evand

Ok I have been lurking on this site all winter long and finally have taken the plunge and got a new bike.

I am lucky to have so many great bike shops around me. I test drove a bunch of them and finally settled on a specialized sirrus with disc brakes.
https://img855.imageshack.us/i/evanpics676.jpg

I have taken a pretty good ride on it already and was pretty happy with my purchase, overall.
I am not all the impressed with the disc brakes. I feel as if the v brakes on the cheaper version worked better. Desending down a long huge hill and the brakes didn't feel all that strong they needed a very firm pull on the lever. Would this be typical or do they need an adjustment period. The shop adjusted them and they appear well assembled. What gives are the discs not as strong???

I have added a few pre planned additions right away.
kickstand which I guess is not for real riders or so I read in a few posts
matching water bottle and holder
cat eye rear flasher I wouldn't attempt to drive without one on public streets.


Soon to be installed. I have read the pro's and con's but I am looking for actual users reviews.
https://img832.imageshack.us/i/evanpics677.jpg

I am looking for recommendations for a few additional parts

Where can I find this bag and what is it called???
https://www.topeak.com/products/Bags/TriBag

What rear rack and expandable bag that has fold out panniers do you reccommend. I prefer all black with reflective material?

What is the best pedal set for use with any footwear?


My main goals for the bike is to add into my work out routine because I can't stand being trapped in the gym any more.

KtownScott

Welcome to the forum, and congrats on the new ride. As far as the brakes go I would consult your LBS. Being a new bike they would tune it for free.

irclean

Congrats on the new bike. You must be really tall... that frame looks huge!

Assuming that your model is the Elite Disc your brakes are Shimano mechanicals. Not bad; there are worse brakes out there, but there are also better. In any case you should tell your LBS about them, they might just need an adjustment. If they're properly adjusted and you still don't feel confident with their performance, then you might want to consider an upgrade to Avid BB7, which are considered the gold standard for mechanical disc brakes and would be a straightforward swap.

Don't let anyone tell you that kickstands are not for real riders. I find my kickstand to be indispensable, especially when loading or unloading the bike.

Dunno about that Nexride saddle. Interesting concept; let us know how you like it.

Your LBS should be able to order the Topeak TriBag that you linked to since Topeak is a common brand of bicycle accessories.

I use a Topeak rack and a trunk bag that integrate together. The setup is very slick and well-made. Since your rear brake caliper is mounted on the chainstay you don't need a disc-specific rack, so I would ask your LBS to order (along with your Topeak TriBag) a Topeak Super Tourist DX Tubular Rack and matching MTX TrunkBag DXP. I use the same rack and the extra horizontal bar means my pannier and trunk bag don't interfere with each other, and helps keep the center of gravity lower. I also use a trunk bag-only version of the bag I've recommended and I'm very happy with it.

Lastly, for pedals that will work with any type of footwear your can't go wrong with BMX-style platform pedals:



Do yourself a favor and spend a few extra bucks to get pedals with sealed bearings.

Whatever you decide, get out there and enjoy that bike, and always ride safe!

evand

Bmx pedals. I woulda never thought of that one. Thanks for that idea. I was being a tad sarcastic about the kickstand.


Looks like I need to work on posting pics too.


I might save a little on gas. While fun this tank is only running 9 mpg.

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