Any cyclists?

[02PROTEGE2.0]

Well its spring again, and that means time to break out the carbon fiber and start racing, and i don't mean cars!

That's right, I'm talkin about cycling! Are there any other cyclists out there? racers like me, or even those who just commute on a bike or ride for fun? Let's talk about our bikes, and how much we love them!

I for one LOVE my bike...

[Mr. Win]

I am currently seeking a road bike for prepin to do some 75 mile races. I do currently ride trails and enjoy long distance riding.

[Foolish]

Mountain/road biker here. Used to race. Worked in bike shops for about 10 years, hope to have my own shop someday. For the last two years, having a wife in law school and a baby have kept me off the bike, but over the last month or so I've gotten back on the mighty steeds. I managed to ride all four of my bikes inside of one month. I was pretty happy about that! :D

My rides:
1995 Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo. My 1st mountain bike, now my trials toy.
Triple-butted True Temper Cro-Mo Frame, Magura hydraulic rim-brakes, two rings and a bash guard.
1998 K2/Proflex 5000. Full Suspension. AL frame, Carbon swingarm Heavy, comfy, tough as nails.
2000 (I think) Giant TCR Team road frame, built up with 105/ultegra. Time trial bar set-up. Light-ish, stiff, quick.
2005 Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo
Aluminum frame, RockShox fork, Avid/Sram ESP components,
Bought as complete bike, switched out most of drive line, entire brake system. Non-Shimano equipped.
Only pictures I have handy:
http://www.msprotege.com/members/Foolish/BikeRack001.jpg
http://www.msprotege.com/members/Foolish/BikeRack004.jpg

[Prodigy]

Specialized Allez Sport (the daily)
Softride Qualifier 650 w/ Spinergy Rev X CF wheels (Triathlons)


I'll post pics this weekend after a wash + garage cleanup.
(There's never enough CF!)

[Foolish]

Way back in the day, Spin thermoplastic wheels. Fun stuff
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/8/web/188000-188999/188581_11_full.jpg
Plastic wheels on this one, too:
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/8/web/188000-188999/188581_12_full.jpg

[02PROTEGE2.0]

Awsome we've got some!

Yea, now that i'm working at bike source and i have the privelage of doing employee purchases i've got about 4 bikes lined up to buy.. ha

I just built a Specialized S-Works Tarmac with Ultegra for racing, way better than the raleigh supercourse i was rolling...

I plan to get a Redline Monocog, thought i haven't decided whether to do 26 or 29er; Specialized rockhopper; and last but not least, an old Raleigh Twenty folding bike...

[Foolish]

29'ers are cool. Only reasons I didn't get one when I bought the '05 Hoo Koo were cost, and the fact that all my existing parts (many many extra parts) were for 26". As it is now, if I cut a tire or bend a wheel, I've got something handy to swap in, and I'm riding again. If one of my mountain bikes was a 29'er, All of its wheel/tire stuff would be unique to it. Actually, that's kind of why I didn't go with disk brakes on the Hoo Koo, too.

[xelderx]

I've just recently moved on from riding 20" bikes. I bought my first true mountain bike recently. It's a Specialized P1 single speed. I'm happy with it so far, but the front fork is already leaking. I'll have to replace it soon. I mostly ride a lot of urban stuff so it's worked out good so far. I would really like to get a dedicated trials bike and a multispeed trails bike, but I'll have to make do with one bike for now.

[Kansei]

I only have one bike so of course it had to be a mountain bike.

I ride a Fuji :) I love that JDM shit haha.

it's nothing special but it gets the job done well. I just rode 25 miles in downtown rochester last night.. it got a bit chilly near the end of the ride (11ish) but it was nice to be out again. yay no more snow!

[02PROTEGE2.0]

I've just recently moved on from riding 20" bikes. I bought my first true mountain bike recently. It's a Specialized P1 single speed. I'm happy with it so far, but the front fork is already leaking. I'll have to replace it soon. I mostly ride a lot of urban stuff so it's worked out good so far. I would really like to get a dedicated trials bike and a multispeed trails bike, but I'll have to make do with one bike for now.

How do u like your P1? i work for a specialized dealer and we just dont sell very many, so i need to hear about them from an owner!

[xelderx]

How do u like your P1? i work for a specialized dealer and we just dont sell very many, so i need to hear about them from an owner!

I like it a lot but with the single speed gear and 26" front rim it is probably a little too narrow minded for most riders. The forks need to be upgraded as well. The brake line gyro is a cool feature for doing tricks and stuff, but the 26" front rim means the tire is always hitting your feet. I wanted to put a 24" front rim on it, but it makes the bottom bracket too low.

[GNsPR5]

03 Giant NRS 2 mountain biker
06 FELT F90 roadie

Plenty of days to ride year round down here in South Florida. Looking for a possible trailer hitch for my new speed3. Right now, I'm carrying with a Yakima Hatchback rack. Have read the forums regarding trailer hitches for speed 3's, hope something good comes out of it.

Ride on!

[AlaskaP5]

Ride,,, yes please

Road: Cannondale. Ultegra/105 9-speed mix. Love it

Mountain: Surly 1x1 = franken-bike... 3-in tires on 39-mm wide rims, full rigid, riding 32x16 ratio. Mech disc, ultra-wide handlebars... looks like a beast.

[02PROTEGE2.0]

Just picked up a Redline Monocog 29er last night... hell yeas.

[Mr. Win]

I'm getting ready to make a move on a new road bike... still can't make a choice.

http://www.jensonusa.com/store/product/BI309C00-Jamis+Ventura+Elite+Bike+20055+Le.aspx

Everyone keeps telling me this is a hell of deal.

[02PROTEGE2.0]

looks like a pretty good deal to me!

[02PROTEGE2.0]

Here's my rides, my Redline Monocog 29er, and my Specialized S-Works Tarmac E5


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/DSC_0170-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/DSC_0172.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/DSC_0168-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/DSC_0163.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/DSC_0177-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/DSC_0162.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/DSC_0161.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/DSC_0160.jpg

[Dimitrios]

^^

I dig the singlespeed.

I'm planning on a fixie (possibly with a flip flop hub) road bike.

Torn between a Bianchi Pista, Jamis Sputnik, some IRO flavour, or possibly a Surly Steamroller/craigslist 1975 Schwinn frame special.

My daily rig is a 99 Bontrager steel hardtail (hand made) mtn, full Bontrager spec top to bottom..I may rebuild it with newer components, but it's served me well thus far.

[GNsPR5]

Surly IS the only way to go for an SS. My girlfriend rides a Surly 1x1 around town and occasionally offroad.

Check us out at http://www.clubmud.com

South Florida Mountain Biking nutcases!!!

[xelderx]

Here is my 20". I haven't been on it in quite some time. It got me through college with only two trips to the hospital.

[02PROTEGE2.0]

NEW RIDE!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/WKR_0255.jpg

[Dimitrios]

NEW RIDE!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/misterwacker/WKR_0255.jpg

Very nice..how do you like the Fuji? What's the gear ratio?

I think I"m going to go with this (test riding tomorrow):

http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/bikes/07_bikes/images/07enlarged/07_SPUTNIK.jpg

http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/bikes/07_bikes/sputnik.html

[Dimitrios]

Here is my 20". I haven't been on it in quite some time. It got me through college with only two trips to the hospital.

That's one mean gusset between the down and head tube....

[i12drivemyMP5]

I only have 8 bikes & my wife only has 3...we are true psycholists thru & thru. Mountain bikes, comfort bikes, cruisers, chopper,road & roadish, crazy lime green urban assault single speed, 2 speed manual shift road/off road thing, crazy lacing pattern wheels, disc brake, home spec'd/built mania. Trails, mudfests, marathon, day rides, nite rides in all terrains, in rain, everywhere madness...& that's the low keyed non over the top response.

[wicked]

I RIDE THE 20" BITCHES!!!!

doesn't do me much good to talk about the bike seeing as I destroy parts as fast as I but them on,and all my bikes are custom built.

right now I ride a

frame-METAL REBAL
fork-WTB helium
cranks-STOLEN RAW
bars-S&M XLT SLAMS
rear wheel-profile mini SS/DT spokes/SUN city light rim
front wheel-demolition hub/SUN rhynolite rim
stem -S&M XLT "race"
brakes-FLY CNC'ed

as far as a street BMX goes,this is top notch,and about as light as whats safetly possible without useing Ti.

24.7LBS....

[xelderx]

That's one mean gusset between the down and head tube....


Standard frames are warrantied pretty much for life...even to second hand owners and so on. They build some strong stuff.

[GNsPR5]

I like this crowd!!!

We're all a bunch a crazies riding bikes and driving cars.

Props to all that ride 2 and 4 wheelers!

[wicked]

Standard frames are warrantied pretty much for life...even to second hand owners and so on. They build some strong stuff.


I can attest to that!

I broke a 04 standard STA,and they gave me a 05,no questions asked.

[bioMed07]

i ride a ghetto rig raleigh

its a "single speed" right now, i took off the derailers.
looks like this, except way more beat up
http://static.flickr.com/55/124747590_5807e5b27e.jpg

its going to be fixed eventually though.

[02PROTEGE2.0]

i ride a ghetto rig raleigh

its a "single speed" right now, i took off the derailers.
looks like this, except way more beat up
http://static.flickr.com/55/124747590_5807e5b27e.jpg

its going to be fixed eventually though.

the slant on that head tube is pretty illtastic.

[02PROTEGE2.0]

Very nice..how do you like the Fuji? What's the gear ratio?

I think I"m going to go with this (test riding tomorrow):

http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/bikes/07_bikes/images/07enlarged/07_SPUTNIK.jpg

http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/bikes/07_bikes/sputnik.html

I'm really diggin the fuji. its a size too big, but i really like the ride like that. makes skids possible!

the gearing right now on it is a 48-16. its like a 74 inch gearing i believe.

I've had the bike three days and i already have some trackstand tricks down, as well as a bomb skid... fixies are so fun...

[Mr. Win]

My soon to be bike:

http://www.feltracing.com/store/images/large/f75.jpg

WEIGHT
18.4 lbs.

FRAME
Felt Exclusive 7005 Superlite custom-butted aluminum frame with carbon fiber wishbone seatstays. Externally relieved integrated head tube, machined bottom bracket, forged dropouts with replaceable hanger and internal brake cable routing

FORK
Felt Custom-Designed High Modulus Carbon Fiber 1.3 Fork with Carbon Steerer

DRIVETRAIN
Shimano Ultegra Rear Derailleur/105 20-speed Shifters and Front Derailleur, Shimano 2-PC Crankset with 50/34T Crankset, Shimano cassette and Chain

WHEELSET
Shimano 500 wheelset with Aero Spokes, Vittoria Rubino slick tires

COMPONENTS
Felt 1.4 Aluminum Bar with Ergonomic Drop, Felt 1.2 3D-Forged Stem, Felt 1.2 Saddle with Carbon Injected Base, Felt 1.2 Carbon Seatpost, Dual Pivot Aluminum Brakeset with Koolstop Cartridge Pads

[Mr. Win]

Also I'm in the market for a new helmet any love/hates out there?

[Scott]

You can borrow my helmet. It's good for ages 5 and up!

http://i8.ebayimg.com/04/i/000/9d/97/ff04_1.JPG

[Mr. Win]

What you gonna do for the road course?

[Scott]

Oh don't worry. I've got two. I love Hello Kitty.

[Foolish]

Oh don't worry. I've got two. I love Hello Kitty.
Awesome! Well played sir, well played. :D

[Siccnes]

Also I'm in the market for a new helmet any love/hates out there?

I have a Bell Sweep XC..kind of pricy, but snuggly hugs your head comfortably. I went with the dull mountain bike look, but they do have a more road style color scheme also.

I ride an 06 Jamis Ranger..my girlfriend bought it for me to prevent me from getting a $900 club membership, but once I realized how much fun riding a bike could be off road, i've put enough money into the bike and accessories to surpass the nine hundred mark. Pretty much bottom of the line mountain bike..i broke the cheap platforms in a month..screwed up the BB twice, and decided to upgrade to sealed..replaced the stem for a shorter one because the salesman sold me a bike that was too big and lead to back problems early on. Burned out my rear hub and had to upgrade that part as well..just put a new chain on after only having the bike for about eight months. Replaced the handle bar grips....yeah..anyways..saving up for a jamis xam 1.0..should be better suited for the way I ride.

[Mr. Win]

http://www.msprotege.com/members/Mr.%20Win/Bike/feltbike.JPG
http://www.msprotege.com/members/Mr.%20Win/Bike/feltdrive.JPG

Just got her home. Long story short my f75 got back-ordered so they swamped the majority of the parts over to a f55 but i still lucked out with a few duraace parts and mavic wheelset. They're still waiting on my pedals so he loaned me a set for the weekend.

[Mr. Win]

Anyone watching the tour? Impressive finish in the first stage.

[Foolish]

Gotta love the little Aussie sprinter!

[02PROTEGE2.0]

Go Boonen Go!

[Rosshole]

Mr. Win... I also ride a Felt... they make great bikes for a great price.

[Mr. Win]

I agree. Which one are you riding?

[cable43]

my newest whip:
(completed pics to come soon)
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c139/Robot43/CAAD91.jpg

58cm CAAD9

[Rosshole]

2004 F70, I ride about 100 to 150 miles a week, whe I am not running and swimming.

Cable... Are those speedplay pedals on there? I love the freefloating aspect of them, much more comfortable to ride with, (IMO)

[jflash]

here is a pic from last year. i pieced this together

gt agressor, xt-xtr components,spynergy xyclone wheels.

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y5/jflash_zx3/mazda%203/reflect2-1.jpg

[Foolish]

^that is the only way to post pictures of you bike on a car forum.^

Well done. :D

[jflash]

thanks.

[Fear]

Gears. Laff.


I'll post some pics of my BMX when I can find my camera tonight.

[02PROTEGE2.0]

just got my new white bros. fork for my 29er... ill post pics soon

[Fear]

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/DSCN2792.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/DSCN2791.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/DSCN2790.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/DSCN2789.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/DSCN2788.jpg
And a bonus crappy flash pic to see the pearl in the paiont a bit better.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/DSCN2786.jpg

2008 MirraCo Icon Option
Bars: Fly Pantera V2
Bar ends: Fly press-in bar ends
Brakes: Fly brakes w/Kool Stop Eagle2 pads
Stem: Mirraco M3
Seat: WeThePeople Warp
Pedals: Primo Super Tenderizer
Chainwheel: Anchor 33T
Chain: KMC Pintle half-link
Front Wheel: Sun Street Lite 36H laced to a Fit Flow sealed hub
Rear Wheel: Sun Street Lite 36H laced to a Fit Flow sealed 11T cassette hub
Cranks: Mirraco M3 CrMo (soon to be Profiles)

Sorry for the crappy pics, and the one hack shot of the Sun Wheels (new yesterday). I'll try to get some good pics if we ride downtown today.

[cable43]

You SUCK....(i need a new 20") i'm so f'n jealous!

2008 MirraCo Icon Option
Bars: Fly Pantera V2
Bar ends: Fly press-in bar ends
Brakes: Fly brakes w/Kool Stop Eagle2 pads
Stem: Mirraco M3
Seat: WeThePeople Warp
Pedals: Primo Super Tenderizer
Chainwheel: Anchor 33T
Chain: KMC Pintle half-link
Front Wheel: Sun Street Lite 36H laced to a Fit Flow sealed hub
Rear Wheel: Sun Street Lite 36H laced to a Fit Flow sealed 11T cassette hub
Cranks: Mirraco M3 CrMo (soon to be Profiles)

Sorry for the crappy pics, and the one hack shot of the Sun Wheels (new yesterday). I'll try to get some good pics if we ride downtown today.

[wicked]

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/DSCN2791.jpg



And a bonus crappy flash pic to see the pearl in the paiont a bit better.


2008 MirraCo Icon Option
Bars: Fly Pantera V2
Bar ends: Fly press-in bar ends
Brakes: Fly brakes w/Kool Stop Eagle2 pads
Stem: Mirraco M3
Seat: WeThePeople Warp
Pedals: Primo Super Tenderizer
Chainwheel: Anchor 33T
Chain: KMC Pintle half-link
Front Wheel: Sun Street Lite 36H laced to a Fit Flow sealed hub
Rear Wheel: Sun Street Lite 36H laced to a Fit Flow sealed 11T cassette hub
Cranks: Mirraco M3 CrMo (soon to be Profiles)

Sorry for the crappy pics, and the one hack shot of the Sun Wheels (new yesterday). I'll try to get some good pics if we ride downtown today.


shit son,you need to lower that seat,I ride mine less then half that high,and I do barspin

[Fear]

shit son,you need to lower that seat,I ride mine less then half that high,and I do barspin

No, I don't -- but thanks for the thought.

[wicked]

No, I don't -- but thanks for the thought.

what do you mean no?
give me good reason for it that high?

.....if your using it for tricks(like it's intended)
or if you just cruz around town on it then it's fine like that,just a waste of a bike.

[Fear]

what do you mean no?
give me good reason for it that high?

Because the seat is comfortable there, that's why. It's easier to grab with my knees (like it's "intended" to be, according to you), and it doubles as knee relief for longer rides. Sorry, I'm not 5'2" and 120 pounds. I'm not a seat slammer.


P.S. The seat is well below the bars, but the picture does make it look a bit taller. In any case, you should know something like seat height is preference.

[kickniteasy]

what do you mean no?
give me good reason for it that high?

.....if your using it for tricks(like it's intended)
or if you just cruz around town on it then it's fine like that,just a waste of a bike.

It's a watse of a bike if he rides it? If it was kept in a closet or something it'd be a waste of a bike....just because someone's not throwing the bike down stairs every second they're on it doesn't mean he's wasting it. Plus, like he said, it's preference....take a deep breath and accept the fact that other people ride their bikes differently then you do.

I just sold my Haro in hopes of finding a good used mountain bike but thus far no luck, I'm dying to get on two wheels again (sad1)

[Mr. Win]

It's a watse of a bike if he rides it? If it was kept in a closet or something it'd be a waste of a bike....just because someone's not throwing the bike down stairs every second they're on it doesn't mean he's wasting it. Plus, like he said, it's preference....take a deep breath and accept the fact that other people ride their bikes differently then you do.

I just sold my Haro in hopes of finding a good used mountain bike but thus far no luck, I'm dying to get on two wheels again (sad1)

Don't hold your breath on that one, if your not riding a 20in hardcore everyday with your homies you ain't ridin son!

[Fear]

Don't hold your breath on that one, if your not riding a 20in hardcore everyday with your homies you ain't ridin son!

Sheeeeit.

[cable43]

Don't hold your breath on that one, if your not riding a 20in hardcore everyday with your homies you ain't ridin son!

That's some heavy shit- talking about someone's flo. He rides that way he wants.
As someone who has riddin for over 15 years i'd need to raise my seat too (to ride across state lines so you could say that to my face after I throw down a few t whips)

you need to back up your claim about "HC 20in ridin"!
so where are your vids... how HC are you?

(And I want to see some sick ass Alcantara/DeLaRosa/ illy philly Wizmerski type shit too!)

[Mr. Win]

That's some heavy shit- talking about someone flo. He rides that way he wants.
As someone who has riddin for over 15 years i'd need to raise my seat too (to ride across state lines so you could say that to my face after I throw down a few t whips)

you need to back up your claim about "HC 20in ridin"!
so where are your vids... how HC are you?

(And I want to see some sick ass Alcantara/DeLaRosa/ illy philly Wizmerski type shit too!)

You forgot to turn on your sarcasm monitor.

[kickniteasy]

You forgot to turn on your sarcasm monitor.

(lol2)

[Rosshole]

Damn fear... looks too clean to ride.

let's see some pics of it being ridden!

[Foolish]

So are you guys on EPO, artificial testosterone or just doing the blood doping thing?
If you're watching the Tour de France, you know why I'm asking! :D The drug scandals are so thick this year, you'd think the drugs came with the bikes! It's pretty nuts.

[Rosshole]

So are you guys on EPO, artificial testosterone or just doing the blood doping thing?
If you're watching the Tour de France, you know why I'm asking! :D The drug scandals are so thick this year, you'd think the drugs came with the bikes! It's pretty nuts.

Doping is ruining the Tour...

Then there are all of the people who claim that Lance was doping and just not getting caught the whole time while he was winning.

Drugs and scandal are ruining all sports IMO.

The scandals have really made me wonder who is actually clean.

[Fear]

let's see some pics of it being ridden!



I really hope I can get some soon, but nobody ever brings a camera -- probably because we already have too much shit in our pockets.

[02PROTEGE2.0]

My man tom boonen is still clean, and still leading the points comp.

Specialized all the way.

[wicked]

Because the seat is comfortable there, that's why. It's easier to grab with my knees (like it's "intended" to be, according to you), and it doubles as knee relief for longer rides. Sorry, I'm not 5'2" and 120 pounds. I'm not a seat slammer.


P.S. The seat is well below the bars, but the picture does make it look a bit taller. In any case, you should know something like seat height is preference.

I'm not either,I'm 6'2" 200 LBS,and I don't run a slammed seat,and do barspin.
I run mine higher,much higher then the average BMX rider,but it's still significantly lower then yours.
ryan nyquest in the 90's didn't ride one that high.


It's a watse of a bike if he rides it? If it was kept in a closet or something it'd be a waste of a bike....just because someone's not throwing the bike down stairs every second they're on it doesn't mean he's wasting it. Plus, like he said, it's preference....take a deep breath and accept the fact that other people ride their bikes differently then you do.

I just sold my Haro in hopes of finding a good used mountain bike but thus far no luck, I'm dying to get on two wheels again (sad1)


no it's a waste of a BMX bike to be used purely to cruz.
if thats what your after,then get the tool for the job.
----you wouldn't bring a MSP to a drift event would you?

[Fear]

I'm not either,I'm 6'2" 200 LBS,and I don't run a slammed seat,and do barspin.
I run mine higher,much higher then the average BMX rider,but it's still significantly lower then yours.
ryan nyquest in the 90's didn't ride one that high.

Sorry, I won't bring my seat down to appease the "cool" crowd. mine is at a good height for me (because I could give 2 shits about how you think I should have it.



no it's a waste of a BMX bike to be used purely to cruz.
if thats what your after,then get the tool for the job.
----you wouldn't bring a MSP to a drift event would you?

You're a dumbass. Plenty of people we used to ride with way back in the day just came along for a cruise, or to just do some really basic stuff. If you enjoy it, who cares? Many people who grew up riding 20" bikes still love to ride them; far be it from some assclown to judge them.

[Rosshole]

Sorry, I won't bring my seat down to appease the "cool" crowd. mine is at a good height for me (because I could give 2 shits about how you think I should have it.





You're a dumbass. Plenty of people we used to ride with way back in the day just came along for a cruise, or to just do some really basic stuff. If you enjoy it, who cares? Many people who grew up riding 20" bikes still love to ride them; far be it from some assclown to judge them.

Christ man, take it easy, We all know that you are the coolest and smartest guy on the forums... now STFU.

Take constructive criticism for what it is.



P.S. Nobody likes a poser.

[cable43]

Christ man, take it easy, We all know that you are the coolest and smartest guy on the forums... now STFU.

Take constructive criticism for what it is.



P.S. Nobody likes a poser.


..... but it's not constructive if HE does not benefit from it.

it's actually "destructive" if it impedes his ability to do what it is he wants to do.

and a "poser" is one who follows the crowds and trends trying fit a mold. he's doing' the opposite.

what I just did... THAT was constructive.

[kickniteasy]

what I just did... THAT was constructive.

haha


alright......so anyway, back to bikes.......

Any advice about decent modell hard tails I should be looking at? I tried waiting for a used one but I'm just not patient enough. I don't want a FS set up because it's heavier and I don't think I'll be needing it for my riding just yet. I just want something that's good enough I won't mind putting some money into it with upgrades/repairs but in with a reasonable price tag.

[Foolish]

The Gary Fisher Tassajara has been a great H/T value for the last several years. I've not taken a look at '07/'08 models lately, but the Tass has been available in recent years with or without disc brakes, and has had just the "right" equipment to get you down the trail for the next few years without needing to upgrade and without spending $1000!

[Rosshole]

..... but it's not constructive if HE does not benefit from it.

it's actually "destructive" if it impedes his ability to do what it is he wants to do.

and a "poser" is one who follows the crowds and trends trying fit a mold. he's doing' the opposite.

what I just did... THAT was constructive.

you never answered my question... are those speedplays on that specialized?

[kickniteasy]

The Gary Fisher Tassajara has been a great H/T value for the last several years. I've not taken a look at '07/'08 models lately, but the Tass has been available in recent years with or without disc brakes, and has had just the "right" equipment to get you down the trail for the next few years without needing to upgrade and without spending $1000!

Thanks for the great recommendation! I'll for sure put this one on my list of used bikes to look for, the disc version is $860 new and the pad version is $780......slightly out of my budget for right now

[Foolish]

What is your budget, if I may ask?

The Tassajara has a nice frame, good fork with some adjustability, and mid-high level components, so it's a good bike now, and if you want to upgrade later, you're not throwing good parts at a crap bike! That's why I really liked to sell them.

Ok, the $660 Piranha is nice, too. My only concern would be the somewhat lower-end disk brakes. Avid makes nice stuff though, so you may be alright with that one. It's quite a bit less than the non-disk Tass, too.

You go down a step on the hubs, rims, F/R derailleurs, fork and crank with the Piranha, but actually get the same frame, shifters, cassette, seat, seatpost, handlebars, and tires. That's not bad for the price, especially if you want disc brakes!

[cable43]

you never answered my question... are those speedplays on that specialized?

touché....
speedplay x2

(which ironically i broke a cleat on yesterday)

[Fear]

Update: Installed Fly Pantera Fork, Fly grips and an Odyssey Intac seat post. Gotta get ready for some trails on Saturday... hope my back isn't too sore by then. Moving sucks.

[Rosshole]

touché....
speedplay x2

(which ironically i broke a cleat on yesterday)

I use the same... I have heard from some people that those cleats self destruct after a couple of years.

[jred321]

so cyclists, i'm thinking of picking up a mountain bike in a few weeks. will never be a hardcore cyclist so don't need/want something crazy. i'm thinking around $400 should be ok. what advice and recommendations do you have?

[Rosshole]

Trek 4300 $389.99 MSRP

[jred321]

why that bike?

[Rosshole]

I have a 2000 Trek 4500 that I bought new and is a great bike.

It is a recreational hardtail vs. a performance hardtail. It sounds to me like you would have any need for a more expensive full suspension bike.

IMO, trek does an excellent job of delivering "bang for the buck"

[jred321]

i should also note that i used to ride back in middle school. i have a 95ish iron horse hard tail, front suspension bike at home that i could put back on the trail. when i did ride i would ride anything and did 1 race also. the pictures of the 4300 make it almost look too recreational compared to what i used to ride and i think i would be better served to just update the bike i already have. what i meant by not hardcore was more that i won't ride really often as i don't have a ton of time but when i do go out i'll probably go over anything short of a cliff

i was actually considering a cheap full suspension bike like the diamondback coil ex or there was an iron horse at dick's when i went yesterday that was $450 but i didn't get the model

[Rosshole]

ah, I see!

For the trails by me, a full suspension bike would be over kill.

[Fear]

Used Specialized P series.

[jred321]

i have no idea about the trails near me as i just moved to upstate ny for a few months and don't know the area at all. back home there are places that full suspension would definitely be nice. around my house there are tons of trails that i ride my dirtbike on and some are even rough on that

[Rosshole]

Used Specialized P series.

It always seems to me that finding a used bike that is the right size is never very easy.

But then again, I have a "thing" about riding bikes that are the wrong size.

[jred321]

Used Specialized P series.
why is the seat so low? i've seen bikes like that before and never really understood that part. i do need to check the local bike shop to see what they have for used bikes

[Fear]

It's a dirt jumper bike. They're made to feel like bigger BMX bikes. Try one.

[jred321]

they look like a bmx bike frame with mountain bike tires. i'll take one for a spin at the bike shop but i'm skeptical

[Purrfectangel]

I have a boulder se that I absolutely love and am looking at getting another bike better equipped for offroading in the near future.

[Rosshole]

It's a dirt jumper bike. They're made to feel like bigger BMX bikes. Try one.

How are those for hour plus trail rides?

[Fear]

How are those for hour plus trail rides?


Probably like any other hardtail bike, I would assume. The only real difference is seating position, you are tucked into the bike more -- everyone I know that rides one loves it for trails.

[Rosshole]

Probably like any other hardtail bike, I would assume. The only real difference is seating position, you are tucked into the bike more -- everyone I know that rides one loves it for trails.

are there any good trails down by you, and if so, where are they (I am looking for something new)

[Fear]

Palos Park/Cal Sag for MTBing, others for BMXing. PM me for more details.

[Rosshole]

I found it online... I think... is it down by orland park?

[Fear]

Yeah, it's like 5 minutes from my house.

[Rosshole]

ah, I have friends in Tinley Park, I may have to plan a weekend!

[Fear]

I would say let me know, but those trails are NOT bmx friendly. At all. In any case, let me know if you shoot down this way, we're always riding somewhere.

[Foolish]

Probably like any other hardtail bike, I would assume. The only real difference is seating position, you are tucked into the bike more -- everyone I know that rides one loves it for trails.

Seriously, for long distance rides, or just riding a chunk of trail, doing jumps? Those things weigh a ton and you'll feel that every inch of a long ride. They also frequently only have one or two chainrings up front, and crazy-long travel forks for a hardtail. They're just not going to be good bikes for actually riding mountain bike trails of any distance at all. Besides, the geometry on those bikes are usually set up with really slack head/seat tube angles that make 'em steady in the air over jumps and when going downhill fast, but they don't turn very well.

Anyway, if you're a BMX'er looking for a big-boy bike, sure, the P2 is cool, but if you're going to ride for more than 6 minutes at a time, get a real cross-country bike. That's just 10 years of working in bikeshops and 14 years of riding talking, though, feel free to ignore me! :D

[cable43]

Seriously, for long distance rides, or just riding a chunk of trail, doing jumps? Those things weigh a ton and you'll feel that every inch of a long ride. They also frequently only have one or two chainrings up front, and crazy-long travel forks for a hardtail. They're just not going to be good bikes for actually riding mountain bike trails of any distance at all. Besides, the geometry on those bikes are usually set up with really slack head/seat tube angles that make 'em steady in the air over jumps and when going downhill fast, but they don't turn very well.

Anyway, if you're a BMX'er looking for a big-boy bike, sure, the P2 is cool, but if you're going to ride for more than 6 minutes at a time, get a real cross-country bike. That's just 10 years of working in bikeshops and 14 years of riding talking, though, feel free to ignore me! :D


poser

[Foolish]

What am I posing as? Or were you referring to people who buy overweight, overbuilt, undersized X-treeeeeem dirt jumping bikes to ride around campus?

[cable43]

j/k Foolish -

He is 100% right.
I' ridden and competed in just about every discipline of biking,cycling, freestyle, bmx, mtb, you name it.
On some days I would bring my dual slalom/jump mtb bike AND my full size mtb to the trials to have a better experience. A 34-40lb 16" mtb is only good about 100' at a time.

(and yes I also worked in shops since about 93- we know everything!)

[cable43]

What am I posing as? Or were you referring to people who buy overweight, overbuilt, undersized X-treeeeeem dirt jumping bikes to ride around campus?

man... you replied before I finished posting!
GO TO BED... or watch ninja warrior or something (lol)

[Foolish]

:D Got it. I think I am going to go to bed now. Your first post did nudge the needle on my sarcastometer, but I wasn't sure if it was reading accurately or not!

[livetoride]

wow lots of people have road, bmx, or xc bikes. well here is a little change up for you.....last years bike a 2006 Giant Faith 1...can you say chrome...http://i5.pinkbike.com/photo/1201/pbpic1201980.jpg

my hardtail that i built up...kind of a dated pic, have made some changes since then, tires are both red.http://i1.pinkbike.com/photo/1434/pbpic1434862.jpg


and my brand new bike now that the faith is gone, a 2007 Giant Reign X0. 32lbs and just under 7inches of travel. It can climb the mountain and rip down it.

http://www.mbaction.com/archive/5Giant%20Reign%20X.0.JPG

nice to see i'm not the only one on this forum...

[Fear]

Seriously, for long distance rides, or just riding a chunk of trail, doing jumps? Those things weigh a ton and you'll feel that every inch of a long ride. They also frequently only have one or two chainrings up front, and crazy-long travel forks for a hardtail. They're just not going to be good bikes for actually riding mountain bike trails of any distance at all. Besides, the geometry on those bikes are usually set up with really slack head/seat tube angles that make 'em steady in the air over jumps and when going downhill fast, but they don't turn very well.

Anyway, if you're a BMX'er looking for a big-boy bike, sure, the P2 is cool, but if you're going to ride for more than 6 minutes at a time, get a real cross-country bike. That's just 10 years of working in bikeshops and 14 years of riding talking, though, feel free to ignore me! :D



Some people prefer the singlespeed. If they still didn't feel WAYYYYY too big for me, I'd buy one. And for the record, I'm no small guy by any means (5'10", 195). I'll still take my street/trails BMX any day. I admire you MTB riders, but it's just not my bag.

[cable43]

sexay!
http://i5.pinkbike.com/photo/1201/pbpic1201980.jpg

[livetoride]

and it rode like a dream. definitely one of my favourite bikes i've had. Highly recommend it.

[Foolish]

Some people prefer the singlespeed. If they still didn't feel WAYYYYY too big for me, I'd buy one. And for the record, I'm no small guy by any means (5'10", 195). I'll still take my street/trails BMX any day. I admire you MTB riders, but it's just not my bag.

I didn't mean to sound quite so snarky. Jred was asking about MTB trail riding, and I just wanted to point out that the P2-type of bike are not great trail-riding bikes.

[kickniteasy]

and it rode like a dream. definitely one of my favourite bikes i've had. Highly recommend it.

what happened to yours?

[cable43]

what happened to yours?

what he said!

[livetoride]

haha. well. i work at a shop and we sell Giant, so every season i buy a bike direct from giant on a staff purchase. I ride it all season then sell it at the end of the year for what i paid for it. That bike retailed for $4100 canadian and after my deal on it i paid about 1/2. I do not lose money on it if i sell it at the end of the year. Then in the spring i take the money, buy the a new one, and do it all over again. Someone usually gets a sweet bike, for an awsome price thats well maintained. Everyone is happy.

[Purrfectangel]

This looks almost like mine, except mines blue, white and silver...:) Very nice! I can't really tell from the pic, is your's a quick shift or dial?
http://www.mbaction.com/archive/5Giant%20Reign%20X.0.JPG

[Purrfectangel]

haha. well. i work at a shop and we sell Giant, so every season i buy a bike direct from giant on a staff purchase. I ride it all season then sell it at the end of the year for what i paid for it. That bike retailed for $4100 canadian and after my deal on it i paid about 1/2. I do not lose money on it if i sell it at the end of the year. Then in the spring i take the money, buy the a new one, and do it all over again. Someone usually gets a sweet bike, for an awsome price thats well maintained. Everyone is happy.

I got a deal on mine from a local shop, talked em down and paid cash.

[bucksatan]

I'm currently riding a Giant Iguana (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-CA/bikes/mountain/817/27910/) and hoping that link worked out. It is a far better bike than I have ever had before, with front suspension, disc brakes and the like. Coming from an old Raleigh matterhorn or whatever the last bike I had was before the cranks fell off. This thread is making me want to get home and and ride my bike. It will be a toss up between the bike and the protege for the first ride when I get back to canada.

[bucksatan]

I just realized that mine is more accuratly pictured in this link (http://pacbikes.com/itemdetails.cfm?catalogId=39&id=1191). I guess I have the 2005 model, makes since since I bought it in early 2006. I know that it is nowhere near as good and hardcore as some of your guy's bikes, but it serves my purposes and I like it.

[kickniteasy]

haha. well. i work at a shop and we sell Giant, so every season i buy a bike direct from giant on a staff purchase. I ride it all season then sell it at the end of the year for what i paid for it. That bike retailed for $4100 canadian and after my deal on it i paid about 1/2. I do not lose money on it if i sell it at the end of the year. Then in the spring i take the money, buy the a new one, and do it all over again. Someone usually gets a sweet bike, for an awsome price thats well maintained. Everyone is happy.

I don't know you personally.....but I hate you....I really do.

=)

[02PROTEGE2.0]

haha. well. i work at a shop and we sell Giant, so every season i buy a bike direct from giant on a staff purchase. I ride it all season then sell it at the end of the year for what i paid for it. That bike retailed for $4100 canadian and after my deal on it i paid about 1/2. I do not lose money on it if i sell it at the end of the year. Then in the spring i take the money, buy the a new one, and do it all over again. Someone usually gets a sweet bike, for an awsome price thats well maintained. Everyone is happy.

I know how that goes. i work for a shop that sells Specialized and Giant... I'm about to get an epic or a stumpjumper FSR... havent decided yet

[cable43]

I don't know you personally.....but I hate you....I really do.

=)

What he said!

[Martino617]

Im not into mt bikes but i did recently purchased an giant ocr 3 road bike to just ride the local roads out by me and i've been loving ever min of it.

[Rosshole]

That is what is nice about road bikes vs. mountain bikes.....

you dno't have to wait for trails to dry out before you can ride them.

[Martino617]

we just have to dodge crazy old people that cant drive. (peep)

[xelderx]

My friend just got fitted for a used Felt (not sure which model). That thing was really nice. It makes me want to upgrade my road bike a little.

[Rosshole]

I love my felt.... bang for the buck is excellent!

[wicked]

this is my SESHIN SHITHAWK......custom bike.

frame-seshin shithawk
bars-WTP heliums
forks-WTP heliums.
stem-S&M XLT race.
cranks-stolens/raw
wheels
front-demo hub laced to a rhino light------insanely light,and takes a beating.
rear-profile miniSS laced to a citylight--gotta keep it light,but still strong.
pedals-usually Hamiltons,but S&M 101's today.
seat-shadow crow.
grips-crappy martinez-not so bad once you give then some horizontal slices.
chain-shadow V2 half link-only chain worth owning
sprocket-odyessey MDS----really takes abuse.
tires-typicly fly rubans---but will run a V monster if i have too.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/stuckhatchet/myseshinshithawkedited.jpg

[Rosshole]

all these people riding BMX but no pictures yet... c'mon guys!!

[MSP608]

man how did i not find this thread until just now. well ive been mtbing for 5 years now and never plan to stop. i did some racing in my first couple of years but now there just arent any more series races in va. i still dabble here and there but nothing serious. in the past 2 years ive really gotten into urban riding and doing drops, steps, and technical stuff. my first bike was an entry level Jamis Dakar, i raced on my dad's Trek Fuel 90, and my current bike is an IronHorse MKIII Comp. i absolutely love my MKIII it soaks up just about everything and is still light enough to hop around and do some trials type stunts. I'm hoping to make it out to Snowshoe sometime before the summer season ends. There's also Ray's Indoor Park in Ohio which i plan to check out this winter. ill post some pics of my rigs later.

[Rosshole]

this is my SESHIN SHITHAWK......custom bike.

frame-seshin shithawk
bars-WTP heliums
forks-WTP heliums.
stem-S&M XLT race.
cranks-stolens/raw
wheels
front-demo hub laced to a rhino light------insanely light,and takes a beating.
rear-profile miniSS laced to a citylight--gotta keep it light,but still strong.
pedals-usually Hamiltons,but S&M 101's today.
seat-shadow crow.
grips-crappy martinez-not so bad once you give then some horizontal slices.
chain-shadow V2 half link-only chain worth owning
sprocket-odyessey MDS----really takes abuse.
tires-typicly fly rubans---but will run a V monster if i have too.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/stuckhatchet/myseshinshithawkedited.jpg

About how much does a bike like this cost to buy/build?

[Fear]

all these people riding BMX but no pictures yet... c'mon guys!!



I just got a few new parts, so pics maybe when I get home.

[Fear]

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/stuckhatchet/myseshinshithawkedited.jpg


Clean, but I will never understand running brakeless. Many times have I come in WAY too hot up to a jump and had to scrub some speed. But hey -- to each his own. Nice bike.

[wicked]

Clean, but I will never understand running brakeless. Many times have I come in WAY too hot up to a jump and had to scrub some speed. But hey -- to each his own. Nice bike.



i normaly don't,i took them off because it helps you gain a lot more bike control
for example.
you do a tire tap on deck,easy hop out squeeze brake,and you stick.

now try without brakes.

not only that,but you can't back out of a jump your haulin ass,and got mo brakes.

[wicked]

About how much does a bike like this cost to buy/build?


usually.....about $1500

[Rosshole]

I just got a few new parts, so pics maybe when I get home.

I didn't mean pics of parts, I meant pics of you fellaz ridin'

[Rosshole]

usually.....about $1500
what is the frame material?

[Fear]

usually.....about $1500


Meh. You can build a really solid bike for considerably less.

[kickniteasy]

I didn't mean pics of parts, I meant pics of you fellaz ridin'

I think about the only picture of my riding is my sig......I usually try not to bring a camera out....it tends to get broken one way or the other.

[Foolish]

From probably the last time I rode, back in April. :( I took the kid out for a spin around the neighborhood.

I've got all kinds of time this week and next, and I'd love to get our and ride, but it's been stupid hot all week. It was 101* today with a heat index of like 110*. Waaaaaaay too hot to ride! Maybe I can go one morning next week, right after I drop the kid at daycare.....

[Fear]

I think about the only picture of my riding is my sig......I usually try not to bring a camera out....it tends to get broken one way or the other.


Ditto.


Also, Ross, most BMX frames are Chromoly steel or aluminum. Some frames have aluminum chain and seatstay tubes, with the rest being CrMo. There are a couple of titanium frames out, but they have no warranty, i.e. Breaksville, USA.

[jred321]

what is the frame material?
better be platinum for that price

[MSP608]

I didn't mean pics of parts, I meant pics of you fellaz ridin'

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/9536/urbanridinguvaim2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Shot at 2007-08-09

[Foolish]

That pic reminds me. I've been wanting to take my trials bike down to campus since I moved here. Maybe I'll go tomorrow morning, before all the students get back to campus.

[Rosshole]

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/9536/urbanridinguvaim2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Shot at 2007-08-09

that is what I am talking about!

[02PROTEGE2.0]

I'm goin on an extreme campus ride tonight. just movved into my apartment at ku, hit the trails a few times already, now its time for some freeriding!\

i promise to take pics.

[livetoride]

heres a few pics i dug out of the archives....

in St Albert (outside edmonton)
http://www.crankys.ca/gallery/images/crank521.jpg

Panorama Mountain, Invermere BC
Checking things out
http://i1.pinkbike.com/photo/1444/pbpic1444552.jpg

hitting it up!!
http://i2.pinkbike.com/photo/1444/pbpic1444553.jpg

my feet are where my rear tire hit. The ladder structure is 12ft tall + 6 feet down to landing = 18ft - 20ft vertical. About 20 feet horizontal.

http://i2.pinkbike.com/photo/1444/pbpic1444554.jpg

[Fear]

Hell yes.

[wicked]

what is the frame material?

seemless butted CrMO.

Meh. You can build a really solid bike for considerably less.


yes,you definitely can,but they average park rider/AM/PRO ride about the same things,being in this price range.
but you can definitely make a good lasting bike for less then half this price.

but a guy like me,and a lot of those i right with like light and strong.......or it just gets broke.


Ditto.


Also, Ross, most BMX frames are Chromoly steel or aluminum. Some frames have aluminum chain and seatstay tubes, with the rest being CrMo. There are a couple of titanium frames out, but they have no warranty, i.e. Breaksville, USA.


BTW,you can't adhere CrMO to aluminum.

BMX frames are made of

race- CrMO/aluminum/or carbonfiber.
freestyle-CrMO
kids bike-hightin-steel-some CrMO,some both.

there are a few BMX race,and two i believe freestyle frames made of titanium.

[wicked]

....and that MTNbike shit rocks......
i wanna tuck no hander that really bad......can i borrow you bike,i think mine is allergic to dirt.

[ottawaP5]

Alright I'd figure I'd post since I mountain bike as well.

Just 15 minutes outside of Ottawa there is Gatineau park which is mountain biking heaven, there are plenty of trails for any type of biking, downhill or x country.
I prefer the x country type of biking, since i'm too scared of breaking every bone in my body lol.

Here are a few pics:

http://www.msprotege.com/members/ottawaP5/mtnbiking/biking1.jpg
Half the fun is getting there! There are plenty of twisty roads along the way, so I get to make use of the MS6's AWD, the car feels really tight when you step on it around a corner, it feels like the car is actually pivoting around the corner.

http://www.msprotege.com/members/ottawaP5/mtnbiking/biking2.jpg
I've got a middle-of-the-road mountain bike. It's pretty decent, it has deore XT and LX components, so it shifts really nice. The make is Eclipse, which is an exculsive make from a local bike shop here.

http://www.msprotege.com/members/ottawaP5/mtnbiking/biking3.jpg
To get the bike there I use a combination of Thule load bars and Yakima bike trays. Really solid setup, I rip through turns without a problem.

http://www.msprotege.com/members/ottawaP5/mtnbiking/biking4.jpg
This is the trail I took today, it's not really technical, but it has some nice hills to build your leg muscles up! Some days I'll go for the more technical trails, depends how I feel.

I'm hooked on this sport! :)

[cable43]

heres a few pics i dug out of the archives....

in St Albert (outside edmonton)
http://www.crankys.ca/gallery/images/crank521.jpg


NICE.............
Some good ol fashion Canadian Car jumpin' - THAT WHAT I'M TALKIN ABOUT!!!(idhitit)

[Mr. Win]

I love my felt.... bang for the buck is excellent!

True. I paid 12 for mine. No complaints yet.

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/9536/urbanridinguvaim2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Shot at 2007-08-09

Should of taken the stairs.

[wicked]

man..........you mountain bikers should consider learning some tricks off this shit.......no footed cans,tuck no handers,X-ups,.......just some fun stuff,take it up a notch.

[MSP608]

man..........you mountain bikers should consider learning some tricks off this shit.......no footed cans,tuck no handers,X-ups,.......just some fun stuff,take it up a notch.

im workin on it. no where to do some nice jumps tho, drops are all i have.

[Fear]

man..........you mountain bikers should consider learning some tricks off this shit.......no footed cans,tuck no handers,X-ups,.......just some fun stuff,take it up a notch.


http://www.francey.org/templates/emeril/emeril2.gif

[livetoride]

http://www.nsmb.com/videos/index.php

watch the top one.......is that a notch or two?


p.s. not me......

[jred321]

i've been watching the videos on this for a while tonight. it's a tv show about mountain biking that they decided to post online. worth checking out http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=281485

[cable43]

ahhh where did the good ol days go!

[kickniteasy]

looking at a used kona blast for 200 tomorrow.....it's a ford focus edition, they gave them free with the car in 2000/2001 but it's a normal kona blast with dual disc brakes and upgraded shocks. I really hope it's in good shape....and I can talk him into 175 =)

[ottawaP5]

looking at a used kona blast for 200 tomorrow.....it's a ford focus edition, they gave them free with the car in 2000/2001 but it's a normal kona blast with dual disc brakes and upgraded shocks. I really hope it's in good shape....and I can talk him into 175 =)

Tell him you want it for 200 if he throws in the Focus with it :)

[MSP608]

http://www.nsmb.com/videos/index.php

watch the top one.......is that a notch or two?


p.s. not me......

drop in ftw. i remember when i saw the very first episodes way back.

[kickniteasy]

My new ride!!!!!!!!

Just picked it up. It's a 2001 Kona Blast Ford Focus edition.....basically the Blast but with disk brakes and some minor upgrades in components. He wanted 200....I talked him down to 150. The bike needs a tune up but it's basically been sitting for years and is in great shape. Can't wait to get her to the bike shop for a spa treatment =). I'm so excited! (guitar)



http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y48/kickniteasy/100_0967.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y48/kickniteasy/100_0966.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y48/kickniteasy/100_0965.jpg

[ottawaP5]

Wow that looks brand new!

[kickniteasy]

yea....it was a steal. The bummer part is that it's about an inch too big. It's a 17 inch frame and I really need a 16 inch or even 15. If I'm standing straddling the frame I can clear it with about a 1/2 inch to spare....so it's a tad big. However, beggars can't be choosers and this will hold me over until I find something more fitting....pardon the pun. It's been 5 months before I found something decent anywhere near my price range and I wasn't going to let it go. I figure I'll have no trouble selling this when I find a better fitting bike and may even make a profit, or at least brake even after maintenance costs come into play.

[Fear]

Needs more singlespeed.

[Fear]

Pics of the bike for now, riding pics when it stops fucking raining.

Frame: MirraCo Icon Option, pearl orange
Bars: Fly Pantera
Grips: Fly Ruben (orange)
Bar Ends: Fly Nylon
Brake Lever: Odyssey Monolever
Stem: Fly Mosca
Gyro: Negatory, quit the laziness and went with a WTP Vector
Fork: Fly Pantera

Front Wheel: Sun StreetLite 36H
Front Hub: Odyssey Hazard, 3/8", black hardware
Front Brake: none
Front Tire: Fly Ruben

Cranks: Fly
Pedals: Fly Ruben
Chainwheel: S&M TuffMan, 28T
Chain: KMC Pintle Half-Link

Seat:WTP Warp
Seatpost: Shadow Umbra
Post Clamp: S&M

Rear Wheel: Odyssey HazardLite, 36H
Rear Hub: Odyssey Hazard, 10T
Rear Tire: Fly Ruben, 1.90
Rear Brake: Fly

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/New%20bike/DSCN2982.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/New%20bike/DSCN2981.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/New%20bike/DSCN2979.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/New%20bike/DSCN2978.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/New%20bike/DSCN2976.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/New%20bike/DSCN2972.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/New%20bike/DSCN2970.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/New%20bike/DSCN2968.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c125/yell03specv/New%20bike/DSCN2967.jpg

Sorry for the crappy pics, left my tripod (and my Rebel XTI) at work.

[kickniteasy]

holy cow man, that's a monster set up. Well done. I wouln't know whether to ride it or just drool =)

[Fear]

Thanks, man. I wish it would stop raining here.... I figured it would be a great weekend for some late-night park riding (like 65 degrees out right now), but the water spoiled it all. Too bad the indoor park like 5 minutes from home is littered with 13-year-old boarders, or I would be there now.

[wicked]

nice bike.

not a fan of a lot of things here and there,but over all it's got nice style.
I'm a tall guy,i couldn't imagine riding short bars like that.it's gotta be 8-8.25 for me,and i run a upright stem with spacers.(i wish they made those bars in my size)

...i know your a FLY fan,as am i,but i hope those cranks fair better under you then they have so many other people.



.......one more thing.......the Umbra seat post....i think it's possible to flip the guts upsidedown to make a cleaner look,unless you dig it like that.

[jred321]

i ended up getting a Forge Sawback 5xx. yea it's only for sale at target online (oh no) but it has deore shifters and rear derailleur, (forget which front derailleur but i think 1 or 2 steps down from the deore), a dart1 front fork, cable disc brakes, kenda tires, WTB seat and wheels, and supposedly the frame is made by Giant. nothing too special but for the price ($333 shipped including tax) i couldn't find anything better and i think it'll last me for a little while at least. my biggest gripe so far (though i've only ridden on flat paved trails) is the front fork is too soft. just bouncing on the front wheel i can make it bottom out and the preload adjustment doesn't seem to make any difference at all.

i'll post pictures of mine later but it looks pretty much like all of the others, i just added little things like toe clips, bar ends, pump, little things.

http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=292931


http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/sr=1-1/qid=1188310562/ref=sr_1_1/602-3781677-3048634?ie=UTF8&asin=B000LWDHSO

[Rosshole]

You found a good deal Jared!

[Rosshole]

Needs more singlespeed.

meh.....

Singletrack FTW!!

[Fear]

Picked up a Fly Pantera 2 frame on Sunday. Will have riding pics when we hit the park next, which I'm hoping will be like.... today.

[AlaskaP5]

Needs more singlespeed.

I got a single speed, full rigid Surley 1x1 with 3 inch tires on 39 mm rims,, frankenbike rules!

[jred321]

the new and the old.
new:
alivio front/deore rear and shifters, 27 speeds
tektro disc brakes
rock shox dart 1
other stuff i already posted about

old:
iron horse MT500R from about 1995
STX RC everything including the crank (except the rear shifter which had to be replaced after failing to work after the bike sat for 8 years), 21 speeds
rock shox quadra 21 fork
actually lighter than the new bike (at least it feels that way) even though the new one is aluminum

the plan was to have my gf ride the old bike and me ride the new one but when we went out today she didn't like how the old one made you sit and so i traded with her and she liked how the new one had you ride so i might get the old one again. it's fine with me that way i like the old one :)

[wicked]

this is my other bike.....it's a GIANT BOWERY.it's a fixy
i'm riding brakes on this right now because it's getting close to crush for the grapes here in wine country.......leaving the roads a dangerous place for bikes with so many unlicensed illegals on the road.
brakes can come back off in the spring.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/stuckhatchet/mybowery.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/stuckhatchet/Bowery-Black.jpg

[kickniteasy]

you're a braaaaaaaaaaaave man riding with no brakes.....can't say that's something I'd ever want to try


jred that target bike looks pretty darn sweet for that price......wish they sold it in stores, I'd probably own one right now.

[jred321]

jred that target bike looks pretty darn sweet for that price......wish they sold it in stores, I'd probably own one right now.
target pretty much always has a 10% off coupon on the web which helps to take care of tax and some of the shipping :) the only bad part is you have to put it together but that was pretty easy since they put the drivetrain together for you. all you have to do is put the handlebars on (all cables are already attached and everything mounted, just put them on), put the front wheel on, put the front brake on, put the seat in, and then adjust brakes and derailleurs as needed. it really was pretty easy and was a good way to start learning how everything works

[kickniteasy]

I'd be really worried it wouldn't fit right though. That, and I'm just the type of person where if I'm dropping that much on something I like to be able to have it in my hands right after I pay for it =).

[jred321]

well you can always return it to your local target :)

[MSP608]

going to snowshoe on monday, cant wait!!

[kickniteasy]

well you can always return it to your local target :)

psh......but that's effort......:p

[Fear]

Super nice weekend coming up here in Chicago..... can't wait to do some riding and get adjusted to the new frame a bit more.

[kickniteasy]

Super nice weekend coming up here in Chicago..... can't wait to do some riding and get adjusted to the new frame a bit more.

I was going to take the mountain bike out for a bit today but the typical florida afternoon thunderstorm rolled through and it's way too wet outsdie =(

[iracemine]

Super nice weekend coming up here in Chicago..... can't wait to do some riding and get adjusted to the new frame a bit more.

new frame????

going to palos sat morning if you know anyone who can keep up with a pro.

[Fear]

new frame????

going to palos sat morning if you know anyone who can keep up with a pro.


Yeah, I got the Fly Pantera 2 frame.

What time you headin to Palos? Call me. I can almost walk there from my house.

[wicked]

Yeah, I got the Fly Pantera 2 frame.

What time you headin to Palos? Call me. I can almost walk there from my house.


so you do actually ride that?
just asking because it's looks like you JUST built it.

[Fear]

so you do actually ride that?
just asking because it's looks like you JUST built it.


Yes, I do ride. And yes, it was just built. Unfortunately, working ~15 hours/day, 5-6 days a week, I don't have a whole lot of time TO ride. Most everything on the bike is less than a month old. I just wanted to get everything to my liking right away. Hopefully, when I get back to school, I'll (ironically) have more free time.

[iracemine]

I can call you before I show up. if you want to have your 26er friends show up. Or I could swing by and check out the busted up ride you neglect so bad.

did you loose more weight too with that frame? try and get you 20" thugs to go to elgin and ride the hill. I want to bring my RC truck out there and mess with all the kids.

[Fear]

Well, call me before you go -- I might take one of the Specialized FSR test bikes from Cycles and ride for a few.

And yeah, the bike weighs in at 25 pounds even (with brakes) now.

[Fear]

P.S. What hill?

[kickniteasy]

Well, call me before you go -- I might take one of the Specialized FSR test bikes from Cycles and ride for a few.

And yeah, the bike weighs in at 25 pounds even (with brakes) now.

that's pretty darn light!

[02PROTEGE2.0]

Fixed gear or no gear!!! haha... (i'm such a hypocrite) but nice ride, no less. a buddy of mine has that in raw aluminum... its nice.

this is my other bike.....it's a GIANT BOWERY.it's a fixy
i'm riding brakes on this right now because it's getting close to crush for the grapes here in wine country.......leaving the roads a dangerous place for bikes with so many unlicensed illegals on the road.
brakes can come back off in the spring.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/stuckhatchet/mybowery.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/stuckhatchet/Bowery-Black.jpg

[iracemine]

welp, I hope you liked palos IL. It was fucking sweet dirt conditions. my bald ass tire hooked up like a champ. Rode really well today. didint throw up, didnt see alot of people too. did get grabbed off my ride from a downed tree.

rode out 1/4 of the 12 hour track and tuned off and headed over to my favorite trail of all time. the only thing that suck about that trail is that the ending that I take has the biggest drop off/washout in the park. so the roadie that I am I always get off and walk down, as I was doing that two guys with bikes like you guys where riding zoomed by. so anyway hopped over the highway and rode the out and back with some problems. My DT star cassette started to not ingage. so every time I would try and power out of a turn I would spin and send my need into my stem. So as pissed as I can get (since Its my fault) I hoped over the highway and the rest of the "back" is all up hill I never stopped peddling.

in all it was just a hours worth but my knee could not take anymore. Its fucking cool to zoom through trees at speed and stick corners.

you might want to try a lighter bike next time, it definitely will help you out with the cardio portion and get you up in speed. other than that it was 68 clear skys and a slight wind nice day to live in IL and be out side.

[jred321]

i went for a ~7 hour ride today that should have been closer to a 4 hour ride. the trail back to the car stopped having markings on it and we ended up trying to find our way back to the trails that got us there to ride them back down but had a tough time. ended up following some power lines down the mountain until we got to a road and rode back along that. what sucks is that since we walked down from the top of the mountain under the power lines which was unridable we had to miss all of the fun downhill that i was looking forward to after all of that climbing. i'm going to be sore beyond belief tomorrow. a combination of a lot of rocky uphills (i think it said 1400' vertical on the site i found the trail on), wandering around forever aimlessly, trying to do some rocky sections that were a little beyond me and my 15 year old 1" travel hard tail and discovering some rocks that were hidden under leaves is going to hurt

[Fear]

welp, I hope you liked palos IL. It was fucking sweet dirt conditions. my bald ass tire hooked up like a champ. Rode really well today. didint throw up, didnt see alot of people too. did get grabbed off my ride from a downed tree.

rode out 1/4 of the 12 hour track and tuned off and headed over to my favorite trail of all time. the only thing that suck about that trail is that the ending that I take has the biggest drop off/washout in the park. so the roadie that I am I always get off and walk down, as I was doing that two guys with bikes like you guys where riding zoomed by. so anyway hopped over the highway and rode the out and back with some problems. My DT star cassette started to not ingage. so every time I would try and power out of a turn I would spin and send my need into my stem. So as pissed as I can get (since Its my fault) I hoped over the highway and the rest of the "back" is all up hill I never stopped peddling.

in all it was just a hours worth but my knee could not take anymore. Its fucking cool to zoom through trees at speed and stick corners.

you might want to try a lighter bike next time, it definitely will help you out with the cardio portion and get you up in speed. other than that it was 68 clear skys and a slight wind nice day to live in IL and be out side.


It was cool and all, and I might give it a try a few more times, but it really wasn't my bag. I rode about 15 miles on that Kona after I got home, just to get a better feel for that kind of bike.

[MSP608]

my full face giro remedy helmet came in today, time to go back to west va.

anyone want to ride at snowshoe this saturday?

[jred321]

i'm really fighting to keep myself from emailing this guy http://classifieds.mtbr.com/showproduct.php?product=11009&cat

[iracemine]

why fight it? Its a nice ride and price.

[jred321]

because i told myself i'd wait until spring to get a new ride. i did a little research and found those same pictures with almost the same ad used on a site back in february in CA so unless the guy moved to NJ which is where he listed the bike now and didn't sell the bike back then i'm going with it's too good to be true.

[iracemine]

with spring comes high demand and high prices.

who knows sram might come out with a hover bike then too, your call.

[jred321]

i know, i'm scouring the sites of local ski areas and shops around them because they'll have to get rid of their demo bikes soon and clear out the rest of their inventory for skis. part of me says "well i'm going to spend it anyways so might as well do it now when prices are better." the other part says "be responsible and pay off your student loans then worry about buying a bike." i'm conflicted

[iracemine]

ha ha, my dad would say pay the debt, my moms would say live your life while you pay that debt, and the kid in me would say thats what credit cards are for.

most of the time the longer the wait, the better the deal. but then again its just a bike. LOL... sorry im a libra, I cant help you out too much.

[jred321]

i've been doing the "live life while paying debt" thing for 2 years now but i can "see the end of the tunnel" and come tax return/bonus time in the spring i'll be done with these loans. if i can just keep holding out until like feb i won't have to deal with it ever again. on the other hand, given what i pay per month now towards the loan, the cost of the bike would only be 2 payments different so it wouldn't change things that much. it's tough to be in my head

i think i'm going to see about taking a trip to killington next week to check out some of their pre-ski season sales :)

[MSP608]

definitely pick up something from a resort/store this fall, spring will be way too expensive. the prices at my local Performance store are ridiculous. theyre selling some really nice bikes for rreeeaalllyyy cheap.

[jred321]

the local shops around here aren't too cheap, they're on sale but not at crazy low prices. the prices at this place though (as long as they're up to date) are pretty decent http://www.truewheels.com/Specials.html so i'm thinking of just planning a ride at killington for next weekend and while i'm there i'll check out the shops. i'm thinking about a stumpjumper FSR comp

[iracemine]

well you are right. they are getting rid of the demo bikes now. but the rest of the field is not to low just yet.

wait some more and the prices are just to fall along with the 07 selection. your call. maby you can just hagle a guy down if you find "your" bike.

me personally I would never ever buy a assembled bike. but then again I have worked in bike shops for 10 years now. and in the dead of winter is always that clearance sale from the manufacters. I guess that doesnt help.

[iracemine]

all made on clearance parts or "EP"ed. I should bring my phone next ride and take a pic or two for you people that have hills and what not. IL can get pretty boring thats why I rock a SS!

[MSP608]

a few from last week.
http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q219/msp608/mountain%20biking/altelledgedrop.jpg
http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q219/msp608/mountain%20biking/wheelieataltel.jpg
http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q219/msp608/mountain%20biking/altelskinnies.jpg
http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q219/msp608/mountain%20biking/churchjump.jpg
i jumped off the building 3 times but none of the pictures came out alright, it was getting too dark. my friend got a video, ill post it once he sends it over.

[jred321]

so i'm faced with a question: buy a more basic bike for cheaper and upgrade as needed or buy a better bike off the bat.

I stopped by 4 local bike shops this week. 2 didn't have anything in stock that interested me. the other 2 are where the decision comes. 1 shop has a Diamondback Mission 1 for $1400. Another has an 08 Stumpjumper FSR comp for $2100. The Mission 1 is obviously more basic but it's the same frame as the more expensive mission bikes so upgrading components and shocks would net a decent bike. The stumpjumper has them out of the gate.

based on the reviews they both fit my needs (XC focused all mountain, or an AM bike that isn't afraid of climbing). the mission 1 just has some meh components but it's still decent for the price.

tomorrow i'm going to stop by the shop with the stumpjumper and talk to the guy who knows what he's talking about (the guy i talked to monday admittedly said he wasn't the guy to talk to about this stuff and i should come back any other day but monday when the other guy is in). they had a few other things that might fit my needs and are leftover 07s but i dont remember which they were, i think i remember giant reign but i'm not positive. if one of those 07s fits my needs i'd probably go with one of them because they were already discounted a few hundred off MSRP then are another 10% off that. i think i'm just frustrated because i looked at closing time monday and then had to travel yesterday and won't get back until like 9 tonight so i won't get to talk to anyone until at least tom lunch and it's eating away at me inside

what to do what to do... i'm really torn, i really like the stumpy but the mission is still a good bike and much cheaper, plus there's the mystery bikes that i vaguely remember but might meet my needs

[MSP608]

see if you can find an 07 stumpjumper fsr comp. my friend has one and the bike is absolutely amazing. he got it for under 2k and that was almost a year ago. i dont know how they can sell such a great bike for such a great price. they manage to keep the weight down even with nearly 5 inches of travel. the components are great, and i really like the juicy 5's that come on it too.

specialized just changed their frame setup for 08. ive never been a fan of grabbing a hot new bike right after it comes out. personally i would wait for some feedback on their new design. buuutt im sure its fine i mean this is specialized were talking about here.

since youre looking for climeable all mountain, dont go cheap, get the stumpy. when youre looking at that range of bikes you shouldnt dip down and hope to later upgrade. youll end up breaking stuff way too often. go ahead and pay more upfront for the bike and youll be much happier.

good luck on your decision. hope i helped some.

[jred321]

thanks for the advice. i've checked the 2 local specialized dealers and they didn't have any 07 stumpys left. that is actually what i was hoping to find. my one shot is emailing a dealer back near home and i could have my parents pick it up for me if they had one.

the reviews i've seen so far for the 08 stumpy have been positive but only time will tell how the new frame holds up. i too am skeptical in general of buying newly developed products

[Fear]

thanks for the advice. i've checked the 2 local specialized dealers and they didn't have any 07 stumpys left. that is actually what i was hoping to find. my one shot is emailing a dealer back near home and i could have my parents pick it up for me if they had one.

the reviews i've seen so far for the 08 stumpy have been positive but only time will tell how the new frame holds up. i too am skeptical in general of buying newly developed products


The local shop my buddy owns will be blowing their 07 shit out real soon, and I know they have two Sumpjumpers there. I can let you know Friday (when he comes back from the Vegas bike show) what he might be looking for as far as price. Hell, you could make a Chicago road trip.

[Fear]

P.S. Right rotator cuff tear on Saturday night. Failed lookback parking lot transfer into a parking block = lose.

[jred321]

The local shop my buddy owns will be blowing their 07 shit out real soon, and I know they have two Sumpjumpers there. I can let you know Friday (when he comes back from the Vegas bike show) what he might be looking for as far as price. Hell, you could make a Chicago road trip.
nice thank you. i found a shop closer to where i normally live that has 2 comps in stock but they list them at $1850 which, quite frankly, isn't enough of a deal for me to make the trip. i don't think i would make the trip to chicago but if your buddy could give a decent deal shipped i'd be interested :)

[Prodigy]

We'll see who'll hate me after this one.

I'm pondering the idea of slapping a 80cc 2-stroke engine on my spare road bike, Softride Qualifier 650.

Same bike + wheels as this one but an older version.

http://i17.ebayimg.com/01/i/000/b8/20/930d_12.JPG

The engine kits are cheap as hell for $120...
and this will be purely for shits and giggles as I still have a Specialized Allez Sport as my primary road bike.

and the kit
http://i17.ebayimg.com/06/i/08/39/80/98_1.JPG

While it will be mainly for shits and giggles, I'll probably use it to get home from college (40 miles with books/laptop) when my car's down due to misc. installs.

[Rosshole]

what size frame is the softride?

would you rather sell it than put a motor on it? I am looking for a new tri bike!

On that note... does anyone know much or have any experience with Orbea? I am think about getting a Orbea Ora Dura Ace this coming season.

[iracemine]

soft rides are for old people.

[Prodigy]

what size frame is the softride?

would you rather sell it than put a motor on it? I am looking for a new tri bike!

On that note... does anyone know much or have any experience with Orbea? I am think about getting a Orbea Ora Dura Ace this coming season.

If I'd sell it, it would be the bare frame. I've spent too much on the gears + wheels.
On top of that, I'd rather slap the engine on it. (cabpatch)

[Rosshole]

soft rides are for old people.

true... I'd just hate seeing a motor strapped to a decent bike

[jred321]

well i couldn't wait. i stopped by the bike shop today during lunch and pulled the trigger. i went in thinking i was going to buy the leftover trek remedy 5 they had left but after riding it around it was too small (17.5" frame). i took out a few of the fuel ex's they had in a 19.5" frame and they were fine riding around but i had pretty much no standover room. so i think treks are just sized wrong for my proportions. the medium 08 stumpjumper felt great so i ended up going with that :) i pick it up today after work. it'll be my first time riding with clipless pedals and my first full suspension bike, should be interesting

[kickniteasy]

post some pics of that bad boy.

[Rosshole]

clipless pedals all the way... I will never ride without them!

[iracemine]

clipless pedals all the way... I will never ride without them!

funny you say that. I cant begin to ride a bike with out clips nowadays.

sorry I didint get any pics the other day. I just hate stoping when I ride. that and id be fucked if I lost my phone. Ill try put some pics on here from my NIU days.

[jred321]

some pics of my new toy. luckily the pedals have 1 side that's a platform (though i'm guessing it's really for test rides at the shop and is supposed to come off) so i can still ride without the special shoes on :)

[iracemine]

kill the reflectors tonight

[MSP608]

you made an excellent choice. now get out and go ride! i dont about where you are but the weather is amaaazing here in central Virginia today. im definitely going for a ride.

as for learning to ride with clipless pedals, dont ride in the grass thinking youll be better off in case you fall. grass absorbs so much energy so just ride on a nice smooth surface. unclip well before you actually plan on stopping. practice practice practice until it becomes instinct. i dont know how but i manage to unclip even in the worst situations, i guess its become involuntary.

im trying to learn to ride without clipless pedals now. i can do some trials stuff, but with the handicap of my feet being attached to the bike. its so sick what trials riders can do.

the greatest...ryan leech http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1F7z4HxpWfA

[MSP608]

kill the reflectors tonight

haha good call

[jred321]

kill the reflectors tonight
lol, i was wondering when that would come. they'll be gone :) i also need to install my GPS somehow.

i took it out around the parking lot. i wanted to go riding but when i looked at the radar when i got home there was a giant green/yellow mass moving towards here. clipless isn't as scary as it sounds and as some people make it seem. it's still something i have to think about sure but they release pretty easily. i'm learning about what the adjustments mean on my shock/fork. the first time i flipped them to locked out i was pretty amazed :)

[Fear]

Clips? Fuck 'em. Shinburgers, baby.

[Foolish]

Shinburgers are sick. However, for mountain bikes, clipless is it.

My trials bike has platforms, but everything else is strictly clipless.
'grats on the new ride, jred. Don't sweat the pedals, you'll get used to them, then you won't be able to live with out 'em. As far as them becoming habitual, I've clipped out while flying over the handlebars! BTW, the pedals weren't the cause of my launch over the bars! ;)

[jred321]

went riding today for a few hours. fell over a few times. specifically on climbs that have sections of rock (like an old stone wall) so i'm going slowly from the climb, decide to try to make it through the rock section, don't make it so need to put my foot down, and then timber over i go. i was getting pretty frustrated. what i did figure out is that it's not just the angle that makes them pop out but it's the angle and pressure. if i have my weight on my heel i can move a good amount before it pops out. if i have my weight on the ball of my foot it pops out pretty easily with less movement. i just need to get used to making that movement period :)

the bike itself is way different than my old bike. i'm so much more upright and my center of gravity is different. i found myself way back on downhills that weren't super steep and had the front pop up a few times on uphills (hardly ever had that happen on the old bike). i also noticed that the front wheel likes to come up a lot more in general than the old bike so doing little things like jumping off curbs i was pulling up always which used to have me land level but i was landing back tire first. it'll take some getting used to but i'm sure i'll manage somehow :)

[Foolish]

the bike itself is way different than my old bike. i'm so much more upright and my center of gravity is different.


Glad you're liking the new ride. Couple things you can do to help with the positioning:

1. Slide the seat back on the seat post.
2. Longer stem

Either of these will stretch you out over the bike a bit and lower your COG, though the stem-swap would bring your weight forward more, while the seat slide would, of course, move your ass back! A good shop will swap out the stem for you for free, though, so if you think that would help, get back to the shop ASAP while the stem on your bike is still new and they can still swap it for you.

As for the pedals, I find that if you just throw your foot out to the side, kind of like you would if you were on platform pedals, you'll come out of your clipless. As you move your foot outward, your toe stays but your heel goes, creating the twist you need to get out. Simple in concept, not always so simple in execution. ;)

[MSP608]

went urban riding at UVA today, had a blast. my ankle seems to be almost 100% again. i was dropping off my normal stuff and it never started to hurt or anything.

[jred321]

Glad you're liking the new ride. Couple things you can do to help with the positioning:

1. Slide the seat back on the seat post.
2. Longer stem

Either of these will stretch you out over the bike a bit and lower your COG, though the stem-swap would bring your weight forward more, while the seat slide would, of course, move your ass back! A good shop will swap out the stem for you for free, though, so if you think that would help, get back to the shop ASAP while the stem on your bike is still new and they can still swap it for you.
thanks for the advice. i've been thinking about a longer stem and/or straight bars but i'm going to hold off until spring (if still necessary then) because i think a lot of it is just getting used to the bike. my old bike had a frame that sat you much more like a road bike where you're very hunched over and it had a super long stem. the first time up a hill my front end was hopping around which is something that i hardly ever had happen on the old bike. i just need to give myself some time to adjust to the totally different style of bike and after some time if i just can't then i'll get new stuff

As for the pedals, I find that if you just throw your foot out to the side, kind of like you would if you were on platform pedals, you'll come out of your clipless. As you move your foot outward, your toe stays but your heel goes, creating the twist you need to get out. Simple in concept, not always so simple in execution. ;)
thanks, i'll try just throwing to the side instead of a conscious twist effort, sounds a lot easier. i find a lot that i'll twist and get to that point where a little farther and it will unclip but sort of get hung up there. i spent the whole ride back from the trail yesterday just clipping in and unclipping and the time on the trail was a bit better too. i think part of it is that my old bike had toe clips where the motion to get out of them is back and that was totally natural for me so i just need to get my body to realize the change. hopefully today's ride will be even better and i won't fall on rocks again

[Foolish]

i just need to give myself some time to adjust to the totally different style of bike and after some time if i just can't then i'll get new stuff
Well, I guess, but I try to keep as close to the same position as possible from bike to bike. Why should you adjust to the bike? Bikes are adjustable, and if you were comfortable/in control of the old bike, I'd say get as close to that as you can with the new one.

i think part of it is that my old bike had toe clips where the motion to get out of them is back and that was totally natural for me so i just need to get my body to realize the change.

[on soapbox]TOE CLIPS ARE THE DEVIL!! THE DEVIL!! They're actually way harder to use (getting in and out) than clipless pedals. If you have them set tight enough to actually allow you to pull up (like you can with clipless) then you can't actually get your feet out when you need to, plus, you have to pull back, when out is where you need your feet to be so you don't fall! Terrible idea! [/soapbox]

[jred321]

i kept the toe clips fairly loose so the up motion wasn't really there, they were more to make sure my feet stayed on the pedals in rough sections. i can't remember ever having trouble going back to get out, i guess it's more natural for me. i know what you're saying about the bike, on the other hand i'm coming from a bike from a time when mountain bike meant something way different than what's out today. an all mountain bike as it is today didn't exist back then, i compare my old bike to more of a road bike with off road tires. it's just going to take a few rides to really get used to it. the weirdest thing is the front end coming up but i'll learn when to expect it and how to minimize it, if not a longer stem and flat bars are a simple upgrade

today's ride was much better as far as clipless goes. i don't know if it was because i let my gf lead mostly so i wasn't as tired or if the pedals are getting more broken in or what but it was much better today than yesterday

[Fear]

Hopefully, I will be able to source a retarded picture of me riding off of iracemine's trailer at the ProtegeGarage meet from Saturday.

[Foolish]

I'm glad it's getting better with the pedals. Oddly, the last time I went out on my FS bike, I had a ton of trouble getting mine to let me clip in. I think it was an issue of 1st gen Ritchey Pedals with 2nd Gen cleats, or perhaps I just really need to clean the pedals and lube them. Anyway, I need to address the issue.

Incidentally, the "1st gen Ritchey pedals" I spoke of are going on 11 years old! Maybe I should upgrade sometime, huh?

This thread is good for me. It's making me really want to go ride. Temperatures here have finally dropped to where that's a reasonable idea again. Maybe I can sneak out for a quick ride Thursday morning before class..... :D

[iracemine]

here is some retarded pics of me at NIU campus a few years back.

sorry I dont have a scaner

[Prodigy]

Unfortunately, no cracked craniums...

[wicked]

too easy with suspension,hardtail that shit.

[iracemine]

oh I have.. just not with anyone that had a nice camera to take a pic with around.

[Fear]

too easy with suspension,hardtail that shit.


I don't ever remember seeing any pictures of you doing any crazy stuff, even with all the shit you talk.

[jred321]

landing on stairs still seems pretty not fun to me (doesn't look like you're clearing them in the pics)

[jred321]

so i have a question that is probably pretty obvious to more experienced people but i'll ask anyways. with my old barely suspended bike i used to switch between standing and sitting while climbing and would stand the whole way down. with the full suspension bike if i stand climbing i bounce (unless it's locked out) so i've learned to sit the whole time. for the descent, should i sit ever? obviously on the very steep sections i'm over my rear tire but i pretty much stand whenever i don't have to pedal. by doing this there's less weight over the rear shock so it is bouncing more than compressing. should i be sitting more on downhills/quick non-pedaling sections so the rear shock is working more?

[Fear]

From watching some friends of mine, and listening to them talk, they just stiffen the rear shock to where the bounce is less evident. I suppose it could be a product of which shock is on the rear, but I don't know that for sure, I can only comment on what I do know.


You could always lock it out, too. Lol.

[wicked]

I don't ever remember seeing any pictures of you doing any crazy stuff, even with all the shit you talk.


LOL,good point.
I'll have to fix that later.....i'm about to go ride anyway

[Fear]

LOL,good point.
I'll have to fix that later.....i'm about to go ride anyway



Heh, I guess I sounded kinda dick-ish there.


Anyways, I envy you. I can't ride until I get home from work, which is another ~3 hours or so. And it'll be dark.


I miss being a kid, and having all day to ride.