Perhaps it all doesn't matter. Whatever gets the person outside on the bike.
I see plenty of commuters riding 1970's era bikes, MTBs, and just about anything that rolls.
I see a few retirees riding very fancy bikes in their full cycling garb, looking like a pro athlete, at half the speed. If that is what makes them happy and gets the out on a bike, that's just fine.
Strava is an interesting phenomena, with plenty of old geezers and young pups out there pounding the pavement. And, the bike doesn't really matter.
Originally Posted by
eastbay71
9. he says all this and then says bikes shouldnt come with seats, bars, wheels or pedals. if you can do that level of assembly shouldn't you advocate for buying a used bike?
If one is doing that level of customization, do a frame-up build, or order a semi-custom build from the manufacture.
However, most "entry level" buyers probably at most change out the seat.
Originally Posted by
eastbay71
10. he talks a lot about how you don't need all kinds of stuff but then says you should definitiely use cleats. Current studies have shown that there is little gain from cleats and I think its too scary for beginners to use them
He seemed to just ramble on and on. Someone should have written a script for him.
Don't forget the $500 worth of jerseys, shorts, and accessories to go with the $300 bicycle (which he doesn't ride).
When starting the video with the fluff of credentials. And really only superficially reviewing 2 Bikes Direct bikes. I have to think that the presenter had some stake in the Bikes Direct company.
Otherwise, why not talk about components. Claris, Sora, Tiagra, 105, Ultegra, Veloce, Chorus, Force, etc. Get down to some of the details one might be interested in to select a bicycle.
Show a variety of manufacturers/brands.
Just about every major brand has "entry" bikes. Trek certainly has sub-entry levels.