Hi,
Hey, something us non-M3ers can comment about!
I own several bicycles each costing more than my autox car,
(Hail Darth Rabbit!) but I've never considered a hybrid because
they are such a compromise in functionality. They are slow on the
road AND on the trail.
I'd recommend a mountain bike, then consider changing/altering
tires depending on the terrain you ride. If you like the rough
and hills, you are set. If you want some go or spend lots
of time on the road, put on smoothies. If you want some real go
and/or distance, grab a road bike (it does make a huge difference).
Try Shimano LX (off road), or Shimano 105 (road) or better components
if you can (especially derailers/shifters).
Be more concerned about how bike fits your body than the gadgetry,
materials,
paint job and even price. An ill-adjusted saddle height, top-tube length
or annoying saddle can take the fun out biking pretty fast. As a male of
the species returning to biking after time away, I'd recommend that you
PLAN
on trying several saddle types if you can. Padded shorts help too, but
the
shape of the saddle and where it lands are more critical than the
padding.
Don't forget a snell helmet with lots of holes and a visor,
-Todd
ps: I only know localish Berkeley shops - I'd recommend Missing Link
on Shattuck and Velo Sport on Martin Luther King. Watch out buying used
(look for damage/bent/worn frame parts) and potentially hot stuff.
ps2: For the price of a few extra cubic inches, you can own a Ferrari
(or Hummer) equivalent in the bike world.
Smokerbros@aol.com wrote:
>
> So, there's a new bike in my future. Not having bought one for a long time,
> or EVER in the case of a hybrid type (I think that's what I want...) I have
> no idea what to consider. It'll be mostly on city streets for daily
> exercise, some trails if there's another Marina ride or similar in the
> future, and of course, AAS course rides (obligatory autocross content.)
>
> Any ideas? I don't want to spend a whole lot of money, as there are many
> expensive projects to consume cubic dollars on the Firebird...
>
> TIA
> CHD
--
Todd Stiers
tas@darthracing.com
http://www.darthracing.com
|