Attire for bike tests

[magnatom]

Ok, so I'm looking to buy a new bike. A road bike/cross/tourer type thingy. I have some ideas, but I'll need to test a few. My normal everyday wear is funky and stylish (aye right) so obviously if I am doing test rides I will need to take a some clothes to cycle in (my very stylish ronhill bikesters etc al), my SPD shoes, my helmet (OK that might be controversial!), some gloves etc....

Seriously though, do you change for bike tests, go in what you will ride in, or something else. Just curious, as I don't want to look a complete plonk and I want to join the roadie gang...

 

[magnatom]

P.S. Any comments about wearing a magnatom type cape will be purged. You have been warned (goo that means you!)

 

[Eat MY Dust]

I'd say there would only be 2 things.

1. Padded shorts, if you're used to a comfy saddle and then get on a road bike, the saddle will probably be a bit of a surprise for your bum!

2. Check your SPDs are compatible with whatever they've got on the test bike. Saying that whenever I've tested a bike they've had plain ol' pedals on.

 

[magnatom]

I'd say there would only be 2 things.

1. Padded shorts, if you're used to a comfy saddle and then get on a road bike, the saddle will probably be a bit of a surprise for your bum!

2. Check your SPDs are compatible with whatever they've got on the test bike. Saying that whenever I've tested a bike they've had plain ol' pedals on.

My saddle isn't to padded, and I have padded shorts anyway, so that should be fine.

I thought the bikes might have plain pedals. I suppose I could remove the cleats from my shoes.

 

[John the Monkey]

I'd take your own pedals Mag, if your shop is agreeable to fitting them for the test.

 

[Sh4rkyBloke]

They'll generally have toestraps on normal pedals just so this sort of problem doesn't occur (well, in my limited experience). Take a pair of 'normal' shoes/trainers to be able to use if this is the case.

Enjoy!

 

[Crackle]

I'd wear your red top and black shorts, your buff and the black fleece, the Monday socks, winter gloves and don't forget your handbag...........honestly!

And before you ask, you're opening line should be "Hi. I wonder if you can help me.........."

 

[magnatom]

I'd wear your red top and black shorts, your buff and the black fleece, the Monday socks, winter gloves and don't forget your handbag...........honestly!

And before you ask, you're opening line should be "Hi. I wonder if you can help me.........."

...but do I go commando under my shorts.....

 

[Arch]

Never having been for a bike test (not bought a new bike since I really got into cycling), I can't really say, but I'd have thought the blindingly obvious answer was to wear what you'd normally expect to wear when riding that bike....

 

[theboytaylor]

Re the pedals, be careful - I once went to test a bike, was assured it would have normal pedals on, it had Looks on it.... ar5ehole in the bike shop just shrugged. I didn't end up buying from them!

Depending on the bike shop, I guess it would be an idea to phone ahead and ask them.

 

[BentMikey]

Why not take some spare SPD pedals with you?

 

[magnatom]

Why not take some spare SPD pedals with you?

That assumes I have some spares!

 

[chris667]

Plus fours.

 

[jimboalee]

Normal clothes.

Take a tape measure and a fisherman's spring balance.



And a brainful of experience.

 

[asterix]

..and from what I know about Glasgow, you'll be wanting your umbrella. I find that golf ones cover all eventualities on test rides.