need input re transition from hybrid to road bike

I have been planning to transition from my 2003 trek 7500FX to a road bike. Today I test rode a few bikes. Although I could detect some differences among frame materials, components, etc., the big difference was the road bike style itself (vs my current hybrid).

I'm not quite sure how to get around this to make a reasonable choice. Originally, I planned to spend $2000 - $2500, but now I'm not sure I'm even going to like riding a road bike. Perhaps I should just spend $1000- $1,500 and figure out if I even like road bikes.

The Trek hybrid was my first bike. At that time, I test rode various bikes and when I got on the 7500FX I "knew" it was the bike for me. I tried 5 bikes today and walked away feeling uncertain that I want a road bike at all.

I tend to like longer rides (eg, 40-100 miles; last year did a 560 mile Aids Ride), so getting a road bike makes sense but now I'm not sure.

The bikes I test rode were:

Trek Pilot 2.1 (no 5.0 or 5.1 in my size at close by shops)
Specialized Ruby Comp
Cannondale Synapse
Bianchi Veloce
Specialized Allez

Any thoughts or input would be much appreciated.

Did you get a real bike fit on a road bike, so that you can be sure you're test-riding the right size? That makes all the difference. I did make this switch last year from a hybrid to a road bike (Bianchi Eros Donna), and got a fit from a cyclist/physical therapist so knew exactly what I needed in terms of size. I love and am utterly comfortable on the Eros Donna, for that reason. I encourage you to try this approach--it totally worked for me.

I like touring bikes. More up right, and handle a bit more like a hybrid. Perhaps you could try a couple of the touring bikes (Trek 520, Novara Randonee, Jamis Aurora, Burley Vagabond) and see if you like them better.

I find that "sport" road bikes don't suit me well at all, but touring bikes feel great.

Sounds weird, but a Jamis Aurora is just as comfy to me as my Kona hybrid. (except it costs twice as much...)

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Originally Posted by maryellen

Originally, I planned to spend $2000 - $2500, but now I'm not sure I'm even going to like riding a road bike. Perhaps I should just spend $1000- $1,500 and figure out if I even like road bikes.

The Trek hybrid was my first bike. At that time, I test rode various bikes and when I got on the 7500FX I "knew" it was the bike for me. I tried 5 bikes today and walked away feeling uncertain that I want a road bike at all.

I tend to like longer rides (eg, 40-100 miles; last year did a 560 mile Aids Ride), so getting a road bike makes sense but now I'm not sure.

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Can you explain what left you feeling uncertain? If there are specific things about how the bike felt that made you uncomfortable, I'm sure that folks here could give very good advice.

I've tried road bikes but I've decided that, possibly, the same odd configuration of back muscles (or lack thereof) that makes it impossble for me to sit on the floor well, and makes me thoroughly grumpy trying to do sitting poses in yoga, means I'm simply not comfortable in the "road bike" position, regardless of the assorted angles.
I ride my 2002 7500FX on most of my medium and long rides (RAIN ride - 160 miles, GITAP 2005- 450 miles in a week); I went back to my Giant Hybrid for long tours because it's a little more comfy (steel frame? the *perfect* fit?).
It's worth spending time exploring fit and experimenting. My hybrids are less aerodynamic; that's the main disadvantage (but it essentially disappears in a paceline except for when I'm in front). I don't usually ride with the "front group," though.
So I'd say if that extra 10% in speed is important (and there are lots of very good reasons for that ) keep experimenting with road bikes. (If it's important to have a "good" bike, too.) If it's the distance, though, the 7500FX can do the job... or think out of the box and look for things like moustache handlebars or things that change the position to be more like your hybrid fit. But maybe those dollars could go to something else fun, like a tour :-)
(My LBS guy has designed his own bike an dnow it's got moustache handlebars... he knows I've been lusting after that bike already...)

Maryellen
I am still "in transition" after riding a hybrid for years. I love my Bianche Veloce,
they are well named, it really wants to go, it has great gearing, but my HANDS do not like the bike. Several here have seen photos of me on this bike, it's apparently set up correctly for me, the handlebars are actually higher than the seat, (to keep my weight off my hands) but I really liked being able to rest my hands on a horizonal bar and now I really can't. I think if you're not sure you should not spend too much of a fortune, or at least try to buy a bike that has some resale value so you can try a different one down the line.
good luck.
mimi

Geonz I am still thinking about the moustache handlebars but was told the conversion for the
components will be very expensive.

I would say keep test riding, and see if there are any shops in the area that will let you take it for a LONG test ride, or rent the bike. Just cruising around the parking lot is not going to give you a feel for the bike. When I first went to a road bike from my mountain bike, it was a little strange feeling, but after a couple longer rides, it felt great.

I'm also wanting to make the switch from a hybrid to a road bike. I've already switched out the handlebars for a nearly flat bar with Ritchey Ergo bar ends and gone to narrower tires. I like the upright position of the hybrid but I still have problems with my hands going numb, even with the multiple positions the bar ends provide. I had been thinking flat bar road bike since it would be similar to what I'm used to, but now I'm wondering if a drop bar road bike with relaxed geometry would serve me better. I'd have the flat center and the hoods for multiple positions, and be able to use the drops if there's a bad headwind. I haven't been on drop bars in about 20 years and that big had "cheater brakes" for the flat position. Are these available for "real" bikes?

THis is all moot since I can't afford a bike now anyway :( . Still, a girl can dream!

I too just recently bought a roadbike after yrs (45) of upright bikes - I love the lightness and the speed = I am still getting used to fit with regards to shoulders and neck. On one hand I can ride much easier (legs, seat, sheer endurance - I can go 30-50 miles without thinking about it) on road bike - but hybrid and folder are easier on my upper body. I am riding a Scott Contessa Speedster (I think or is it a Roadster) and I am going back for another fit with a different bike shop. I am lifting weights and doing ab exercises (I am a short fire hydrant shaped woman) and I think a large (or at least I hope) a large part of it is getting body used to new position.

I test rode a lot of bikes before I bought this one - A couple of shops in my area will let you try a bike out over a weekend before you buy it- that might help.

first, I have to thank all of you for your input. It is very helpful.

Bike Fits: I spoke to a bike fitter re a true bike fit. He suggested that I test ride a wide range of bikes to get a sense of what I do or don't like first. Did your fit expert fit you closely to each bike you test rode? I was expecting to narrow it down to 1-3 bikes and then go do another test ride with each to be sure.

Test Rides: Although I didn't do long test rides, I was riding on streets in midtown Manhattan on a weekday afternoon (we don't have parking lots here!).

Touring Bikes: I haven't tried any touring bikes and it seems that I definitely should. Thanks for the very specific recommendations.

How It Felt: I felt "crunched up." At first I thought perhaps the bikes were too small but I had the same crunched up feeling on bikes from 48-53 (originally anticipating getting a 51 or 52) but folks at both shops assured me that the bikes were *not* too small for me. I should also admit that the lightness of the bikes rattled me especially as I thought about descents or sudden stops (=endo).

Riding Hybrids: maybe I can make some adjustments to my hybrid. I will say that after riding road bikes, the wide handlebars on my hybrid seem like even wider than before!

Veloce: when I tried the Veloce, the first thing I said upon returning to the shop was that I did *not* like campy. My hands just don't work that way!

I will keep you all posted. I expected to be baffled when test riding road bikes, but I didn't expect to be uncertain that I even want one!

I went from a 7200FX to a Pilot 2.1. For me, the transition was easy. I loved the lightness and maneuverability and the speed and the position. I wanted somewhere else to put my hands when I was on the hybrid. I do know what you mean about the handlebars feeling narrow on the roadbike, though. At first, they looked so little. Now when I get on my hybrid, those handlebars look sooooo wide.

I felt crunched on the 51's that I tried and ended up on a 54 WSD and it feels great. Try WSD and not. Try everything you can get your hands on. It sounds like you've already eliminated Campy, so that's a step.

Also - you will likely not like the saddle on whatever roadbike you ride, so don't let that influence you. The stock saddles are usually lousy. You'll find lots of discussions about that here.

You know, people at bike shops say all kinds of things about fit. If you feel crunched up, maybe you are crunched up. See if you can try a 54 or a 55. (How tall are you?)

Hillslug, I don't have much $$ to put into cycling, either. If you start putting word out that you're looking for a second hand bike, I think you'll be surprised how soon one falls in your lap. There's a lot of cyclists with their "starter" road bike just hanging around waiting for a new home, but they're too busy to put any effort into selling. I got my Giant OCR 3 with some nice extras like SPD pedals & computer for $200. Now a neighbor is trying to tempt me with her gently used Terry....

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Originally Posted by latelatebloomer

Hillslug, I don't have much $$ to put into cycling, either. If you start putting word out that you're looking for a second hand bike, I think you'll be surprised how soon one falls in your lap. There's a lot of cyclists with their "starter" road bike just hanging around waiting for a new home, but they're too busy to put any effort into selling. I got my Giant OCR 3 with some nice extras like SPD pedals & computer for $200. Now a neighbor is trying to tempt me with her gently used Terry....

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I've come up with a plan to get a new bike sooner rather than later: sell off all the crap that's been accumulating around here and use those $$ to fund the new bike. Call it "Bike financed by Ebay". Too bad I can't sell the current bike until after I have the new bike :p

xeney: good idea. I'm 5'6 or so, w long upper legs (which i suspect results in the "crunched up" feeling and unusually long arms).

I am 5'5 and my legs aren't particularly long for a woman, and I ride a 53. It makes sense to me that you might need a bigger bike.

You also might want to look at a bike with less upright geometry, one with a level top tube. That can also change the fit ... my new compact geometry road bike is a 53, my older traditional geometry road bike is a 51. They ride a little differently but they are both comfortable.

Hi maryellen! I'm in the same boat...

Today I tested out three road bikes. And the best advice I got was to just keep riding.

And keep testing. Today I found out that handlebar width on the drop down is VERY important. One was wider than my shoulders so my arms were tense and I couldn't reach the brakes. The other was the same width as my hips. It was much more comfortable. It's little things like that.

From this I've also picked which gears I like, what framesize is right for me and what kinda road saddle I need.

Keep test riding. TRY EVERYTHING in any combination they'll allow and just GO FOR IT!

How about trying out some Trek road bikes? Once I got on the WSD 1500, I knew it was meant to be. I felt the 7500 fx was also comfortable in a "familiar" way. If you are to spend that much $, make sure it is the right bike.

it looks as if i'll be trying out more bikes this week! everyone's advice is really helpful. i'm also going to try yet a different new shop for a fresh perspective.

Maryellen-
I went from a Trek Hybrid to a Trek Pilot 2.1 WSD this year....and now I'm having trouble getting back to riding my hybrid. If you can get your hands on a Pilot 5.1 WSD try it. It's a terrific bike, I just couldn't afford it. I probably stayed with the Trek line because I love our Trek LBS and their staff.

The seat on my Pilot 2.1 WSD is great, no need to change it out...but my husbands non WSD Pilot 2.1 has a horrible seat, after the first ride he changed to a Terry liberator.

Good luck, and let us know what you get!!

maryellen -
the road bike is a whole different feel. i'd suggest start out cheap. dont spend the bucks til you know if youre gonna like it. latelatebloomer was right on, get someone's starter bike, set it up like a hybrid, with low seat-high bars, then as you ride more start raising the seat a little at a time and lowering the bars a little at a time. make sure the seat is comfy. it takes your body a while to adjust to the riding position, but for longer rides it's well worth it. it's not just going faster, it's the efficiency, you get more power out of your legs with much less effort. ok, it is about going faster.

MaryEllen, I'm in exactly the place you are right now. Switching from hybrid to road. I'm shopping, and I haven't found a bike that makes me shout "this is the one!" I, too, feel very uncomfortable on some of the bikes I've tried. The very first road bike I tried was the Trek Pilot WSD. I'm 5' 3.5" tall with shortish arms and very small hands. I felt SO unsafe on that bike! "Squirrely" was the best way I could describe it -- like the bike had a mind of it's own, and if I were to sneeze I'd crash for sure! The dealer thought I was nuts. I've asked a few people why the bike felt like that, and have gotten different answers: narrow handbars? Shorter wheelbase? Skinny tires? Nobody can tell me why. Since then, I've ridden about 8 different road bikes and can say that every single one of them felt different. Too long of a reach (several bikes), handlebars too low, or shifting too hard. That has come to be my biggest problem now -- the STI shifters for the front derailleur are very difficult for me to push up to the big ring, and nobody seems to know why. Also, nobody has an answer for me! I can't spend $1000 on a bike that I cannot shift up to the big ring! The last dealer suggested I get the bike that's most comfortable and change all the components over to something brand new and supposedly easier (basically, a SRAM version of STI). Hello? And spend a couple hundred more dollars on the brand new bike I just got??

Also, I love the "cheater" brakes. Because I'm used to hybrid, I expect I'll find myself at least occasionally hanging out on the bar when I'm riding along easy. I would appreciate having cheater brakes available to me. And, yes, you can have them added to any bike, I believe.

I'd appreciate knowing how you progress through this process. I think it's going to be a long haul for me. I'm just going to keep riding until I either find the bike that shouts "I'm the one" or until I find a bike dealer who can answer my questions and set me up with what I need.

By the way, so far, the most comfortable bike I've ridden is the Raleigh Cadent. I may check out more of the Raleigh line.

Good luck!

Have you looked at Serotta? The Fierte Steel is in your price range and is a really nice bike.

A friend of mine demoed one, she's also riding a hybrid, and she loved it.

FWIW, as far as squirelliness is concerned, my road bike always feels that way after I've spent time on my mtn bike. Road bikes just have a different feel.

Serotta? I've never even heard of it. Steel?? Is it a steel frame? One of the reasons I'm dying to swap my hybrid for road is because I'm sick of dragging that 34 lb. steel frame up hills!!! I start off the ride in front on the flat, but the first hill we hit, the group leaves me in the dust!!! :eek:

A lugged steel bike can weigh between 20-24 pounds. The frame alone can be around 7-10 pounds.

Serotta is a smaller bicycle company from NY. They started out making steel frames and they are known for custom frames. Now they make ti, carbon/ti and carbon.

Several years ago they developed the Fierte, which comes only in a stock frame. It has a relaxed geometry with a higher head tube and sloping tt. It is available in steel, and ti. The frame is lightweight, not sure the weight but I demoed it and it is not a heavy bike. I really liked the way the bike handled and fit. Like I said, my friend liked it too.

http://www.serotta.com/pages/fierte_steel.html

I just got a custom Ottrott and I absolutely love it. I have almost 700 miles on it and I'm still in awe of it.

When I was riding today there was a woman at a stop light on a Fierte. She was very happy with it.

Serotta also has a training school that Serotta fitters attend. My frame was fit so well I have no complaints or desire to change anything about it.

A new steel road bike is not going to weigh 34 pounds. Mine weighs about 19, which is probably pretty standard. (The heaviest bike I own is aluminum.)

ok, i picked up the new bike on Thursday--a Trek Pilot 2.1 at a good price-- $1,000 for a 2006 model. Once the bike was fit, it was remarkedly more comfortable and I don't have a "crunched up" feeling any more.

Everyone's advice was very helpful. I ultimately spent much less than my budget because I just wasn't confident that I would love road biking and I was not able to "feel" much of a difference among bikes ranging $1,000 - $2,699. After a whole five days, it still feels as if I made the correct choice for me.

I'm still adjusting to or need to change the: shifting, saddle, and pedals.

On my Trek 7500fx, I had ridden enough to "know" what gear I was in, but I still had the option of looking at the dials. On the new bike, I don't have a clue of what gear I'm in and there are no dials for me to look at quickly. It will take time.

The saddle -- yikes. Still researching various saddle options to figure what to swap out for. I definitely won't be riding a century until I get this situation improved!

The bike came w double-sided SPD with temporary platform on one side. I am going to the bike shop tomorrow to put platform pedals w toe clips (no straps). Even though I use SPD on the spin bike at the gym, it is too much for me to change everything at once. And as I live in Manhattan, the idea of falling sideways in NYC traffic, even in slow motion, isn't too appealing. I will save that new challenge for the future.

Thank you everyone for your help.

quint41:

As I just posted, I ended up getting a Trek Pilot 2.1 (non-WSD). I have long arms and big hands so the reach and shifting are not a problem (as long as I know in what direction I should be shifting, that is!).

Good luck. Keep testing and sleep on it. Although I didn't experience the "aha" or "I must have this bike" reaction, I am very happy with my new ride. And I'm also glad that I could purchase it at my local bike shop where I trust the mechanic's advice.

That's great. I'm glad you found a good fit at a good price. Our local shops are just now starting their year-end sales, so I'll be shopping for a while.

I have a Serfas women's gel saddle which I just love. Bought it about a month ago. See http://www.serfas.com/comfort_saddles/VL-125.shtml

I agree about clipless pedals -- one thing at a time!

Thanks for the update!

Louise