Just took my first test rides on fixies...please help me choose what I should buy!
10-31-07, 12:10 PM
#1
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Just took my first test rides on fixies...please help me choose what I should buy!
I just took my first fixed ride!!! It was sweet! Even though I was expecting it to some degree, I was a little surprised by the feeling of power transfer and the smoothness of the spin. I can see how it would become completely addictive.
I'm ready to make a move.
Mostly, I will use whatever I buy for a short commute and for longer rides on paved and hard packed paths on the river levee. I've been riding a Cannondale MB400 mountain bike (no suspension) for at least ten years and I'm ready for something a little more interesting and challenging. Of course, I'll still use the Cannondale for trail riding.
The contenders:
1) Converted Motobecane Le Champion ( https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/.../lechamp08.htm )
This one is at the LBS and it has some used parts and some new parts. It has a pretty nice set of wheels with a flip-flop hub. The stem and handlebars look like they do in the above pic. They said they would put new 700x28 Conti tires on the bike for me because I want 28s for the unpaved trail and crappy streets. It had a 28 on front and a 25 on back...plenty of clearance, though. Aluminum frame...not that I really care, but I'm used to the feel. Carbon fork. Nice saddle, too. Very nice front and rear brakes. Very light. $450.
2) Converted Schwinn World Sport
Also at the LBS. The hub isn't a flip-flop and the wheel isn't dished for that. The wheels are definitely not as nice. The tires on the bike are new 28s, though, and seem good. I was surprised by the responsiveness compared to my geared mountain bike, anyway! EASY to ride....felt good. Front brake only. Had drop bars but just a single little lever up on the flat part, which was kind of goofy. I could get used to it, I'm sure, or change it. NOT a luxury ride at all, but serviceable and priced right at $200. It's basically risk-free. If it lasts 6-8 months and I still like riding fixed, I can upgrade easily and not feel like I wasted money. Hell, I could probably sell it for more on e-bay, based on what I'm seeing!!! This is NOT a luxurious ride, but a simple intro-to-fixie bike for a song.
3) Mercier Kilo TT from BD
I'm thinking I would have to add a front brake and put on some new tires (28s) pretty much right away. I suppose I would end up spending a little over $400 total, so I'd be right up there in the neighborhood of the Motobecane, but the wheels wouldn't be as nice and the saddle wouldn't be as nice. Also I can't test the riding position or fit. I wouldn't be supporting my LBS, which is important to me. People DO love these bikes, though, and they are sharp and clean looking...better looking that the Motobecane, in my opinion. And I'm sure the parts are serviceable enough for me for a while.
Help! Any thoughts would be appreciated!!!
I'm ready to make a move.
Mostly, I will use whatever I buy for a short commute and for longer rides on paved and hard packed paths on the river levee. I've been riding a Cannondale MB400 mountain bike (no suspension) for at least ten years and I'm ready for something a little more interesting and challenging. Of course, I'll still use the Cannondale for trail riding.
The contenders:
1) Converted Motobecane Le Champion ( https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/.../lechamp08.htm )
This one is at the LBS and it has some used parts and some new parts. It has a pretty nice set of wheels with a flip-flop hub. The stem and handlebars look like they do in the above pic. They said they would put new 700x28 Conti tires on the bike for me because I want 28s for the unpaved trail and crappy streets. It had a 28 on front and a 25 on back...plenty of clearance, though. Aluminum frame...not that I really care, but I'm used to the feel. Carbon fork. Nice saddle, too. Very nice front and rear brakes. Very light. $450.
2) Converted Schwinn World Sport
Also at the LBS. The hub isn't a flip-flop and the wheel isn't dished for that. The wheels are definitely not as nice. The tires on the bike are new 28s, though, and seem good. I was surprised by the responsiveness compared to my geared mountain bike, anyway! EASY to ride....felt good. Front brake only. Had drop bars but just a single little lever up on the flat part, which was kind of goofy. I could get used to it, I'm sure, or change it. NOT a luxury ride at all, but serviceable and priced right at $200. It's basically risk-free. If it lasts 6-8 months and I still like riding fixed, I can upgrade easily and not feel like I wasted money. Hell, I could probably sell it for more on e-bay, based on what I'm seeing!!! This is NOT a luxurious ride, but a simple intro-to-fixie bike for a song.
3) Mercier Kilo TT from BD
I'm thinking I would have to add a front brake and put on some new tires (28s) pretty much right away. I suppose I would end up spending a little over $400 total, so I'd be right up there in the neighborhood of the Motobecane, but the wheels wouldn't be as nice and the saddle wouldn't be as nice. Also I can't test the riding position or fit. I wouldn't be supporting my LBS, which is important to me. People DO love these bikes, though, and they are sharp and clean looking...better looking that the Motobecane, in my opinion. And I'm sure the parts are serviceable enough for me for a while.
Help! Any thoughts would be appreciated!!!
10-31-07, 12:33 PM
#3
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The Schwinn sounds depressing.
The LeChamp is nice unless you want to change your gear ratio. You will run into trouble because the vertical rear dropouts only accept certain combinations of chain length, chain and cog (known as the "magic gear" combinations).
The Kilo has track dropouts and can take whatever gear ratio you want. It also has more agressive geometry than the le champ and may be a bit rough for long rides. (My info on the Kilo is based entirely on user testimonials on this board but I take it to be generally accurate). Your decision here really depends on what kind of riding you like to do.
The LeChamp is nice unless you want to change your gear ratio. You will run into trouble because the vertical rear dropouts only accept certain combinations of chain length, chain and cog (known as the "magic gear" combinations).
The Kilo has track dropouts and can take whatever gear ratio you want. It also has more agressive geometry than the le champ and may be a bit rough for long rides. (My info on the Kilo is based entirely on user testimonials on this board but I take it to be generally accurate). Your decision here really depends on what kind of riding you like to do.
Last edited by kmart; 10-31-07 at 01:29 PM.
10-31-07, 12:57 PM
#4
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You should go with the Kilo.. I have one myself, its a nice bike. The ride and feel of a track bike and a converted road bike are not the same..
10-31-07, 01:13 PM
#5
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Unless you're getting your conversion from a friend or are getting a killer deal on CL, don't buy a conversion. Converting is about finding something you like and building it up the way you want (or digging in dumpsters so that you can ride).
Buy the kilo.
Buy the kilo.
10-31-07, 01:19 PM
#6
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Option #2. It's a road geometry, which won't be as nervous as a track bike (#3), and yes, you get a taste for what you want for not a lot of coin.
10-31-07, 03:58 PM
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If your ready to take the dive into fixed gear I would agree and say do not go the way of the conversion. For the price the Kilo is a great deal and it's going to give you the best feel of a fixed gear. Good luck and welcome to the club!!!
10-31-07, 04:57 PM
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I would say Kilo. You do have a point about supporting the LBS...I bought my Raleigh Rush Hour at the LBS b/c of that matter and it was only $40 more...I am glad I did that too, b/c now when I go to the LBS for stuff, I have been given either free stuff, discounted stuff, or free labor on work needed...So in the long run the LBS deal has really paid off and I feel that I have got a great deal on a really awesome bike..
10-31-07, 05:05 PM
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I really appreciate all the thoughts...keep 'em coming, PLEASE.
Though I've got zero votes for it so far, for some reason I find myself leaning toward the Motobecane. I spent some more time looking at components on the bike...Cane Creek headset, Velocity Aeros (brand new), nice 700x28 tires...it's got quite a lot of higher dollar components on it than the Mercier would have if I bought it and spent another $100. The wheels and tires are easily a $150 upgrade alone...or more. The folks at the LBS are also being very patient with me and they changed out the handlebars and pedals so I could get a better feel for the bike set up the way I want it. The frame and fork set is nice...not track geometry, for sure, but it's a good fit for me and I like the riding position and handling. Of course, for ANOTHER $200, I could get a complete Surly Steamroller...But I am limiting my choices to these three.
Though I've got zero votes for it so far, for some reason I find myself leaning toward the Motobecane. I spent some more time looking at components on the bike...Cane Creek headset, Velocity Aeros (brand new), nice 700x28 tires...it's got quite a lot of higher dollar components on it than the Mercier would have if I bought it and spent another $100. The wheels and tires are easily a $150 upgrade alone...or more. The folks at the LBS are also being very patient with me and they changed out the handlebars and pedals so I could get a better feel for the bike set up the way I want it. The frame and fork set is nice...not track geometry, for sure, but it's a good fit for me and I like the riding position and handling. Of course, for ANOTHER $200, I could get a complete Surly Steamroller...But I am limiting my choices to these three.
10-31-07, 05:11 PM
#10
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2) Converted Schwinn World Sport
Also at the LBS. The hub isn't a flip-flop and the wheel isn't dished for that. The wheels are definitely not as nice. The tires on the bike are new 28s, though, and seem good. I was surprised by the responsiveness compared to my geared mountain bike, anyway! EASY to ride....felt good. Front brake only. Had drop bars but just a single little lever up on the flat part, which was kind of goofy. I could get used to it, I'm sure, or change it. NOT a luxury ride at all, but serviceable and priced right at $200. It's basically risk-free. If it lasts 6-8 months and I still like riding fixed, I can upgrade easily and not feel like I wasted money. Hell, I could probably sell it for more on e-bay, based on what I'm seeing!!! This is NOT a luxurious ride, but a simple intro-to-fixie bike for a song.
This is exactly what I have. I say go for the schwinn, but I'm a cheap ba$tard...
Also at the LBS. The hub isn't a flip-flop and the wheel isn't dished for that. The wheels are definitely not as nice. The tires on the bike are new 28s, though, and seem good. I was surprised by the responsiveness compared to my geared mountain bike, anyway! EASY to ride....felt good. Front brake only. Had drop bars but just a single little lever up on the flat part, which was kind of goofy. I could get used to it, I'm sure, or change it. NOT a luxury ride at all, but serviceable and priced right at $200. It's basically risk-free. If it lasts 6-8 months and I still like riding fixed, I can upgrade easily and not feel like I wasted money. Hell, I could probably sell it for more on e-bay, based on what I'm seeing!!! This is NOT a luxurious ride, but a simple intro-to-fixie bike for a song.
This is exactly what I have. I say go for the schwinn, but I'm a cheap ba$tard...
10-31-07, 05:15 PM
#11
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If the Moto has the gearing you like, it's not a bad way to go. The issue is those vertical dropouts. Highly restrictive if you want to change gearing...
I really appreciate all the thoughts...keep 'em coming, PLEASE.
Though I've got zero votes for it so far, for some reason I find myself leaning toward the Motobecane. I spent some more time looking at components on the bike...Cane Creek headset, Velocity Aeros (brand new), nice 700x28 tires...it's got quite a lot of higher dollar components on it than the Mercier would have if I bought it and spent another $100. The wheels and tires are easily a $150 upgrade alone...or more. The folks at the LBS are also being very patient with me and they changed out the handlebars and pedals so I could get a better feel for the bike set up the way I want it. The frame and fork set is nice...not track geometry, for sure, but it's a good fit for me and I like the riding position and handling. Of course, for ANOTHER $200, I could get a complete Surly Steamroller...But I am limiting my choices to these three.
Though I've got zero votes for it so far, for some reason I find myself leaning toward the Motobecane. I spent some more time looking at components on the bike...Cane Creek headset, Velocity Aeros (brand new), nice 700x28 tires...it's got quite a lot of higher dollar components on it than the Mercier would have if I bought it and spent another $100. The wheels and tires are easily a $150 upgrade alone...or more. The folks at the LBS are also being very patient with me and they changed out the handlebars and pedals so I could get a better feel for the bike set up the way I want it. The frame and fork set is nice...not track geometry, for sure, but it's a good fit for me and I like the riding position and handling. Of course, for ANOTHER $200, I could get a complete Surly Steamroller...But I am limiting my choices to these three.
10-31-07, 05:23 PM
#12
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not to mention that if the chain loosens it'll fall off. or if it's just a little loose, you can't tension it (oops, i mean the chain). you have no options for setup or maintenance. i'd stay away from vertical dropouts on a fixed.
10-31-07, 05:42 PM
#13
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Kilos are the new Pista. Why not just go all the way and get the new Felt.
I'd go for the Schwinn. Ride it like crazy. Strip it down and repaint the frame. Upgrade it as you see fit, you can always move the parts to a new frame later.
I'd go for the Schwinn. Ride it like crazy. Strip it down and repaint the frame. Upgrade it as you see fit, you can always move the parts to a new frame later.
10-31-07, 05:49 PM
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I had a World Sport in college and I'd love to have that bike back for a fixed conversion, but I'm a) sentimental, b) cheap, and c) like to tinker with bike stuff. If you're like that, go for the Schwinn. Otherwise, I'd say get the Kilo.
10-31-07, 06:59 PM
#15
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If you're choosing the fatter tires specifically because you don't like being beat up by crappy streets, I'd recommend seriously looking into steel. The ride is much smoother than aluminum without giving up much stiffness. For any given frame, steel with 23mm tires will give you much more comfort than aluminum with 28's or even bigger.
If you don't have horizontal dropouts, then you'd better have a White Industries rear hub, or else you're risking some really annoying chain issues.
I personally prefer road geometry, but I'm getting up there in age (38) and need a bit more cushy ride. Track stuff is fun-twitchy, but also pretty unforgiving. YMMV.
If you don't have horizontal dropouts, then you'd better have a White Industries rear hub, or else you're risking some really annoying chain issues.
I personally prefer road geometry, but I'm getting up there in age (38) and need a bit more cushy ride. Track stuff is fun-twitchy, but also pretty unforgiving. YMMV.
10-31-07, 07:00 PM
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I basically got the same Schwinn sans wheels for $3... If you decide to go down that road, you may want to consider building your own up... (if you are mechanically inclined and have the tools and whatnot).
Old road bikes are easy to come by arouind here though.... You can find at least one a week if you spend an hour or so looking around.
Also, the world makes a good winter bike if your weather is cruddy...
Old road bikes are easy to come by arouind here though.... You can find at least one a week if you spend an hour or so looking around.
Also, the world makes a good winter bike if your weather is cruddy...
10-31-07, 08:01 PM
#17
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If you're choosing the fatter tires specifically because you don't like being beat up by crappy streets, I'd recommend seriously looking into steel. The ride is much smoother than aluminum without giving up much stiffness. For any given frame, steel with 23mm tires will give you much more comfort than aluminum with 28's or even bigger.
Also he probably wants 28s for the increased control off road.
10-31-07, 08:42 PM
#18
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Width of the tires, and their pressure, is a much bigger determinant of ride quality. After I replaced the 'cross tires on my San Jose with narrow road slicks, the ride became almost that of my aluminum/carbon road bike.
When people fondly remember the ride of their old steel bike they often forget those bikes had wider tires on steel rims. And if the bike was a tank like some Gitane Gran Sport or Schwinn Varsity, it was the sheer weight of the gaspipe tubing plus those steel 27" rims with 1 1/4" tires that soaked up road vibration. Putting new alloy wheels on my Sprite makes it feel a lot livelier. And lighter.
I've fixed up a Raleigh Ltd.-3 but will replace the steel 650A wheels with new alloy ones. It should drop a couple of pounds in weight off the bike. Maybe the bike won't feel like it's made of lead. That and getting a new SA hub so I won't have to ride in third gear all the time. Feels like 90 gear inches.
11-01-07, 12:12 AM
#21
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Since you got a +1 afterwards, I'll just accept that 'anecdote(s) =/= data' and bow out.
Last edited by schnee; 11-01-07 at 01:10 AM.
11-01-07, 01:27 AM
#22
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A real track or dedicated fixed gear frame has a higher bottom bracket, which greatly reduces the probability of pedal strike to almost zero.
If you really want to support your lbs, and I can understand that.
See if he/she can get you a Surly Steamroller Complete.
Webcyclery has the Surly Steamroller Complete for a shade over $600, and you get a steel frame and fork that will last forever; will accept fat tires up to and including studded tires; will readily accept fenders; and already has a front brake.
I ride a seriously upgraded Pista and love it, but, if starting over, I would look hard at the Surly Steamroller Complete.
Surly designs good frames and forks, and whoever makes them for Surly does a good job.
If you really want to support your lbs, and I can understand that.
See if he/she can get you a Surly Steamroller Complete.
Webcyclery has the Surly Steamroller Complete for a shade over $600, and you get a steel frame and fork that will last forever; will accept fat tires up to and including studded tires; will readily accept fenders; and already has a front brake.
I ride a seriously upgraded Pista and love it, but, if starting over, I would look hard at the Surly Steamroller Complete.
Surly designs good frames and forks, and whoever makes them for Surly does a good job.
11-01-07, 01:57 AM
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hmmm, where to start... I agree with Ken, I have a TT that I have made some nice upgrades too, and I still have some work to do. Looking back I think I would have been better served with a Steamroller or the like.
That said, even though the stock TT is a great value, and I love mine, there are a few things that are slightly janky, namely the headset. A sealed headset and threadless fork are the next things on my list.
Al road conversions have always struck my fancy. They are light and stiff and have good geo. But you will definitely want to look in to a White Ind. Eno hub. I had one for a while and it was an aw some hub, I wish I still had it. The Moto will build a pretty freaking light bike too.
On the tire issue, I have an 89 Cannondale 3.0 (the one with the canti'ed drop outs and thick assed tubes) which is generally regarded as one of the stiffest riding/unforgiving frame. 23's hurt on that bike. period. I threw some 28c Specialized All Conditions on it and it was an amazing difference.
(Those tires are on my TT now because its what I brought to school with me)
Schwinn. No. Definitely not.
That said, even though the stock TT is a great value, and I love mine, there are a few things that are slightly janky, namely the headset. A sealed headset and threadless fork are the next things on my list.
Al road conversions have always struck my fancy. They are light and stiff and have good geo. But you will definitely want to look in to a White Ind. Eno hub. I had one for a while and it was an aw some hub, I wish I still had it. The Moto will build a pretty freaking light bike too.
On the tire issue, I have an 89 Cannondale 3.0 (the one with the canti'ed drop outs and thick assed tubes) which is generally regarded as one of the stiffest riding/unforgiving frame. 23's hurt on that bike. period. I threw some 28c Specialized All Conditions on it and it was an amazing difference.
(Those tires are on my TT now because its what I brought to school with me)
Schwinn. No. Definitely not.