Brynn

[strike]I'm a newb, please don't shoot [/strike]

Hi, guys! I know the whole "pick the newb's bike" thing must be done to death here, but I've read the sticky and done searches (mostly on Dahon), and still am unsure of what to get.

First off, I guess it's important to know me before picking a bike. I'm an Asian SoCal college kid who learned early how to ride, but never had my own bike. I'm 5'6" and fluctuate between 124-132lbs, usually around 126lbs. I've got a very small, slight frame compared to most other Americans and am currently pretty weak, but am lucky to be somewhat naturally athletic. Beyond the occasional sit-ups and push-ups, the only exercise I get is walking a couple miles to the store. I want to change that and become more fit.

I also have suffered from severe depression for most of my life. However, exercise has been proven to help and I do like exploring even though I can't drive yet, so I want to get a small bike that can go with me everywhere, from home, to school, to stores and medical facilities, to the beach, and everywhere in between.

My budget is very low, since I'm currently unable to work a "normal job" due to too many debilitating issues. I primarily rely on my parents, though I'm currently expanding my Etsy shop's repertoire. We're talking $140 max budget right now; maybe up to $250 if my parents back me up. I can go up to $400 if I hold off (and I'm likely to).

I want a folding bike so I can bring it to class/shopping/etc. and don't have to worry about there not being enough room on the bus for it, nor about it getting stolen. So, it appears what I'm looking for is a lightweight bike that:
- folds with relative ease and speed
- folds small and isn't difficult to transport in a canvas bag
- is able to take long hills (I live in a valley surrounded by many small mountains, and the trek to one of my schools involves a gradual hill that goes on for a few miles).
- Not sure if I'm entirely opposed to a single-speeder, but until I know my biking skill better I'd prefer multi-speed.

I'm primarily considering used bikes since I don't want a cheap Walmart bike and am willing to learn how to work with the ride that folders are said to offer, and need input on what would be best for me.
https://sandiego.craigslist.org/sear...&query=folding

I got overwhelmed after just looking up reviews of those two companies and other folder-related things, so now I'm on this lovely forum!

All else fails, I'm considering holding off for now and saving for one of these: Downtube Nova
** EDIT: Please see my 2nd post for my questions about Downtube bikes.

Sorry for the lengthiness, but I tried to be thorough. Bolded important bits for ease of skimming, cuz I know unlike me, not everyone likes reading. Thank you so much for your time!!

fietsbob

Short version, inspect in person, learn how to judge how worn stuff is .

ShortLegCyclist

I've heard good things about the Downtube Nova, also about the Origami Gazelle, which lists for a little over $300.

But I'm not sure that at $140 budget you need a folding bike at all for the purposes you list.

If the main concern is not getting the bike stolen, my opinion is you would be best off looking for a small framed, used 26" steel mountain bike from the late 80's early 90's.

Like this one:

Trek Antelope Mountain Bike | eBay

But obviously better to find one nearer to you and in your size.

Older looking bike like that, especially in a small size like you would need, is less likely to be stolen than a fancy new one. Just lock it up when at school and don't leave it outside at night if you can help it.

I love my folding bikes, but at the $160 price point I just think there are better options as long as the reason is mainly theft prevention.

tds101 

Save for the Downtube Nova or Origami Gazelle,...

tmesis

I think getting a bike will be great for you. The feeling of riding a bike can really lift a person from the doldrums. Getting the sun in your face, wind in your hair...

However, I agree with ShortLegCyclist and wonder if you would be better served by an inexpensive normal size bike with a decent U lock. The idea of a folding bike is very attractive, but in practice involves compromises. They aren't very light and can actually feel heavier when you're carrying them folded because the weight is distributed over a smaller amount of space. They also tend to be slower and more work to pedal, especially bikes at your budget. I love the feeling of coasting on a regular sized bike; there's much less coasting on my folding bike. Security is a concern, but most folding bikes are not fun to drag around in buildings. If you take your bike into a large building, you may still end up worrying about getting it lifted while you go off to the bathroom. Folding bikes are great if you absolutely need them, e.g. for multimodal commute. If that's not the case, I recommend trying some out and getting a feel for their limitations as well as benefits.

Brynn

Hi guys, thanks for the advice.

To clarify, I want a small-folding bike due to my intense anxiety that I cause people trouble; a bike getting stolen is more of a minor worry. Like, what if I'm heading onto the bus from school and all the bike racks are full? Or, what if I'm going places with family/friends and want to bring my bike, but no one's got space or a bike rack? Folding bike: boom, problem solved. The weight (24-27-ish lbs, yeah?) weighs far less than the benefits, imo; I can deal with it.

I'm really leaning towards simply saving for the Downtube Nova so I have a set goal, though the Origami Gazelle also looks nice.

However, I saw these listings and am wondering which you guys think is the better bike for me, a Nova, Mini, or 9FS? I might be able to make the monthly payments work on that Mini. As for the 9FS, the two completed listings are around $325; I can try to win it for about that much if my parents back me up.
- Used Downtube Mini Rear Suspension 8 Speed Folding Bike Bicycle with 16" Wheels | eBay
- New Downtube 9FS Yellow Full Suspension Folding Bike 9 Speed 27SPEED Compatable | eBay

BruceMetras

The bigger the bike, the more of a hassle it will be in crowded areas.. the 9FS is a great bike, however, it's heavy and takes up a lot of space if you are trying to negotiate commuter buses/trains .. the Downtube Mini is a great little bike, folds smaller than 20" bikes, has the 8 speed Sturmey hub gear with gear 1 as direct drive and all other gears will be overdrive.. hence you have quite a good gear range for such a small bike.. and it is an excellent riding bike... I'd be liking the Mini from the choices so far..

BruceMetras

If you don't need more than a single speed, another option, if you're up for thinking outside the box, would be a Strida .. used ones seem to go in the 300 to 400 range .. really low maintenance and a very narrow/tall foot print when folded.. I had one for awhile and you could actually use it for general around town riding pretty easily.. the Strida importer is on this board, maybe he has something used that would be interesting..

Brynn

Yeah, I'm liking the Mini, too. Thanks for your input.

Between the price, design, and single speed, I don't think I'd like the Strida. The only thing it's got in my favor is that it folds tall and easy to walk. I think some of the hills I'm likely to ride up and down are too much for a single speeder to handle, but I've got so little riding experience that I can't know for sure.

downtube

Brynn,

With regards to your anxiety, please take a look at the videos at Vianna Thetahealing Stories - The Best Theta Experience In UK . This technique may help you....let me know if you have questions.

Thanks,
Yan

smallwheeler

this is a cycling forum and there is much that can be said about the health benefits of cycling.

this is not a venue for you to shill for your new age faith-healing cult/multi-level marketing scheme. please don't post about this again.

Thetahealing? Specialist


Theta healing - RationalWiki


https://thetahealingfraud.wordpress....ilty-of-fraud/

https://thetahealingfraud.wordpress....ripts-revised/

downtube

Smallwheeler,

Wow rough post! FYI the OP stated he had an issue with anxiety.....I don't think cycling will help with that. Am I wrong? Next you claim I have a "new age faith-healing cult/multi-level marketing scheme". FYI I do theta for FREE on anyone that wants it. I have worked on many people and have never accepted a penny. It makes me feel good on the inside to help people....that's payment enough.

Now let's address the logic of the BBC broadcast. They claim to prove theta is flawed by asking expert opinions. Is this how we prove/disprove things???? I thought we go through an experiment with a control group and experimental group. Claiming something is flawed with no evidence/experiment is flawed.

I learned theta in the Bahamas 2.5 yrs ago. I have run my own experiment and I have proven that it works ( for me ). FYI I have a Ph.D. in math and I am an excellent problem solver ( theoretical problems ). I have been a math professor for most of my adult career ( I am currently a full time faculty ) I am considered a professional logician, hence I would expect some respect on my opinion. Additionally, I would appreciate if you used an experiment to prove or disprove claims.

Thanks,
Yan

tmesis

There was an interesting profile in the NY Times on a neurologist who had quit his practice to devote as much time as he could to slowly ride his inline skates. He explained the feeling of release and freedom from the unhappiness he experienced as a practicing neurologist. There's even an explanation (though one I'm not entirely persuaded by) for the phenomenon in the video.

Interestingly, I came to the article after having had similar experiences riding my bike...also very slowly. I noticed a similar dissipation of anxiety when coasting on my bike at the slowest speed I could manage, around 4-5 mph. That's why I love to coast, and why when riding for pleasure, I prefer larger bikes that coast more easily than folding bikes with smaller wheels.


https://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/01/opinion/slomo.html

smallwheeler

Huh?.. Yes. Yes, you are wrong. So wrong in fact, I find it difficult to believe that you would even hold such an opinion. It's so obviously true that exercise improves physical and psychological health as to be axiomatic. the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, and the Mayo Clinic agree:

Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms - Mayo Clinic

"Exercise helps prevent and improve a number of health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis. Research on anxiety, depression and exercise shows that the psychological and physical benefits of exercise can also help reduce anxiety and improve mood."


Exercise for Stress and Anxiety | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA

"The physical benefits of exercise — improving physical condition and fighting disease — have long been established, and physicians always encourage staying physically active.
Exercise is also considered vital for maintaining mental fitness, and it can reduce stress. Studies show that it is very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and at enhancing overall cognitive function. This can be especially helpful when stress has depleted your energy or ability to concentrate.
When stress affects the brain, with its many nerve connections, the rest of the body feels the impact as well. Or, if your body feels better, so does your mind. Exercise and other physical activity produce endorphins — chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers — and also improve the ability to sleep, which in turn reduces stress.

Scientists have found that regular participation in aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease overall levels of tension, elevate and stabilize mood, improve sleep, and improve self-esteem. About five minutes of aerobic exercise can begin to stimulate anti-anxiety effects."

The news night program didn't make a claim. they were investigating a claim. It's your guru Vianna Stibal who has made claims. In the video she claims that a woman's ovaries "grew back" and then speculated that a person should be able to grow back severed limbs. (!)

Well, you're half right. But, you've got it backwards. When any claim is made, the burden of proof lies with the claimant. No one is obliged to "disprove" a claim. So, where are the double-blind studies and clinical trials and the peer reviewed articles that prove the efficacy of "thetahealing"?

You've proven that it works? please provide a link to your study. I will be very interested to read it.

You're demanding respect for your opinions on? What field of study are we talking about? Is it neuroscience?

If you want to start a thread called "the fibonacci sequence incorporated in folding bike design" or "how to start and maintain a chinese imports business" I will defer to your knowledge on these topics and probably take notes.

However, if you're claiming that your opinions about "thetahealing" should be respected because you're a math teacher or because your Phd in math confers upon you some special ability to think logically (which in itself is a logical fallacy), then I would refer you back to the first statement in your post. If you don't even understand that physical exercise can reduce the symptoms of anxiety and general depression, then why should anyone trust your opinions about "thetahealing" and it's guru's outrageous claims to regrow severed limbs or cure cancer?



the psychological benefits of cycling

downtube

Smallwheeler,

Wow, I think I must have touched a nerve! Let me say anyone that claims they know it all is off. Hence your mini lecture's tone proves that you are way off....but your anger is a bit too much for me. I will happily discuss once the tone changes, until then I have no interest in addressing anything.

I will say I don't have a guru, and I find such claims funny.

Thanks,
Yan

smallwheeler

Mental Effects of Cycling | Bicycling

"Exercise works as well as psychotherapy and antidepressants in the treatment of depression, maybe better," says James Blumenthal, PhD, professor of behavioral medicine in the department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. A recent study analyzing 26 years of research finds that even just some exercise—as little as 20 to 30 minutes a day—can prevent depression over the long term."

Cycling or walking to work 'improves psychological health' - Medical News Today

"The results suggest that people benefited from improved well-being when they stopped driving and started walking or cycling to work. Commuters reported that they felt better able to concentrate and "less under strain" if they used these methods of travel, rather than driving a car. "

and so on...

downtube

I biked across the country twice and have commuted by bike for over 20 years. I think I know a few things about the effects of cycling......the problem is the OP is making a decision about a bicycle based on anxiety. To make a proper choice the anxiety has to leave before he gets a bike....to get the full positive effect of the bicycle. Hence your argument is improper.

Your preaching of cycling to someone that may get the wrong bike is awkward and ignoring the problem. Once he makes a good choice he will get the full positive effects of the activity.

Thanks,
Yan

CliffordK

I second this... definitely check out the bikes in person.

I haven't had a lot of experience with folding bikes, but when inspecting them in person, they aren't quite as compact and easy to carry as one might expect.

If you have some time, some really nice bikes (Brompton, Bike Friday) do periodically turn up at good prices (sub $500). But, you could be waiting months for the deal of a lifetime when you could be riding a good enough bike now.,

smallwheeler

Are you calling me a know-it-all and telling me to calm down? Hehe. I'm pretty sure that's a form of ad hominem called "poisoning the well".

In fact, I'm not angry at all. I simply read what you wrote and took the time to respond to it in detail. If you would like to extend to me the same courtesy, I look forward to reading it.

I also posted some links to a few articles you might benefit from reading.

downtube

I'm glad to hear you are not angry. Thanks but I do not care to respond....I'd prefer to put an end the negative tone.

Thanks,
Yan

smallwheeler

Having a lot of experience with the effects of cycling would not make you unique on this board. However, you did say this:

And that is clearly wrong.


Let me make sure I understand this - You're saying that it's not possible for a person to make a rational, good decision while under stress or having feelings of anxiety? I'm going to go out on a limb and say i think you're probably overstating this. Further, i suspect you're overstating the problem in favor of a few sessions of good ole "thetahealing".


The only argument I made was that the benefits of cycling include reducing anxiety and elevating well-being generally. I did so using citation and links to supporting documents. You were wrong. Just admit it and forget it. It's no biggie.



I wasn't preaching anything but, "preaching" is an interesting choice of words for someone who is basically advocating for a pseudo-science cult.

ThorUSA

with those thoughts
I go sailing.........

together with my folding bike on the boat
and much more important being together with my girlfriend it will surely relieve most anxieties


thor


still applying to forum rules and not splattering my link to my homepage all over the place .......

minirider

There is a Tern C7 for sale on Craigslist in San Francisco. Perhaps that would work for you.
Tern Link C7 Black/Gray Folding Bicycle

dadbar

I rarely see unhappy bike riders. Once you ride your new folder, you will gleefully pass rows of miserable joggers.

Get a bike that makes you happy and don't devote a lot of energy into worrying about making the wrong decision. You are likely to want a better bike in a few years so use the first purchase as an excuse to learn more about what you want and don't want.

Enjoy!