I reckon the most important thing in an Audax-type bike is the bike fitting.
I would really recommend getting a proper bike fitting, from someone like Paul Hewitt. He knows his stuff and has loads of experience in fitting people onto their bikes for whatever type of riding they want to do.
I had a fitting from him, got the measurements, then used them to get the bike I wanted (though perhaps not the bike I should have had
). With hindsight, I should have bought from him and had a fitting before I took the bike away.
I would say that the most important thing for an Audax bike is the fitting. If you are going to cycle long distances, you can only do it with any pleasure if you are comfortable (been there, done that !
).
IMHO, it is well worth the cost of getting a proper, experienced fitting, then buying a bike from the fitter, as that will virtually guarantee a 'proper' position. You may well be surprised at the suggestions - but come to appreciate them in the long run (or cycle
).
Personally, I find a compact chain-ring (50/34) with a 11-32 10-speed cassette to be probably more than I need, which is a good thing. (I asked an experienced audaxer what gears I should have and his response was: '1 more than you need' !
)
HTH
I would really recommend getting a proper bike fitting, from someone like Paul Hewitt. He knows his stuff and has loads of experience in fitting people onto their bikes for whatever type of riding they want to do.
I had a fitting from him, got the measurements, then used them to get the bike I wanted (though perhaps not the bike I should have had
). With hindsight, I should have bought from him and had a fitting before I took the bike away.I would say that the most important thing for an Audax bike is the fitting. If you are going to cycle long distances, you can only do it with any pleasure if you are comfortable (been there, done that !
).IMHO, it is well worth the cost of getting a proper, experienced fitting, then buying a bike from the fitter, as that will virtually guarantee a 'proper' position. You may well be surprised at the suggestions - but come to appreciate them in the long run (or cycle
).Personally, I find a compact chain-ring (50/34) with a 11-32 10-speed cassette to be probably more than I need, which is a good thing. (I asked an experienced audaxer what gears I should have and his response was: '1 more than you need' !
)HTH
