Hybrid Bicycles - YES!!! Getting a hybrid!

Well, It seems I'd be able to get a new hybrid bike! Awesome!

I was talking with my dad, who will be the purchaser, and I've done quite some research and stuff on everything like locks and security and bike safety and using roads and stuff. He said he wasn't actually concerned about the price (although a $1000 bike is out of the question), but he wants the bike to teach me responsibility, road safety, security, and to get some excercise (Typical parenting stuff), and I think that me bringing up the possibility of riding a few miles to some stores won him over.

So far, it looks like its going to be a Giant Cypress, its nothing quite fancy, being an entry level hybrid, anything at a LBS would be better than a Walmart bike, but hey, its a decent bike, I'll be able to go to the grocery store 2 mile away, and I am really happy about it, but yeah, i'm happy about this bike!

Are you sure you want a hybrid with front-suspension? It's something else expensive if and when it fails. Your call - and Dad's.

I didn't notice the suspension seat-post either. I believe Kona makes a hybrid with a suspension-fork. But it can be disabled for the times you wont need it - which is virtually all the time.

If you're only doing asphalt and light trails, skip the extra bulk of the suspension stuffs and go for better components. You'll still get a comfortable ride, and when you're zooming you'll thank us later. ;) Otherwise looks great-Congrats!

I heard some forks have a knob that lets you switch between having front suspension and making it rigid. Does the Giant Cypress have this.

Also:

If you're only doing asphalt and light trails, skip the extra bulk of the suspension stuffs and go for better components. You'll still get a comfortable ride, and when you're zooming you'll thank us later. Otherwise looks great-Congrats!

Any bikeshop bike is better than a walmart bike, I'll take the lowest end bike at an LBS.

The Cypress really does not need a suspension fork as the ride is so laid back and the tyres are so plush... it is a very nice riding bike and folks I know who have them are quite pleased.

In response to your question - No. The Giant Cyprus does not have the option you're thinking of. I think it's a Kona-bicycle. I'll go look for you...

... Rats! I can't find it with the search. But it was discussed here - on a thread about HYBRIDS that could be ANYWHERE <koff> <koff>.

If you and your father can swing $489, try out a Trek 7.2 FX. For Kona, look at the basic Dew bike at $449. Both bikes have very respectable components sets without the extra suspension, are built well, and have lots of happy riders. =)

Are you sure you want a hybrid with front-suspension? It's something else expensive if and when it fails. Your call - and Dad's.

I didn't notice the suspension seat-post either. I believe Kona makes a hybrid with a suspension-fork. But it can be disabled for the times you wont need it - which is virtually all the time.
You're referring to the Kona Dew FS of which I own one (a 2009 model). I'd disagree with you about disabling the front suspension most of the time. I find that the only time I lock out the fork is while climbing hills. It's definitely nice on rough pavement or when crossing fields, etc.

I suspect that the Dew FS is a bit out of the price range ($800 Cdn) -- but if not, I'd highly recommend it.

If you can't afford the quality of the Dew FS and don't think you'll need the suspension, I'd agree with everyone else that you'd probably be better off without the suspension fork as bikes without suspension for the same price are going to have better components.

You might want to check out the base model Kona Dew -- no suspension but a decent build with good value for the buck (under $500 Cdn) and loads of positive reviews.

Agreed regards the suspension option here. It's rarely something you'd need - unless a sink-hole 60-feet deep opened in the road you were traveling. Most folks I hear from who got the suspension-fork say it was a mistake, and wish they'd used the extra money for something else. Like a helmet.

Other than used, its the lowest priced LBS hybrid I've found though, at $380, can't really beat that...

Most folks I hear from who got the suspension-fork say it was a mistake, and wish they'd used the extra money for something else. Like a helmet.
I've no regrets with mine, in fact I'm quite pleased with it. And I got a helmet too. ;)

mushrooshi, you might find a good used (and not too old) hybrid within your price range that's better quality than the Giant. Check CL for your area.

I've been hunting on craigslist for bikes, but no one replies back my emails, and when they do its either already sold or the frame is too big.

I figured I might as well go new; don't have to run around everywhere in town for something that may or may not be what I am looking for, the bike could be stolen (I've seen a post that said 'lots of bikes, $50', and they ranged from generic NEXT or Magna bikes to a couple of Treks), and I don't think anti-theft guarantees on locks honor used bikes. There was a perfect Gary Fisher Kaitai for $250, and my size for the frame, and only 1.5 years old, but the guy hasn't replied to 2 emails I sent today or 3 days ago.

I think you will like the Cypress. And if you want to save a few bucks look at the Cypress ST. It doesn't have a front suspension. http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/bikes/lifestyle/2303/32211/

For most riding you have made a good choice.

There is no Cypress ST in my area. I was looking at it though.

Don't count on the anti-theft guarantees to do much for a new bike either -- there's some pretty strict conditions that must be met before they pay out on the insurance. I've never heard of anyone getting a payout.

Instead of looking for the least expensive option, determine with your Dad what your budget is (I know with my Dad, if I did a good job of convincing him, he would give me enough money to get something considerably better than low-end) -- once you know how much you've got to spend, you can look for the best value in that price range.

You'll also need a good lock and cable ($40-50), a helmet if you don't already have one ($30), a water bottle and holder ($15), plus any taxes -- if you can swing it, get a rear rack too. If you have a total budget of $600 to $650 (which is considerably less than $1000) you can probably get a pretty nicely decked out bike that will end up costing less in the long run because it will have better, and more durable components, and you'll want to ride it more because, well, because it'll be nicer to ride than a cheaper bike. Sell it to him, man. Sell it. :thumb:

You'll also need a good lock and cable ($40-50), a helmet if you don't already have one ($30), a water bottle and holder ($15), plus any taxes -- if you can swing it, get a rear rack too. If you have a total budget of $600 to $650 (which is considerably less than $1000) you can probably get a pretty nicely decked out bike that will end up costing less in the long run because it will have better, and more durable components, and you'll want to ride it more because, well, because it'll be nicer to ride than a cheaper bike. Sell it to him, man. Sell it

I've got a crap Schwinn lock from a few years ago, I'm only going to be using that for locking the wheels, and I am definitely getting a decent U-lock with a cable. Or I'll use the Schwinn lock as a second lock.

I've got a helmet

I'll just transplant the water bottle holder from my crap huffy to the bike; come on, even Huffy can get that right :roflmao:

Also, rear rack as in car rack or the thing that holds stuff on the back of a bike? The bike will fit inside my dad's crossover SUV when you put a seat down.

I'll read about the anti-theft guarantees... Thanks for the tip.

Rear rack on the bike.

I think that other than a good lock, the only accessory I'd get right now is a el-crappo bike computer at Walmart or something, and when I actually get a job I'll add a rear rack and a better bike computer and stuff.

You're referring to the Kona Dew FS of which I own one (a 2009 model). I'd disagree with you about disabling the front suspension most of the time. I find that the only time I lock out the fork is while climbing hills. It's definitely nice on rough pavement or when crossing fields, etc.



Make that: The people I know and have read about this situation. If it works for you - you're in the minority. If it works for you - GREAT!!

Ride On!

Silly question, but I would like to know it:

I'm not that physically fit (part of the reason I'm getting a bike), but if I have an entry level hybrid, and for some reason some random wants to chase me on presumably a huffy/next/schwinn/walmart mountain bike, could I outrun them easily?

Silly question, but I would like to know it:

I'm not that physically fit (part of the reason I'm getting a bike), but if I have an entry level hybrid, and for some reason some random wants to chase me on presumably a huffy/next/schwinn/walmart mountain bike, could I outrun them easily?
No. You'll have still have to work your ass off to get away.

Silly question, but I would like to know it:

I'm not that physically fit (part of the reason I'm getting a bike), but if I have an entry level hybrid, and for some reason some random wants to chase me on presumably a huffy/next/schwinn/walmart mountain bike, could I outrun them easily?

You are looking at what Giant calls a comfort bike. Speed is not the main concern. You can only go as fast as you motor will let you so you will need to work on your motor to get away from anyone.:D

In response to your question - No. The Giant Cyprus does not have the option you're thinking of. I think it's a Kona-bicycle. I'll go look for you...

... Rats! I can't find it with the search. But it was discussed here - on a thread about HYBRIDS that could be ANYWHERE <koff> <koff>.

I ride in Hollywood and our streets are crap. I really like having the seat suspension but I too opted for no front suspension once I was told about the extra weight and extra effort. My husband bought a GT Fitness Series Nomad which has the front suspension that can be locked off. Oddly, his bike is larger and has the extra suspension but somehow feels lighter than mine unless that's just an illusion. :D

I have a carbon fork that came stock on the 7.5 - and I'm just waiting for even the slightest...

...excuse. Then it's going steel. Now if this thing had come with an aluminum-fork, I'd probably change my tune regards front-suspension. That would, indeed, be like riding a jackhammer down the road. But steel is quite springy and flexible. To demonstrate this - holding a bike with a steel-frame by the saddle & stem, place your foot on the side of the bottom-bracket and push (not kick). You'll feel it give and spring back. Try this with an aluminum-framed bike - no discernible give at all.

You are looking at what Giant calls a comfort bike. Speed is not the main concern. You can only go as fast as you motor will let you so you will need to work on your motor to get away from anyone.:D

According to the website, it is a comfort bike, but I thought comfort bikes had mtb wheels and had high grannybars...

On Giant's website, it lists Hybrid bikes as electric bikes :p. So I guess they tried to lump the Cypress in a new category and chose to put it in comfort :p.

I came in for a Giant Cypress, Came out with a Giant FCR3! Yay me!

Congratulations! What are you doing here reading this? Go for a ride! And keep those tires inflated.

Well, I saw the Giant Cypress for $380, got on it, but I wasn't really comfortable on it. Then I saw an FCR3 for $400, WAYYY marked down (Giant's MSRP is $600, LBS price was $550, was marked down to $400), sat on it, and it was very awesome feeling.

Now, to get them fenders, cyclometre, and rear rack :lol:

edit: I took it for a quick ride around the block. Very awesome ride! On my previous Huffy (which sucked), I couldn't even pedal up hill. Now I can do it. I'm out of shape, not overweight, just weak, but even so I was able to climb up the hills.

I don't care about how it's not an FCR alliance or a carbon fiber or something, I like my ride very much, and this entry level hybrid is worlds better than that suck huffy.

I wouldn't write the words 'Huffy' and 'Giant' in the same sentence. Your computer might catch fire and explode. :D

:trainwreck:

Huffy actually had its day on top in the 60s

Well, I called the LBS I purchased from, but its 18:54 and they are closed at 19:00, so no answer.

Heres is the thing:

When I use the left shifter (The one that shifts the gears on the pedals), going from gears 1 to 2 I have to push the thing all the way before it shifts. If I go 75%, it tries to shift but ends up hung up on 1st gear, and it makes silly noises. Going from 3rd to 2nd, its butter.

I came in for a Giant Cypress, Came out with a Giant FCR3! Yay me!
Nice!

With a bit of practice and getting in shape you should be able to out ride those bullies who are chasing you. :eek:

Well, I called the LBS I purchased from, but its 18:54 and they are closed at 19:00, so no answer.

Heres is the thing:

When I use the left shifter (The one that shifts the gears on the pedals), going from gears 1 to 2 I have to push the thing all the way before it shifts. If I go 75%, it tries to shift but ends up hung up on 1st gear, and it makes silly noises. Going from 3rd to 2nd, its butter.

Hear save this to your Favorites and start by watching the clip on how to shift your bike.
Tamara you can use this too. Their is a lot of useful stuff hear. The narrator is also a member of BF

http://bicycletutor.com/guide/

http://bicycletutor.com/gear-shifting/

Hear save this to your Favorites and start by watching the clip on how to shift your bike.
Tamara you can use this too. Their is a lot of useful stuff hear. The narrator is also a member of BF

http://bicycletutor.com/guide/

http://bicycletutor.com/gear-shifting/

OH NO...I've been pegged as a poor shifting newbie!

I actually have been riding with my husband in a little riding group downtown and trust me, they've given me pointers. I've been working at the not pushing, going into a harder gear a ways before a hill, and switching to easier and easier as the incline arrives. I've got some tools...so thanks :)

OH NO...I've been pegged as a poor shifting newbie!

I actually have been riding with my husband in a little riding group downtown and trust me, they've given me pointers. I've been working at the not pushing, going into a harder gear a ways before a hill, and switching to easier and easier as the incline arrives. I've got some tools...so thanks :)

LOL I didn't mean to single you out but I knew this would be helpful to you. the sight is the most usefull I have ever seen. Every tutorial is narrate. just click and watch

Check out the following post regarding some initial FD issues that I also had:

http://www.bikeforums.net/showpost.php?p=9178035&postcount=8

In summary with EZ/RapidFire shifters, it's necessary to apply continuous pressure going from front small to medium chain ring until the chain has fully engaged. If you're still having issues with the chain not catching or dropping, the FD might be improperly adjusted. Feel free to read the whole thread; there's a bunch of good information on FDs in there.

BTW, congrats on the bike purchase--looks like a very good bike for an awesome price.

LOL I didn't mean to single you out but I knew this would be helpful to you. the sight is the most usefull I have ever seen. Every tutorial is narrate. just click and watch

Actually, that was great. I tend to ride mostly in two when it's lots of stop and go and inclines that pop up like where I live. I am not rich, we live in a tiny 1 bedroom apt. but living at the foot of the Hollywood Hills can be killer. I've been switching to 3 when we do those downtown rides which are flat and have some nice long straightaways. And of course, doing the hills on our more excercise style rides I switch to 1.

NOW...what I didn't know was that when in 1, I should stay between 1 and 3, and when in 3, I should stay between 5 and 7. THAT is great info, so thanks!

Many bike-shops do a half-a**ed job of installing and adjusting the front-derailleur. And the cables do stretch, throwing it off further. But this is about normal. So fear not - it will be remedied.

^ Yes.

I'm new too and after not even a dozen rides I brought my bike to the LBS (since I purchased it there I get lifetime basic tuneups!). The guy there said it was definitely in need of adjustments already. My rear brake had come pretty loose (well pulled loose). I also wanted to adjust the brakes since my hands seemed to stretch far to get them and I had them rotate my bars up a notch for comfort. I was told that it takes a few tunes ups like this to get it perfect. I've also raised my seat 3 times now to get it right.

Good luck with the bike and don't worry about these mishaps...it happens to all of us. Just last week I was making a left turn from Hollywood Blvd to a cross street. There is lots of traffic here so to go smoother I did an idiot move and switched my gear while stationary which caused my rear derailler to lock up and jam. I ended up walking the bike a few blocks to the meeting I was on my way to and had a guy I work with fix it; he's a cyclist too.

I'm glad it was helpful, it won't be long before you fixing other peoples bikes for them. owning a bike has a way of teaching you

Nice!

With a bit of practice and getting in shape you should be able to out ride those bullies who are chasing you. :eek:

No bullies chase me :lol:

I was just asking that question out of my slight paranoia.

No bullies chase me :lol:

I was just asking that question out of my slight paranoia.
That's a relief. I was getting a bit worried about you.

Enjoy your new bike -- looks like you did well on it.

Don't even think about leaving it for "just a sec." as you dash into a store. It WILL be stolen. And keep it in your house.

I keep it inside. My dad is insistent on keeping it in a garage, but if I put it on a doormat (placed inside) that should take care of dirt problems.

If not - try putting it IN your bed. Then he might be willing to negotiate - if he thinks his son has the hots for his bicycle.....

Don't skimp on a lock. I like the Kryptonite ones. But it depends on what you'd be locking it to.

I had a bike stolen from my garage - and mint Raleigh Sport 3-speed. The crook drove up our long driveway into the forest where our house, and garage, stood. He was driving a Porsche! He was in his 50's. As I hunted for the ammunition for my rifle - the guy had the bike, stuffed it in his Porsche, and drove off. It was 3:00am.

I'm looking at the Kryptonite Kryptolok Series 2. The Evolution and higher are quite pricey, and they look like they are stronger than the very bike racks they will secure my bike to.

What is the Onguard equivalent to the Series 2, Evolution, and New york. The New Yorks are way too pricey for me as well.

How common would it be to break a lock with powertools? I'm in the 'good' part of town, and at most the worst thief in the area would be some random teenager. The bike is primarily for my commute to the school and back, and the school is swarming with police and security cameras. The bike racks are pitiful though, in that you could probably cut through them easier than an Evolution or a New York. Out of what I can remember, all of the bikes stored there are Huffy, Next, Schwinn, etc. I can't recall seeing any nicer bikes, so that might be a problem. In addition, I don't go to the school I'm commuting to; I go to an engineering program at a different school in the school district, so I catch a school bus. My bike will be one of the first and one of the last in the bike rack.

Should I get a bike lock weaker than the racks? Antitheft guarantees only honor if the lock itself was broken into, and if they steal the bike rack or something, they don't honor it. In addition, if the lock isn't present, you can't get the guarantee.

Should I weld a 3 dollar chain combo to the U-lock? That way, if the bike gets stolen, no one can just grab the U-lock and throw it away (for some stupid reason). The U-lock is still there, attached to the bike rack, so I can recover it.

Do you guys know of anyone who was honored their antitheft guarantee?

Nice catch on the FCR... it will be a far faster bike that the Cypress and still offer a decent level of comfort.

You will need to know this...

Cables don't actually stretch and if the installation is professional there should be no need to adjust the cables but that rarely happens.

Over the first 100 or so miles the cables will seat themselves into the ferules and stops and this reduces the cable tension which throws off the shifting.

The fix is really easy and when this happens you can save yourself a trip to the lbs by tightening the cables yourself... the barrel adjuster at back of the rear derailer controls cable tension and there is a fine tuning adjustment at the shifter itself.

With the bike in it's top gear (smallest rear cog) and chain on the middle or chain ring one click of the shifter should smoothly pull the chain up to the next gear and and if this does not happen the adjuster will need to be turned counter clockwise to increase the tension. A few turns of the barrel adjuster should be all that is needed.

The best way to do this is with the bike on a stand as you can turn the barrel adjuster as you turn the cranks... if you have a second person who can hold up the rear of then bike while you make the adjustment (it takes a few seconds) that can help.

Indexed front derailers are the work of satan.

Indexed front derailleurs are the work of Satan. - fixed.

Not if you break all the rules by using a FD said not to work with your set-up - claiming your chain-rings can't be over a specific size - and to abandon ship on the very idea. Such as the XTR I'm running on my 52-39-30 crankset. :D

Don't Believe the Hype!

- fixed.

Not if you break all the rules by using a FD said not to work with your set-up - claiming your chain-rings can't be over a specific size - and to abandon ship on the very idea. Such as the XTR I'm running on my 52-39-30 crankset. :D

Don't Believe the Hype!

Wait what? I'm new to this!

I forgot to add too, did your homeowners insurance cover your bike?

That was in 1973. And yes - homeowner's covered it.

What I'm getting at is that many things are possible that the accepted rules say is not possible. I have an indexed system on my hybrid. One 'click' and it's supposed to change the gears one gear at a time - both FD and RD. And it never worked right. It would go out of adjustment on a simple 5-mile ride. I got rid of the stock FD, and put on a mountain-FD. It wasn't supposed to work according to Shimano. That the largest chainring it could handle was 48T on the way outside. Guess again. And it worked perfectly after I installed it. 'click, click, click'

So what I'm trying to tell you is this: Don't get worked-up. The bike is very capable of working perfectly with, perhaps, a bit of patience. 65 (as i call him) knows a great deal about bikes and how they work - and don't. But he, it seems, doesn't get along with indexed shifters. But nowadays I know how to set them up to work perfectly. No problems. But I break the rules to do it - sometimes.

Now relax. Snuggle-up with your bike in bed. And go for a Sunday ride! And have some fun!