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newbie in dire need of help

Old 10-19-09, 09:33 PM
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newbie in dire need of help

Hey guys, this is my very first time on these forums. I just started getting in to road biking (I currently have a really old one) and I plan on purchasing a new one very soon. However, I have a few questions.

What are some bikes you guys recommend that I can get for under $300?
Also, the fastest I've gone on my current road bike is about 45mph, yet the bike is a bit heavy. I'm highly aware that there are super light bikes out there, and I wanted to buy one, but I'm not too sure if light bikes can stay as fast as the heavier bikes at higher speeds. It just seems as if a heavier bike would go faster than a lighter bike, is that true?

It's like rolling a tennis ball and baseball as hard and far as you can. The baseball would definitely roll further. Is this true with bikes (sorry for the stupid analogy, I didn't know other ways to explain it)? I'm guessing lighter bikes are slower because it's so light that the wind would have a huge effect on you as you ride fast compared to a heavier bike. If you guys could help me out, that would be awesome! Thanks sooo much!
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Old 10-20-09, 03:06 AM
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Welcome.
I saw a sheet metal disc wheel made by Mavic on the start line of a time trial some years ago. Maybe twenty pounds in that back wheel alone. Its owner claimed that for a flattish course, a greater rotating mass would be easier to pedal over the subtle dips and rises.
The problem occurs when you're trying to accelerate, brake, or... oh darnit.

I get it now. I tip my hat to you.
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Old 10-20-09, 03:06 AM
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A lighter bike is easier to push through the wind. A heavier bike would probably be faster down hill but would depend on the quality of the bike and it's components - cheap frames and components can flex a lot making the bike unstable at speed.
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Old 10-20-09, 10:28 AM
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Look for a road bike >20 yrs old on Craigslist in you locality. You can then see and ride it before you buy. A light bike will feel faster, but will not be as fast downhill as a heavy bike with a heavy rider. Speed really depends on the power in your legs.
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Old 10-20-09, 10:34 AM
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Lighter bikes are faster overall, they're more pleasurable to ride & handle better too.
I can't/won't comment on rolling dynamics involving rotation weight, inertia or the like.
Race bikes weigh 15 lbs. I'm sure that's more than proven (dis) your "theories"

Your target price for a descent road bike @ 300 can only include a used one.
New ones can be had for your price at dept. stores. Quality is questionable.
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