freckers

Hi there,
In the summer I'm embarking upon a charity ride taking in all the mainland English counties through July and August - about 2000 odd miles... considering I'm not that used to long distance cycling and not too long ago was in an accident involving me and my foot, it's a bit of a challenge.
I've got about anywhere up to £500 to invest on a new/second hand bike to replace my current behemoth of a MTB, with the new bike having to stand road and track cycling (although the tracks shouldn't be too bad as the whole cycle will be using National Cycle Network routes).
Question is, how do I invest my money wisely? Any pointers as to a good/suitable bike that isn't going to break my bank and yet be suitable for the challenge? Have been recommended the Bad Boy as a starter...
Would really appreciate any help. Thanks

stapfam

If you are happy with the bike- Then a couple of upgrades. A good set of wheels and as you are in the UK- Try Merlin cycles at

https://www.merlincycles.co.uk/?fn=pr...&categoryId=98

I'd recommend XT hubs and give thenm a call to talk to them. They are friendly and good.

And I'd suggest Semi Slick tyres if trails are also going to be involved.

Another Idea is to look at the cheapest Giant Road bike. I Started with a Giant OCR3 on the road and if it could get me up Ventoux- Then it will be suitable for your little jaunt. Or once again- The giant FCR which is a hybrid and will be more suitable for your distance.


Both will be within your price range.

https://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-GB/...ad/2431/32468/

MichaelW

Cannondale Bad Boy is a nice city bike but its not setup for long days in the saddle.
The usual bike for touring roads and tracks in the UK is a touring bike, it has a comfortable riding position, tyres fat enough for tracks, bridleways etc and efficient enough for roads, good luggage capacity, low gears and isnt too heavy. The road-style drop bars are used for the variety of hand positions rather than to get low and aerodynamic.
The classic good value tourer is the dawes galaxy but there are a couple of other budget versions and plenty of different high-end ones. New ones start at about £800 .The used market should turn something up, esp through the Cyclists Touring Club. This is typical of a used budget tourer are excellent price.
Good brands are
Ridgback, Hewitt, Thorn, Edinburgh Cycles (Revolution).

It is important to get the right size and you need time to adapt to any new bike. Get some saddle time in through regular rides to condition your body. Endurance riding is less about athletic fitness and more about comfort.
Use a helmet and gloves (fingerless cycling mitts) to protect yourself in case you take a slide. Cyclist only crash one with bare hands, never again. Cycling shorts are probably a must , they are worn without underwear and MUST be clean. Cycling shoes and clip-in pedals are really optional.

rbrian

I decided to replace my hybrid, which was essentially a mountain bike with slick tyres - great for the city, not so good out in the countryside where wind resistance becomes an issue, and the ability to hop curbs less important. As I live in the countryside, 20 miles from the city, it wasn't ideal. I ordered one of these: https://www.tredz.co.uk/.Raleigh-Roya...Bike_24267.htm - should be just the thing, and well within your budget. It hasn't arrived yet, so I can't tell you how good it is. I also considered a Dawes Horizon and a Ridgeback Voyage, both very similar bikes and both a little under £500.

freckers

Just to say, thanks so much for your responses, it's given me much to digest! I can't wait to get on and ride - brilliant stuff - thanks again.