I now have a road bike in addition to my mtb, which is what racing I actually do.I did get the road bike with pedals but have been swapping pedals between two bikes every few weeks(only own mtb shoes). Now do I buy a second set of mtb pedals or a pair of road shoes?Entry level pedals are cheaper than shoes, so I was wanting to know if there are any advantages to using the road pedal/shoe setup.Any help would be appreciated
Not to change the subject of this thread Keith but how much performance gain will these few grams make? Just wanting to learn more about the technical things as I am new to the sport.
I thought that might be the case mampara, I have a (cheap) road bike but just find I have to ride almost double the distance to simulate similar workout. Also I cant jump off the road when I hear a truck coming!
Guys just be carefull of using anyone to spray frame as it is very different to a car.I am from the auto industry and am getting a friend to spray my frame(he has done many bike frames).Depending what metal it is, he says I have to have my alu frame bead blasted first (NOT sand blasted),it damages the frame.There is a special primer for alu.If you put the stickers on over the paint and then put a clear coat over the stickers wont peel.
My bit of info(from a traffic chief).Attachments to vehicle may not protrude more than 300mm from rear(although some you buy do!).The lights or plate may not be obstructed. It is basically up to the cop to use his discretion depending how many bikes on rack etc.Dont want to find a grumpy cop on a bad day.
Muddee I just thought I would make it clear for the non technical guys.Seeing that a wheel consists of outer rim,hub,spokes,bearings etc. Procrates, I hope these guys aren't trying to shaft me, those were the prices for the CHEAPEST rim USING my old spokes etc. I might have to find a new shop to support...
I was using a very old mtb "bomber" for training on the road.(slicks).My mtb for races has obviously got offroad tyres on.Now I am down to one bike,(old bomber needing lots of work).Do you guys change tyres for training on the road? or spare set of rims/tyres?or just ride on tar with knoblies(and wear them down faster?).First prize is two bikes but we/I am also in a world recession!
shaun231 I do agree the bike CAN make a difference but with most peoples "social" riding/racing fitness comes first then bike second.At my last mtb race I came in way before someone on a 25k specialized(and I'm not that fast!).My Schwinn cost 2.5k. Just an example.When racing gets more serious bike will make a difference agreed.
I have only recently started cleaning MTB shoes but use the same method I used on MX boots years back.Bucket and water with scrubbing brush.Leave out for a day to dry.
OK lets not get into the "carbon vs alu" discussion guys and give the man advice.True that there are many pieces of equipment that make up the price/value of a bike. It really depends on what you need and at what level you are riding.Remember your LEGS do the talking above all.I'v done fairly ok in some small mtb races with my 2001 Schwinn Moab with V brakes.Spend as much as yout pocket comfortably permits.
I have a old(early 90's) Jamis that I am "freshening" up a bit as I use it for training on the road. Now both my outer rims are badly worn and have been advised by the LBS to replace. Price for outer rim R300 and rebuilding wheels R260ish.(x 2). Should I rather just buy a second hand bike for R1000 and use the parts. Does not make sense to spend R1000 on 2 rims for old bike. This is where some bicycle experience can come in handy! Any help guys?
There are plenty of nice places to ride on and off road. Bring your bike definately. Pop in to the bike shops and ask for the directions to various routes.The road riding is fairly safe(crime and traffic), offroad maybe better not alone, but you will love some of our riding terrain!Bike shop on the William Moffet expressway very helpfull.
Slowbee I dont great people in cars no, or when I walk on the pavement because we don't have a SPORT in common that we are enjoying. Aanhouer, I hear you and agree.But remember guys I am not expecting people to greet me first but simply just greet back at least if I have greeted you.Anyway from the responses I at least see that most agree that a little nod or wave goes a long way.
Agreed scotty, runners are very friendly and almost always greet and we are not even running!Same story with mtb as well, I ride my road bike seldomly(because I'm a mtb'er) but do get a little more nods when on the road bike.I think lifting a few fingers to a fellow rider costs nothing.Although this morning I was pleasantly surprised when 98% of the "vets and masters" greated me! AND I was on my mtb! thanks to the "toppies" for being friendly!
As a rookie cyclist(1 year into this great sport), I am trying to figure out the "greeting habits" of cyclists.Those of you who will get offended, realise I am stating my experiences and NOT at all generalising.I tend to greet almost every cyclist I ride past (quick wave or vocal hello depending how much I'm gasping for air!).I tend to get a blank stare from many roadies with fancy "logo kit".Maybe its the cheap no name brand kit I wear, but as I progress in the sport I will spend more money on kit.I dont mind sticking to my own thoughts while practicing and not greeting but it just seems like good manners.
As with road bikes look at the equipment level of the bikes. Entry level bikes will have cable operated disc brakes(not as effective as hydraulic but still fine for recreational riding).A entry level MTB will still give you a good few years of service(if maintained) until you find out you never want to see another piece of flat tar again.
