I love my bike

[rij73]

Can I just say I love my bike? When I first posted about my bike 6 weeks ago, I had just gotten it, but now 300 miles later, I just have to say that I am so enamoured with it. It is a 2007 Ibex Corrida CT (flat-bar road bike). This is a brand that sells direct to consumer over the internet. I tried out many similar bikes in bike shops, then did comparing of geometry and components, and settled on the Ibex sight unseen. I know that's risky, but it has turned out so well.

I am improving really rapidly, and can't believe what I am already able to accomplish on the bike.

Here's the manufacturer picture:
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m226/rij73/COR-CT-FQ-960.jpg

I have altered it by adding bar ends and changing the layout of the handlebar for my own peculiar comfort needs. I also added Power Grips to the pedals and changed the saddle to a Nashbar women's saddle. I feel REALLY lucky that this saddle is working out great. I've ridden as much as 34 miles without pain.

Anyway, just had to gush over my baby. She's awesome and makes me feel like a kid again. Here she is today:

http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m226/rij73/IMG_3380.jpg

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

That is SO GREAT! Isn't it a wonderful thing when our bikes are perfect for us? :p :p
Hey I have PowerGrip straps too- I just LOVE them- like being clipped in but not in a scary way that you cant get out of quickly.
Great luck that your saddle seems comfy. :)
That is one fine looking bike, girl! :D :D

[RoseC]

Very nice! I'm excited for you! I just got a new bike too - I still have under a hundred miles on it and I'm still getting used to it. I think there comes a point where you really just *know* your bike and you work beautifully together. ;)

Mark up another for the Power Grip camp! I had 'em on my mountain bike ten years ago and loved them, so they were the first addition I made to my Bianchi. One catch this time around - one of the allen screws holding the adjustable end of the strap snapped when I went to adjust it on my second ride. I e-mailed the company and they're sending new hardware, no questions asked. Makes me feel even better about 'em!

[mimitabby]

I really liked the concept of the power grips, but I always found myself fishing around for them at intersections, after having to stop; and that's the WORSE time to not be watching the road.

What do you guys do.

Ibex bike? LOVELY... is it merino wool :D

congrats on a lovely new bike!

[7rider]

Pretty slick.
I just love the whole concept of the flat bar road bike.
Congrats that this one is working out so well for you.
:)

[RoseC]

I really liked the concept of the power grips, but I always found myself fishing around for them at intersections, after having to stop; and that's the WORSE time to not be watching the road.

They get to be second nature after awhile - at first sometimes I'd have to try and try to get my toes in (less than with toe clips, though!!), but eventually I got them to just the right opening size and...I don't know, just stopped thinking about it.

Right now I'm back at the fishing stage, though, I admit!

You can also pedal on the other side for a time at intersections. I did that a lot, too. They drag, but considering I had 'em for several years of hard use, I don't think it kills 'em to do that now and then.

[RoadRaven]

Mmmm... a love affair...

Be prepared to fall in love with another while loving your Ibex no less...

Its just the start ;)

[rij73]

Thanks for the comments... :D

I love my power grips. I have gotten really used to getting into them without looking. I always keep my right foot in, and when I take off all it takes is a flip of the pedal with my left foot and I slide it right in. They are the perfect compromise for me between safety and control. Maybe someday I'll graduate to cleats, but I won't rush it.