Bike Model Suggestions for My Situation
07-09-09, 05:45 AM
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Bike Model Suggestions for My Situation
Can anyone suggest any flatbar road bike that allows a more upright riding position? I prefer steel frames, but I realize that this may not be possible in what is available.
Just as a reference . . .
I have tried various road bikes and touring bikes and the bike that was the most close to fitting was a Specialized Sequoia. The Sequoia wasn't 100% perfect fit, but it was getting close to the ball park. I have tried about everything to dial a bike in, so I am not looking for suggestions concerning "did you try this adjustment, etc, etc". I'm still looking for that bike that is the perfect fit.
I am overweight and have minor lower bike issues, so I probably sit a little more upright than the normal person. I still want the speed of the road bike, but sit more upright.
Just as a reference . . .
I have tried various road bikes and touring bikes and the bike that was the most close to fitting was a Specialized Sequoia. The Sequoia wasn't 100% perfect fit, but it was getting close to the ball park. I have tried about everything to dial a bike in, so I am not looking for suggestions concerning "did you try this adjustment, etc, etc". I'm still looking for that bike that is the perfect fit.
I am overweight and have minor lower bike issues, so I probably sit a little more upright than the normal person. I still want the speed of the road bike, but sit more upright.
07-09-09, 06:51 AM
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I can't suggest a flatbar road bike, but I can say some of the cost of comfort is speed. The more upright you sit the more wind resistance you have. What finally worked for me was to go recumbent, I got a 2nd-hand Sun EZ-1 and it's a game changer for the amount of miles that I can ride. For one of my other bikes, I got it closer by putting a longer stem on it. It was an old motobecane roadbike, so I had to pull off all the cables and such. It was kind of a pain but not the end of the world.
07-09-09, 08:05 AM
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It sure can take a lonnnnng time to find the right bike. Finding the "perfect fit" depends in large part on knowing how your body compares to the average body. In my case, I have average length legs, but a tall torso and very long arms. The slightly longer top bar length of Lemond bikes make them an excellent choice for me.
I also recommend a professional fitting. It'll cost some money, but then you'll know the dimensions of the bike you want to find. I don't know where in GA you are, but here's a link to a shop in Atlanta that offers this service: https://peachtreebikes.com/page.cfm?pageID=54
Finally, make sure the wheelset you purchase is able to handle your weight and riding style. Most wheelsets are manufactured to support the 160lbs whippets you see flying around on the highways and byways of Europe during the Tour, not us 220lbs real men who like to jump curbs. I had to upgrade when I kept breaking spokes (3 in 2 months). Haven't broken one in over three years.
Good luck!
I also recommend a professional fitting. It'll cost some money, but then you'll know the dimensions of the bike you want to find. I don't know where in GA you are, but here's a link to a shop in Atlanta that offers this service: https://peachtreebikes.com/page.cfm?pageID=54
Finally, make sure the wheelset you purchase is able to handle your weight and riding style. Most wheelsets are manufactured to support the 160lbs whippets you see flying around on the highways and byways of Europe during the Tour, not us 220lbs real men who like to jump curbs. I had to upgrade when I kept breaking spokes (3 in 2 months). Haven't broken one in over three years.
Good luck!
