Brit in Florida - Experience of a Gavin Nouvo Shimano STI/Sora
07-27-11, 09:30 AM
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Brit in Florida - Experience of a Gavin Nouvo Shimano STI/Sora
Hi,
I am currently on holiday in Florida and needed a bike just to train on for 3 weeks so I searched online and found RoadBikeOutlet in St. Augustin. I mailed to confirm I could just pick up a bike and take it away as I didn't want the hassle of waiting in all day for delivery etc. from other online shops. I duly turned up and was impressed by the set up and the helpfulness of the staff, as a Brit and living in the Netherlands one is just not used to this kind of service (Thanks Suzanna!). On getting the bike home in a semi-assembled state I put on the front wheel, handlebars, saddle, my Look pedals and a few other pieces I bought and set off for a first ride of about 90 mins. I was amazed at just how smooth this bike was to ride (must be the Shimano STI/Sora setup), I was cruising along at a comfortable speed in no time at all with little effort. I am not a hardened cyclist nowadays due to work and family stuff but have done numerous events in the past (12 hr bike, T.T's and Triathlons) and found this bike which cost considerably less than any of my previous racing machines to be an absolute pleasure to ride (ok, maybe not in the rear dept. but it's getting better!).
The plan was to buy a cheap bike, use it, then leave with relatives or sell before I return, but now I am taking it back with me to Europe for sure (this made an even easier choice now I have found out that VA take bikes for free:-).
In summary, this is a great bike for the price (under $500), the outlet and it's people-friendly service is great and I just love these U.S. roads - Thanks, Steve
I am currently on holiday in Florida and needed a bike just to train on for 3 weeks so I searched online and found RoadBikeOutlet in St. Augustin. I mailed to confirm I could just pick up a bike and take it away as I didn't want the hassle of waiting in all day for delivery etc. from other online shops. I duly turned up and was impressed by the set up and the helpfulness of the staff, as a Brit and living in the Netherlands one is just not used to this kind of service (Thanks Suzanna!). On getting the bike home in a semi-assembled state I put on the front wheel, handlebars, saddle, my Look pedals and a few other pieces I bought and set off for a first ride of about 90 mins. I was amazed at just how smooth this bike was to ride (must be the Shimano STI/Sora setup), I was cruising along at a comfortable speed in no time at all with little effort. I am not a hardened cyclist nowadays due to work and family stuff but have done numerous events in the past (12 hr bike, T.T's and Triathlons) and found this bike which cost considerably less than any of my previous racing machines to be an absolute pleasure to ride (ok, maybe not in the rear dept. but it's getting better!).
The plan was to buy a cheap bike, use it, then leave with relatives or sell before I return, but now I am taking it back with me to Europe for sure (this made an even easier choice now I have found out that VA take bikes for free:-).
In summary, this is a great bike for the price (under $500), the outlet and it's people-friendly service is great and I just love these U.S. roads - Thanks, Steve
07-29-11, 06:45 AM
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Welcome to the forums. Glad you like the "U.S roads" but I hope you don't meet up with a stupid U.S. driver.
08-04-11, 10:52 AM
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Greetings and Thanks
Thanks for the welcome messages, don't know how often I will get to the boards but I will try.
DEK, I have to say that I was very impressed with the US drivers so far, giving ample space when passing (esp. truckers - thanks!) Having cycled in the UK for quite a few years I have to say Florida rates high on my consideration scale as does Utrecht where I currently live in the Netherlands.
My bike will be delivered tomorrow from the UK as I didn't have room in my Chevy van due to too much other stuff. So provided it turns up in the exact number of pieces I packaged it in then I will be very happy and out on the roads asap.
One quick question, as it was a little boring cycling alone whilst over there, are there any sites or Organisations you would recommend to find some groups to ride with or even just find some good routes?
Any info greatly appreciated for my next visit - soon I hope!
regards and have a good weekend if I don't get back before then
Steve
DEK, I have to say that I was very impressed with the US drivers so far, giving ample space when passing (esp. truckers - thanks!) Having cycled in the UK for quite a few years I have to say Florida rates high on my consideration scale as does Utrecht where I currently live in the Netherlands.
My bike will be delivered tomorrow from the UK as I didn't have room in my Chevy van due to too much other stuff. So provided it turns up in the exact number of pieces I packaged it in then I will be very happy and out on the roads asap.
One quick question, as it was a little boring cycling alone whilst over there, are there any sites or Organisations you would recommend to find some groups to ride with or even just find some good routes?
Any info greatly appreciated for my next visit - soon I hope!
regards and have a good weekend if I don't get back before then
Steve
08-04-11, 11:30 AM
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Maharaja21: Here's a link to a site that could help find a club in the area you're staying...
https://www.floridabicycle.org/resources/clubs.html
I've very glad the U.S. drivers have been kind to you. I hope you enjoy the rest of your holiday.
https://www.floridabicycle.org/resources/clubs.html
I've very glad the U.S. drivers have been kind to you. I hope you enjoy the rest of your holiday.
