Hello, everyone, I am new to this forum, so bear with me. I am going off to college this spring semester and was wanting to buy a road bike because I would like to start road biking. However, I don't want to get an expensive road bike just incase it were to get stollen. With that said, me and my dad were looking at bikes direct and found the Windsor Wellington 2.0 https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...ington2_IX.htm and wondered if it was any good? We are wanting to stay in the $200-$400 price range for the bike, and I was wanting to get some opinions on this bike. Also, any other suggestions for a good bike in that price range is welcomed.

And before I forget, I am 6'5", so out of curiosity, between a 58 cm and a 62 cm, what size would you all recommend? I've been sized, and a 60 cm fits perfect, but assuming that the geometry on bikes are always going to be different based upon the brand of bike is being looked at, would a 62 cm fit better than the 58 cm?


Thank you all,
Old_Iron_Spine

Internet bike buying is only good if you know your size.

Like buying a pair of shoes if you don't know your size.

So I decided that the easiest and probably the most efficient way to compare the size specs from bike I was sized on (The trek domane 2.0) to the bike's I'm looking at. Hopefully I can get some help with this because I'm not entirely sure what tube is what, I'm basically following the lines. But here's the trek Domane https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes...ies/domane_2_0

And here's another bike I found https://www.roadbikeoutlet.com/vilano...oad-bike.html#


The sizing specs for the 58 cm Vilano look pretty close to the 60 cm Domane, however, I am not entirely sure as to what size is closer to 60 cm (58 cm or 62 cm?). Any help would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Old_Iron_Spine

As you've figured out, a nominal size 60cm bike is going to vary in actual fit from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Read up on stack and reach. If you know those numbers on a bike that fits you, you can figure out how bikes with different geometry will fit you, from the stack and reach numbers for those bikes.

What's stack and reach?

Here is what I would do if I were you........and mind you, nothing wrong with Bikes Direct. I would look to Craigslist for a good older used model with better componetry. That way your getting better "stuff" you young folks say now days. Plus you get to go see it and ride it before buying it.

The bike you linked is okay for a budget which your on.......okay if you know your sizing for that bike.............okay if that is what you want. The problem I saw it had some of the lowest componetry obviously and I cringe at the thoughts of a triple! I know there are followers of the triple but I like the double setup much better!

So I say go find a used bike on craigslist or see if your LBS has any leads on some customer wanting to unload an older bike to buy new.

Good luck.

Basically your position sitting which includes your gripping the bars ie. reach. Natural sitting stance you might say. if it isn't right you will get back pain......neck pain......shoulder pain.....or what have you. If your new to cycling you will get that anyway until your body adapts to the new sport. But if it is wrong or not fitted it may never go away.

https://www.slowtwitch.com/Bike_Fit/C...er_One_95.html

https://www.cervelo.com/en/engineerin...y-and-fit.html

It's a better way to compare fit of bikes across brands and geometries, rather than nominal seat tube length.

I suggest you "shop for" a good bike shop. They will get you in a new/used bike that fits you and your needs. That's what you pay for with a good shop.

For your price range, IMO you'd be better off looking for a used bike in decent condition. Or, if you have an REI near you, look to see what they have for leftover 2013 models. They carry some "value" brands like Raleigh, GT, and Diamondback, where you're not paying for a brand premium.

Stack and Reach simplified.

I can't imagine you'd fit a 58 at your height. I'm 6-3 and ride a 61. Wife is 5-11 and fits a 58.

Don't let the time on the road interfere with your academic success...

Hey, everyone, so we went ahead and ordered the Windsor wellington 2.0; and after doing some research, the components on the bike didn't seem half bad and it uses brifters which I like. If I think about it, I'll let you all know my first thoughts after my first ride with it.
I'm pretty excited, and since it'll be used as a commuter/road riding bike I think it'll serve it's intended purpose well.

Also, I called around to pretty much all of the LBS and non of them had used bikes. I then went to craigslist and again, there weren't any that were in my size (I think there was one that was close, but it was purple).


Thank you for all of the replies,
Old_Iron_Spine

Oh, I forgot to let you all know, I ordered it in a 62 cm as well.

Good luck and at least you tried the resources we told you about. I am sure you will enjoy the bike. Just ride for now and as time goes on and you like the frame you can always upgrade componetry as you get money. Post a picture of the bike once it comes in too!

Ohhhh, if your going to be on the road and using around campus I highly suggest a blinkie tail light so you get noticed by traffic coming up from behind you. Always wear bright clothing if you can to get noticed.

Get a water bottle and cage as well to stay hydrated. Nothing expensive...........just something to hold hydration!