Commuting - Finally bought a "commuter"

Scott Sportster P6. I like it. I hope to ride my 2.3 mile commute to and from school. I have been trying to figure out what to buy and this really suited me. I do have a problem, do you think my LBS will trade bikes with me? (I bought a M and really needed a S) They didn't tell me they had S.

Go find out. Right now. The longer you wait, the less likely they are to allow you to switch bikes. They really should have fit you to begin with. Did they even try?

+1 find out if they'll trade IMMEDIATELY. My lbs has a 48 hour refund, beyond that up to 2 weeks they'll give you 50-75% of your money back depending on what the bike is. After that the bike is yours. Don't know that your lbs is the same way, but the longer you wait the worse.

Going there now. I thought I bought the S, I just must have grabbed the wrong one.


EDIT: The guy that works there was cool, they're gonna have to order another S P6 for me. All I gotta do is bring this one back.

They have a P5 (With the shock) for around 60 bucks more, is it worth the extra?

Hopefully, they let you swap. If not, I would not do business with them again. They should have tweaked it for you before you hit the door; the wrong size frame would have turned up then.

They had an extra P6 in the back size S. I'm so happy, I fit so much better. I absolutely LOVE this bike compared to my ****ty mountain bike.

Glad that the LBS was helpful. That P6 looks like a nice entry level ride. I checked the specs/geo, and I may have to figure out a way to bring it home. 18" chainstays=virtually eliminates heel strike. Too bad it's not steel.;)

Glad that the LBS was helpful. That P6 looks like a nice entry level ride. I checked the specs/geo, and I may have to figure out a way to bring it home. 18" chainstays=virtually eliminates heel strike. Too bad it's not steel.;)

Can you dumb down that post for me? (the most expensive bike I bought before this one was 90 bucks lol)

have; be safe and keep researching

What are some things that I may need to upgrade? Do I need a rack, and fenders?

What are some things that I may need to upgrade? Do I need a rack, and fenders?
Everything on every bike needs to be replaced at some point. Most people 'upgrade' their seat (saddle) and the pedals rather quickly. Those people have been riding for a while, so they recognize what makes them happy.

As far as the rack and fenders, only you know the answer to that.

You haven't been a part of BF for very long, and I don't know how long you 'lurked' before joining, but there are certain topics that are considered "Holy War" around here. The ones I'm most familiar with:

-Frame material: Steel vs aluminum vs carbon fiber (CF)... other more exotic ones, but those three are the most prevalent.
-Backpack vs Messenger Bag vs Pannier
-Handlebars: Drop vs flat vs risers

Fenders are usually a good idea though it may not be necessary for some areas. Racks can serve a variety of purposes. You can put groceries on it or strap your backpack down or whatever. First and foremost probably a good lock. Depending on your area you may want the high end Fugehdaboudit (sp?) or a relatively inexpensive U-lock. Lighting is also something to consider but it is also dependent on your needs. A rear flashing light like the PB Superflash is a usual mainstay. For the front you have light to "see" and lights to be "seen". Just make sure whatever you get you can take off while your in class.

Fenders are usually a good idea though it may not be necessary for some areas. Racks can serve a variety of purposes. You can put groceries on it or strap your backpack down or whatever. First and foremost probably a good lock. Depending on your area you may want the high end Fugehdaboudit (sp?) or a relatively inexpensive U-lock. Lighting is also something to consider but it is also dependent on your needs. A rear flashing light like the PB Superflash is a usual mainstay. For the front you have light to "see" and lights to be "seen". Just make sure whatever you get you can take off while your in class.

I am going to get a cheap U-lock, I'm going to park it in front of my school (lots of cameras/office people). I will get a light in the rear, but I plan on only biking in the light. (7 am and then 4pm).

Glad that the LBS was helpful. That P6 looks like a nice entry level ride. I checked the specs/geo, and I may have to figure out a way to bring it home. 18" chainstays=virtually eliminates heel strike. Too bad it's not steel.;)


Can you dumb down that post for me? (the most expensive bike I bought before this one was 90 bucks lol)
The comment about it being a nice entry level bike was just that. There will be people who deride you of your choice of ride. However, a)you bought a bike from a LBS, b)bought something that was presumably in your budget, c)recognized the first one didn't quite "fit" (not many noobies would've picked up on that-good on ya:thumb:), and c)you got something that you liked, without putting it to a popularity vote (that I know of) on the interwebz.

Some people will tell you that the components are junk. That the bike is heavy. That you ought to ride x brand/model instead, which probably costs 2-3x $$, and if you're talking to roadies, more like 4-5x more $$.

The geo reference (bike geometry) regarding the chainstay length was that you bought a bike that should you decide to install a rear rack, means that you (and I was talking about myself in the earlier post) should have no issues with heel strike. Heel strike is when you use panniers and your feet keep hitting the bags as you pedal. With my current rack set-up on my bike (http://www.konabikes.co.uk/2k6bikes/smoke_2k6.php), I have heel strike- big time.

The comment about steel, well, I was just being ornery. :D

Enjoy your ride.

hey, if they sold you the wrong size bike you should give them an earful.

I just picked up a Trek Soho today and not only did we check for the right size, but they swapped the stem for me to get the handlebars up a tiny bit for me. great shop (International Bike in Newton MA)

I am going to get a cheap U-lock, I'm going to park it in front of my school (lots of cameras/office people). I will get a light in the rear, but I plan on only biking in the light. (7 am and then 4pm).
Depending on your location, there are certain times of the year that when the sun will be either right in front of you or right behind you. You will want as much blinking "Hey, you in the car! Do you see me?" light.

The comment about it being a nice entry level bike was just that.
Enjoy your ride.
<snipped a little>

Thank you, that helped tons.

hey, if they sold you the wrong size bike you should give them an earful.

They got it corrected, it was a simple mistake.

Short story: Looked at the P5 and P6. Showed me a P6 M and a P5 S. I like the P5s fit, but the P6 was completely solid ( think I will like that better). I (and the LBS) got mixed up and the sales guy picked up the M instead of the S, and then I didn't double check. But I got it fixed no problem.

Rode it about 8 miles today, adjusted the seat a few times, overall LOVE IT!!! It's so much fun!

Glad you enjoy your correct sized new bike TFS Jake. As for locks I bought an Onguard Mini 7 through Amazon. Its sized between a mini and full sized U-Lock and fits around most things I use it for. For me its not so heavy so I don't mind carrying it around as much as another lock I had.

As for lights the PB superflash is a good bet. It has an eye cathing display pattern and a relatively long battery life. As one of the four rear blinkies I have, it is my favorite. Even if you plan on biking during the day you might want to consider a front "to be seen light." I bought a Blackburn Quadrant and Mars 3.0 pack from Dicks Sporting goods a long while ago which fit the bill at that time.

Good luck and happy commuting

Thanks man. Any advice or equipment that I may need would be nice. What about a computer?

I don't own a computer so I really can't comment on a particular one. If you want to keep track of mileage, speed, or whatever else you may want to look into one.

Sometimes a lot of commuting is just using what you have or what is available. A lot of what I have took time to accumulate. There always seems to be something either bigger, better, or more useful right around the corner. But sometimes certain items stand the test of time.

If you read or search this forum often enough you will come across a good list of items that people have or tried (PB fenders, Magicshine lights, PB superflash taillight, Topeak racks/ trunk bags, Schwalbe marathon tires, Brooks saddles, Kryptonite locks, etc.). You will hear both pros and cons of the items as well and possible alternatives. Sometimes you got to think; if everyone is commenting about them, then there might be something to them.

Thanks for the info.

You are welcome.

Don't be afraid about looking at other forums as well. Winter, Electronics, Touring, Hybrid, Advocacy all have a wealth of information. I'm still learning myself and somethings are over my head or I don't have experience with. I suggest doing a search first to get an idea of what people have, and then do a specific search of the actual items. Look at where they are talked about the most to give you an idea of who is using them as well.

Given enough time (not sure how long you've been lurking) you will also have an idea of posters who have a general or specific expertise on certain subjects. But sometimes it's a simple a riding your bike from point A to point B. We sometimes (myself included) make it more complicated than it needs to be.

So, I rode "to" school today. Basically, I rode to school, after school. (to see how long it was going to take me) But my "sit bones" were sore from the 8ish miles I did yesterday. Should I continue to ride daily, or should I take a break? Like alternate on/off for a few days?

That's what I do, every other day. I forget how long your ride is (mine is 15m) but you usually feel it the following morning. Over time you will get stronger!


So, I rode "to" school today. Basically, I rode to school, after school. (to see how long it was going to take me) But my "sit bones" were sore from the 8ish miles I did yesterday. Should I continue to ride daily, or should I take a break? Like alternate on/off for a few days?

Mine is only 2.5 miles, but i've been riding a BUNCH more than I usually would. On/off it is, until I get better.

hey, you don't need to impress anyone. just do what feels right/good - that's the point

You don't need a computer, but if you're looking for a cheap & solid one. I'd suggest this (http://www.rei.com/product/792412). Been a solid performer for years in all kinds of conditions, both commuting and mountain biking.

Thanks for that, i'll probably order it later. I want one to track the miles I put on my bike, my friends think it's amazing how many you can do without any trouble.

It may take a while for your sit bones to become used to the saddle. Going from 2.5 miles one day to 15 miles may be a bit much at this time. Give it some time and take time off as needed.

Also the saddle may be the culprit as well. I say give it some time to see how you feel. Congratulations on getting out there and riding. It sounds like you are really enjoying yourself and the bike.

It may take a while for your sit bones to become used to the saddle. Going from 2.5 miles one day to 15 miles may be a bit much at this time. Give it some time and take time off as needed.

Also the saddle may be the culprit as well. I say give it some time to see how you feel. Congratulations on getting out there and riding. It sounds like you are really enjoying yourself and the bike.

I will have to see about the saddle, I REALLY don't want to buy a new one lol. The bike was really expensive for a jobless 17 year old.

Just give yourself some time to get used to the saddle and riding. Commuting can be expensive up front. However, some of the items you buy will last as long as the bike. Some riders have Brooks saddles older than the bike they currently ride. They simply take the saddle from one bike to another because it works for them.

Save up as much as you can and prioritize. If you are riding to school a good lock would be in order (also learn proper technique). After that probably a rear flashy so you are noticed. Fenders if you plan on riding in all weather conditions. A rack if you want to carry items (usually easier than a backpack at times, especially for distances). A new saddle if you find you can't get comfortable on the one you have. Front lights for most situations can be useful.

You don't have to buy everything at once. Choose what you think will be most beneficial and buy. Most items would be somewhere between $20-$45 a peice. You can always hit up your parents with the "if you want me to be safe than this Xxy item will be useful". or if "you don't want me borrowing the car, than I can really use this Yxx to get to school". "See, it will be cheaper than filling up with a tank of gas".

"See, it will be cheaper than filling up with a tank of gas".

Yep, i'm really hoping to get some use out of my bike once gas goes up. :)

I probably will leave the saddle, it seems to be better after a few days. I do plan on getting some fenders.

I lost my keys to my gas eating truck.... It's a sign!

Yep, i'm really hoping to get some use out of my bike once gas goes up. :)

I probably will leave the saddle, it seems to be better after a few days. I do plan on getting some fenders.
If that saddle doesn't pan out, see if your LBS has any 'take-offs' that you could have free/dirt cheap. One of the shops in town has a bin full. Like exile said, usually once you figure out what saddle works for you, you stick with. So some customers just take the saddles off of their new bikes before they even leave the store.

They have a P5 (With the shock) for around 60 bucks more, is it worth the extra?
Some people like shocks, but for road riding, mostly it's just absorbing some energy (ie. making your ride less efficient). I wouldn't spend the money.

What are some things that I may need to upgrade? Do I need a rack, and fenders?
If you ride in the rain or snow, fenders are awesome. If you live in the desert, they're probably not so valuable.

Rack is definitely a preference thing. While racks in themselves are pretty cheap, the panniers that attach to them cost a bit, and the cheaper ones tend to be more difficult to carry when they're off the bike. I like not having the sweat trap between my back and backpack when I ride, but hauling the bags around is kind of a pain. So depends on your lifestyle. If you can leave them on the bike, or are only going to carry them from the bike to one desk/locker and leave them, I'd go with the panniers. If you're carrying them around all day, stick with the backpack (or spend more money and get easier to carry/backpack convertible panniers).

I am going to get a cheap U-lock, I'm going to park it in front of my school (lots of cameras/office people). I will get a light in the rear, but I plan on only biking in the light. (7 am and then 4pm).I'm not familiar with your model of bike, but I'm guessing its worth enough that you should get a decent u-lock. The cheaper the lock, the easier it is to break, so an extra $20-$30 to get something good can go a long way in protecting your investment. Nothing's foolproof, but there is a difference in quality.

So, I rode "to" school today. Basically, I rode to school, after school. (to see how long it was going to take me) But my "sit bones" were sore from the 8ish miles I did yesterday. Should I continue to ride daily, or should I take a break? Like alternate on/off for a few days?Daily rides are the way to go. The pain goes away quite quickly as your body adapts.

How come this ALWAYS happens to me? I buy something (usually by just biting the bullet) and I find something the same or BETTER a week later for 1/2 the price? I found a P5 on Craigslist this morning...250 dollars. Dangit. :)

How come this ALWAYS happens to me? I buy something (usually by just biting the bullet) and I find something the same or BETTER a week later for 1/2 the price? I found a P5 on Craigslist this morning...250 dollars. Dangit. :)

Don't sweat over it. Anything that is really decent and a bargain on Craigslist seem to last 1/2 a heartbeat. Chances of getting those bike are marginally slim at best unless there is some flaws. Congratulation on your new bike.

With my bike, and wheelset, am I able to jump curbs and ride down stairs?

Funny I should post this right after the above post...

My rear wheel is a little out of alignment (looks to be about 1/8") and I was wondering if I should bring it back to my LBS, or should I true it myself?

Funny I should post this right after the above post...

My rear wheel is a little out of alignment (looks to be about 1/8") and I was wondering if I should bring it back to my LBS, or should I true it myself?

Truing a wheel is a worthwhile skill to learn, but you'll need to buy a spoke wrench.

And, no, a hybrid-roadish bike is not meant to be ridden down stairs.

Truing a wheel is a worthwhile skill to learn, but you'll need to buy a spoke wrench.

And, no, a hybrid-roadish bike is not meant to be ridden down stairs.

I bought one, and watched several videos on it, thanks.

Yeah, I figured that, I haven't ridden down stairs. What about curb hopping?

So, I rode "to" school today. Basically, I rode to school, after school. (to see how long it was going to take me) But my "sit bones" were sore from the 8ish miles I did yesterday. Should I continue to ride daily, or should I take a break? Like alternate on/off for a few days?

If you're new to riding, your legs will need some time to adjust to daily riding, but pushing them is not necessarily detrimental. It's been a while since I commuted anywhere regularly, and even in the summer here in CO when riding season gets into full swing my legs can't handle more than 3-4 days on the bike. 8 miles each way is a fair distance (I say) for commuting, just remember that's 16 miles round trip, if I understood your distance correctly. My work is 11 miles each way, so I've not yet been able to start commuting with any sort of regularity. (I'm currently starting to accumulate hardware to build up my old mtb again and I hope for it to become my commuter, but that's still a few months away before it will be ready for that.) Right now, I just ride for riding's sake, meaning I go to work, come home, change into my bike garb, then head out on the bike. Pretty tough to fit it into the schedule sometimes though.

It's only 2.5ish miles one way, nothing bad at all. I do bike about 16 miles a day though, the other 10-11 come from riding around town. I ride on the sidewalks, but I really want to start riding in the road, people around here don't understand that I can be on the road too! I commuted today, I rode with one of my buddies to school, pretty fun. We plan on trying to ride Monday, Wednesday, Friday; or we might ride Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday.

My tail bone is sore, it has been a little sore for the past few weeks evertime I ride for more than 5 miles or so, it starts to get sore.

Today, my foot slipped off of the pedal, and I just barely bounced off the seat, but it hurt. I'm now sitting with a sore tailbone typing on my computer.

You are young and it won't take you long to get in shape. Just keep riding it will take you about 2 or 3 weeks to get into some kind of shape if you haven't ridden in a long time.

So, I rode "to" school today. Basically, I rode to school, after school. (to see how long it was going to take me) But my "sit bones" were sore from the 8ish miles I did yesterday. Should I continue to ride daily, or should I take a break? Like alternate on/off for a few days?

I would just keep checking each morning, and if its comfortable, go for it. It doesnt take very long for your body to adjust :thumb: