Introductions - Biking Novice

Hi Biking Community,

I am new to biking and joined this site to learn a little more before I put down the money to buy my bike. I am a college student who enjoys physical activity very much. I ran cross country in HS and just last year ran a 5K race in downtown San Jose, California. As a runner, there are many similarities in biking that are applied in the same way, such as pace setting, motivation, and planning strategies based on the course.

I got into biking starting with an anime (Japanese animation) called "overdrive." Additionally, I have always been interested in biking from watching Tour de France. Only this summer, I got together with a couple of my friends and went biking where the roads rolled up and down. I felt a need to go faster.

Recently, I started looking into more bikes I could invest my money into (searching Craigslist). I rode around on my friend's vintage Raleigh for a while but returned it to him. The other day I went to the Local Bike Shop and test drove the Raleigh Rush Hour. I am searching the market for a comfortable road bike that would last me a long time (and not be forced to upgrade).

I see that there are a lot of members online and would appreciate any help. Thanks again.

A fixed gear bike is an odd place for a new rider to start. They're favoured by messengers and hipsters who probably love them, but for most of us, gears add a lot to our riding pleasure and efficiency. Still, if that's what you think you might want, check out the fixed gear/single speed forum.

Ty cooker,

I did read a bit into that forum section. However, am I wrong in saying that single speed bikes generally cost less than those with shifters?

Additionally, I wanted to ask: Would it cost more money (plan to spend <$100) to buy my friend's ~1981 Miyata and fix it up (in pretty wretched condition) or just to buy something that is in good condition. My knowledge of bikes isn't much, but I do enjoy working from scratching and building up from the bottom.

Yes, I suppose a single speed (you can stop pedalling and coast) and fixed gear (the pedals don't stop unless the bike stops, like on a tricycle) might be slightly cheaper. If you are getting one because you want one and think it would be cool to have a bike like that, go ahead, but if you are buying one simply because it's cheaper, make sure you educate yourself. A geared bike is much more practical for most of us.

If the Miyata fits and has no terrible problems, it will be by far the most economical option. Lots of us ride old bikes and there is a bit of a mystique to old steel frames. However there are a number of pitfalls. Damaged hubs and bottom bracket (where the pedals connect to each other, can be expensive to replace. Maybe ask a bike store if it is worth restoring before you buy.

Actually, the Miyata also has the benefit that you can use it to practise bike repair skills, so it might be worth buying for that reason.

welcome!

that's how i started, more or less!

ran cross-country (1yr) and track 1.5 +3k, (2 yrs) in hs. knees and ankles (particularly) gave me grief, so i graduated to bicycling!

i suggest starting low cost (used mtb or road bike, even tourer). find what works for you.

i personally am big advocate for multi-geared touring road framed bikes, lwb, chrom-moly-d/b, fenders, racks (f/r), panniers.....but also ride 'bent, etc if you ride on the road.

find what works, and welcome x2!!

tomg

Hello Shinjiboy, if the Miyata isn't is truly wretched condition, and it fits you, it will probably be a better deal than purchasing a new one. As mentioned, it could enhance your bicycle repair skills as well.

Check out the Classic & Vintage forum, and we'll see if we can't help you out.

Welcome to BF, and feel free to PM me with any questions :) !

East Hill
Forum Moderator

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