New to SS/FG, please help.
08-23-10 | 09:21 PM
#1
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Washington, DC
New to SS/FG, please help.
Hello!
I've recently decided to jump on the SS/FG bandwagon and buy a new bike. I just moved back to DC and was riding an EXTREMELY crappy mountain bike I had gotten while I was living in a rural area. That bike was stolen the other day (not a big loss, but has taught me to be more careful). I've been wanting a road bike for a while now and have decided to go with a SS.
I need something lightweight of course, that will be reliable since I plan on using my bike to get to and from work everyday, plus for pleasure. DC as some of you probably know is flat and hilly depending on where you're at.
As far as what I want, first of all, I need a small frame. I'm only 5' tall, so I was thinking 47 cm would be good? I'd like something with a flip flop hub, so I can make it a FG when I'm ready.
Right now I'm looking at the Mercier Kilo TT on BD for $370, and also the much cheaper Dawes MTA on Ebay for under $200. I know the Kilo TT is better, but I have bills to pay, and if I don't really need it then I shouldn't really spend the money. One day I'd love to drop big money on something way nicer but for now I just need something reliable for transportation.
So opinions please? On the two bikes I've listed plus maybe other options I don't know about? Like I said, I'm completely new to SS bikes.
I've recently decided to jump on the SS/FG bandwagon and buy a new bike. I just moved back to DC and was riding an EXTREMELY crappy mountain bike I had gotten while I was living in a rural area. That bike was stolen the other day (not a big loss, but has taught me to be more careful). I've been wanting a road bike for a while now and have decided to go with a SS.
I need something lightweight of course, that will be reliable since I plan on using my bike to get to and from work everyday, plus for pleasure. DC as some of you probably know is flat and hilly depending on where you're at.
As far as what I want, first of all, I need a small frame. I'm only 5' tall, so I was thinking 47 cm would be good? I'd like something with a flip flop hub, so I can make it a FG when I'm ready.
Right now I'm looking at the Mercier Kilo TT on BD for $370, and also the much cheaper Dawes MTA on Ebay for under $200. I know the Kilo TT is better, but I have bills to pay, and if I don't really need it then I shouldn't really spend the money. One day I'd love to drop big money on something way nicer but for now I just need something reliable for transportation.
So opinions please? On the two bikes I've listed plus maybe other options I don't know about? Like I said, I'm completely new to SS bikes.
08-23-10 | 09:45 PM
#2
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 1,452
Likes: 12
From: Philadelphia
Bikes: Surly CreamRoller. 98 Giant Rincon. SE UVT
Both are okay bikes, theres plenty of threads on here about both of them if you use the search button. Seems as though they are your only 2 options. And keep in mind the kilo runs big so check the geo chart before you buy.
Last edited by Philasteve; 08-23-10 at 10:23 PM.
08-23-10 | 10:29 PM
#3
Veteran Racer
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 11,854
Likes: 913
From: Ciudad de Vacas, Tejas
Bikes: 34 frames + 80 wheels
The Kilo TT is a FG, not a SS, and you would have to buy a freewheel if you wanted to make it into a SS. Also, it runs large, so a 47cm is more like a 50cm when compared to other bikes. Given your size and finances, I'd recommend something like a Windsor Clockwork, which comes in a 43cm size, costs $300 and is a SS as delivered with a flip/flop hub for future conversion to FG. https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/.../clockwork.htm
08-23-10 | 11:27 PM
#4
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Washington, DC
Thanks for the input so far guys!
https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/mercier/kilott.htm
According to them the Kilo TT does come with a Flip Flop hub. Or am I reading it wrong?
https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/mercier/kilott.htm
According to them the Kilo TT does come with a Flip Flop hub. Or am I reading it wrong?
