Road bike for a Clydesdale.
11-12-15, 07:47 AM
#26
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As you'd expect, typically the greater the volume of material, the more durable the wheels (should) be. More spokes, more durable.
Although you can possibly get away with lower count spokes, and riding thinner tires, the question is - are you willing to risk more money on a "maybe"?
If your greatest priority at this point is getting healthy, I'd go with as durable as I could go. The difference in speed between a road and mtn is night and day for the same rider.
Once you lose some more pounds and decide that this is something you want to take serious, then start thinking about going lighter and faster.
I wouldn't go any less than 28, and would be more apt to choose 32 or 36 if I were you. My first bike was 32/32 at 315#... broke the rear spokes 5 times over the first 3 months. I suspect it could've been a defective wheel (bought brand new though)... LBS was baffled, but knew my weight could've been an issue. About 6 months later, sold that bike for another roadie (weighing 285) and rode 28f/32r... only issue was minor true. No spokes broken yet.
Breaking spokes left and right is not fun, and certainly doesn't help with your fitness goals.
Although you can possibly get away with lower count spokes, and riding thinner tires, the question is - are you willing to risk more money on a "maybe"?
If your greatest priority at this point is getting healthy, I'd go with as durable as I could go. The difference in speed between a road and mtn is night and day for the same rider.
Once you lose some more pounds and decide that this is something you want to take serious, then start thinking about going lighter and faster.
I wouldn't go any less than 28, and would be more apt to choose 32 or 36 if I were you. My first bike was 32/32 at 315#... broke the rear spokes 5 times over the first 3 months. I suspect it could've been a defective wheel (bought brand new though)... LBS was baffled, but knew my weight could've been an issue. About 6 months later, sold that bike for another roadie (weighing 285) and rode 28f/32r... only issue was minor true. No spokes broken yet.
Breaking spokes left and right is not fun, and certainly doesn't help with your fitness goals.
Yes, I meant to type 69 inches.
Are you really 4'11" tall?
Anyhow, the answer is, there are better quality wheels and worse quality wheels. And I know there are 300 lbers who have done well with low spoke count wheels. That said, I would suggest you go with at least 36 spokes on the back wheel, 32 spokes on the front wheel. My weight fluctuates between 250 and 260 and that is what I have. The weight of 4 or 8 spokes is pretty small compared with the peace of mind you have knowing your wheels can take whatever you throw at it.
Anyhow, the answer is, there are better quality wheels and worse quality wheels. And I know there are 300 lbers who have done well with low spoke count wheels. That said, I would suggest you go with at least 36 spokes on the back wheel, 32 spokes on the front wheel. My weight fluctuates between 250 and 260 and that is what I have. The weight of 4 or 8 spokes is pretty small compared with the peace of mind you have knowing your wheels can take whatever you throw at it.
Ok, So I understand that I should be looking for wheels with a higher spoke count.
11-12-15, 07:52 AM
#27
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Ok, so knowing that I should also be looking for wheels with a higher spoke count I found this bike. It needs a new saddle and post but according to the person selling it, it has 36 spoke wheels. He also said that it was a 14 speed.
11-12-15, 08:01 AM
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Find the bike you want then replace the wheels if they are too flimsy for your weight.
11-12-15, 08:08 AM
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Thanks, being a rookie in looking for a road bike I didn't know. I know the brand is Schwinn has been around for a long time and it did have higher spoke count wheels.
11-12-15, 09:04 AM
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This looks like a good one for you:
56cm Surly Straggler Steel Bike w/ Disc Brakes & Rear Rack
Could put some smaller tires (28s) on it if you get the urge to go faster.
56cm Surly Straggler Steel Bike w/ Disc Brakes & Rear Rack
Could put some smaller tires (28s) on it if you get the urge to go faster.
11-13-15, 07:38 AM
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Are you really 4'11" tall?
Anyhow, the answer is, there are better quality wheels and worse quality wheels. And I know there are 300 lbers who have done well with low spoke count wheels. That said, I would suggest you go with at least 36 spokes on the back wheel, 32 spokes on the front wheel. My weight fluctuates between 250 and 260 and that is what I have. The weight of 4 or 8 spokes is pretty small compared with the peace of mind you have knowing your wheels can take whatever you throw at it.
Anyhow, the answer is, there are better quality wheels and worse quality wheels. And I know there are 300 lbers who have done well with low spoke count wheels. That said, I would suggest you go with at least 36 spokes on the back wheel, 32 spokes on the front wheel. My weight fluctuates between 250 and 260 and that is what I have. The weight of 4 or 8 spokes is pretty small compared with the peace of mind you have knowing your wheels can take whatever you throw at it.
Bbandu, the Giant and the Jamis you posted are both way too big for you. You need a bike that is a 53, 54, or at most a 55cm frame ----- for manufacturers that cheap out and only offer S, M,L, and XL, That translates to a medium, and you could probably ride some Smal bikes
i am your height and i ride the size 51 Cannondale Synapse Carbon--- its a sloping top tube bike so the sizes are a bit wonky, as i ride a 53/54 in aconventional double diamond frame
11-13-15, 07:43 AM
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per a different post, the OP is 5'9", Not 59"
Bbandu, the Giant and the Jamis you posted are both way too big for you. You need a bike that is a 53, 54, or at most a 55cm frame ----- for manufacturers that cheap out and only offer S, M,L, and XL, That translates to a medium, and you could probably ride some Smal bikes
i am your height and i ride the size 51 Cannondale Synapse Carbon--- its a sloping top tube bike so the sizes are a bit wonky, as i ride a 53/54 in aconventional double diamond frame
Bbandu, the Giant and the Jamis you posted are both way too big for you. You need a bike that is a 53, 54, or at most a 55cm frame ----- for manufacturers that cheap out and only offer S, M,L, and XL, That translates to a medium, and you could probably ride some Smal bikes
i am your height and i ride the size 51 Cannondale Synapse Carbon--- its a sloping top tube bike so the sizes are a bit wonky, as i ride a 53/54 in aconventional double diamond frame
11-13-15, 07:48 AM
#33
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I am not saying you shouldn't buy a used Schwinn. My son has an early 2000s Schwinn Moab mountain bike with really good components that has been really good given what I paid for it, but you need to know what you are looking for.
11-13-15, 11:18 AM
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Depends on the bike - depends on you
11-13-15, 04:32 PM
#36
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depends on your budget. Here is my Crosshairs. 36 spokes for sure
11-13-15, 07:51 PM
#37
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[QUOTE=wvridgerider;18317575]depends on your budget. Here is my Crosshairs. 36 spokes for sure
I had a Surly CrossCheck and it was a good low cost bike
I had a Surly CrossCheck and it was a good low cost bike
11-16-15, 09:00 AM
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Well I am trying to get the best for the cheapest, as I just bought a new MTB at the end of Sept. Right now I am trying really to stay around the $500 range if possible however if the right bike comes along that could change.
[QUOTE=wvridgerider;18317938]
Nice looking bike.
[QUOTE=wvridgerider;18317938]
Nice looking bike.
11-16-15, 09:19 AM
#39
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$500 doesn't get you much outside of Bikesdirect and the used market. Given that this is your first road bike I would suggest avoiding BD, as you really need to get a bike that fits you, which means having a hands on. Do you have an LBS that sells used bikes? Many do.
11-16-15, 09:27 AM
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Another perspective just to add to this... Given what I know now and knowing that I've found tons of good times on the pedals... I wouldn't hesitate going on a payment plan for a bike that would be past my original budget. I wouldn't go crazy, but I do think that going with solid components and a nicer frame wouldn't be a bad investment. Some bike shops offer financing, and if your credit is at solid rates, there's another option.
11-17-15, 12:06 PM
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Frame material will be strong enough no matter what it is unless you are looking at the most race-focused ultra high end carbon bikes. Bikes with the kind of tire clearance I'm talking about generally are only made in steel or titanium; it's just that except for super-elite rigs, nearly all frames are way overbuilt which is a really good thing. I'd recommend in no particular order: Bianchi Volpe, Kona ***** Tonk, Soma San Marco, and Rivendell Sam Hillborne.
11-17-15, 12:24 PM
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Here are some lower priced options:
Specialized Allez Sport Mens Road Bike, 54cm, 2015, BRAND NEW
Jamis Eclipse 61cm - steel frame road bike (this one is likely too big but its a lot of bike for the price)
Schwinn Peloton Pro 60cm (same with this one)
Here's the search I'm using:
san diego bicycles - craigslist
Specialized Allez Sport Mens Road Bike, 54cm, 2015, BRAND NEW
Jamis Eclipse 61cm - steel frame road bike (this one is likely too big but its a lot of bike for the price)
Schwinn Peloton Pro 60cm (same with this one)
Here's the search I'm using:
san diego bicycles - craigslist
11-17-15, 04:23 PM
#43
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I would suggest several things based on 1. Weighing 220 lbs myself and 2. being a working bike mechanic for 35+ years. First--Tire cross-section is king, should be your first concern. You want room for 28c tires if you're over 190 lbs, for 32's if you're over 250. You will enjoy the better handling, ride quality and fewer flats no matter what your weight. That being said, look for bikes with either post mounted (cantilever or V) brakes, or 47 to 57mm reach caliper brakes.
Frame material will be strong enough no matter what it is unless you are looking at the most race-focused ultra high end carbon bikes. Bikes with the kind of tire clearance I'm talking about generally are only made in steel or titanium; it's just that except for super-elite rigs, nearly all frames are way overbuilt which is a really good thing. I'd recommend in no particular order: Bianchi Volpe, Kona ***** Tonk, Soma San Marco, and Rivendell Sam Hillborne.
Frame material will be strong enough no matter what it is unless you are looking at the most race-focused ultra high end carbon bikes. Bikes with the kind of tire clearance I'm talking about generally are only made in steel or titanium; it's just that except for super-elite rigs, nearly all frames are way overbuilt which is a really good thing. I'd recommend in no particular order: Bianchi Volpe, Kona ***** Tonk, Soma San Marco, and Rivendell Sam Hillborne.
11-18-15, 07:29 AM
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[QUOTE=bbandu;18322600]Well I am trying to get the best for the cheapest, as I just bought a new MTB at the end of Sept. Right now I am trying really to stay around the $500 range if possible however if the right bike comes along that could change.
Unfortunately, you aren't getting a new Gunnar for $500, or even twice that price. Part of the problem a lot of newbies makes is, they rush off and buy something less than ideal, like a super light weight racing bike or a mountain bike with knobbies when they want to ride on roads and paved trails. Then they realize they made a mistake and compound it by making more purchasing mistakes.
I suspect OP might have a bit of buyer's remorse and is looking to remedy this with another purchase. Take your time and figure out what you really want. And in the meantime, just ride what you have. Since you have a bike, take the time to figure out both the types of bikes and the price points and find what works for you. FWIW, unless you go the Internet or used route, it is hard to find a good road bike for $500. IMO, anything you will find for $500 or even $700 retail won't satisfy you for long.
Unfortunately, you aren't getting a new Gunnar for $500, or even twice that price. Part of the problem a lot of newbies makes is, they rush off and buy something less than ideal, like a super light weight racing bike or a mountain bike with knobbies when they want to ride on roads and paved trails. Then they realize they made a mistake and compound it by making more purchasing mistakes.
I suspect OP might have a bit of buyer's remorse and is looking to remedy this with another purchase. Take your time and figure out what you really want. And in the meantime, just ride what you have. Since you have a bike, take the time to figure out both the types of bikes and the price points and find what works for you. FWIW, unless you go the Internet or used route, it is hard to find a good road bike for $500. IMO, anything you will find for $500 or even $700 retail won't satisfy you for long.
Last edited by MRT2; 11-18-15 at 09:04 AM.
11-20-15, 12:42 AM
#45
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[QUOTE=MRT2;18327366]
Thanks MRT2 for the comments. I am not sure who OP is but I am very happy with my purchase of a mountain bike. I am trying to do my research and figure out what I really want, however as I have never owned a road bike before makes it is hard to say what I really want other then a good bike. I am not just going to run out and buy a bike without trying to get it as close as possible to my size and fit.
I am riding my current bike and trying to ride it hard to get in a better shape other then round.
Again thanks
Well I am trying to get the best for the cheapest, as I just bought a new MTB at the end of Sept. Right now I am trying really to stay around the $500 range if possible however if the right bike comes along that could change.
Unfortunately, you aren't getting a new Gunnar for $500, or even twice that price. Part of the problem a lot of newbies makes is, they rush off and buy something less than ideal, like a super light weight racing bike or a mountain bike with knobbies when they want to ride on roads and paved trails. Then they realize they made a mistake and compound it by making more purchasing mistakes.
I suspect OP might have a bit of buyer's remorse and is looking to remedy this with another purchase. Take your time and figure out what you really want. And in the meantime, just ride what you have. Since you have a bike, take the time to figure out both the types of bikes and the price points and find what works for you. FWIW, unless you go the Internet or used route, it is hard to find a good road bike for $500. IMO, anything you will find for $500 or even $700 retail won't satisfy you for long.
Unfortunately, you aren't getting a new Gunnar for $500, or even twice that price. Part of the problem a lot of newbies makes is, they rush off and buy something less than ideal, like a super light weight racing bike or a mountain bike with knobbies when they want to ride on roads and paved trails. Then they realize they made a mistake and compound it by making more purchasing mistakes.
I suspect OP might have a bit of buyer's remorse and is looking to remedy this with another purchase. Take your time and figure out what you really want. And in the meantime, just ride what you have. Since you have a bike, take the time to figure out both the types of bikes and the price points and find what works for you. FWIW, unless you go the Internet or used route, it is hard to find a good road bike for $500. IMO, anything you will find for $500 or even $700 retail won't satisfy you for long.
I am riding my current bike and trying to ride it hard to get in a better shape other then round.
Again thanks
11-20-15, 11:02 AM
#46
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[QUOTE=bbandu;18332553]
Thanks MRT2 for the comments. I am not sure who OP is but I am very happy with my purchase of a mountain bike. I am trying to do my research and figure out what I really want, however as I have never owned a road bike before makes it is hard to say what I really want other then a good bike. I am not just going to run out and buy a bike without trying to get it as close as possible to my size and fit.
I am riding my current bike and trying to ride it hard to get in a better shape other then round.
Again thanks
Riding a bike is one of those things you have to do for yourself in order to know what works for you. I would urge you to rent a road bike and take it for a ride for at least a couple of hours. You might love it, you might hate it, but either way, you will get the feel for how road bikes ride. I have a friend who was looking at a modern racing bike last year to possibly replace or supplement his vintage Panasonic. When he finally tried one, he was dismayed to find he hated it. And it was a useful thing to do because after a couple of test rides, he felt much better about putting some money into his old bike, which he likes.
Thanks MRT2 for the comments. I am not sure who OP is but I am very happy with my purchase of a mountain bike. I am trying to do my research and figure out what I really want, however as I have never owned a road bike before makes it is hard to say what I really want other then a good bike. I am not just going to run out and buy a bike without trying to get it as close as possible to my size and fit.
I am riding my current bike and trying to ride it hard to get in a better shape other then round.
Again thanks
Riding a bike is one of those things you have to do for yourself in order to know what works for you. I would urge you to rent a road bike and take it for a ride for at least a couple of hours. You might love it, you might hate it, but either way, you will get the feel for how road bikes ride. I have a friend who was looking at a modern racing bike last year to possibly replace or supplement his vintage Panasonic. When he finally tried one, he was dismayed to find he hated it. And it was a useful thing to do because after a couple of test rides, he felt much better about putting some money into his old bike, which he likes.
11-23-15, 11:23 AM
#48
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Another thing--REI's Novara line of bikes always includes at least one good touring bike and one 28c+ compatible road bike. Their bikes are excellent. There was one from 2012-2014 called a Verita that was a perfect non-racer's road bike; some are still available as closeouts for around $650.
11-23-15, 11:25 AM
#49
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Here are some lower priced options:
Specialized Allez Sport Mens Road Bike, 54cm, 2015, BRAND NEW
Jamis Eclipse 61cm - steel frame road bike (this one is likely too big but its a lot of bike for the price)
Schwinn Peloton Pro 60cm (same with this one)
Here's the search I'm using:
san diego bicycles - craigslist
Specialized Allez Sport Mens Road Bike, 54cm, 2015, BRAND NEW
Jamis Eclipse 61cm - steel frame road bike (this one is likely too big but its a lot of bike for the price)
Schwinn Peloton Pro 60cm (same with this one)
Here's the search I'm using:
san diego bicycles - craigslist
11-23-15, 11:46 AM
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$150.00 Vuelta HD wheels WILL hold up. Cheap and easy solution. Any frame from a quality manufacture should not be an issue.