Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - talk me out of buying a langster

I already have a single speed tricross so arguably I could just swap the wheels/tires and ride it on the road just fine. But for some reason I want a langster too.

they're ugly. and they have too much proprietary specialized crap.

Buy a rush hour or something.

I loved the one I owned but it wont get you any "scene points" with the cool kids so you shouldnt buy one.

Did that work?

Does the ss tricross not have a flip flop hub? I thought they did, for some reason.

get an IRO instead.

they have too much proprietary specialized crap.
+1

people who ride them almost always spontaneously combust

they are aluminum so the ride will be a little harsher than steel. For fg/ss purposes I think steel is more comfortable, more fun, and better looking -- that and I think its more fun and customized to build my own bike than buy a complete one from a major manufacturer.

oh totally buy a langster.


do it! for real!!

no worries!!

just make sure you post a pic of you riding it when you get it so we can all see it.



dude, everybody rides a langster, and if they don't, they wish they did.

so if you buy it, you'll be ahead of the game, right?

so really, there's no reason you shouldn't buy a langster.


everybody's doing it! why shouldn't you?

Huge Specialized stickers scream "poser"... i guess if you can find a clean way to remove them, then it wouldn't be too bad.

I like the Langster. But i'd buy a Cannondale Capo instead.

For fg/ss purposes I think steel is more comfortable, more fun, and better looking -- that and I think its more fun and customized to build my own bike than buy a complete one from a major manufacturer.

How in the hell is one type of metal more fun than another? And how is a fg/ss situation any different from a road bike situation? If anything, I would think that AL would be better in a fg/ss situation because it's gonna have less flex/better power transfer when you're out of the saddle mashing up a hill.

Just admit that you don't like how AL frames look. I don't really have a problem with that. What's annoying is the people who pass down bull**** information because it's what everyone else is saying.

And to the OP, sell me your Tricross for $200 and put that money towards a new Langster. I know you want to.

Agreed. AL stiffness will beat you up only on long rides over no-so-smooth roads.

How in the hell is one type of metal more fun than another? And how is a fg/ss situation any different from a road bike situation? If anything, I would think that AL would be better in a fg/ss situation because it's gonna have less flex/better power transfer when you're out of the saddle mashing up a hill.

Just admit that you don't like how AL frames look. I don't really have a problem with that. What's annoying is the people who pass down bull**** information because it's what everyone else is saying.

He didn't say where he was, but I, in Brooklyn, have to go over a lot of bad roads -- imo people ride ss/fg bikes in urban environments that typically have poor and flat roads and generally the rides aren't as long as a geared bike. Of course, if you're in a hilly area like SF, Al might be better but everywhere else, dampening and responsiveness would seem to be more desired than stiffness-- which would make steel a better choice.

I have no problems with how AL looks, the pista concept and trek t1 are pretty nice looking bikes, but I would rather be riding steel on the street.

I loved the one I owned but it wont get you any "scene points" with the cool kids so you shouldnt buy one.

Did that work?

I'm too old to be concerned with "scene points". I'm just looking for a single speed to do long road rides.

Does the ss tricross not have a flip flop hub? I thought they did, for some reason.

Yes, it does.

He didn't say where he was, but I, in Brooklyn, have to go over a lot of bad roads -- imo people ride ss/fg bikes in urban environments that typically have poor and flat roads and generally the rides aren't as long as a geared bike. Of course, if you're in a hilly area like SF, Al might be better but everywhere else, dampening and responsiveness would seem to be more desired than stiffness-- which would make steel a better choice.

I'm not going to go too deep into this, because there's way too much that can be said on the subject and I have things to do today. Check out what Sheldon Brown (http://www.sheldonbrown.com/frame-materials.html) has to say on the subject. There's tons more info out there too if you look for it. I will say that I've ridden an AL Cannondale road bike on really ****ty roads, and I've been fine. I've bumped up to 28's and it isn't jarring at all. As far as responsiveness, that really has nothing to do with the metal at all. That's more geometry than anything.


I have no problems with how AL looks, the pista concept and trek t1 are pretty nice looking bikes, but I would rather be riding steel on the street.

More power to you. I like to keep my options open though.

Huge Specialized stickers scream "poser"... i guess if you can find a clean way to remove them, then it wouldn't be too bad.

Oh, hai noob.

If I were in your position, I'd buy these (http://shop.greatdealsonbikes.com/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=GDOB&Product_Code=TR08&Category_Code=TR) and some tubular tires for CX and throw some road tires on the current wheelset. That there is what I would do there. Yep.

Agreed. AL stiffness will beat you up only on long rides over no-so-smooth roads.

Once again people...frame characteristics are not simply a function of material. A frame made out of steel, aluminum, ti, or carbon could be flexy or stiff. The geometry, tube diameters, and tube thicknesses are critical factors in how a frame rides. My steel bareknuckle is way stiffer than any aluminum frame I have ever owned. On the other hand, I have a old steel Centurion conversion that flops like a wet noodle. In a blind test, I'm willing to bet that none of you hipster thugs could tell what material your frame is made out of.


I would avoid the Langster if I could, mostly for aesthetic reasons. Specialized is a big corporate dinosaur that just doesn't get it...they tried to make the Langster (an already hideous bike) into some sort of trenddy hipster bike, but they completely missed the boat on this one. There are plenty of other similarly priced options that will not make those around you gag.

i was not a fan of the langster i rode. but i guess that means nothing if you have ridden one and liked it, so....they're ugly.

i still think the best argument is that they are hideous

I ride a langster, have for like 2 years now. Here is a breakdown of someone who actually owns one:

1) They are ugly - repaint it and its a bit better (mine looks like a John Deere now, I got yellow bar wrap now, I am super hip and sorta match)

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c338/scottthered/my_bike.jpg

2) It is fun burning stupid hipsters on their fancy bikes with deep V's on my ugly, with my beater bike.

3)For the same price you can get an IRO and be super cool with steel.

4) Finally, its a beater bike, nothing fancy. It takes a good beating and rides fine.

Don't listen to people who don't own the bike and don't ride it everyday.

i still think the best argument is that they are hideous

my old langster
http://stupidhurts.org/gallery/albums/userpics/10001/normal_IMGP4390.jpg


i prefer riding my conversion

It IS about the ugliest bike out there.
IMO, if they cant even make it look good, which is the easy part, then WTH even give them your money?

Specialized is to fixed gear bikes as GT is to BMX.

It IS about the ugliest bike out there.
IMO, if they cant even make it look good, which is the easy part, then WTH even give them your money?

Specialized is to fixed gear bikes as GT is to BMX.


http://www.troubletown.com/blog/fitzgerald.jpg

the langster is ugly as **** and not of any better quality (in terms of practical, everyday performance) than, say, a pista, or a kilo tt or a less vomit-worthy frame.

get a used chrome pista bianchi or something. The langster has an ugly geometry...Spend a bit more, be a bit more happy.

In regards to the debate about steel versus aluminium, I really can't contribute much. However I can attest to how different frames from the same material, aluminium, can ride like night and day. I also ride/own a Kona cyclocross bike, a 2004 Jake, which has a fairly harsher ride than my Langster. I assume this is because every frame tube on my Langster has been manipulated in some way or another, and has a larger tube diameter and thinner tube walls. The frame tubes on my Jake, seem to have little to no manipulation. The tubes are completely round, as opposed to pinched in one dimension or another. Tube thickness is greater as well.

I have two aluminium frames, which both ride very differently. I actually prefer to ride the Langster (it being the fixed gear, notwithstanding) it rides better, I can run higher tire pressure, while maintaining a fairly comfortable ride, and better feeling over rough terrain/bumpy road conditions. I genuinely believe that frame design can have a great impact into how a certain material rides. However, I have not owned/ridden a good steel frame road/track bike for any extended amount of time, perhaps then I might proclaim that "Steel rides better than Aluminum". Until then I'd sooner think that frame design is equally important to frame material... to a certain extent.

I'm not a fan of the appearance of compact geometry either, especially on my Langster. But it rides great, and it's light. I have no complaints about it otherwise.... No wait, I have one more: chainline. Off.

To the OP, what is it that is keeping you from buying a Langster? Does it seem, slightly, redundant next to your Tricross SS? Can't rationalize to yourself, owning two such similar bikes (geometry notwithstanding)? How do you care for the way your Tricross rides?? How important is it that this new bike ride differently than your Tricross? I guess I'm not really talking you out of a Langster. Just asking general questions, and clearing a bit of the "Aluminum Hating" that I've observed in many of the responses, thus far.

You have a Tricross already. Why buy another bike that's so similar?

You have a Tricross already. Why buy another bike that's so similar?

Because I can't help myself and I was hoping you guys could convince me otherwise. ;-)

I love my Langster. Besides the headset, it's a great bike. Yes, I know... it has a sloping top tube that everyone seems to care about... er... I guess one person cared about it and snowballed from there. The city ones are pretty lame (except Seattle), I'll agree. Other than that, it's a comfy ride and have no regrets with it.

Most of the stuff that comes stock on the bike is borderline crap depending on how often and what you're using it for. And I have nothing nice to say about the headset. Specialized, can you just end the whole "Mindset" thing? It's horrible and nothing else will work with it. Thanks for the options. But yeah, I've enjoyed my Langster 100%. Do whatcha gotta do.

The cup holder on the Seattle inspired me to build a handlebar-mounted 40 holder for those long rides to the party.

it has a sloping top tube that everyone seems to care about... er... I guess one person cared about it and snowballed from there.

People have been talking about the hideous geometry on these things for yeeeears.
New colors every year aint foolin' anybody but the Uni freshmen.
Specialized needs to start all over.

I thought about buying a Specialized Langster, but changed my mind. I bought a 1998 Bianchi Premio off of craigslist instead and gonna upgrade a few things. Breakdown of upgrades/whatever you want to call them

1. 1998 Bianchi Premio - $175.00
2. Already had a Blackburn headlight - FREE
3. Already had a computer - FREE
4. Came with a CO2 pump and 2 cartridges - FREE
5. Came with a Tube - FREE
6. Came with a Seatpost bag - FREE
7. Continental Ultra Gatorskin Tires 700x25 - $36.00 x 2 = $72.00

Total Spent = $247.00

I have a very good bike, I have ridden it several times already commuting and the only thing I plan on upgrading anytime soon is the wheels. I might not even do that because I plan on going FG and don't see the point in buying wheels twice. Unless I have to of course but those factors have no affect on whether it is a new bike or old bike, it is a factor regardless. You need rims if they break. Might want to consider it, shop around on Craigslist, Ebay, local news paper, and just ask people. Good luck.

Langsters are not that ugly and they ride great.

People have been talking about the hideous geometry on these things for yeeeears.
New colors every year aint foolin' anybody but the Uni freshmen.
Specialized needs to start all over.

"People have been talking".... OH THE POSSIBILITIES! WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?! What people? I want names. And for how many years. Apparently YYYYyyeeeeeears! Which article in Bicycling Magazine did you read that speaks negatively about a compact frame, yet gives props to the Scattante frame design? I want specifications. Because honestly, people have been saying you've never ridden a Langster and don't know what you're talking about. People have also been talking about how much they love their Langster.

I've ridden it, I've read about it and decided for myself. Meanwhile, you're reading forums about what Specialized did wrong.... which judging from your post, is color. Wayda judge a bike. Go congratulate your buddy on his '78 Centurion frame.

Langsters are not that ugly and they ride great.

A lot of bikes look great and ride great. Looks are very subjective to only your and my opinion. That's besides the point... get back on topic. Better yet, go get some Specialized stickers or something so you can be apart of some "Super Group" of the masses. Guy, do what you want about a bike, your going to anyway, I just don't think the extra cash is worth it in any way shape or form. Just don't, plus, purchasing something on the cheap, and upgrading it will give you a bike that is a lot more "You", unless "You are Specialized", then by all means get a Langster.

Enjoy the food!

. Just don't, plus, purchasing something on the cheap, and upgrading it will give you a bike that is a lot more "You", unless "You are Specialized", then by all means get a Langster.

Enjoy the food!

I'm confused. I did EXACTLY that with a Langster. I got it cheap, upgraded just about everything, and I fully support Specialized. Not only that, but I had to do it twice because I messed up my original frame.

Although, I'm puzzled. You thought about a Langster, but didn't... so now EVERYONE that DID get a Langster must be critisized? Or is that just your way of saying "Yeah... I know about this bike. I did my research. " Good call on that '98 Bianchi.... used.

I am Specialized.

Langsters are not that ugly


-1

YOU GUYS! Compact geometry exists to stiffen the rear triangle (reducing flex while MASHING, while giving you a longer seatpost to reduce road shock. There's a reason most newly designed bikes are compact.

Then again you guys that hate compact would rather ride a Taiwanese lugged track frame because it kind of "looks" like an old, Italian, handmade track frame.

Huge Specialized stickers scream "poser"... i guess if you can find a clean way to remove them, then it wouldn't be too bad.

Oh, snap!!! I wonder if all the elite A cross racers who rock S-works CX bikes know that???

Noob indeed. :rolleyes:

You shouldn't buy a Langster because it is a Specialized which makes it almost as boring as a Trek or Giant. Unfortunately people who buy a those brands of bikes don't realize how boring they are.

YOU GUYS! Compact geometry exists to stiffen the rear triangle (reducing flex while MASHING, while giving you a longer seatpost to reduce road shock. There's a reason most newly designed bikes are compact.

Then again you guys that hate compact would rather ride a Taiwanese lugged track frame because it kind of "looks" like an old, Italian, handmade track frame.


that all might matter if you're racing. kind of like shaving your legs. don't bother unless you're really trying to compete.

wow.

i own a Seattle edition langster and i love it .. i have a conversion steel frame univega and i never ride it . the langster ride so comfy with that carbon .. fork but i saw someone mention a capo tooo. those are both really nice bikes . my friend chose the original langster over the city editions . so definately buy they are pretty amazing

that all might matter if you're racing. kind of like shaving your legs. don't bother unless you're really trying to compete.

...and having a noncompact, lugged steel frame might matter if you're a hipster. kind of like rolling up your jeans. don't bother unless you're really trying to compete.

...and having a noncompact, lugged steel frame might matter if you're a hipster. kind of like rolling up your jeans. don't bother unless you're really trying to compete.


WTF? Are you saying that the langster is made for actual track competition, and that Taiwanese lugged frames are not very good?

WTF? Are you saying that the langster is made for actual track competition

It is primarily a fixed gear road bike, but it is also used on the track. It's an entry level model.


and that Taiwanese lugged frames are not very good?

I'm saying that people here are confusing performance with aesthetics.