General Cycling Discussion - Noob needs advice...

Hey all,
Just found your forum and have gotten some good info. already. I am in the market for a fixie and wanted some recommendations. First, I would need to know what size would be comfortable for me. I am about 5'5" and 135 lbs. so I’m guessing a 50" or something in that area? I know its probably a good idea to get properly sized but I don’t really want to go into a mom and pop, get sized and walk out.

I’ve narrowed my choices down to two possible scenarios. First is the Mercier Kilo TT. Pros: it comes as a kit and for a relatively good price. Cons: its comes as a kit and although I can swap out parts, it seems like a waste of money to get something I’m not truly happy with. The other option is to put together a bike with the Leader 720R Aluminum frame. I know these are two vastly different bikes but I really like the look of the aluminum frame and I consider myself pretty handy so I think I would be able to handle putting the bike together. I know the ride is different but how much different is it? Too uncomfortable to ride on the road? I would really appreciate any help/suggestions you all might have for a noob. Suggestions on places to purchase would also be appreciated.
Thanks

No one?

No one?

Just go to the LBS and get fitted and test ride stuff. You're not the first person they'll have who test rode something and never bought. They won't take it personally. I went to four different stores before I bought my current bike.

Building up yourself will usually cost you more unless you've got the parts laying around or you can source them cheaply. Good learning experience, though. You'll need a few special tools.

Better off asking in the fixie forum.

Getting fitted is highly recommended. Get the bike you want in the size you want, but consider all aspects of the purchase first. If I discovered my attorney rode a fixie I'd fire him on the spot.

I saw that 50" and thought.... front wheel of one of those big front tiny back wheel bike (whatever they're called).

Anyway, think SMALL frame.

Go ride some bikes in stores, but you probably need a 50 or 52. Depending on the geometry. When you test ride on that you like, make sure you remember what it is and what size, then you can look up the geometry on the manufacterer's website and compare the Bikes Direct bike you are looking at. Effective top tube length is most important and then head tube length.
When you get your bike make sure the cog and lockring are tight or you will strip your hub. Put the wheel on the bike, get on, lock up the brakes, and crank the pedals with all you've got. Then tighten the lockring (remember it's reverse thread). Check it again after the first few rides.

If I discovered my attorney rode a fixie I'd fire him on the spot.


Are you serious?

Are you serious?

Only if he was a hipster, or non-hipster riding with no brakes.