Fifty Plus (50+) - Does N + 1 = +1?

My wife has been riding my old Peugeot P6 and we decided it was time to upgrade. At the bike shop, while she was test riding a few bikes, I was admiring both a Cervelo R3 and an RS. Talking about the difference in riding between the two, the salesperson said, "You just need to test ride both and see for yourself". Well, unfortunately, they did not have an R3 in my size and my wife had just decided on the Trek FX 7.5 men’s addition (+1). As luck would have it, her frame size is the same as mine, so with a little seat adjustment, guess who can also use it! :)

Two days later, the shop emails me that they have an R3 that just came in and would I like to stop by and take it and the RS for a spin. Well, who can pass up an opportunity like that, surely not me. A couple of days later, I go back and test ride both bikes and fall in love with both. The R3 is a rocket with great stability and surprising comfort, while the RS is a little more forgiving with the more up right positioning. As I do not race and enjoy long rides (with a little go-fast thrown in), the RS seems perfect.

Now the question, does N + 1 = +1? It is a tough decision!

So you have just bought the wife a New bike and you are wondering if you can stretch to a new bike for yourself?

Feel lucky- I had to buy the wife a new car to warrant getting mine.

I don't understand the equation, but your wife just had an N+1 and now it sounds like you are getting ready for an N+1 of your own.

I don't understand the equation, but your wife just had an N+1 and now it sounds like you are getting ready for an N+1 of your own.

Thats it, when you add 1, does it cause you to add another.

Thats it, when you add 1, does it cause you to add another.

When you add one, you get a new N. You still need to add one. You will always need to add one. Your wife added one. You haven't added one yet. You'd better get busy.:)

Perhaps this little video I made last spring can help you and your wife understand the N+1 equation. Remember the N+1 equation may have "universal applications".
http://www.xtranormal.com/watch/6272413/:D

As I remember my algebra,

N+1 = N+1

I assume you and your wife have an "equals" relationship and you need to keep the equation in balance for a happy marriage.

Irregardless of the math equations, we all appreciate your stimulation of the economy.

Perhaps this little video I made last spring can help you and your wife understand the N+1 equation. Remember the N+1 equation may have "universal applications".
http://www.xtranormal.com/watch/6272413/:D

Great video! I remember when you made it, but it certainly merits repeat viewings. Am afraid to show it to my wife.

I love it when he says, "I have four bicycles," then lists them all, and then says, "I have six bicycles."

Off to test ride again, wish me luck!

As far as comfort, both have the similar seat stays. I brought the R3 home for a two day trial over the weekend. That way, I was able to compare my RS to the R3.

I store my RS in the garage hung up on the wall by two brackets holding up the frame. The R3 would barely fit. I say this to confirm the geometry comparison of the two bikes. The RS is more stretched out with the longer chain stays. This doesn't mean that its some kind of touring bike. The RS still moves fast. But with the longer wheelbase, its probably more stable on descents. But if you examine the Cervelo geometry stats, the RS has an extra column for "rake". This tells me that the bike still handles exceedingly well, even though the head tube is longer.

To me the difference between the two is about acceleration and handling, two things the pro riders demand. It was most noticeable during ascents like going through a switchback and off the saddle for a surge on the straightaway afterwards. On flats, not so much tangible difference.

For me the bottom line was it confirmed that the RS I have is a good bike. Good enough that I installed the Rotor chain rings and PSIMET carbon clinchers.

Thanks, Garfield Cat

As the following pictures show, I came to the same conclusion yesterday after testing both again. Between yesterday afternoon and this morning, I have already put put in 63 miles (22 yesterday and 40 this morning).

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