hybrid to road bike?

[jlnc]

Hi all, I started riding last summer and used a heavy, knobby tired "comfort" bike. This year, I bought a new Trek 7.5 FX, which I really love. It is much lighter, I can go much faster and it fits much better! I have started doing a few beginner group rides (13-18 miles), in which almost everyone uses road bikes. I am able to keep up, but am usually in the back (partially because I am not in the best shape, but I am working towards improving my fitness). I'm fine with being slower, but would like to start working towards longer rides. I'm not sure if I can keep up with the intermediate riders (25+ miles) on my Trek Hybrid this year..... I'm thinking that maybe next year i will invest in a road bike and keep the hybrid for shorter, around the town rides. Question...what are some good beginner road bikes to look at? I'm tall, so I don't think most of the WSD's will fit me. Will a road bike help me go fast enough to keep up with other riders compared to my Trek? I've never ridden a road bike, so it will all be new to me...the brakes, shifting, clipless, etc....I don't want to get in over my head! Thanks for any advice.

[indysteel]

A road bike will likely help you go a bit faster. Fast enough to keep up with the other riders? I don't know. It depends on your fitness and their fitness. I followed a similar path to yours, and even with a road bike, I had to work pretty hard at first to keep up with people who had been riding for a while. But, in the end, it's the journey, not the destination, right? Ride bikes are fun and while I think bikes like the FX are a great choice for many riders, road bikes have their advantages, too.

As for good beginner bikes, nearly every manufacturer offers an entry level bike. Buy the best bike you can afford that (and this is key) fits you. The WSD designation is typically less about height and more about proportions. So, I wouldn't necessarily rule it out. Try as many bikes as you can and try to find an LBS that is willing to work with you on getting a bike that fits and is within your budget.

[Velocivixen]

Hi jlnc. I'm in the same boat as you. I have a 2011 Trek FX 7.3 and I've been riding it just over 6 months, although not so much during the winter months. I'm already researching and looking around for a road bike. I'm reading Selene Yeager's book called "Every Woman's Guide to Cycling" and chapter 2 has EXCELLENT information and questions she asks to help guide you to what type of bike you'll want. Road bikes are typically categorized as "racing", "enthusiast" and "recreational". Even if you don't buy the book I suggest finding a copy and at least read that chapter. It's enlightening.
I took my Trek out to a totally flat island that's popular with all types of cyclists and did a 25 mile ride. I consider myself very fit and it was difficult and not optimally enjoyable for me, in part, due to the upright position. I felt like a sail catching a lot of wind. I also felt every vibration in the road. So, I think you could do a 25+ mile ride, but I think you'd be more comfortable on a road bike. One other thing to think about is how comfortable you'd be on drop handle bars. I used to ride a road bike for years, but that was 25 years ago, so for me, I realize that there will be a learning curve when I get a road bike. If you're proficient on a road bike already, then no worries.
Have fun exploring bikes.

[jlnc]

Thanks for the feedback. I am close to 6ft tall, with long legs, so pretty sure most of the WSD's are out. But that's not really a problem....
I'll have to check out the book mentioned to see what i can learn. I think I can ride 25 miles on my hybrid, just not sure I can keep up with other riders...guess i won't know till I try!
I just started thinking about it, and I'm not planning on buying another bike this summer, so I have time to research, test ride, etc.

[jlnc]

Muirenn, which shoes work for you? I have big feet too, and have a hard enough time finding regular shoes in my size! Maybe you can save me hours of searching!