Quote Originally Posted by Muirenn View Post


Or as a beginner? I do have a spare set of SPD's, but figured I'd wait until I gained some proficiency until I converted.

Shefly, is it a good idea to use a more shock-absorbent saddle on a cross bike than on a roadie? I use a Specialized Toupe on my road bike. I have a Fizik Vesta on my mountain bike. (Haven't ridden the MB much, haven’t had the chance, yet. Seems like a good saddle). My cross is more upright than my roadie, so maybe the channel versus the cutout would work. Any idea? (Cross bike is actually still on layaway, got a killer deal on a new 2012 CAADX. $950.00 for the Tiagra model, and they are upgrading derailleur’s and brifters to 105 for 100.00). My thought was originally a 'do everything' steel bike, but the way this bike handles, power transfer, etc, is making me realize I'm turning into an aggressive rider; the way the bike feels is everything. I spend a lot of time out of the saddle on my roadie going over obstacles most people go around...).


I have my SPDs set on the lowest setting on my cross bike, and can get in and out of them at will. Other people ride my bike and don't like them that light, but I love them. I have never had an issue trying to release from my pedals before the barriers, or going uphill... If you have clipless pedals on other bikes, this will be an easy transition for you!

As for saddles, I tend to run the SAME saddle on as many of my bikes as possible, for, um, [maybe not so] obvious reasons . I run the Fizik Antares on most of my bikes, though I do have a Specialized saddle on my road bike. Again, it depends what you are going to be doing on the bike - long touring vs. racing. If you are racing, I would say that you wouldn't need anything more or less plush than what you are used to.

You will LOVE the CAADX! I run the SuperX for racing and the CAADx converted to a SSCX. Both are AWESOME! I'm only considering upgrading the SSCX this year to move to discs (once you have them, you can't run cantis or Vs ever again).

Sounds like you have some fun in store! Enjoy.

SheFly