Southern California - Newbie: Heavyweight Bike Selection.

Hi All,
I am moving to South Redondo in 2 weeks time on a 12 week work relocation from Australia. My work hours for these 12 weeks give me most mornings free until around noon :). I have decided that this change is a good time to start some fitness training as I have gone out to over 300lbs! I have looked at a few models of bike and like the Trek Pure which is one of those flatfoot comfort bikes but a little more sporty. My plan is to ride the beach bike path from Redondo north as far as I can, building up over the 12 weeks to get a fit as possible.. Although I am carrying a lot of weight, my occupation, industrial coatings applicator, means I am very active and reasonable healthy, but am looking at the comfort bike range to put less stress on my lower back. As I get fitter I would like to 'attempt' some easier hill climbs in Palos Verdes as a way of varying the workouts.

So the Trek Pure may be OK for the flat beach path riding but with the forward pedals not so good for the hills. Can anyone suggest what bike would be good for me, bearing in mind, my weight and desire to vary the workouts? I am also not worried about speed of the bike as I will be on my own and fitness is the goal at this stage. I can afford up to 1k if needed.

Also, does anyone have any experience on the bike path that runs from Santa Monica to Redondo? Is it safe to ride alone early to mid mornings mornings? How long might it take to ride the whole length and back for a reasonably fit beginner? its about 14 miles each way.

Thanks Everyone,
Steve.

I used a beach cruiser to stay in shape. You could get one with 3-speeds to get up those hills. Cost is minimal around here and if it starts rusting/getting sand in everything - you're not out big bucks. (I stay off the beach path with my roadies - the sand is a big issue in your FD/RD/cassette and chain.)

Besides, a beach cruiser is the stylin' way to ride around the beach cities.:thumb:

If you want to get more into the hybrid/roadie type frames check out the Clydesdale Forum here on BF. Lots of big guys talking frame and gear there.

Clydesdale!!!! Hey arent they those big........... Oh I get it!

Worksman Industrial Bicycles might be something you could consider. HD construction and well made.
http://worksmancycles.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/indbikes.html

Breezers are also good bikes, some with 8-speeds, and many models are equipped with just about everything you need to commute/train with at any hour.
http://www.breezerbikes.com/bikes.cfm

Bovvaboy... welcome to CA. Although this forum is specific to all things So Cal, I suggest you also post (maybe you have?) in the Clydesdale forum. You won't "meet" a nicer group of people plus they truly understand your specific needs. The Clydes will be able to (if they have not already) address your bike needs.

As to the Strand (the path from SM to Redondo) its depends on what time of day or the weekend. If no people, you could cruise the distance in no time flat but generally there are lots of people especially through SM, Venice and then from Hermosa down to Redondo. You need to ride safe and cautiously. A number of years back, riding with a group, not paying attention, I had to lay down my bike (and suffered a Fx' hip in the process) when a small child ran across the Strand. Don't worry about speed and distance for now, just get out and ride. Good thing about So Cal, year round riding. No excuse to not get into shape. :thumb:

You are right that the flatfoot comfort bikes will be no good at all on hills. For what you want to do, really any number of urban/hybrid type bikes with conventional frame geometry but flat or upright bars will do fine. A Jamis Coda would be one example. Your weight should not be a major factor in selecting a bike in this class as the frames are going to be plenty strong and the wheels will be fine as long as you go for 32 or 36 spokes.

G'day Steve.
Based on your weight, I would recommend a Surly Long Haul Trucker. You can pick one up at Topanga Creek Bike Shop. (http://www.topangacreekbicycles.com/index.php)

As for the beach path, here are the particulars
Los Angeles Beach Bike Path (http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Los-Angeles-Beack-Bike-Path)

The path is not bad at all, with only several small hills (about 35 feet) around the Water Treatment facility. It is part of my daily commute and not bad at all during weekday mornings. It does get crowded on weekends and in the afternoon, especially in summer.

At the Redondo Pier, where it says walk your bike, do so. There is a police outpost there, and it is a rather expensive ticket.

There are groups of riders that meet at the Catalina Coffee shop in South Redondo for weekend runs. That may be a good way of varying your workout.

I'd go with a mountain bike and stay away from the beach paths.
The mountain bike will easily handle your weight and any climbing. For fitness you have to elevate your heart rate and that won't happen at 5 mph.... Find alternate routes to the same places and make sure you can put the hammer down.

1. Concerning the bike path, I would recommend starting in Redondo area and riding to the MDR breakwater and return, should take around 1.5 hrs (seems to me to be about 18-20 miles RT).

2. The salt air and sand could (will) chew up a nice bike. Look on CraigsList for a used Hybrid, around $200-250, and just ride it. Something like a Trek 710,720,730 or newer. 21 speeds, upright seating, will hold your weight and you'll still be able to ride up PV on weekends.

Have fun and hope to see you on the path!!

Drew

Marina Del Rey breakwater is just barely under 12 miles one way from the beginning of the bike path.

I agree with Headlight about the salt air and the sand. I do that round trip each day. After each trip, wipe down the chain and oil it. Each weekend requires a cleaning of the chain and all drivetrain components.

Thank you everyone for your replies, you have given me heaps of good info and I really appreciate it.