH

02-27-2007, 01:36 PM

I rode a Trek 1000, 50 CM, for 2 years just fine. Many of my rides were an average of 40-60 miles.

I am 5'4" with a long torso and short legs.

It's a good solid bike, and just because you are a women does't mean you necessarily need a WSD bike.

I recently bought (well, got it as a gift) a Specialized Tarmac Expert, 49 CM. Fits me just fine too.

nic840

02-27-2007, 03:12 PM

I can relate to you with bike shops who are rude and unhelpful...Do they want my money or what? Having worked in sports retail I just don't understand... you are going to drop a good amount of cash to start with and then all the future purchases... Don't you want me back?!!? I felt so small when I walked out of there...but I digress...
Having recently purchased my first roadbike I have a few suggestions about doing it on the cheaper side.
(Mind you I love my bike-oh and its not a WSD bike)
Do your research. Test ride at local bike shops, have them fit you on different bikes and ride them. Go home and think about what you liked and didn't like. Get all the info that you can squeak out of them.
Go to a different bike shop and test ride a few more makes... then look for something used.
It sounds like you are not in that great of a hurry so you can spend some time researching it. This forum has been really helpful.
Craigslist has some great used bikes or contact some local clubs to see if anyone has something they are selling in the make and size you like.
Good luck and enjoy it! My bike is my new best friend! -Nic

lacyliz

02-27-2007, 04:05 PM

Welcome to the forum! It's fantastic - everyone here is so helpful.

I was in your situation about a year ago- now I'm on my 3-rd bike and I'm beyond hooked.

I agree with all the other commments about fit - it's important. I would definitely check out Giant's OCR3 for Women- They always get great marks from Bicycling Mag and others - and at 650.00 new, it's a really good price for the bike and components - comes with a Shimano triple (12-27 cassette good for climbing hills), women specific geometry, etc. They tend to be pretty comfy - the tires are standards at 700x26 - which are substantial for a road bike (that might be good for you if you every ride on dirt roads or are used to a rougher road - it also helps with beginning stability).

I also highly recommend Bicycling Mag's Book- New Cycling Handbook- the first chapter is about types of bikes/riding, has a very understandable chapter on fit and things you need to know about bikes and riding. I bought it when I first got in to cycling and it has been extremely helpful. Took some of the mystery out of shopping for a bike - and helped me deal with Bike Shops. Though, I have to say, my LBS guys are great- they really help me and didn't treat me like a second class citizen when I was brand new. I know you'll find a shop or a person who will help without the tude.

Let us know how you do- Good Luck- No joy like being out on the road...

logdiva32

02-27-2007, 06:39 PM

I am new to road riding also, about 9 months now. The thing I've learned is measurements and recommendations are great, but take what is comfortable for you. I am riding a 50cm Novara carema pro '06, and I love it. LBS (Local Bike Shop) says it is too big. But I don't, they are all men. I have long legs 31" inseam and need the longer frame, but have a short torso, so had to go WSD (women specific design). So take your time.
BTW: I am military,also, yes my paycheck is meeger, LOL.

logdiva32

02-27-2007, 06:42 PM

man, spin everyday. One tough chica..

Brandi

02-27-2007, 08:26 PM

My first REAL bike ended up being my first bike for only 2 years. I didn't get fitted properly and had a lot of problems. Aches and pains but I loved it so Much I indured the pains. My husband wanted to build he's first bike and decided I earned it. I can"t believe the difference. I should have really done my homework. And i would test drive !
Your husbands bike might be wonderful for him but there might be something even more wonderful for you.

Jenn

02-28-2007, 06:46 AM

My only other question was regarding my size, now that you mention your long legs! I'm not a small woman, I'm battling a thyroid problem that my endocrinologist is trying to figure out and no matter how hard or how much I work out I cannot lose any weight. I spin everyday in hopes it will do something and the scale has not budged (it's soo aggrivating) Anybody else would have dropped a ton of weight by now. Having my daughter ruined my body!
Anyway...sorry to get off the subject. Because of this I'm about 5'7" and am a size 14, not chubby though, I'm just thick.:p Anyway, because I'm larger I don't know if a man's bike is going to fit me better? :confused:

nic840

02-28-2007, 08:15 AM

It all depends on the models. When I went to the LBS to testride I automatically felt too compact on the women's bikes. I am 5'5", 160 athletic build, size 10/12. As soon as I got on the men's bike it just felt right. I think I liked the stretched out postition a little more.
A girlfriend of mine is the same height and I always thought we were pretty similar in proportion...got on her bike a Specialized Ruby and it was amazing how much different we were. I felt so squished up and short. Her frame size was smaller because her legs are shorter...who would of guessed just looking at us. (my friend and I both have two kids under 3...so that baby fat is still there too...Ugh!)
She loves her bike and I love mine... It all depends on preference and positioning. THis is why test riding is sooooo important!!!!
I ended up purchasing a '06 Trek 2100 on sale and I love it.

Good luck with the Thyroid issues... keep on that endocrinologist. I had pituitary issues in college, I understand the hormone battles!

Kitsune06

02-28-2007, 08:27 AM

Hello, my name is Jennifer and I'm new to biking. My husband bought a Trek 1000 and I've been riding his on the weekends. I spin everyday during the week at home on a LeMond but really enjoy riding outside when I don't have the baby.
We have been looking into getting myself a bike as I am sick of having to ride my husbands. He swears that I need to get the same bike as his, but I don't know if that is what I want and if that is what is best for me. I beleive there is another version of his bike that is more geared towards women but I don't know. I've been reading tons of reviews and looking at different bikes but just am unsure. The people at several of the bike shops here are quite arrogant and rude so I don't know what to do. Any suggestions for a beginner bike that any of you prefer?
Thanks
Jenn

People will give me crap for saying this, but I strongly suggest you get an entry level bike. Not the best, not the lightest, etc etc.

The gearing and weight will be a challenge at first, but once you get fast and comfortable enough with it, to where you can justify spending the obscene amounts some people here do (i.e. if you ever want to race etc) you will just *fly*. ...but I think light and fast can be a real limitation, to a degree.

Find something that fits you comfortably- get fitted and I strongly suggest you check out something that can be upgraded. Cyclocross bikes can be outfitted with fenders etc, be good all-around bikes, commuters, workhorses, etc. When starting, go all-purpose. As you develop, seek specialized builds to fit your desires.

best of luck to you :)

mimitabby

02-28-2007, 08:29 AM

People will give me crap for saying this, but I strongly suggest you get an entry level bike. Not the best, not the lightest, etc etc.

The gearing and weight will be a challenge at first, but once you get fast and comfortable enough with it, to where you can justify spending the obscene amounts some people here do (i.e. if you ever want to race etc) you will just *fly*. ...but I think light and fast can be a real limitation, to a degree.

Find something that fits you comfortably- get fitted and I strongly suggest you check out something that can be upgraded. Cyclocross bikes can be outfitted with fenders etc, be good all-around bikes, commuters, workhorses, etc. When starting, go all-purpose. As you develop, seek specialized builds to fit your desires.

best of luck to you :)

I agree with you Kit.. used bikes are a good idea too, if you can find one that fits you!

SouthernBelle

02-28-2007, 09:53 AM

I started out with a used bike and I'm glad I did. It helped me decide what was important to me.

Bluetree

02-28-2007, 01:12 PM

+3

I have an entry level bike and am outgrowing it, but now I know what I want in a high-end bike and I'm in a more comfortable frame of mind to shell out k's of $$$$.

Plus, I've learned to ride on lower end components, so I can appreciate the better ones; I've fallen/crashed and banged up my frame and not fretted about it; I learned a lot on it (still am learning). Overall, an entry level bike was a good ROI for me.

Good luck!

Aggie_Ama

02-28-2007, 01:41 PM

I had an entry level bike and I don't see the problem with it. Okay, the bike lust got me and it sucked to wait to upgrade. It is also meant when I upgraded I could appreciate the better shifting and handling.

I had a Fuji Finest WSD and it was a pretty good bike for only $600. My only complaint is it had an aluminum fork and that makes for a rougher ride. The bike itself was steel and that helped a lot. Otherwise, she stood up to over 4,000 miles with only tune ups, new chain and new tires.

ChickWithBrains

03-01-2007, 12:46 AM

For a long time, I had a beloved bright orange mountain bike. It fit me wonderfully but it wasn't a road bike by any stretch of the imagination.

When it was time for my first roadie, I looked at a bunch of entry levels only. And I rode maybe 8 before I decided -- and the one I loved (because it fit best) was actually a men's frame. But the geometry was just right, and with the right seat it became perfect.

Now, I've had it for less than a year but have put long hours in on the trainer, but I'm getting a feel for what I really want (specific shaping of the hoods and drops, stem height, vibrations) and can dream happily about the day I'm worthy of a cervelo... ;)

CyclChyk

03-01-2007, 03:12 AM

I agree with Kit - among others who have posted. Get a CHEAP entry level bike - I got an expensive new first bike(Giant OCR Limited) I THOUGHT I wanted. Not 6mos later I ditched it for an even more expensive bike I REALLY wanted (928 Bianchi).

Wish I had been wiser. Woulda saved myself a couple grand.............. gotta have matching accessories ya know ;)

BleeckerSt_Girl

03-01-2007, 07:22 AM

There are pros and cons to buying an entry-level bike as your first road bike.
I compare it to musical instruments- when I was going to get my first banjo, I knew most people tended to buy an entry-level banjo first and then they had various "issues" with playing it. I'm not like that. First I read and researched and tried many banjos until I felt I knew which type would suit me, and I boought a mid-to-upper level banjo. I've gotten several other banjos in the years since then, but my first banjo is still among the best and most enjoyiable and valuable of the bunch. I've never regretted it, it's a pleasure to own and play.
Same thing with bike...yes I rode inexpensive typical bikes when I was a kid. Been there, done that. Now last year when it was time to buy my very first "real" bike in 32 years(!)- I again did lots of research, had very good advice from two bike gurus, and bought my "NOT entry level" Rambouillet. I know this great bike will serve me well for as many years as I want it to, and if i ever want to sell it I can probably get a reasonable price for it too- just like with my good banjo which I could sell now for about what I paid for it 8 years ago. Bikes might not retain their value quite as much, until they become "vintage" anyway. ;) But I could probably get "most" of my money back if I were to sell my bike at some point.
But in the meantime i will have gotten tons of pleasure from both my most excellent banjo and my most excellent bike. :)

I do see the value in buying an entry level cheaper bike to start out with though. Certainly there is a financial advantage, if that is one of the main factors in deciding.

Both approaches are good, but it might depend on what type of person one is to decide which approach is better for THEM. In any case, i would say that it might be more advisable to do substancial test riding and research if one were to opt for buying a higher end bike to start out with.

Jenn

03-04-2007, 08:01 AM

Well once agian, I cannot thank you all enough for the GREAT advice!! We went to a new bike shop yesterday and the sales guy was wonderful. I decided that I needed shoes and clips for my spin bike and DH needed pedals and shoes and clips badlly for his bike. I rode a few bikes and surprisingly, the Trek 1000 WSD fitted for me was what I liked the best! The price wasn't bad and I guess Trek is having a sale and this shop gives a military discount on top of it. I could not believe how much better a bike that fits you feels. I slept on it last night and we are going back to get it after we come back from our trip to Mexico to see my father...money...money...money...never have enough huh?
Anyway, I thought about all the things you all mentioned while I was trying the different bikes and I am so appreciative. Thank you for not making feel like an idiot.:o
I went out on DH's bike this morning with my new shoes and clips, and WHAT A DIFFERENCE!! I LOVED IT. It was only 20 degrees out and I froze my butt off even though I thought I was dressed warm enough, but I rode for an hour and did 17 miles, but I can't wait to get my bike, I know I'll be MUCH more comfortable.
I'm sorry for such a long post, I just wanted to tell you all thank you so much!! This is a sport that I am already in love with!!
~~~HUGS~~~
Jenn

LadyinWhite

03-08-2007, 07:02 AM

Congrats on making your choice! The Trek 1000 is a solid bike and with the attention of a good wrench getting you set up, you'll do great. Be sure to bring it back in for the free "tune up" because w/in a 100 miles or so your new cables are going to need an adjustment. As I mentioned to you before, my new wrench reassured me that my 1000 is a sturdy entry level bike with at least 4-5000 miles in her before she'll be ready for an upgrade and that all the troubles I had with mine initially were 100% due to the wrench who set her up at the beginning.

Reading through this thread I have to agree, there is something to be said for starting with a basic bike during the learning process. I crashed it and I didn't flip out (overly) b/c I didn't spend 2k on it. Yesterday I scratched it :( and while it pains me to see the scratch, I learned and when I do upgrade next season, I'll know not to put my foot up on the cross bar to adjust my cuff (dang cleats) ;)

Is your 1000 the same gorgeous blue as mine?

RolliePollie

03-08-2007, 05:36 PM

Jenn...I am just curious about what frame size you bought. I also just recently bought a Trek 1000 WSD...I bought a 51 and I'm about 5'6" with a 31-32" inseam. So far it feels like the right size to me but my friend thinks I look awfully cramped on it. I tried the 54 (I think that's the next size up) but it felt too big. I have a small (and weak!) upper body with narrow shoulders so the men's Trek frames also felt like too much for me. Anyway, of course, as a total newbie, I can't help but wonder if I bought the right size bike. It's pretty confusing...I rode a Novara Carema at REI in a 48, which felt huge in general and I actually fell over in the parking lot because my hands couldn't reach the brakes while holding on to the drops! lol. I guess all that matters is how it feels to me. Of everything I tested out, it definitely felt the most comfortable. And it's that pretty shade of blue, which happens to match my car almost perfectly! What are the chances of that?

p.s. If anyone wants to match their blue Trek 1000 WSD to their car, go look at a Jeep Liberty! :cool: