Hybrid or Cyclocross? -- from a newbie

[velogirl]

It will never make a GREAT road race bike. So if you get into road racing you will inevitably buy another bike.

Actually, I know some top-level local racers who use their cross bikes for road racing (complete with cheater brake levers). One of our local guys is at road nationals right now and got 15th in the time trial and 4th in the crit (both in fields of about 150 guys) -- on his cyclocross bike with cheater levers.

I've done early season crits on my cross bike as well.

I guess it just proves that it's the engine that truly wins races.


If you do go with a cross bike, here's a tip for you:

During cyclocross season, I ride my cross bike on the road (and my road bikes collect dust). Rather than switch tires all the time, I just have two sets of wheels -- one with cyclocross tires for trails and races and one with road tires for road rides.

[trailrunner]

Thank you all for your wonderful input!

Yes, considering my interests, I will more than likely use the bike for commuting and off-road riding. I'm set on a cross bike!

Now...I've looked at some of the WSD models, including the Bianchi Bad JuJu suggested, but I'm wondering if I should invest in a custom bike? I am a newbie, but I also love the outdoors, and don't think the bike will collect dust. I want a bike I can keep for a long time, so I almost wonder if it is better to throw down more $$ now rather than buy a stock frame or bike.

What have most of you done? It sounds like everyone has more than one bike, but I will likely stick with one unless I get really serious about cycling...which may happen!

[SalsaMTB]

Hmmm...that's a tough question.

I would say a custom bike is the best thing in the world, but if this is your first bike, I'm afraid about you not know exactly what you like, and possibly wasting a whole bunch of money. A fit system can only do so much, after that, there is personal preferance that plays a part in fit. For example, I love being stretched out on a bike. My DH couldn't believe I wanted a slightly longer stem on my mountain bike, but I love feeling stretched out. A good friend of mine is completely opposite. He likes a frame a little small and feeling tighter on a frame. Totally personal preference that I really don't think a fit system could capture.

If you have some time on a bike and have an idea of what you like/don't like, I would say go for it!!!

Another option could be to purchase a nice frame (not custom) and then work with a shop to create a custom build to fit your needs.

[trailrunner]

Thanks, SalsaMTB. I think I may have to think a bit more. I have ridden a road bike a number of times, more for recreational purposes, but long enough (up to 3-4 hours) to know I didn't care for the fit. Actually, the biggest thing was how far my hands had to stretch to brake and change gears.

But I'm guessing I can customize a stock frame to fit me better, as you recommended?

[SalsaMTB]

Yes. There are a couple versions of customization. You can get a nice frame, that comes in standard sizes, and building your bike from scratch. Or, you can go full custom, have the frame geometry design for your body and then build the frame up from scratch.

If you have some time on the bike though, you have an idea of what you like/dislike and you really want a full custom, go for it! I would recommend finding a really good lbs that has a nice fit system and is willing to spend a good amount of time with you finding the perfect frame geometry. Once you find that right fit, they're oh so comfy! I have a custom mtb frame and I LOVE LOVE LOVE it!!!

[mimitabby]

I agree with Salsabike.
But buy something like a Bianchi, because they hold their value, so when you are ready to buy "THAT PERFECT" bike, you won't take a total loss on your
old bike.

[Quillfred]

Hi trailrunner

For another cylocross manufactor consider Redline. I don't know about dealers in your area but you can search on the website. I have an 04 Conquest Pro which I bought used for a good price. They are a great bike for the $ especially if you can find them on sale somewhere.

I bought mine so I can still commute in the winter. It has permanent fenders and I added a rack as it has drop-outs. I can and will add disc brakes before the winter rolls around again. The brakes are ok but I live in a rainy climate on a hill and want better stopping power.

Another nice feature of cyclocross bikes is that they have a fat fork. This allows more tire clearance. I actually bought it with knobby tires but added slicks. I liked the model I bought as it has the same nice gearing - 105s as my trusty road bike. It is also aluminum and very light weight. Have fun and try out as many bikes as you can.

Quillfred