Northern California - Recommended bikes for riding in San Francisco and Commuting to Mountain View

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wondersloth
06-02-11, 08:55 AM
Hi,

I've been looking to get a road bike lately since moving from San Jose to San Francisco. I am currently riding a fixed gear, but am tired of using that for long rides. I would like join the world of road biking.

I've been riding bikes this last couple of weeks. I've rode:

Felts Z75 (I think)
Felt F75 (I think)
Ridley Icarus
Giant XCR (I think)
Ridley Damocles ::drool::


I am currently in love with the Ridley Damocles, such a great bike but I am not sure if I need something that crazy for starting off.

Up next I want to try a:

CAAD 10
Bianchi Vigorelli
Bianchi Via Nirone


Oh and I am a big guy. Part of the Clydesdale crew. 6'4 240lbs.

TL;DR
Any recommendations to decide on Carbon vs Alu vs Steel in the city and commuting down to Mountain View. I am leaning towards Alu for the entry level price but more so for durability for city riding.

Thanks. Any input is awesome.

johnny99
06-02-11, 10:30 AM
For your size, look for bikes that can fit wider tires. Many racing-style bikes can only use 23 or 25mm tires and those may pinch flat too often for you.
wondersloth
06-02-11, 07:10 PM
I currently haven't had any problems with running a 23mm tube/tire on my fixed gear.

c0lnago
06-02-11, 08:08 PM
I'd go for a cross bike...
shiz702
06-02-11, 08:22 PM
You're on the right track. Just keep test riding bikes and go with the one that you love. In the end, if you don't love what you bought you won't want to get on it and ride!