Originally Posted by
pgjackson
That was just an example of how expensive this sport can be. The OP stated that he wants to start joining group rides. I think he's going to find it difficult to find a group that's going to let him ride that POS in the middle of the pack. How long do you think that 30 year old chain is going to last on a hard climb? How about those ancient, rusty steel wheels on a fast decent? Cycling is expensive. Doing it on the super cheap could be dangerous.
Cycling really doesn't have to be expensive, if you aren't out to impress people by how cool you look. You need a bike, and you ride it.
I mean, sure, this bike needs a new chain, maybe brake pads, for the wheel to be trued, etc. Might cost $50, bringing the grand total to $90. That's not a bad price. It isn't the world's best bike, but for that kind of money no one is expecting it to be. It's just a bike for someone to get into road riding on.
Originally Posted by
pgjackson
One of the guys I ride with is about twice my size but can hammer away like nobody's business. You would never guess he's a cyclist, but he is very strong even on hills. Another guy I ride with is about 60 years old, has a full scraggly beard, always wears a baggy long sleve shirt and a camelback backpack...and he destroys us, no joke. Looks can be deceiving in cycling.
I agree. Cycling is what you make it.