Yet another thread looking for first road bike advice

[lauraelmore1033]

Are cyclocross bikes built sturdier? I've been thinking the bigger tires would be nice to have anyway since I have a habit of finding sections of road that aren't paved.

I was told that cyclocross bikes are not only sturdier, but that they have a wider wheel base and less "agressive" geometry than a regular road bike, which apparently means that a heavy rider isn't sitting right on top of the rear axle, stressing out the spokes (again, this is just what I was told). I would confirm that my cyclocross bike (a Specialized Tri cross sport) is indeed the sturdiest bike I've had so far. I've put in 1500 miles so far without any broken spokes (or wheels) or drivetrain problems. I'm considerably heavier than you are, so this was a problem with my first two bikes. I'd also point out that the brakes are beefier and much more effective and the wider wheels do give any rider more options as far as riding surfaces go. Also, the gearing runs to the low range, which is important for getting those extra pounds over hills comfortably. Much as I love this bike, I do have to report that it just isn't as zippy as the regular road bike, however. As the others have said, You're not *that* heavy. Just get yourself a bike that fits you and that thrills you when you ride it!

[kat_h]

First thank you to everyone who says I'm not that heavy. I don't normally think of myself as heavy, but there are some really small people out on the bike paths. I guess the guys who were breaking spokes either really overloaded their panniers or had really bad wheels.

I'm going to go to Bow Cycle on Sunday and have a look at everything there. Will report back on Monday!

[sundial]

I don't normally think of myself as heavy, but there are some really small people out on the bike paths.

Not everyone is meant to be a greyhound.

I take pleasure in knowing that I'm working on my bone density.

TE'ers are very supportive here and they will be happy to answer your questions regarding bike choices. My first road bike was a Terry. Then I graduated to a Specialized Sequoia. I like having relaxed geometry because it's very comfortable and the more comfortable I am, the more likely I will ride it.