Originally Posted by acidfast7

why doesn't the OP like the adjustable stem? they give one an infinite amount of settings.

Originally Posted by losmorob

Research; A Google search brought me here. Great info! Here is my experience.

When determining the size of bicycle to order, I referred to the sizing chart provided by Nashbar. Under the chart was a recommendation to use the stand-over height dimension, which on the chart, there was none. I sent an e-mail to customer service/tech dept and waited for a response. The next day, no response yet, and with the 20% off coupon expiring later that day, I called direct. Quick answer, fast response and I had the information I was looking for to place my order. The next day, after placing my order, I received an e-mail describing how I should not use the stand-over height to determine a size and I should call direct to discuss. Mixed signals from Nashbar, but I had a good idea of what size I was looking for.

Ordering. As I was about to enter my credit card number on line, I was kicked out with a note to call direct. The person I talked to couldn't see any issues, so completed my order directly. She had some difficulty entering my information, but overall, ok. Interesting that her total came out 5 dollars less then the website calculation. Sign up for their emails and you will see a 20% off 2 day coupon. I think they post one every month or two. Total price delivered was $373. As I used my ATM/credit, I immediately checked my bank account online and noticed THREE charges. One for $373. Another for $1. And a third for ANOTHER $373. I called back and the rep said this was "not normal" She did not see the additional charges, and told me they would “probably drop off." Another mix up in the ordering experience. Not a good feeling, but after 4 days, the other two charges dropped off and were never processed on my account. Just a heads up if you use an ATM type card for payment.

So the bike is on its way, with a few bumps in the road. Tracking was provided, Fed Ex shipped and on time. Bike was very well packed. Assembly went well. The brake shoes were adjusted too high and hit the tires. You are starting off with a brand new chain. Spend a few bucks and get some good chain lube while it's still pristine. My LBC recommended Dumonde Tech chain lube. A little expensive, but well worth it. Do it while it's still new. You do have to fit the front brake cable, so it needs to be cut after assembly. I flux and solder the end before cutting to prevent fraying. Other options are to purchase a cable cutter or have your local shop do it. And you will need a 16mm wrench for the pedals and metric allen wrenches for the bars, brakes and seat assembly and adjustments. The Shimano derailleurs were spot on and no adjustments were needed.

Tires are now Schwalbe 700x25 and are rated at 95-115PSI. Pedals are dual purpose platform cage on one side and clip mount on the other. I recently upgraded to bike shoes with cleats, so this is a nice option to have. Other components are name brand and more than adequate in this price range.

The color is now blue, and picture I took and online photos do not show the true "candy" like finish. Think candy apple red but a deep blue. A little flashy for my tastes, but overall a nice finish. Oversize tubes, clean welds and beefy rear stays. And with this price, it's all about the carbon fork. Stiff, but SMOOTH and really absorbs the bumps. This fork really makes the bike a great value.

Inspect your bike very carefully. I have found a VERY small dent in the top tube. I considered returning, but it's really small. I think with the candy paint, it's more noticeable and if the bike was white, I probably wouldn't have even noticed it.

The bike itself is a little shorter wheelbase then I had realized. It’s a compact frame design, the top tube is a little short for my tastes. This is from a guy with a tall torso for his height and who is used to riding old school road bikes (Ron Cooper) and comfort bikes (Bianchi Milano). Check carefully the frame dimensions on Nashbar’s fitting guide. I have the seat slid back and may be considering a longer stem. I only have about 30 miles on the bike, so I’m still adjusting and learning the bike. I ordered a 54cm. I’m 5’11” with a 32” inseam. 51cm would have been doable, but overall too small. 57 would have been too big.

Overall, this is one smooth ride. I agree with a previous post, it seems to be a headwind cutter. Quick, stable, stiff, comfortable and quiet. Get that chain lube on. My first ride was without it and I thought I had derailleur issues. Now everything shifts silky smooth. Take your allen wrenches with you on your rides, stop and make those micro adjustments on fitting and in no time you will be dialed in.

Even with the ordering problems and the slight quality issue, I would order this bike again. Watch for the coupon and you just can’t beat it for the price.

Originally Posted by sweeperdave

For sure, flat-bar road bikes are what MOST bicyclists should be riding.

Originally Posted by Cleotus

Hello all,

A few years ago I bought the Nasahbar FB-1 largely due to the opinions in this thread. Due to an injury about a week later, I only got the bike out of the box last week.

For four hundred dollars, I doubt there has been a better bike made. I put 32mm Gatorskins with Conti 28 Slim Tour (28-37) tubes on it and it rides like a dream. The back tire just clears the seat tube by 1-2mm or so. This will be my commuter.

Thanks again to everyone, especially RT & losmorob!