Join us now!

Username
Password
Verification
	Stay logged in

Forgot Your Password? Forgot your Username? Haven't received registration validation E-mail?

User Control Panel Log out

Forums
Posts

Latest Posts

Active Posts

Recently Visited

Search Results

View More
Blog

Recent Blog Posts

View More
Photos

Recent Photos

My Favorites

View More Photo Galleries
PMs

Unread PMs

Inbox

Send New PM View More
Page Extras
Menu
- Forum Themes

2012/02/16 22:24:54

Phil

Getting back into cycling...

Hi Guys,

Ive decided to get back into cycling and do the Sydney to the Gong ride this year...its something I always meant to do but never got round to it...then cars came along!

I havent ridden for about 18 years so whats changed in the scene since back then? It will be interesting to see how the old pushy scrubs up when I pull it out of the shed...its a Diamond Back roadbike which had pretty much the best gear around back then, not sure what it would compare too in modern times but it cost $1500 20 years ago so hopefully it will still hold its own now!!

I'll need a new set of pedals and shoes...what's good and whats bad these days?

Is it worth rebuilding wheels these days? Im pretty sure they will need to be retrued, I broke a few spokes back in the day and replaced them myself, so they never went back in quite right!

It would be great to be pointed in the right direction, Im sure there are a few riders here:)

Cheers,

Phil.

Boost...The Natural Enemy of Traction!!!

85 comments Leave a comment

Avon

Just wobble down to the local bike store and ask about the wheels - generally they can be fixed but it may depend on how bad they are.

I think mountain bike pedals / clips / shoes are the way to go rather than roadie ones - they are eaiser to click in and out of, and can be switched over if you have a MTB.

Don't be worried about the age of the bike. I have a full carbon road bike and regularly get overtaken by old cro-moly clankers on my sporadic attempts to ride the 20km to work.

2012/02/16 22:46:09

David W

I assume your looking at road bikes. Biggest difference I found was the gearchanging options (how much do you want to spend?). No more using levers around the head or attached to the frame, these days you just click a button attached to the brakes - makes it easier to change on the run & I found times immediately improved by 10% with the upgrade from my 20 yo + bike.

I just use my bike for exercise usually by myself - not part of a club or anything and on a good week will do 120km's (on a badweek - 0).

I found the bike shops discount pretty heavily (some don't) especially if you're prepared to take floor stock and not concerned about the colour. I do like passing the mega dollar bikes - just cause they cost more doesn't mean they are faster. Most of the attachments are brand names (Shimmano etc) but from a frame perspective you can't go wrong with Giant Cannondale, Merida etc.

2012/02/17 06:51:35

TiAL

Hi Phil, I was in the same boat as you a little over a year ago. My first love is (and will always be) cycling (with Cossies 2nd of course!). Over 20 years ago, I owned a Ciocc Mockba and then a Colnago Master and then a Look KG86, which was one of the very 1st carbon bicycles produced.. and was CRAP! lol

I raced and lived bikes, until I discovered .. cars!

Anyways a little of a year ago I got back into riding and bought a nice Cinelli carbon frame and built it up with some sexy Campy gear. I've taken it away with me to Queensland and have done rides in the Hunter, Newcastle, Central Coast as well as my local haunts between Parramatta and Mosman.

The main challenge is that traffic in the past 20 years has increase ten fold and I actually try to map out my ride on google maps or drive in the car to check out any potential danger points. Having said that, there are some good bike paths in Sydney now and you don't have to worry about traffic but the problem is 4 year olds on training wheels on the weekends!

I've done the Syd to Gong three times a fair few years ago, and they used to ride through the national park. Not good for skinny road tyres and for me, detracted from the ride. Not sure if its the case these days.

So anyways, I could go on forever so here's my bicycle version of a cossie.. er make that a Ferrari

and yes, you can buy a brand new car for how much its worth

2012/02/17 21:02:44

cosworthfreak

Avon

Just wobble down to the local bike store and ask about the wheels - generally they can be fixed but it may depend on how bad they are.

I think mountain bike pedals / clips / shoes are the way to go rather than roadie ones - they are eaiser to click in and out of, and can be switched over if you have a MTB.

Don't be worried about the age of the bike. I have a full carbon road bike and regularly get overtaken by old cro-moly clankers on my sporadic attempts to ride the 20km to work.

Good advice. I'd agree about the MTB shoes, and they are much easier to walk in when you're not on the bike!! For road bike shoes, I preferred the Look cleats.

I'd take your current bike into a good bike shop and get them to give a complete service, and get the wheels looked at also. There's nothing worse than trying to ride a bike that doesn't shift properly, especially on a good climb.

I'm rebuilding my road bike, which is about 16-17 years old. It's a Kinesis Aluminium Frame, Shimano 600 groupset (8sp), with Rigida V rims. New bikes these days are probably 10-11 speed and all carbon fibre!

Good luck, and train hard.

Cheers
Jamie

2012/02/17 21:37:54

Phil

Sounds like theres some nice gear around these days guys, your bike looks the part TiAL!

I think the first thing I need to do is get the bike out and check it over...no doubt it will need new tyres and tubes as well as getting the wheels checked out. Then some new shoes and pedals...

Hopefully everything else is still in good order, it was all working nicely before the bike was shelved.

As far as maintenance goes, like regreasing bearings etc, how often should that be done? Mine has never been touched since new...

On a side note...while doing the rounds at he local BigW today...I was disappointed to see DiamondBack bikes have been relegated to department store quality...the equipment on them was pretty average too...

Cheers,

Phil.

2012/02/18 12:03:09

Admin

Hi Phil,
I do a lot of riding and the most important part of the bike is the engine i.e. you.
Don't worry too much about your bike. As long as it is working OK it will be fine. Before you do a ride like the Gong ride, make sure you train enough before it. With 4 months of training you'll enjoy the ride rather than it be an ordeal for you. Try training on the bike path alongside the M7. It's safe and 40kms long so you can get in some good kms. Use the Strava app on your phone so you can track your training progress - www.strava.com. It will help to keep you motivated. Let me know once you have signed up and I will follow you.

2012/02/18 15:13:00

Phil

Just joined up:)

I didnt realise you were into riding!! I am planning to train along the M7, Im only a km from the Cowpasture road exit.

I had a peek at a few new bikes today...unbelievable what you can spend... old faithful will have to do for now!!

Back in my heyday I was doing 200 plus kms a week...Blacktown to Bondi Beach was our regular Friday arvo after school ride. If I can get even half way to the fitness I had back then I'll be stoked!!

Cheers,

Phil.

2012/02/18 17:33:47

Admin

Once you get some fitness back, we should meet up. I do the M7 every Friday night

2012/02/18 21:02:02

Phil

Cool, what time do you set off at your end normally?

2012/02/18 21:05:22

Phil

Has anyone used the Garmin Edge 800? Looks like it is the modern version of my old Cateye Tripmeter!?!

2012/02/18 21:08:25

Admin

Phil

Cool, what time do you set off at your end normally?

Around 6.30PM

2012/02/19 11:33:01

Phil

I should be home from work intime to see if I can keep up from Cowpasture Rd to Prestons return:) Will have to pull my finger out!!

2012/02/19 11:46:51

sundowner

Hey phil,
i have been riding both road and mountain bikes for over 20 years, and have been working in the cycling industry for over 10years now, so should be able too help with a few of your questions.
Post a pic of your bike and i may be able to make some suggestions on cheap improvements, remember a what 20 year old computers and cars were like? well bikes, cars and computers have all come along way.
But in saying that its great you have a bike you can ride and make sure you want too take up the sport again, I will warn you cycling takes away from car time. Its the biggest deter-ant i have from working on my panel van
Maybe set yourself a goal of 2000ks on the old bike and see how you feel before considering a new bike. And if and when you do consider a new bike, purchase that only if you get sized up by someone with the correct skills and tools to do so. I tell customers everyday a good fit up on a bike could make the cheapest bike in the store a better bike than the best bike in the storel if you haven't been fitted too it.

The old diamond back should be fine, id be guessing it was a chromoly frame which would be nice and comfortable but not transfer the power to the rear wheel as well as an alloy or carbon bike. If the diamond back is alloy the power transfer would be great but over longer distances you would get a bit more beat up from the road feel as alloy is very stiff,
This is where carbon ticks all the boxes, light and comfortable, this is why most quality bikes are made of carbon.
The other big difference is gear shifters im guessing your bike would have what we call suicide shifters ( these are shifters that are mounted on the downtube) These are both harder too use and more dangerous.
Newer shifters are mounted on the handlebar levers and these are incorporated in with the brake levers. These make riding much easier.
As for pedals i suggest the shimano r540 road pedal as great pedal that will last and not cost a fortune. and a good pair of basic ROAD shoes, ie the scott comp road road shoe. By goin a road shoe straight away you are eliminating the need to upgrade later, the shoe is also stiffer and offers better power delivery and bike control. A stiffer shoe also lessens the chance of cramping and numb toes.

I use the garmin edge 500 computer, its great and a lot smaller and neater than the edge 800, if moneys an issue and you have a decent phone dload the app, endomondo.
This is a great motivational tool too set goals and see how many kays you have done, it can also tell you you heart rate and how many vertical meters you have climbed. have a look at it its very similar to strava i just found it easier to use.

Let us know how u get on, good too see someone else out on the bike.

2012/02/19 14:37:27

Phil

Hi Glenn,

Thanks for the info!

I cant remember what size the frame is but hopefully it is still suitable, I dont think I have grown height wise since I was riding but cant say the same for my width!!

I will definately get a few kms up on the old bike, hopefully it still goes as well as I remember!! I just did a search to get a bench mark on where I was at back in the good old days...We did the Blacktown to Broadway run in 50 minutes, 36kms...hopefully I can get back to that level.

The old diamond back definately has suicide shifters and Im pretty sure its chrome moly too, I did 000's of kms on it, rides from Blacktown to Katoomba, Blacktown to Gosford, Northern Beaches, it was a pretty comfy bike to ride. I remember it took a while to break the seat in...or is that the seat to break me in!!

I have been checking out those pedals on ebay...although will probably by at the bike shop along with shoes...

I eneded up with a Garmin Edge 800 bundle with speed/cadence sensor and heartrate monitor for $280...one of my techs has a cousin working for Garmin so I couldnt say no:D

I've got to say the cycling thing is exciting me more than laying the first pair of black tracks with the Corty at present!!

Cheers,

Phil.

2012/02/20 20:31:13

sundowner

geez 800 for $280 thats what i paid for my 500. u can upload those rides to an endomondo account.
heart rate is a good one, im not a fan of cadence.
get the shoes at the shop under the proviso they check your seat height and cleat position. cleats that are loose or in a wrong postion can cause issues,
How tall are you phil and what size bike is it?

2012/02/20 20:59:44

sundowner

i also plan on using my garmin in the escort as a speedo lap timer
but your much closer to that than me

2012/02/20 21:02:41

Tmiller12

All the best.be careful take care of your health

2012/02/23 01:45:00

Panko

Ive been riding/racing since i was in Grade 6 at PS, and stuck at it in a school based program throughout SC. 3 years out of SC I'm still riding and racing, but i don't ride a full carbon, $5K + bike, i ride a alloy frame, carbon forks, seat post and head stem, with 9 spd dura ace.
SO i wouldn't be worried about the age, or the type of frame of the bike, but give it a good service and see how u go. My first road bike was an old Gazelle, Itallian hand built frame from the late 70's, sold it for $200 a few years ago, and have now found out the thing is worth a mint :( but i used to train with my team mates who were riding full carbon bikes no worries.

another good way to get back into it :) is on MTB. i just bought a brand new dual suspension XC MTB, and have been training more on that then the roadie. I find it less boring riding singles tracks, and being on the ball doing 35+km/h knowing that if i F up I'm off in no time, rather than sitting on a road bike just going straight all the time.

either way, good to hear your getting back into. cycling is an ever growing sport.

2012/02/23 17:27:02

Panko

oh an by the way, i don't race road bike or MTB anymore, they are both just a means of training.

This is what i race now.....

which looks similar to this inside

2012/02/23 17:32:00

Phil

sundowner

geez 800 for $280 thats what i paid for my 500. u can upload those rides to an endomondo account.
heart rate is a good one, im not a fan of cadence.
get the shoes at the shop under the proviso they check your seat height and cleat position. cleats that are loose or in a wrong postion can cause issues,
How tall are you phil and what size bike is it?

2012/02/23 20:30:55

Phil

Panko

oh an by the way, i don't race road bike or MTB anymore, they are both just a means of training.

This is what i race now.....

which looks similar to this inside

Hi Panko,

That looks like a wild ride!! It no doubt keeps things interesting!!

Im pretty keen on road riding as Im close to some good tracks and Im keen as to see if I can get back to the level I was at back in the good old days...Im not 40 yet so hopefully its not to late!!

Cheers,

Phil.

2012/02/23 20:36:58

sundowner

Hi Glenn,

Yeah, was pretty lucky with the 800. I've got it at work ready to fit up. Cam with a chest strap heart rate monitor instead of a wrist one but apparently the chest ones are better. I bought some new gear last night on Feebay so will be ready to go pretty soon. Im looking at helmets at the moment...any idea's? Giro's seem to look pretty good... and Im off to the bike shop tomorrow if all goes to plan. The pick up the bike tomorrow night and see what it needs to get out there again.

I think I am around 6'3" but havent measured for years....which tube length is the size of the frame taken from

Cheers,

Phil.

Phil, yeah chest strap is heaps better,
Giro helmets are great, best bet is too try em on cause it can be the best helmet ever but if it doesn't fit it isn't safe.
So go too your local shop try some on and work out which is the best one and grab it, funny how many non aussie standard and fake helmets are listed on ebay.
Best thing you an do is find a good knowledgeable shop buy a few items from them. make yourself known and discounts and loads of free advise will come. smaller shops are better for this.
at a guess i would put you on around a 60cm frame, the measurement can be taken from the centre of the seat tube ( where the seatpost goes in) too the centre of the headtube (where the headstem goes in)

see how you go from there

Glenn

2012/02/23 21:25:00

Phil

Well the old girls is home...she needs some tlc but looks spot on for 18 years in a shed!

The frame measures 59cm and is all chrome moly.

Diamond Back 25.2

Diamond Back 25.2

2012/02/25 12:24:59

Phil

What is the word on seats? Any recomendations?

2012/02/25 13:20:25

sundowner

everyones different,

specialized make some good ones, most shops have demo saddles, see if you can borrow one, a good seat can be put on any bike so get the best you can afford

2012/02/25 13:29:26

Phil

Looks like I will need new brake lever hoods and bar tape wouldnt go astray... can you still get boots for old Shimano gear? Its 500ex series.

2012/02/25 15:01:37

sundowner

no you cant, they look fairly snotty, this is very common,

bar tape is easy and a bit of an art, you can pic bar tape up fairly cheap i personally recommend black cork tape as it hides the grease sweat and grot.

2012/02/25 15:30:13

Avon

Epic pump!

Floor pump with gauge FTW

2012/02/25 17:33:06

krt10

Panko

oh an by the way, i don't race road bike or MTB anymore, they are both just a means of training.

This is what i race now.....

which looks similar to this inside

nice. i used to race pedal prix back in high school. we did the adelaide 6 hours and the 24 at the bridge. also went to vic for a few rounds. we took out the sa highshcool comp 2 yrs in a row. was good fun.

2012/02/25 18:06:48

Phil

I went to the bike shop this arvo and said to the guy... Im resurecting my old road bike and I need a few bits and pieces, it hasnt been riden in 18 years... he said well alot has changed since then and the first thing I looked at was a new pump...its tiny!! Pumped up the tyres, and it was good to go!!

I almost fell over when I found out how much tyres are these days...Im sure I was paying about $10 each back in the day!! Bought a few spare tubes, looked at helmets and thought I've spent enough for today!

I bought a new seat....one of these...

I fitted up the Edge 800 and went for a quick ride...2kms and I was knackered!! Had a play with the log file and uploaded it to strava, Im looking forward to spending some more time on the bike...

2012/02/25 18:53:07

Phil

Well I've been initiated back into cycling well and truly now... hit a small puddle on a dry track, turns out it was moss or something. The back wheel broke traction while picking up pace and slipped out to the left!! Violla!! Busted right wrist!! The interesting part is that I dont remember hitting the deck or getting a few hundred metres back up the track! Told the doctors at the hospital I had memory loss...I thought it was for about 5 mins or so. I got out of Liverpool HP this morn and came home, grabbed the edge 800 and down loaded the ride data.... very different story!! Looks like tko for about 5 and a bit mins then came too...made my way 50m or so back then out again for 5 mins! then another 50m and out again for 3 mins! then made it to the front of the school where my memory returns...total of about 25mins of time lost forever but captured via gps and heart rate monitor!! Now just need to head back to HP in a few days once the swelling goes down and get the bones screwed back together...funny as it may be, I cant wait to get back on the bike... Im sure that tko has damaged my commonsense quartex!

2012/03/10 19:47:17

Avon

Wow! Crazy stuff! Can you still ride with a cast?

I rode past some poor guy sprawled out on the road a week ago - looked like a car reversed out of a driveway onto the cycleway. Ambulance guys had him in the full neckbrace. Made me ride a bit more carefully!

Have to be careful when you're injured. In 2005 I spent a week getting over a knee reconstruction and spent the whole time buying car stuff on the net! And another RS2000!

2012/03/13 23:25:00

ratta tat tat

Geez Phil! Not a good start. I'm glad it hasn't deterred you. Get better soon

2012/03/14 01:12:52

sundowner

not good mate, hope it wasnt the suicide shifters you have to blame,

glad your keen to get back on,

2012/03/14 01:46:37

Phil

Cheers Guys:)

I've now been plated and screwed back together...they reckon 5 breaks in total were rejoined!!
I should have some interesting before and after pics once I get back to the ortho specialist.

Regards,

Phil.

2012/03/15 13:27:55

David W

Phil

Well I've been initiated back into cycling well and truly now... hit a small puddle on a dry track, turns out it was moss or something. The back wheel broke traction while picking up pace and slipped out to the left!! Violla!! Busted right wrist!! The interesting part is that I dont remember hitting the deck or getting a few hundred metres back up the track! Told the doctors at the hospital I had memory loss...I thought it was for about 5 mins or so. I got out of Liverpool HP this morn and came home, grabbed the edge 800 and down loaded the ride data.... very different story!! Looks like tko for about 5 and a bit mins then came too...made my way 50m or so back then out again for 5 mins! then another 50m and out again for 3 mins! then made it to the front of the school where my memory returns...total of about 25mins of time lost forever but captured via gps and heart rate monitor!! Now just need to head back to HP in a few days once the swelling goes down and get the bones screwed back together...funny as it may be, I cant wait to get back on the bike... Im sure that tko has damaged my commonsense quartex!

I KO'd myself in the early 90's - took the bike for a ride one Sunday afternoon, got about 100 metres down the road and my first recollection is the following Wednesday in Intensive care of Hospital. No - I wasn't wearing a helment (weren't compulsory then). Cracked skull, broken collar bone, 3 weeks in hospital and 7 weeks off work. I've got no idea what happened but the back end of the bike was a big mess (throwaway).

2012/03/15 19:22:52

Phil

Thats one definate horror story David, sounds like you were hit from behind by a car?

I've just been out and had another look at the bike, marks on the right side pedal, bars and rear derailer are all consistent with the slipping sensation I recall with the bike slipping rear wheel and to the left. I've been for a walk down where it happened twice now in the hope my memory would come back...no luck but the only possible explaination I can find is a metal plate in the path...looks like a lid to a cable pit? Must have been wet? Although the track was dry? The path is perfectly straight and flat along where it happened. There's mud on my right shoe, some small pieces flicked on the frame, none what so ever on me.... it might remain a mystery for ever! Im dropping the wheels off tomorrow for a professional retruing, and I'll replace the tyres incase they had anything to do with the stack...my seat is also bent...very odd!?!

2012/03/16 22:39:54

Admin

My old bike is for sale - http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330713763846
Forum members get $50 off the final price if it goes over $400 (I'm expecting it to)
Pickup only in Sydney

2012/04/07 19:00:19

Phil

Looks like its in good condition:)

Hopefully next week I'll be back on the bike again...the wrist has about 30% movement back, almost rotate's far enough to hold the bars properly again!!

Since I've been out of action, the old girl has had a full freshen up so keen as to get back on.

2012/04/07 19:47:02

MK2-Mick

Jesus Phil, you don't do things by halfs, that is a good one... i was in your spot about 18mths ago just getting back into it, funny because i look back now and was throwing high fives with my brother when we made it down to the local roundabout and back... woohoo we did 10k's!!!! Now i wouldn't even bother to kit up for anything less than 30. Took about 3mths to get up to a reasonable level of fitness that i could do my current loop happily.
I started on a Scott S40 which is an alloy frame/carbon fork which was smooth, but didn't take long to get back into it and ended up with a Cervello Soloist and then building up my current ride which is a full carbon LOOK 585, one word inspiring! Makes you just want to push even harder...
Unluckily, 3 weeks ago while out my brother was hit by a car. The driver was overtaking another car in a 50km/h zone doing approx 90-100km/h while approaching a traffic calming area, we couldn't all fit there at once so upon locking them up and skidding for 13metres he eventually got my brother who ended up over the bonnet, then went through the air to land on a traffic island. Was pretty scary when they where taking him away in the meat wagon but he didn't end up to bad, just some road rash, fractured ribs and massive bruising, a very lucky boy.
Back to your accident, did they not keep you O/night when you told them you blanked out? That is the first thing the Ambo's asked my brother, and that is while one of the Fire Rescue fellas inspected his helmets, very focused on anything head related.
Anyway, like my brother i hope you are on the road soon, as for your bike it will get you going and give you time to look around at what everyone else is into. For Peddles i use LOOK but Shimano SPD are very easy to get in and out of, as others have said MTB peddles are good as the cleat is recessed into the shoe so easy to walk in but are smaller so offer less surface area to get the power down. The best purchase i made was some cycling under shorts, didn't really want to wear nicks at the start (had to loose some weight first) so found on ebay some cycling under shorts, have padding like nicks but you through your shorts over the top....ahhhhhh, much better for down there :-)

Found my local bike shops are excellent and support them but sometimes you can find an unbeatable bargain here...
http://www.torpedo7.com.au/

Cheers, Mick

2012/04/08 07:50:27

Phil

Hi Mick,

Sounds like one very scary adventure for your brother, hopefully he is good to go again soon. The hospital kept me overnight due to the memory loss...I thought it was about a minute or two at the time!! More like 24mins after I downloaded the Garmin data when I was released from hospital. If they had of known how long I was unconcious for and how long I had lost my memory for I think it might have been a longer stay!! Anyway...a titanium plate and 9 screws later I'm nearly ready to get back on, much to my wife, family, workmates dismay!! They dont get how it can be so enjoyable!!

On another note, the hospital are going to give me digital copies of the xrays when I go back for the next check up in a fortnight, they are pretty cool to look at if your into that sort of thing!!

Cheers,
Phil.

2012/04/08 09:18:34

Admin

Ouch!
I went for a ride on the M7 with Kevin yesterday. He pushes pretty hard so will be quick in no time at all. You had better hurry and get back into it!
We did 38kms

Phil

Looks like its in good condition:)

Hopefully next week I'll be back on the bike again...the wrist has about 30% movement back, almost rotate's far enough to hold the bars properly again!!

Since I've been out of action, the old girl has had a full freshen up so keen as to get back on.

2012/04/08 13:38:16

Phil

Good to see nothing has changed!! Just like the old days but on 2 wheels with pedals instead of 4 with a turbo!!

Has he registered on Strava yet?!

2012/04/08 19:16:39

Admin

No not yet he is resisting signing up for some reason

2012/04/08 19:33:05

Phil

Might not want to be owned just yet!!

2012/04/08 19:37:49

Phil

I got the official ok from the Orthopaedic Specialist today to get back on the bike!! That was right after he finished telling me it would be a very bad idea to break the wrist again in the future...

I also picked up the xray images...ouch!!

2012/04/23 19:23:59

sundowner

decent phil... what do the scars look like... hope it doesnt make it too hard too ride on the beast

i got a few from my mtb, but never anything from the roadie.. touching alot of wood right now...
heres a fav of mine, left humorous ...just like you i never realised what i was caring till i went back a few months later too see how it was going

by the way add me on strava...
glenn grant

2012/04/23 19:40:50

Phil

Ouch Glenn!! That would be one of my worst fears...breaking a bone mid span, especially if there's an exit wound!! My cousin just broke his left forearm...both bones departed, plenty of blood etc.

My main issue now is limited movement, the doc said go for broke as far as using it, the bone has mostly healed, just need to get everything moving. I must have read his mind, managed to do 50km's over the weekend!!

Added on Strava:)

2012/04/23 20:03:10

Paul Dunstan

Just had my first read of this thread - bloody hell Phil!!!

Do you do everything to extremes?
Maybe you need to stick to sitting inside fast moving objects instead of ontop

Anyway I just purchased a 2006 Avanti Aggressor MTB (almost new and cheap!) for a bit of fun as we all went for a ride the other day and I felt my 20yr old Giant MTB was a little lacking. Managed to pick-up a set of slicks as the majority of my riding is on pavement so we'll see what diff it makes to the ride.
Was considering a roadie but I think the MTB will be a little more versatile to take away with the caravan etc and go riding with the lad etc.
It may be a lot more resticted than Strava but I loaded a sports tracker app onto my iphone and it does the job for me.

2012/04/24 17:54:06

sundowner

strava is free on your iphone paul.

if u need anything come see me at avanti plus unley

2012/04/24 18:23:48

Paul Dunstan

sundowner

strava is free on your iphone paul.

if u need anything come see me at avanti plus unley

Well aren't I the Iphone NOOOOOOOB!
No worries, will do - thanks Glenn!

2012/04/24 18:27:41

Phil

I might have just spotted my new bike!!

2012/06/29 21:41:11

Avon

Hey I've got one like that... but a lowly 2010 C5. Its my commute bike. Surprisingly comfortable over bumps for a roadie.

2012/06/30 02:03:35

evobda2

Whats the go with all these roadies.. you should all be ashamed haha
On the dirt is where its at!
Going from BMX racing when young, to DH racing, but now after a few big injuries, an increasing age and busy working life its the AM (all mountain) riding which best suits these days. These bikes can literally do everything and really fun to ride.
So got my new trusty steed up and running. Pedals uphill like a mountain goat and nearly just as good as an old XC race bike but bashes down hill nearly to the extent of my old DH bike. A lot of fun!! (note running clips usually, just chucked flat pedals on as temporary).

2012/06/30 09:07:58

Phil

There was a guy riding one of those on the M7 path a month or so back...it sounded like a dirt bike rolling past with the engine off!!

2012/06/30 10:40:50

Phil

Avon

Hey I've got one like that... but a lowly 2010 C5. Its my commute bike. Surprisingly comfortable over bumps for a roadie.

Nice Avon,

I'd be very happy to settle for that!! And its just your commute bike!!
Its the paint scheme on the 2013 C6 that grabbed me...its outstanding, just suits my taste:)
I dont know what there worth...dont think it will be anything under $2500 so might be a while before I see one!!

2012/06/30 10:45:15

Phil

Just been told by the LBS I'm dreaming at $2500...maybe $3500!!!

2012/06/30 10:53:54

sundowner

phil sus out the avanti quantum tdf deal, 105 spec qualty roadie with quality bib nicks and jersey for $1999 and thats a 2013 bike, this is same frame i ride and i cant fault it

2012/07/02 08:44:47

Avon

Phil:

Check out bikeexchange. $2.5k for the 2012 model.
http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/bikes/list?search[isBike]=1&rnd=20100715&search[newOrUsed]=-1&search[bikeType]=2&search[pa_type_id]=-1&search[bikeMake]=109&search[size_id]=3&search[size2_id]=-1&search[maxAmt]=0&search[minAmt]=0&search[state]=&search[pc_dist]=25&search[postcode]=&search[q]=c6&search[orderBy]=-1&search[flag_not_womens]=1

Its my best bike! I only mentioned it as a commute bike as my commute is pretty bumpy in places and it handles the bumps nicely- something about the carbon frame apparently.
Main problem with it is the engine.

2012/07/02 22:46:19

Phil

I've been a bit slack updating....probably due to being out pedalling!! Just got this to tide me over until I can afford new state of the art steed...7.8kg and absolutely unbelievably easy to pedal compared to the old girl!! It has carbon fibre forks, seat post and rear section of the frame, alloy main frame section. Dont know exactly what it is but its 4 kg lighter than my old bike. I've done nearly a thousand kms on it already, including a few laps of Wakefield Park!!

Im also now registered for the Sydney to the Gong ride...please dig deep and post your comments(windups)!!

The link is http://register.gongride.org.au/2012-Sydney-to-Gong-Bike-Ride/phileyke

2012/07/29 18:53:24

PeterM

Yeh, I am also getting back into the cycling.
Overdosed watching Tour de France ove the past few weeks, especially the countryside and all the old buildings over 1000 years old.
I seem to be ending up further and further away from home before turning around and heading back.
Got stuck on open ground in the crappy showers two sundays ago 20km from home. I just kept heading west following the sun, but forgot to look behind!...black clouds and lot's of water rolling in from the ocean.
Sussing out the cycle ways in western Sydney especially along Windsor Road west to Windsor.
Plan is Tour de Windsor soon!

]

2012/07/30 21:25:18

Phil

There is an event out that way each year called Tour de Hills. I will probably enter next year, its 2 laps of the Hills district totalling 100kms. I mainly ride the M7 cycle path at the moment, this weekend shoud see my first 160km ride which is 2 laps of the M7. Its suprising how quick body condition comes up when your doing 200+ k's a week!!

2012/07/31 10:58:17

sundowner

monster phil....
not taking it easy
where do u find the time?

2012/07/31 15:58:17

Phil

On saturday and sunday Im on the road by no later than 6am...home before lunch to keep the boss happy!! Also Friday nights when I can get away from work a bit earlier...would love to ride a bit more mid week!!

2012/07/31 16:59:42

sundowner

hooked...

just like me it just means the car becomes a long term project

2012/07/31 17:57:52

Phil

Yeah for sure!!

And it doesnt cost me a set of tyres and set of pads and 100l of fuel each time I take it out against the clock!!

2012/08/01 16:34:34

Phil

Its been a while since I've done much with the car...been riding plenty and getting strong/quick, that was until doing the Bobbin Head Classic recently and taking another dive off the bike! Pulling out on a 4km downhill stretch to pass a group of slower riders and a car, stood up to sprint past, then dropped the chain mid power stroke from the right leg...crashed onto the bars, breaking the same bone as last year, then eating it first class as I crashed to a stop from 60kph+!! It was clear the arm wasn't good when I looked at it and thought to myself, I dont remember having two elbow's on that side! Something kicked in, I pulled it straight and held it while waiting for help. Luckily the SES/Ambo's and Mark were to come to the Rescue. Off for another round of surgery, the old plate had to come out to make room for the new plate which was a bit of a novelty at the hospital!! Only 3 weeks to go til I can get back on!!

2013/04/13 20:32:18

Paul Dunstan

Nature has it's own way of warning us away from danger Phil....maybe you're not taking the hint

2013/04/13 21:43:17

Phil

Hey Paul,
Have you been listening to my wife??????!!!!!!!
Sounds familiar!!
The truth is that the same blue mist that causes the tyre smoke to be released in the corty is still running rampant and I tend to take unnecessary risks on the bike for a buzz...like 91kph down a hill out the back of Picton on a compact crankset and another example is the hellishly quick run back down the 16km decent of Mt Buller a week before I came off!! Took me near an hour to ride up it and just over 10mins to come back down!!
My key learning from this time is to take it easy on the down hills and save the blue mist for the hill climbing...I was just getting to the point where I could mix it with the A graders on the climbs...now it will take me 3-4 months to build the legs back up :(
Lesson learnt...I hope:)
Cheers,
Phil.

2013/04/14 08:43:35

Paul Dunstan

Well I finally took the plunge and purchased a "roady".
Went looking for new and gauged my frame size but couldn't afford new so started looking used. Managed to pick up a full carbon 2012 Orbea Onix running 105 gear for a fraction of a new bike running inferior componentry etc. I understand the risks buying carbon 2nd hand but the previous owner was incredibly fussy and the bike although travelling approx 1600kms and could pass as a new bike - I'm scared to scratch it! Sure there are lighter bikes etc but this fitted my budget and it will be a while before my abilities push the limits of this combination.
Can't believe how easy it glides compared to the MTB and is surprisingly comfortable after my initial 30km outing this morning just to give it a shake down.

2014/01/01 15:54:25

evobda2

This reminds me.. if anyone is on Strava. Feel fee to add me etc..
http://app.strava.com/athletes/1190778

2014/01/01 16:06:33

Phil

Looks like you have made a good choice Paul. There's nothing wrong with 105 gear and the frame at 1600km is a baby. My C6 Malvern Star frame was new in May 2013 and has now done over 7000km...still looks and rides like new!!

I like the modern drop style of the bars...they are like mine on the C6. It looks like a great bike, it will definately be a good 'sorting' bike, to work out if you are going to be serious enough about riding to invest big$$.

2014/01/01 16:10:11

Phil

evobda2
This reminds me.. if anyone is on Strava. Feel fee to add me etc..
http://app.strava.com/athletes/1190778

Done;)

There are some awesome mountains down your way Evan...fantastic training for endurance climbing events!!

2014/01/01 16:15:15

sundowner

added on strava evan and phil what is your name so i can add you
im sure you will guess who i am
i also picked up something similar... 2000ks it clicked last week, got it mid october..
6.5kg fully built pedals garmin the lot in a 56..

2014/01/01 18:42:27

Phil

Nice, the weight adv must be in the frame...mines bang on 7kg ready for the road.

I've just sent a follow request...

Cheers,

Phil.

2014/01/01 19:00:18

jpayne

whats with all these large Km totals, You roadies have issues! Try this on...anything over 1 minute is classified as an endurance event...fell in love with the track in the UK and haven't looked back!
My ride, never seen the grime of the road!

2014/01/01 19:24:15

Phil

Awesome JP!!

Endurance riding is very satisfying...my biggest to date is Fitz's Extreme 256k last October.
Im currently on the lookout for a track bike to hit the boards with. Im doing the ACE250 in a few weeks then I plan to scale back the endurance work and concentrate on road/crit/track racing.

Cheers,

Phil.

2014/01/01 19:29:01

jpayne

Yeah been there, well not all the way there but close enough. But once I could hit the bar before the rest of thee team had finished (lead out for team pursuit) I was hooked!

JP

2014/01/01 19:36:00

evobda2

Phil
evobda2
This reminds me.. if anyone is on Strava. Feel fee to add me etc..
http://app.strava.com/athletes/1190778

Done;)

There are some awesome mountains down your way Evan...fantastic training for endurance climbing events!!

Oh i think your looking at the Thredbo stuff this week. Just got my GPS watch working again.
I live in Sydney though. I tend to steer clear of the uphills if i can, more into the mtb enduro/downhill events.

2014/01/01 19:59:57

sundowner

Phil
Nice, the weight adv must be in the frame...mines bang on 7kg ready for the road.

I've just sent a follow request...

Cheers,

Phil.

yeah and the carbon rims,

good thing that cause im not light,

you do some massive kays phil good work

2014/01/01 20:10:34

Phil

There's some good stuff down there too, but was meaning south coast of Sydney.

In particular Jamberoo Mountain Rd, Saddleback Mountain and Macquarie Pass...Saddleback is the hardest of any climbs I have ridden in Australia so far.

With my history on the road, dont think I can be trusted on a MTB!!

2014/01/01 20:14:40

Phil

sundowner
Phil
Nice, the weight adv must be in the frame...mines bang on 7kg ready for the road.

I've just sent a follow request...

Cheers,

Phil.

yeah and the carbon rims,

good thing that cause im not light,

you do some massive kays phil good work

Haha, yeah its been diagnosed as OCD(Obsessive cycling disorder)!!

My wheels are carbon too, though RS80's. The rear is starting to get a bit notchy after 7000kms, they have been perfect to this point, never gone out of true. I will upgrade to DA9000 C24's to do the ACE250 on. Should roll a little better and save another 150grm in weight:)

2014/01/01 20:20:23

Paul Dunstan

HI Phil
The Oppy C6 was also on my list but the guy was asking for $$ outside my price range. Also had a 2010 Orbea Orca lined up but the guy was also too greedy for my liking although it was a nice bike with identical frame geometry as the Onix. There are plenty of decent rides out there at a fraction of new prices for tight arses like me

2014/01/01 22:15:53

Paul Dunstan

At 100kg+ I'm not thinking chasing a few 100 grams is high on my priorities.
Funny thing tho the guy who I purchased from upgraded to a $8k Bianchi and was saying how he shelled out major $$ for the ultra light carbon rims etc but then showed us this chunk of a spotlight he uses at night - must weigh more than he saved!. That said I think there are gains to reducing rotating mass and inertia hence wheels are probably the biggest bang for buck for on an entry level bike. Upgrade-itis is beginning to emerge............hello Wiggle.....

2014/01/01 22:22:58

Phil

True Paul,

The cheapest upgrade is weight loss...and all you have to do to make that happen is pedal...lots!!

I started at 100kg+ and a year later I was low 80kg range...200km a week and eat what you like...I guarantee you will loose weight!!

From being destroyed after 2km on the bike to finishing a 256km ride with just shy of 6000m of climbing.

Eventually you find you can go faster...and for longer...before you know it your competitive.

Although I have never raced, I hold my own with the B Grade bunch at Olympic Park...on a good day, I'm sure I could stay with the A Bunch for at least a few laps...all from recreational riding!!

My solo average speed went from 20kph to 34kph for an 80km ride on the M7 cycle path...all in just over 12 months.

Bunch training now see's an average speed of around 41kph for 25km.

If my 'never played sport in my life body' can get moving...anyone can do it!!

Just get out and get pedaling!! And stick with it!!

Cheers,

Phil.

2014/01/02 21:27:33

Getting back into cycling...

Comments are closed.