need to buy my wife a bike

[steelynorm]

About a year and a half ago you ladies helped me out.
Now my wife is doing a half iron man, and i want to start bike shopping for her, because she would never buy a nicer/newer bike for herself.

We are not looking for a tri specific bike, however I am looking for a triple.

We got her fitted she needs a 45-47cm bike. I would love to buy her a used bike, but i have had no luck finding one. Any ideas on where to look?
I have tried Craigslist, there are not very many on there on a consistent basis.

Option 2 is buying new, I am looking for a bike spec'd out in 105. Any help with suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

She tried a Trek 2.3 WSD retailing for 1599? She like it a lot better than the POS i bought her, too big too long etc. etc. In my defense, I was not going to outlay money for something she had never ever done b4

I would love to have a couple of options so she test ride a couple of them.

Thanking all you estrogen laden humans for your help

Norm

[tulip]

I recommend that she go with you and ride several bikes to determine which ones are the most comfortable.

You're very nice to buy her a bike, but it's important that she be in on the action.

[shootingstar]

I would not respond to him. If you look at his previous posts (which is not many), this is a joke/prank.

Just to get a pile of women riled up. Not worth it.

[Zen]

Hmmm. Sounds like an offense that could/should result in termination.

[tulip]

Yeah, report him. Meh, not worth it. I'll just ignore him.

[snapdragen]

I see nothing in norm's previous posts that leads me to believe this is a prank. What makes you think this?

eta - norm, take your wife out bike shopping, have her try a number of different bikes. A lot of the ladies here seem to like Specialized bikes. Once you know what she likes, maybe you can find a used one on ebay or craigslist, or find a good deal on last years model.

[Mr. Bloom]

Norm, if you're sincere, why don't you edit out parts of paragraph 5 and maybe you'll get a decent response...even I'm suspicious of your wording.

If you're not sincere, just edit it out for good taste

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

eta - norm, take your wife out bike shopping, have her try a number of different bikes. A lot of the ladies here seem to like Specialized bikes. Once you know what she likes, maybe you can find a used one on ebay or craigslist, or find a good deal on last years model.

Good advice. You really can't buy jeans for someone of the opposite sex and expect them to fit well, even if you know their general size....it's even harder with bikes. She really NEEDS to get on the bikes and test them out. Once you find one that she feels fits well (and she has over a year of riding now under her belt, so she'll probably know a bad fit when she feels it) then you can look within that size and brand and model for used or on sale ones.
She really needs to be part of the trying-on process.
Then, there is always the possibilty that she doesn't WANT a new bike. If that's still the case even after discussing it with her, then I'd suggest respecting her wishes. Maybe she'll even surprise you and tell you a year from now about a new bike SHE wants to buy! :) ;)

[Triskeliongirl]

I don't know if this guy is sincere or not, but there is just something about the 'bikey for the wifey' post that rubs me the wrong way. I think our response should be that the women should have enough interest to introduce herself in the getting to know you thread, and then start talking to us about *her* interests and needs, and we'll talk back.

[Trek420]

eta - norm, take your wife out bike shopping, have her try a number of different bikes. A lot of the ladies here seem to like Specialized bikes. Once you know what she likes, maybe you can find a used one on ebay or craigslist, or find a good deal on last years model.

At norm's expense I hope you'll forgive the slight thread-drift. Maybe we can all get something out of this subject.

I know this is done, our LBS's know it; the customer who tries bike after bike, jots down sizes and models .... gets it on Craigs or E-bay.

I've always objected to this because it takes advantage of the shops time and expertise.

Cycling can be expensive and we all need to save a buck or two... thousand. How do you save on this expensive addiction :rolleyes:

And yes snap, getting last years models at the beginning of the year is a great way to start. :D When do the new ones arrive? Guess I'll look for the balloons on the dealers lot and the big tent. :rolleyes: :cool:

And norm, you don't know if she'll do another tri, or if she'll just take off. My vote is find the upgrade-worthy frame at a good price that fits. Upgrade the bike as her skills, more challenging rides dictate.

[Wahine]

Norm - the most important thing about bike fit is reach. Sorry if I'm dumbing it down excessively but that means the effective top tube length plus the length of the stem. If you have a top tube in the right range, you can tweak out fit by switching out the stem. So if you know she's a 45-47 and she knows that she has a long or short torso you should be able to find a decent fitting bike on ebay, but it's a hassle. Here's an example: if your wife is short torsoed relative to leg length... you should likely lean toward the 45 and only consider 47s with a shorter top tube length. That means getting a feel for what the avg top tube length and searching out the geometry on each bike.

Also, if she wants to put tri bars on it, I would cheat a little to the short side because the bars make a difference.

Buying a bike at the LBS allows her to try a bunch of bikes out, find the right fit and when you hopefully buy a bike, you'll get great service.

[Triskeliongirl]

Norm - the most important thing about bike fit is reach. Sorry if I'm dumbing it down excessively but that means the effective top tube length plus the length of the stem.

Crtical correction, seat tube angle is a huge compenent of reach. A 1 cm diff. in STA translates a ~ a 1 cm diff. in reach. So a bike with a 73 STA angle and 50 cm top tube will have 2 cm shorter reach than a bike with a 75 STA and 50 cm top tube, because the saddle will need to be placed 2 cm further back on the bike with the steeper STA to get the same KOP position. This is huge.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I know this is done, our LBS's know it; the customer who tries bike after bike, jots down sizes and models .... gets it on Craigs or E-bay.

I've always objected to this because it takes advantage of the shops time and expertise.

It just balances out the far more frequent occurrence of people going into an LBS and walking out with a bike that they didn't intend to buy and that perhaps isn't the most appropriate bike for them. ;) :cool:
I think jotting things down on a notepad is a bit too obvious, but we all SHOULD be shopping around trying many bikes well before we buy anyway.

[Starfish]

I think jotting things down on a notepad is a bit too obvious, but we all SHOULD be shopping around trying many bikes well before we buy anyway.

How on earth does one bike shop and compare lots of bikes without jotting down the particulars, in order to compare likes/dislikes, as well as bang-for-buck?

So...I'm going to be driving a few hours to a larger metro area where I can test a bunch of bikes, and hope to come home and have the small, rural-ish LBS (who can't stock many) order it for me. Curious to know how you all feel about that? I want to support the LBS, but it will mean taking the time of shops and staff elsewhere, when I don't intend to buy from them. :confused:

ETA: I also did not see anything too "off" about this guy's last threads...but here is one more vote for (1) gifting the wife with the support for bike buying, and then letting her run the buying show and try them all out, and (2) strongly encouraging her to get her own account, with her own password, here on TE and introducing herself.

[Geonz]

I'd want to buy something at a shop where I used their services... a spare blinky or something.
Buying a bike is like buying shoes... I'd neve rpresume to get one for somebody else. Now, a surprise trip *to* the bike shop where you'd previewed some likely prospects and knew there was a good sales crew? ... Especially since the previous bike is a self-admitted POS...

[Starfish]

I'd want to buy something at a shop where I used their services... a spare blinky or something.

Good idea. I'll make a little list of stuff I am going to need and spread it around when trying out bikes.

[GLC1968]

Norm - Speaking from experience, I agree that buying a smaller size bike used IS difficult. There just aren't that many out there at any given time. I do agree that SHE needs to try out the bike for fit, but if you aren't adverse to buying off ebay or craigslist and then reselling it if it doesn't fit (my DH's favorite past-time!), then it's a great place to 'shop around'. Patience is a virture though.

The other thing to consider is how the geometries of all the different brands affect effective top tube length and how this compares to your wife's measurements. Once you know what works best for her in terms of the major dimensions of the bike (height, TT, seat angle, etc), it's easier to buy a used bike with a bit more confidence and improve your chances of getting a decent fit that can be dialed in. Of course, this doesn't take a lot of other comfort factors into consideration, but again...it's a start.

Good luck with it!

[steelynorm]

Too all those (sensible) women out there who posted constructive information thank you very very much. My wife and I appreciate it.

Firstly, I will not lay down any money until she does a test ride. Unfortunately, my first post did not explain that well enough(sorry).

The reason for the original posting was to gather information on the types of bikes that members of this forum have had luck with. Bikes spec'd out with Shimano 105 components or better, should put my potential anniversary gift in a price range of 1500-2500 dollars.

Whether it be Giant, Trek, Specialized, Felt, Orbea, Kestrel etc etc. I was looking for some information to go to my LBS looking for models recommended via the forum. Hoping however unlikely that there could be a consensus on a few models.

If you have any specific models you have ridden and have any additional feedback whether positive or negative would still be greatly appreciated.

... [edit by moderator] ...

I work very hard so that my wife can stay home to raise our children, because we believe that we can offer better care to our children than some stranger at an institution who collects a monthly stipend from us.

My wife gave up her career, because she loves children and we are trying what seems like in vain at times to raise children with both strong morals and character.

My wife works part time from home, manages to keep the house clean while our children try constantly to undermine her efforts.

I encouraged her over a year and half ago to do the Wildflower, because I believe that she needed something that was hers, not mine or our kids but was something that she owned. I do not want her to become lost as a person and have a midlife crisis. I believe that if she is a triathlete, not just a mom and a wife she can be a better/happier mom and wife.

We do not have a lot of money and my wife did not even know how to switch gears, so I bought her a used bike for Xmas 2006. The Cannondale(R500?), it was both too long and too short and stretched her out too much, but it was better than the alternative mtb for the olympic distance at Wildflower.

Fast Forward to the present: I love my wife, she does not care about the specifics, she doesn't know ultegra from dura ace. She does not know carbon fiber from titanium. She does however like to ride bicycles now, and i want to buy her a bicycle, she would never want me to buy her a bicycle of this level even if it is for our anniversary.:D

If I offended you, lighten up.

I know that there are some people out there who have malicious intentions or massive insecurities and get a rise out of screwing with innocent people on forums like this. I am not one of them. I came to this forum looking for advice from what i thought was a friendly community to help me make an informed decision on a bike purchase for my wife.

I was just using the internet as it was originally intended, to share ideas and information freely amongst people from all over our world.

Thanks,

Norm

[kelownagirl]

Norm - I love my Giant OCR1 (2006). It was an entry-level road bike but came with ultegra components for the same price that others might pay for 105. It is a WSD and fits me well. I am 5-3 and I think my bike is an extra small (maybe a small). Anyway, it would be a great buy as a used bike if you happened to come across one.

[Blueberry]

Norm-

Any chance you could get her in for a bike fit, without letting her know what you're intending (ie, buying a new bike). Maybe just have it be an "evaluation of her fit on the current bike."

Most bike fitters can then recommend which stock frames work best for a person.

Just a thought:)

[shootingstar]

Steelynorm:

Your wife is more than welcome to register herself and join in the discussion this forum directly. It will benefit her..immediately.

Be like Mr. Silver....he and Mrs. Silver are here on this forum as 2 separate but relatedcycling individuals. :)

[VeloVT]

I read a very favorable review of this women's specific Felt in Bicycling a while back:

http://www.feltracing.com/08/product.asp?catid=1504,1508&pid=8688

It's a good price for Dura Ace too, although the two models below it are good as well (FW25 with Ultegra and FW35 with 105).

I started riding on a Felt and they are fast bikes at a good value.

Definitely make sure you look at the geometry tab on on that Felt page though. The frame sizes seem misleading to me -- the virtual TT on the 45cm frame is the same -- 51.5 cm -- as the virtual TT on the 49cm bike I just bought.

Trek, Cannondale, Specialized etc are all making smaller women's frames now. I don't have experience with most of them but my BF bought a 2007 Trek Madone which I really like (he likes it too :rolleyes:). The Madone 4.5 is in your price range and it is carbon (though Trek's TCT carbon is a little wooden feeling -- OCLV is much livelier if you can swing the price difference).

Bianchi also makes a lot of smaller women's bikes. I have no experience with their WSD bikes (I'm 5'6" and Bianchi ONLY makes WSD bikes in smaller sizes), but I have a Bianchi cyclocross bike which is very comfy and quick-handling, and I've tested a few others that I liked.

Good luck!!!

[Wahine]

Crtical correction, seat tube angle is a huge compenent of reach. A 1 cm diff. in STA translates a ~ a 1 cm diff. in reach. So a bike with a 73 STA angle and 50 cm top tube will have 2 cm shorter reach than a bike with a 75 STA and 50 cm top tube, because the saddle will need to be placed 2 cm further back on the bike with the steeper STA to get the same KOP position. This is huge.

Absolutely correct. I over simplified. And this is even more important if she has long legs, which it sounds like she does.

Given your last post, I would strongly recommend checking out Specialized, Terry (if you can, it's harder to find dealers) and Giant in the WSD models. Terry and Specialized tend to be a little shorter through the top tube. Giant and Specialized are good bang for your buck in terms of componentry. As mentioned previusly, if you can get an '07 model, better yet.

[Veronica]

Steelynorm:

Your wife is more than welcome to register herself and join in the discussion this forum directly. It will benefit her..immediately.

Be like Mr. Silver....he and Mrs. Silver are here on this forum as 2 separate but relatedcycling individuals. :)

Maybe she doesn't want to join. I have lots of female cycling friends who don't "get" why I spend any time here. Stop beating up on the dude. :p

V.

[smilingcat]

hi norm,

I've read your firs post and the newer post. And I have a few questions. She is doing half ironman... not necessaily a tri specific... looking for a triple... 105 groupo... like a beter bike for her... somewhere aound $1500?? was it???

As far as frames go, do check out Trek, Giant, Specialized, Quintana Roo, Jamis. Go to several LBS. Each shop will carry differen brands of bike. Go on the web and search and read each model. This takes time but I think you'll be much happier knowing what is out there and what is available. Everyone has their likes and dislikes. some of it is purely emotional.

since you wife is doing a half ironman, does her bike have a clip on? or would you want to upgrade her bike to a 105? upgrade the saddle? a comfy saddle goes a long long way.

If I were married, I would be much happier if my hubby would take me around and have me fit on several bikes. Being able to pick my own bike would be so much better than a suprise present. Maybe your wife is different. Half the fun is being able to pick my own thing. that is why we luv to window shop. The other half is to enjoy your new toy. Wouldn't it be the same for you? Ask her if she wants to window shop or be suprised? I'm sure you can phrase is so that you can keep it more or less a "suprise".

smilingcat

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Maybe she doesn't want to join. I have lots of female cycling friends who don't "get" why I spend any time here. Stop beating up on the dude. :p

V.

Yeah, +1. I wish folks would stop dictating other people's behavior.

Norm, I think if your wife had any trouble with a 'too long' bike, and if she has long legs and not so long arms....she probably would do well on a women's specific design bike. I second the recommendation of Specialized WSD bikes and any Terry bike (all of which are women-specific geometry). Most Terry bike owners absolutely rave about their comfort and quality.
As to components...Shimano 105 level is more than adequate for a semi-casual rider. It's what I have been riding for the past 6 thousand miles, no complaints at all.

I don't see how Norm can take his wife to try out bikes without her knowing what he's up to though. :rolleyes:



Norm writes: Get some help, exercise your demons.

And after they are sufficiently exercised, then hopefully you can exorcize them as well! ;)

[sgtiger]

Hee! Hee! I logged back on to say that I thought Steelynorm's post was legit and that he was probably just using humor to acknowledge that this is a predominately female space.

It looks like he beat me to it. Good going, Steelynorm!

As for his wife logging in or not, that's her business. She may not want to. This forum is not necessarily for everyone who posesses XX chromosomes. Perhaps she already is a forum member, but doesn't feel the need to come to her husband's rescue(Him being a grown-a$$ man and all;)). I know if it was DH, I'd sit back and see how he gets himself out of such a pickle all the while ROTFLMAO.:D:D:D

If she doesn't know you're shopping around for the bike yet, maybe you can present her with an accessory for her bike(like a bike computer or something?) and a note that says it's for her new bike.

[boy in a kilt]

Norm,

I understand where you are coming from.

Here's my advice.

Encourage your wife to participate in the forum and ask the sorts of questions you are. She will be more satisfied with the whole experience.

Also, when my wife bought her bike, I acted as a technical consultant only. There were issues that weren't my place to solve, but there were also issues where I could provide useful feedback. For example, she'd never liked the way the Shimano STI shifters felt (neither did I). A few months before she bought her bike, I'd built mine up with Campy. She agreed to give Campy a shot so I worked with the guys at the shop picking out components.That's about it.

Here are the take-home points.

Find a good shop first. A good shop will work with your wife to find a model that she likes and will make minor adjustments to improve the fit. They may charge for things like swapping out stems but in the long term, it's worth the money. Also, once a good shop learns the bike is for your wife, they will pretty much ignore you.

Second, encourage your wife to choose a bike that she wants but don't get too involved with the actual process. It's her bike. Be supportive but your two cents shouldn't extend beyond telling her that a bike she likes and is comfortable for her is your only concern.

Finally, if she says something doesn't feel right, believe her and encourage her to explore options until things are right. This particularly applies to saddles. You may have to spend some money to find a saddle she likes, but the money is well spent.

[MM_QFC!]

impressive, Obiwan aka BiaK!

[Zen]

My oven mitts are getting worn out.

[sgtiger]

Those new-fangled silicon ones work very well for me, Zen.:D:p

[Zen]

;) sg

[maillotpois]

Norm -

You wouldn't be the only one who's gotten a "starter" bike and ended up with a cyclist on your hands. I think it's great she's taken to the sport and good for you for encouraging it. Too many men would not be as open to the mom taking up a pretty time-intensive sport. You're recognizing that "stay at home mom" is a job and that she needs her recreation/hobby/leisure time. That's great!

Since you mention Wildflower, I am assuming you're in Northern or Central CA (I know what they say about assuming :D ). anyway, if you're a little more specific about where you are (geographically), perhaps someone can give you some bike shop pointers as well.

Good luck.

(Oh and my husband has given me TWO bikes as anniversary gifts over the years. I have no jewelry. Just bikes. I like it that way. ;) )

[SadieKate]

I think he's talking the Wildflower Triathlon in SLO.

Good goin', Norm!

[maillotpois]

I knew that! (I may not DO tris, but I am generally AWARE of their existence. :p:p:p)

[SadieKate]

Yeah, I'm always afraid of what hair-brained adventure is going to occur during your rehabilitation(s).

[Veronica]

We could do a tri together MP. :p

V.

[maillotpois]

Don't hold your breath on that one.

[Veronica]

Let me guess, you get water up your nose when you swim. :D

V.

[VeloVT]

Norm --
one more thing...
so, full disclosure here, I've bought two of my three bikes without meaningful test-rides. (The first one, I wouldn't have known the difference, the second I did choose through test rides and I think I chose well, and the new one, well, that was a lark and I think it's going to work out, but I knew a fair amount about what I was looking for...).

BUT --- you learn so much about bikes, and about your preferences, from test rides. It really makes a HUGE difference. My boyfriend bought a new bike last year, and we probably demo'd at least 10 bikes in the processs. Roubaix, Cannondale System Six and Six13, Cervelo R3, Trek Madone, Trek 5200, others... And my take-away lesson is, that while fit and on-the-page geometry ARE important, there's something elusive the actual riding experience that cannot be gleaned from geometry charts. Our mutually favorite bike, the Cervelo R3, we ultimately decided against because it was so much more expensive than the Madone for the same components, and the pleasure of riding it fell into the frosting category, not the "really makes a difference for what we'll be doing" category -- but it was truly special. The Cannondale System Six was a very nice and expensive bike -- but I thought the handling was sluggish and inferior to the less expensive Six13, and the acceleration wasn't as macho either. The Trek 5200 we looked at was spec'd fairly similarly, component-wise, to the 2007 (pre-compact geometry) Madone 5.2 he bought -- but the carbon was very different -- no way to understand this without riding.

So I think she really should be involved in the test-riding process. Partly for fit reasons, but also because ride feel and handling characteristics vary widely between bikes in the same price bracket, and preferences regarding these variables can be personal -- they can fall into the "is chocolate better or vanilla?" category.

That's my rant for now. :rolleyes: I totally support what you're doing though.

[Starfish]

Get Over it!!!!!!!!
Dont be so paranoid!!!
Dont be overly sensitive!
Dont be too too serious!!!


Physician, heal thyself.

And heck, who needs a ban when there are ignore tools? ;)

[smilingcat]

Norm,

I understand where you are coming from.

Here's my advice.

Encourage your wife to participate in the forum and ask the sorts of questions you are. She will be more satisfied with the whole experience.

Also, when my wife bought her bike, I acted as a technical consultant only. There were issues that weren't my place to solve, but there were also issues where I could provide useful feedback. For example, she'd never liked the way the Shimano STI shifters felt (neither did I). A few months before she bought her bike, I'd built mine up with Campy. She agreed to give Campy a shot so I worked with the guys at the shop picking out components.That's about it.

Here are the take-home points.

Find a good shop first. A good shop will work with your wife to find a model that she likes and will make minor adjustments to improve the fit. They may charge for things like swapping out stems but in the long term, it's worth the money. Also, once a good shop learns the bike is for your wife, they will pretty much ignore you.

Second, encourage your wife to choose a bike that she wants but don't get too involved with the actual process. It's her bike. Be supportive but your two cents shouldn't extend beyond telling her that a bike she likes and is comfortable for her is your only concern.

Finally, if she says something doesn't feel right, believe her and encourage her to explore options until things are right. This particularly applies to saddles. You may have to spend some money to find a saddle she likes, but the money is well spent.

talk like that and if you wren't married (happily or otherwise), I'll marry you in a heartbeat :)

So considerate. I wish other men would get this point.

smilingcat

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

So considerate. I wish other men would get this point.

smilingcat

They are out there. I got one. :)

[Veronica]

My guy is a creep. I don't know why I've been with him so long - 25 years. Geeezzz...

Do you know what he got me for Christmas - a generator hub and a light! Where are the diamonds?!? At least the light glows.

For my birthday - carbon fiber fenders. I guess that's vaguely in the diamond category, carbon and all.

He thinks all I want to do is ride my bike. That's just crazy talk.

Do you think the rainy season is over and I can take the fenders off now?

V.

[Veronica]

Oh and it gets worse... when I do go for a ride, say a short little 200 miler. He's out there in the car following me around. What's up with that?

V.

[Trek420]

Yeah, and I bet he's carrying food and water for you, and bike tools just in case you need "rescuing" or something ;)

He probably has a room somewhere full of pictures, or maybe a website.

Hey, is there a cycling alternative to traditional anniv. gifts?

Traditional 1st is paper? Cyclist - registration for his/her favorite ride :)

[Veronica]

Is your first anniversary coming up?

The traditional first is paper. The modern is clocks. We went to see Cats for our first anniversary - paper tickets. :)

So an entry into a ride would be a good cycling alternative or a HRM...

V.

[MM_QFC!]

Is your first anniversary coming up?

The traditional first is paper. The modern is clocks. We went to see Cats for our first anniversary - paper tickets. :)

So an entry into a ride would be a good cycling alternative or a HRM...

V.

this could be a fun new thread! my 2nd is coming up...hmmm, cotton or china; plenty of cycling equivalents to consider!

[steelynorm]

I am tech weenie and per Kilt Boy, i am going as a technical consultant and financial adviser. Ultimately, the decision will be my wifes.

Sadiekate: yes it is the wildflower in SLO, we live in Sacramento, Folsom to be exact.

Smilingcat: 1500 to low 2000's I am hoping to spend, you refer to clip-ons? Not sure what you are referring too?

SGtiger: I want to have a beer with you(with my wifes permission of course), must be kindred spirits, thanks for your support.:D

maillotpois(sp?): my wife loves jewelry i need to buy her more/some. She has no idea how nice it is going to be to ride a bike that fits her, i am very very excited for her. However, i am concerned she may like her bike so much I will never see her, and will become just another single parent.;).

I have another dilemma..

When my wife and I started this process, we walked around Davis(35 miles from where we live) into a few shops and did not get that much service, until we walked into Freewheeler.

Sheri, worker/owner was awesome i want to give her our business but they do not carry a lot of brands there, what do we do?

I almost feel guilty going to the shops in my backyard because she really cared and was very helpful that day when other people were too busy for us.

thanks,

Norm

[OakLeaf]

One thought: you should include a professional fitting in your budget. Do they do that at Freewheeler? Maybe you could have them do the fitting - and get any associated parts there - even if you wind up buying the bike elsewhere.

[boy in a kilt]

When my wife and I started this process, we walked around Davis(35 miles from where we live) into a few shops and did not get that much service, until we walked into Freewheeler.

Sheri, worker/owner was awesome i want to give her our business but they do not carry a lot of brands there, what do we do?

I almost feel guilty going to the shops in my backyard because she really cared and was very helpful that day when other people were too busy for us.

thanks,

Norm

Ask your wife. If she liked freewheeler, you can start there.

[SadieKate]

Sadiekate: yes it is the wildflower in SLO, we live in Sacramento, Folsom to be exact.

Sheri, worker/owner was awesome i want to give her our business but they do not carry a lot of brands there, what do we do?
Hey! I just moved from Davis.

I would recommend that you give Wheelworks a try again. They can get absolutely slammed and I know their best mechanic recently reduced his hours so I bet they're hurting. Call Joe, Kevin or Andrew and tell them Sarah sent you and that I will come do dastardly things if they don't help. I have no problems harrassing them if need be. The reason why I say this is that any of the above can do a good fitting and they will try to have built up bikes in your wife's size if you call a couple days ahead. Having listened to these guys gripe over the years, I can tell you that you need to be very open about the type of riding and any pain or discomfort issues. It seems to be a challenge for many customers to be open about things. It's like they're embarassed to say anything and the LBS has to discover it by osmosis. Of course, there's also the opposite customer who won't shut up and learn. :p

I caution you about the Freewheeler. Their mechanical skills leave something to be desired and it's sort of a hit or miss what is going to happen in there. My husband and/or I lived in Davis since the late 70s and cycling the entire time and we know every shop very well.

If your wife is thinking triathlons, you need to talk with Joe at Wheelworks. He supports multiple high level ironman competitors and knows his stuff. You can also pay for a fitting and he will willingly tell you if the geometry of the brands he carries simply won't fit your wife. And I've personally heard him tell customers what brands to look for elsewhere if this is the case.

If you would like me to call or email Joe just let me know. I have his number. ;) Andrew is our sort of adopted son so I can always threaten him with lack of housing during the Cascade Classic race. I know how to motivate.:p

[SadieKate]

Ask your wife. If she liked freewheeler, you can start there.Um, as a woman speaking. Sherri is the only non-creepy one of the family at Freewheeler.

[Trek420]

Is your first anniversary coming up?

Nah, that's past :) 2nd is cotten or china? Which in cycling language is ..... can that be wool? or is wool further on? :confused:

This relationship stuff is so confusing. No wonder steelynorm has questions. :cool:

[Veronica]

Wool is 7th.

Cotton bar tape?

V.

[MM_QFC!]

Wool is 7th.

Cotton bar tape?

V.


and couldn't china = ceramic bearings?

[boy in a kilt]

1st: Paper or clocks (modern): Bike mag subscriptions or bike computers/HRM
2nd:Cotton or china: Clothes, cotton bar tape or, yeah, ceramic bearings
3rd: Leather or Crystal: This can only mean leather saddles.
4th: Fruit/flower or appliances: Power bars or a trainer?
5th: Wood or silverware: Hmm. Shiny new parts are silver.
6th: Candy or iron: Steel is made from iron so that must mean steel bike frames.
7th: Wool, copper or desk sets. Wool is good. The rest is meh.
8th: Bronze, pottery, satin or lace: You have to come in at least third place for your beloved. Or,well, ceramic bearings are sort of like pottery.
9th: Pottery and willow or Leather. Just in case the leather saddle you bought six years ago is gone or messed up. Could also mean leather handlebar tape
10th: Tin or aluminum, diamonds or jewelry: New rims
11th: Steel. I can say no more.

The options start to get progressively worse after that.

[Veronica]

Leather bar tape is really nice. I have it on both my road bikes, it has a very nice feel.

V.

[Blueberry]

V - How does it hold up in rain? Any special treatment required?? It is purty:)

[Veronica]

I haven't done anything to it. And it has been rained on - 130 miles of rain on my last double. It still looks great.

V.

[Trek420]

4th: Fruit/flower or appliances: Power bars or a trainer?

How about an xtracycle smoothie blender? That's an appliance .... and a trainer :D

There's a gallery near me that has installed a bike-flour grinder. They produce whole-grain flour by pedal power. :p

[kelownagirl]

1st: Paper or clocks (modern): Bike mag subscriptions or bike computers/HRM
2nd:Cotton or china: Clothes, cotton bar tape or, yeah, ceramic bearings
3rd: Leather or Crystal: This can only mean leather saddles.
4th: Fruit/flower or appliances: Power bars or a trainer?
5th: Wood or silverware: Hmm. Shiny new parts are silver.
6th: Candy or iron: Steel is made from iron so that must mean steel bike frames.
7th: Wool, copper or desk sets. Wool is good. The rest is meh.
8th: Bronze, pottery, satin or lace: You have to come in at least third place for your beloved. Or,well, ceramic bearings are sort of like pottery.
9th: Pottery and willow or Leather. Just in case the leather saddle you bought six years ago is gone or messed up. Could also mean leather handlebar tape
10th: Tin or aluminum, diamonds or jewelry: New rims
11th: Steel. I can say no more.

The options start to get progressively worse after that.


It was our first anniversary last week. We didn't give each other gifts but DH got me a Triathlon magazine subscription for Valentine's Day. We got each other matching Garmin 305's for a wedding present though. :D:D

[sgtiger]

impressive, Obiwan aka BiaK!



So considerate. I wish other men would get this point.


Believe me, ladies, tact and sensitivity are not always his strong suits. However, he tries and that - in my book - counts for a lot. Also, there are lessons that have been learned the hard way - for BOTH of us. It helps that he understands who his main audience here is and that he's able to switch gears based on that.



SGtiger: I want to have a beer with you(with my wifes permission of course), must be kindred spirits, thanks for your support.:D


I'd be up for that if we're ever in your neck of the woods or you're in ours.:cool: Why don't you bring your wife along? And I'll bring my SO - BoyInAKilt aka Mr. Sgtiger aka Mr. KilTiger BTW(in case any of ya'll haven't picked up on that yet). I believe the reason I'm able to get your brand of humor is that DH's isn't that far off from yours. You guys should get along great!:D Then your wife and I can talk about the challenges of being a SAHM and trying to find balance between that and making time for ourselves.

[Zen]

2nd is cotten or china? Which in cycling language is ..... can that be wool? or is wool further on? :confused:



Carbon fiber

[Trek420]

Carbon fiber

Carbon is, well Carbon should be diamond anniversary. What's that, 50th? When I'm 102? :p ;) Do they make Carbon recumbent trikes?

[Zen]

It could work for both!

[Chile Pepper]

1st: Paper or clocks (modern): Bike mag subscriptions or bike computers/HRM
2nd:Cotton or china: Clothes, cotton bar tape or, yeah, ceramic bearings
3rd: Leather or Crystal: This can only mean leather saddles.
4th: Fruit/flower or appliances: Power bars or a trainer?
5th: Wood or silverware: Hmm. Shiny new parts are silver.
6th: Candy or iron: Steel is made from iron so that must mean steel bike frames.
7th: Wool, copper or desk sets. Wool is good. The rest is meh.
8th: Bronze, pottery, satin or lace: You have to come in at least third place for your beloved. Or,well, ceramic bearings are sort of like pottery.
9th: Pottery and willow or Leather. Just in case the leather saddle you bought six years ago is gone or messed up. Could also mean leather handlebar tape
10th: Tin or aluminum, diamonds or jewelry: New rims
11th: Steel. I can say no more.

The options start to get progressively worse after that.


This sucks--I should have received a Seven last year, and instead all I got was dinner out. This year (12th) is silk or pearls. What do I get for that? And would it be ok to substitute titanium for tungsten on the 16th? Especially since I didn't get my custom steel?

[Trek420]

12th - traditional is silk or pearls. Cycling is Pearl Izumi shoes.

www.pearlizumi.com/shop.php?pc_id=103&mode=products

[Chile Pepper]

12th - traditional is silk or pearls. Cycling is Pearl Izumi shoes.

Excellent! I'll let my husband know. For that matter, he could use some new shoes, too.

[bouncybouncy]

5th: Wood or silverware: Hmm. Shiny new parts are silver.



wood fenders!!!

[MM_QFC!]

wood fenders!!!

Calfee Designs bamboo bikes would be included and wouldn't anything by Phil WOOD? :D

[Trek420]

On the more affordable end cork's from trees. Trees are wood. Cork bar tape?

[Zen]

Who made these rules, anyway?

[OakLeaf]

People who sell Stuff made these rules, that's who :p

It's the 75th anniversary that's diamond though, not the 50th. 50 is gold.

Which one is unobtainium?

[sgtiger]

2nd:Cotton or china: Clothes, cotton bar tape or, yeah, ceramic bearings


Sheesh.... Have I taught you nothing?:rolleyes::confused::o:p:D

China - A girl can't be on a bike ALL her time, now can she? She's gotta eat, right? How about some plates that are bicycle themed? Maybe racers chasing each other around the rim. Or a coffee mug with Campy or Park Tools logo (http://www.ebikestop.com/prodimages/GL1000_medium.jpg) on it. Better yet, go to one of those pottery cafe (http://www.seattle.colormemine.com/) places and make her a tile or dish embedded with a cog(or other bike part - make sure it's something that'll survive the firing) that she's worn out! Oh! And a girls gotta bathe too, right? She'll appreciate a nice soak after her long rides in a new clawfoot tub. Aaaah! It's enameled with some ceramic substance which is close enough to china, that it practically IS china!!!:cool::D

Cotton - Greens, baby! No, no, not those greens (http://www.lifebeginsat30.com/jen/images/spinach.jpg). Sure, they'll provide her with the phyto-nutrients and minerals she'll need to sustain her on a long ride(Not to mention: Keep her insides cleansed). These greens (http://greenbackpawnshop.com/images/Money.jpg). That's right, I'm talking cold, hard CA$H!:cool: It's printed on a paper made with <gasp> COTTON!!!:D The most versatile gift of all! It let's her choose any bike accessory she wants (http://http://www.ibexwear.com/shop/Products.php?Cat=1072&SubCat=27&Gender=Womens). Whether it's a new piece of bling (http://www.rei.com/product/761862?cm_sp=prod*desc_rel_item*element) for her bike or a whole nother bike (http://www.xtracycle.com/images/home_townie.jpg)! She could even spend it on the cycling vacation of her dream$. Boosting her favorite racer up the mountain on the next Giro d'Italia(Ooh, what a tight toosh!). Experiencing bicycling utopia (http://copenhagengirlsonbikes.blogspot.com/2008/03/guest-photos-amsterdam-vietnam-and.html). Riding through the Pyrenees. She's only limited by her imagination and the $ize of the gift(Hopefully lots)!:rolleyes::D:D:D;):p

~Sg"If you're going to dream, dream BIG, I say!"tiger

[steelynorm]

Thought I would give you an update.

She has road tested 4 bikes so far
Trek 4.5WSD
Trek 2.3 WSD
Specialized Ruby
and a Felt FW 15

The winner so far suprisingly is the most inexpensive, Trek 2.3 WSD, she said it was the stiffest. and most solid feeling so far.

If you have any other suggestions, I really want to purchase her a bike soon.


Thanks for all your help

[alpinerabbit]

The two treks seem to have almost the same componentry - my most basic advice is go no lower than 105.

How do these compare in weight - does the perceived solidity of the 2.3 come from its weight?

[tulip]

If she likes it, why keep looking? Sometimes you just know.

[sgtiger]

The winner so far suprisingly is the most inexpensive, Trek 2.3 WSD, she said it was the stiffest. and most solid feeling so far.


If she's not positively sure this is the one, maybe she can ask the LBS if they'll let her take it out for a day. The worse they can say is "no."

A couple of the LBS's here will let you take a bike for a day or two for a fee (and take down a CC# in case, ya know, the borrower doesn't return:(). Usually some part of the fee can be applied towards the purchase of that bike.

If this is an option, remember to have her take her own saddle and pedals and have the LBS switch them out for the stock stuff.

[kelownagirl]

Which Ruby? (Comp / Expert / Pro?)

[steelynorm]

i think it was the pro for around 2300?

Iwas thinking of having her test ride a Terry or Giant.

norm

[Triskeliongirl]

Where do you live, it can be hard to find dealers with a terry in stock, but I have two terry isis bikes that I absolutely love (and have owned 2 classics as well, one is crashed and one is retired). They do post lists of dealers on their website, but be sure to notice if they sell bikes vs clothes and accesories only. They have a program where they will ship a bike to a shop of your choice, and I believe you have a certain period to return it (but I think you have to pre-pay and may lose some shipping fees so check). I forget where you say you lived, but you can check their website. Terry's are also easy to come by used for a good price, but if she wants to race tri, they aren't the lightest thing out there. I have a 2005 titaium isis which is considerably lighter than my 2003 steel isis. This year they are being produced in the waterford factory from fairly light weight steel, but most of what you'll find used is probably on the heavier side of ideal. One thing nice about the terry geometry is they use a normal (i.e. 73-74 degree seat tube angle on all sizes). Other manufacturers use 75-76 I think to make the reach appear shorter than it really is, which can make it hard to get set up properly if she has a long thigh (like me). But again, if she is looking for a tri set up a steeper STA may be ideal. I hear Giant's are very good values and light if they fit her.

[tctrek]

"The winner so far suprisingly is the most inexpensive, Trek 2.3 WSD, she said it was the stiffest. and most solid feeling so far."

I just purchased a Trek 2.3 WSD, 47 cm and I love it! It is the most comfortable ride and very easy to handle.

[steelynorm]

My wife loves her new trek 2.3 Wsd, Thanks to all who helped me out.

Norm

[Triskeliongirl]

Tell her big congrats! Pictures please........... Ride reports..............

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

My wife loves her new trek 2.3 Wsd, Thanks to all who helped me out.

Norm

How wonderful!!!! :p May she ride many many happy miles.