Road Cycling - New Here! (To the Road Forum)

Hey guys! Well I am new here coming straight from the MTB forum. I am selling my Mt Bike due to some unfortunate incidents on my favorite trails here in Tucson which have left the MTBers unnerved and feeling unsafe. I have decided to sell my MT Bike and switch to the wonderful world of road cycling.

So, I need some help. I am an experienced Mt. Biker so riding is not a problem but, this is my first road bike so I am kind of in the dark. I was thinking of purchasing a 2003 Bianchi Campione or an 2003 Specialized Allez 27 due to their price and components at thier specific price point. Are there any thoughts on these bikes? Any help or info would be extremely useful. Also, suggestions on bikes in the price range of $900 to $1300 would be helpful as well. I am excited to test my skills on the road and join a new facet of the sport!

Hi Bull,

The most important thing is to find a road bike that fits you well. Test ride as many bikes as possible and pick the one that fits best. Don't worry too much about parts.

I have a 2002 Specialized Allez 27 and love it, so I guess that's one vote. It was the best deal I could find for a bike that had Tiagra/105 level components and a carbon fork. Like CT said, the fit is the main thing -- make sure your shop takes the time to fit you properly. The geometry is going to feel quite a bit different from your MTB, of course, so a good pro fit is essential.

Just want to second Cycletourist. Fit is more critical in road biking; the geometry of road bikes places more stress on lower back, abdominal, shoulder, neck, and wrist joints and muscles. Proper fit is the single most important factor in determining riding enjoyment...much more important IMHO than frame material or component selection. Your LBS should ask you detailed questions about your riding style, experience, and goals; they should also set up an appointment to take your body measurements. They should be willing to order the right frame if it is not in stock! Personal service is the main justification for utilizing the LBS---make sure you get it, or go elsewhere. I suggest Shimano 105 or Campy Centaur for your drivetrain. Decent steel or aluminum frames are available in your pricerange.
Sorry about your experience in mtbiking; I sincerely hope you and your friends find safe trails to ride. Even an old roadie like me would hate to give up entirely on the trail.

Thanks alot guys for the replies!! Your info helps out a ton. Safety is our #1 issue and thanks for all your concerns!

So, I feel like the original post is begging the question...

What happened out on the trails to turn you away from mountain biking? I'm hearing the banjo from Deliverance in the back of my head.

Well, yesterday someone was murdered on the trail that is frequented by cyclists and walkers along with myself b/c it is a short 2 mile ride from my home and a great after work ride. Last week a cyclist was robbed at gun point. And within the past 2 months there have been 5 sexual assults, 2 attempted rapes and 3 robberies. I have decided to sell my bike and buy a road bike. MTBers are becoming more and more frustrated b/c the trails are on the outskirts of town which are the homes of the homeless. Quite a few of my cycling partners are switching to the road because of this.

OUCH! :(

That is a terrible rash of events. Are the police showing all due diligence in getting the area cleaned up? Obviously that won't be an easy task for them.

I would quickly turn to road riding too.

Road riding is going to be awesome!! I went and tested some bikes this evening and I immediately connected as I did with MTBing. First, I have to sell my MTB then I will be set.

Originally posted by Brahman Bull
Well, yesterday someone was murdered on the trail that is frequented by cyclists and walkers along with myself b/c it is a short 2 mile ride from my home and a great after work ride. Last week a cyclist was robbed at gun point. And within the past 2 months there have been 5 sexual assults, 2 attempted rapes and 3 robberies.

As my wife and I occasionally travel to Tucson in the winter and do just a little riding, could you be more specific as to location?

We are not technical riders by any means, but enjoy the road on Saguaro National Park East, and have been considering the river trail that goes from downtown out east towards Tanque Verde, crossing Sabino Canyon Road. are any of these affected by this crime rampage?

If the area in question is outside the city limits there is little that can be done because it is an unincorporated area and therefore has no police protection.

Originally posted by cycletourist
If the area in question is outside the city limits there is little that can be done because it is an unincorporated area and therefore has no police protection. DOH??? Sheriff maybe?

I wonder if Tuscon ever heard of BIKE COPS?
there are more than a few I know who could ride
circles around most of us. you'd think this would be
something they would try given the high rate of crime
on those particular trails. Just have to put them on
regular bikes, not police bikes (unless the criminals are
REALLY stupid).

Marty

Dvnr - Well the murder as well as a few robberies took place on the Rillito River parkway. A few other sexual assults have occured at Starr Pass. If you ever come to Tucson again let me know and I will give you the status on the trails and streets. BTW the Suguaro National Park by the Desert Museum is a beautiful ride!

lotek - We have bike cops in Tucson, yet ironically enough they dont patrol the parkway. Hopefully, this will change so it will be safe for everyone.

Frankly, I’d take advantage of the lenient Arizona carry law and bring along your trusty sidearm. Don’t let them scare you off the trails!