Where to start

[FP1095]

Hello

 

New to cycling, coming from a running background.

 

I got a Felt Z80. I took it for a ride around the neighbourhood the other day, and everything seemed to be fine. 

It's probably a good idea to have it serviced before I start training with it? Looks like some of the gears might be a bit worn out....

 

I'm also thinking of getting a magnetic indoor trainer - During the weekdays, I'm only able to train at night. I'm planning to do open road rides on weekends. (thinking about riding on the road is quite scary - heard too many horror stories )

Can't find many indoor trainers in SA, but found this one from Sportman's Warehouse: http://www.sportsmanswarehouse.co.za/product/giant-cyclotron-magnetic-indoor-trainer

Any comments?

 

I got a helmet as well. How do I know the helmet is "okay" or still fine? There's no obvious cracks.

 

Here's a photo of the bike:

 

http://i.imgur.com/1VBV1LPl.jpg

 

Thanks

FJ

[lerouc]

Hey, welcome!

 

Never a bad thing to have a bike (especially) if you dont know the history, serviced.

 

Helmet, some on here might say to replace helmet every couple of years as they degrade in the sun. If you got it secondhand and it looks quite old maybe replace it but if it looks in good condition i would say keep that. 

 

For trainers check out chris willemse as well:
http://www.cwcycles.co.za/parts/trainers

 

Also have a look at our classifieds section:
https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/category/62-indoor-trainers/

 

Just make sure you want to use it. I (as many others) bought one which was used for 3 times and now just sitting in the cupboard.

 

Cheers and all the best with the move from that crazy thing people call running.

[Allrounder]

Welcome and good luck. I am still recovering after a very bad fall, but my helmet saved my life. So I would say invest in a new helmet. There might be damage invisible to the naked eye, and when you need it, you won't have the protection you need.

I agree, take the bike for a sevice.

[FP1095]

Hey, welcome!

 

Never a bad thing to have a bike (especially) if you dont know the history, serviced.

 

Helmet, some on here might say to replace helmet every couple of years as they degrade in the sun. If you got it secondhand and it looks quite old maybe replace it but if it looks in good condition i would say keep that. 

 

For trainers check out chris willemse as well:

http://www.cwcycles.co.za/parts/trainers

 

Also have a look at our classifieds section:

https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/category/62-indoor-trainers/

 

Just make sure you want to use it. I (as many others) bought one which was used for 3 times and now just sitting in the cupboard.

 

Cheers and all the best with the move from that crazy thing people call running.

 

 

Welcome and good luck. I am still recovering after a very bad fall, but my helmet saved my life. So I would say invest in a new helmet. There might be damage invisible to the naked eye, and when you need it, you won't have the protection you need.

I agree, take the bike for a sevice.

  

 

Thank you for the advice:)

 

I read somewhere on this forum about bike sizes and it got me wondering. How do I know the size of my bike and whether it's the correct size for me? I tried looking for wheel sizes but didn't see any measurements

 

Running is so much simpler

 

Eish hermes, glad for that helmet hey. I'll look at getting a new helmet.

I've seen quite a few people in my life that was hit by cars/trucks - without helmets. Commuters. I understand the importance and value of a helmet. This is the biggest reason for wanting to get an indoor trainer. 

[Allrounder]

Road bike is a standard 700/23 or a bit wider 700/25. You can measure your inseam, and look on felts website to get the size.

there is also plenty of vids on youtube to help you with your setup. Its just getting started thats difficult. There after fun al the way.

[Dubber]

Thank you for the advice:)

 

I read somewhere on this forum about bike sizes and it got me wondering. How do I know the size of my bike and whether it's the correct size for me?

 

I tried looking for wheel sizes but didn't see any measurements

 

For bike setup/ size:  have a browse on BikeHub for a reputable bike store in your area.  (Even start a new thread if you have to).  Then, when you take your bike in for a service ask them their advice on whether the bike is the right size for you.  If the are any good, they will also point out any adjustments you might consider i.e higher seat etc.  This will obviously just be the basic set up.  Eventually you can consider a proper set up where they measure every angle of you and the bike and make sure they fit together.

 

Wheels sizes:  99% chance you have a 23/700 (23 thickness of the tyre, 700 diameter  - all in mm).

 

Enjoy the ride...

[David Marshall]

You have got yourself a Felt Z80 2007 model. Nothing wrong with it and I would estimate that it retailed at around R9000  back then.  Check out www.bikepedia.com to get the full (original) specs.

 

As to your questions I would say do an initial set up as per the suggestions above just to get into the right ball park.  If the bug bites get a professional one later.

 

Re the gears etc it is very difficult to assess condition by looking alone.  The best is to check the chain for wear and replace it if worn.  If the gears need replacing one or two will slip with the new chain.  No harm in getting a mechanic to check out the bike for you.

 

I am one of those who would rather face the winter mornings and traffic than the indoor trainer.  If there is a club in your area that is a good place to start.  Riding with others is far safer.