Originally Posted by Duane Behrens

And you could probably use a lesson or two in politeness.


Our views and opinions are formed largely by our real-world experience. On my entry-level hybrid, I simply did not have the high gearing to stay with my group on the flats. On the hills, I certainly had the gearing, but could not stay with the majority of the group. (As Charles notes, I MAY have been fighting slightly more rolling resistance on the hybrid, but aerodynamic differences between the two bike types can be discounted when climbing a 7% grade at 7 - 10 mph.)


Anyway. Within about 2 weeks after purchasing, riding and getting to know my new carbon bike, I again joined my group of 5 riders. Starting at the bottom of PV Drive near Trump Golf course, we began the 4-mile 1,100-foot ascent to the top of Crest Road. Halfway up, I was riding alongside the leader. 3/4 of the way up, I began to pull away. I was the first to arrive at the top, and waited for the others to arrive on their own carbon bikes. Remember, this was the same group that had heretofore dropped me on previous rides, the same group that had previously waited for ME.

That was 4 years ago. The only difference was the bike. And the primary difference in the 2 bikes was weight. That ride was a revelation which instilled in me a new love for riding, and for the "magic carpet ride" feeling that is best experienced on a well-sorted carbon bike.

I'll say it a 3rd time: All else being equal - maintenance, rider strength, etc. - when it comes to the enjoyment to be found in a road bike, you usually get what you pay for. I do hope you are enjoying your $300 Craigslist steelie, however.