A Newbie's bike shopping notes

[corshamjim]

To be honest I would go with a shop you'll be happy to go back to and go for the bike which looks nicest. If you find down the line there's something you don't like about it, you'll know better what to look for next time you buy another bike.

All the bikes I've owned over the years have been quite different (except a couple of similar tourers), but all of them have been enjoyable to ride in one way or another, and all of them perfectly practical for most purposes (except nutty mountain stuff).

The only bike I regret owning (despite having some enjoyable rides on it) is the Dahon folder. What's the thing I really hate about it? The colour!

 

[Weesilvie]

Heh - thanks Jim, that made me smile Praps I can be a bit more relaxed about making a decision than I think I can...

Would still welcome any more comments on my potential shortlist, if anyone has any. The Kona would be the Dew. All adds to my indecision!

Cheers

 

[Weesilvie]

It's a nice day today and the forecast for the rest of the week is rubbish, so I think ill take myself off test riding and bike shopping!

Do I need to get mudguards?

 

[vickster]

I've never really bothered but then I actively try to avoid riding when it's wet. I have got caught a few times, but on my way home. If it is raining in the morning, I drive! What bikes are you looking at - it may be worth getting one that can at least take mudguards if you are not looking at a fully mudguarded and racked up tourer

 

[summerdays]

It's a nice day today and the forecast for the rest of the week is rubbish, so I think ill take myself off test riding and bike shopping!

Do I need to get mudguards?

Are you intending to cycle when it is wet? If so it is much nice to be behind a cyclist with mudguards than one without. Also do you want to look like this:

 

[Weesilvie]

Heh

Well, I test rode the Trek 7.1 fx, the Specialized Vita and the Ridgeback Comet - and I've bought the Comet from Bike UK. It just felt the nicest and is the most adjustable. Getting it tomorrow - very excited!

Bike UK do free servicing for life, the first one being at about 6 weeks. they will fit some mudguards for me then foc if I want them.

 

[Piemaster]

Enjoy