I'm reviving this old thread because I'm thinking about getting a Softride or similar bike and would like some feedback. I have a few reasons for considering beam bikes.

- I'm an American living in Northern Brazil and some of the roads are nice and smooth but most are pretty rough it is my understand they smooth things out.

- My plan would be to buy one when in the US dismantle it ship the frame/fork/rims/tires and bring the rest in my luggage. Because of USPS size rules a shipping a traditional frame would be too expensive.


- I live by the ocean and it can get quite windy, although apparently some fancy carbon fiber bikes are more so they are quite aerodynamic.

A few questions?

I haven't raced for decades and have no intentions of doing so, I would be using it for 30 – 80 mile (50 – 120k) fast rides alone or with friends. One concern I have is that on another forum someone said they are more difficult to control going around sharp corners and during steep descents. Has anyone here had this problem? After about 20 years out of the saddle I started riding again a little over a year ago and these are situations when I'm not very confident.


I'm 6´0” (183 cm) and 180lbs (82 kilos) if I get a beambike which one(s) would be best suited for me? I definitely would want 700c wheels because it would be too hard to get 650c tires and tubes here.


Getting Softride etc. specific parts here would be virtually impossible I only come to the US once a year, what spares should I get? I was thinking two each beams, clamps derailleur hangers. Anything else?


Thanks!