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#1 | ||
Have Boost, will use it..
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Brisbane
Posts: 4,053
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So, on doctors orders I need to drop some kilos and exercise. Running is out due to my calves, so I am really keen on cycling.
Tonight I gt the old mountain bike out and went for a ride, and thought I was going to die. Man am I unfit. My question is more around those cyclists out there, what difference does a bike make? There are guys at work who are right into it and spend thousands on their bikes but you can pick it up with two fingers. So does a decent road bike make the difference? I mean my bike is old and is like a hybrid mountain bike, but on track today, there were guys pedaling the same as I was but they were justing taking off. So does a good bike really help? |
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#2 | ||
Ich bin ein auslander
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Loving the Endorphine Machine
Posts: 7,453
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I guess the best way to put it is a Ferrari really quicker than a F100?
A good bike makes a lot of difference, rotating mass (wheels, tyres etc) more than static mass (frame). I have a carbon fibre Eddy Merckx and it is a dream to ride, could not imagine doing a long ride on a hybrid. ![]() The important thing is how much do you want to get into it? That 1 question dictates how much money you poor into the hardware.
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Growing old is compulsory, growing up is optional! |
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#3 | |||
GT
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: SYDNEY
Posts: 9,205
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Quote:
i love that bike gecko , what's it worth to buy new . ???? |
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#4 | |||
Ich bin ein auslander
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Loving the Endorphine Machine
Posts: 7,453
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Quote:
Difficult to answer that question as many of the components are quite old. The groupset is a 2004 Durace, 2004 FSA carbon cranks, 2004 Campag Eurus wheelset etc. The frame is a 2007 model Eddy Merckx Carbon that I bought as NOS this year. It was brand new, never built up or ridden but a 4 year old model sold at a clear out price. It would have been worth over $4000 new as a frame, fork and seat post, I got it for $1500. If I was to build that bike with the modern equivalents of all the gear on it at todays prices, it would total at over $9000. Buying NOS frames and components at clear out prices and then getting it built can be a great way to get top quality gear at moderate quality prices if you know what you are doing. I would not suggest that for the novice but when you get on that level gear it makes a massive difference to the riding experience. For the novice to the sport after a good entry level bike to fulfill their requirements and feed their enthusiasm, I would suggest the quality aluminium frame, 105 components combo that has been mentioned before. That is a good place to start and will even see you through to entry/mid level competition if the bug really bites. That is what my daughter is on (a Specialized) and she is quite a keen club level racer.
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Growing old is compulsory, growing up is optional! |
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#5 | ||
.
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Brisbane
Posts: 6,197
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Sam, a different approach...
Losing kg's is about the effort you put into the miles, not the miles you cover. A better bike will help you work less than a heavy old clunker over a set time period. Last edited by geckoGT; 16-09-2011 at 11:24 PM. Reason: wrong button, oops |
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#6 | ||
Regular Member
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: Wollongong
Posts: 336
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I just replaced my $160 bike with a $700 bike,so much better to ride.
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My daily-BF RTV |
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#7 | |||
Banned
Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 776
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Quote:
though there is the pyschology of going faster and feeling good about being an a slick newer model machine that may make a difference in how long you keep at it. |
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#8 | ||
Ich bin ein auslander
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Loving the Endorphine Machine
Posts: 7,453
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In theory, but not entirely true in practice.
The heavy clunker is less enjoyable to ride, so you ride less. Also the heavy bike increases the resistance, which causes more difficulty climbing hills or riding into head winds. That increased resistance can cause an increase in the utilisation of anaerobic energy sources instead of more efficient and health beneficial aerobic energy systems.
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Growing old is compulsory, growing up is optional! |
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#9 | |||
Have Boost, will use it..
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Brisbane
Posts: 4,053
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Quote:
That is what I mean. |
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#10 | |||
Starter Motor
Join Date: Aug 2017
Posts: 8
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Quote:
If it’s making your heart rate go up it’s good for you , maybe you need to change gears . Cycling has come along way my father is 80 & was a pro but still rides 50 k daily he reckons all kids should start with a fixed wheel, but even for adults exercising it’s important to keep pedaling even if it’s uncomfortable. Racing & training are different Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk |
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#11 | ||
FF.Com.Au Hardcore
Join Date: Jun 2017
Posts: 1,341
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Not currently a bicycle owner, used to own a Colnago & a Puch in the 1980's if anyone remembers those bikes. My reason for posting was an article I read regarding bicycle laws. I understand that $70,000 in fines for this breach alone this year. I believe this figure is for NSW as there is reference to $65,000 for the same issue going to State treasury last year. The fine for reckless riding in NSW is $425 & no bell or lights, $106. I know it was a long time ago but I don't recall ever seeing any road riders with bells on their bikes. Have times changed?
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#12 | ||||
FG GT 5.4 w/ additions!
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Sunny SE Melbourne
Posts: 2,105
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Quote:
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#13 | ||
FF.Com.Au Hardcore
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Barossa Valley, South Australia
Posts: 3,381
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Check to see if there are any cycling groups near by. They might be able to assist with keeping you motivated.
The train I catch in to work is going to shut down for 7 months, so I'm going to use this time to start riding in to work. I'll be doing it with other guys from work so that'll help me keep doing it. As for the bike, yes a good one makes a difference. But some small things make a difference too. Make sure the tyres are pumped up to their maximum pressure to reduce rolling resistance. Perhaps think about getting your bike serviced first to see if it makes a difference.
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Cheers, Sam. |
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#14 | ||
The Futuriser
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Melbourne
Posts: 1,836
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Sam, I'm a bit of a weekend warrior. I just do it for a bit of a look outside, out in the fresh air, but I do try relatively hard. No Lycra or road bike shoes, but I do have a road bike and still have my Hybrid which I purchased before it.
In your case, I'd be getting a Hybrid aka Flat bar road bike. They're more comfortable than a road bike, a bit 'harder' and a good starter bike. Overall the type of bike, clothing, shoes etc all makes a huge difference. If you're out on the road and people are passing you, I wouldn't be too concerned. A mountain bike isn't going to be easy on the road. Even the width of the tyres makes a difference. Climbing hills is hard. Head winds are hard. Sidewinds are even harder (IMO)! No doubt about it... and for everyone who isn't anything more than a weekend warrior. With cycling, you want to feel like you go through the gears much like a car and it's important to change gears at the right time. If you do it when you feel like you'll be on the verge of getting tired, go to an easier gear and vise versa. I recommend getting a wind trainer ($100), sticking your bike (ideally a Hybrid for you but anything would be fine) and getting some k's into the legs to start. Do interval training just to build muscles which you wouldn't usually use in your legs. Do it in front of the telly even and perhaps cycling at a certain amount of k's during the show time and slowing down over the duration of the ads. Also, it's important not to cycle like a bull at a gate. You don't want to burn yourself out too early.
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Current Subaru Liberty MY08 2.5 SatNav Previous 2003 BA Ford Futura. CKGD - Freelance Graphic Designer |
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#15 | ||
Have Boost, will use it..
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Brisbane
Posts: 4,053
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Good point sgt doofey... I might enquire about getting the trusty bike serviced, before I buy anything.
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#16 | |||
The Futuriser
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Melbourne
Posts: 1,836
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Quote:
Just something to consider.
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Current Subaru Liberty MY08 2.5 SatNav Previous 2003 BA Ford Futura. CKGD - Freelance Graphic Designer |
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#17 | ||
Critical Thinker
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: Adelaide
Posts: 20,320
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Im still relatively new to cycling. did indoor spin classes every week for a year and a half to start with. lost about 8-10kg of body fat and added lean muscle to my legs. only in the past 3 months have i bought a flat bar road/hybrid bike and love being outdoors more. i spent about 800 for my kona dew plus which had good components which i was told was very important. found cycling for me is easier due to having a strong back ground already due to indoor cycling. it will take some time to get used to but over time your legs, and sit bones will get used to it. work through the pain and continue to push yourself overtime
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"the greatest trick the devil pulled, is convincing the world he doesn't exist" 2022 Mazda CX5 GTSP Turbo 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Highlander 1967 XR FALCON 500 Cars previously owned: 2021 Subaru Outback Sport 2018 Subaru XV-S 2012 Subaru Forester X 2007 Subaru Liberty GT 2001 AU2 75th Anniversary Futura 2001 Subaru GX wagon 1991 EB XR8 1977 XC Fairmont 1990 EA S Pak 1984 XE S Pak 1982 ZJ Fairlane 1983 XE Fairmont 1989 EA Falcon 1984 Datsun Bluebird Wagon 1975 Honda Civic |
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#18 | |||
FF.Com.Au Hardcore
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Barossa Valley, South Australia
Posts: 3,381
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Quote:
Also, the Bupa Community Challenge for the Tour Down Under is another great ride to do. The distances there are this year are 33kms, 79kms, 102kms or 138kms. Done this three times now. I'm going to be doing the 79km ride in the TDU. Haven't signed up for Amy's Ride yet, but will most likely do the 60km one.
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Cheers, Sam. |
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#19 | ||
FF.Com.Au Hardcore
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Pit Lane
Posts: 11,867
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Assuming you have knobbys on the bike still, if so replace them with mtb slicks when you get the bike serviced, it will allow the bike to roll easier on hard surfaces and feel smoother, also keep the tyre pressure high to help eliminate some rolling resistance, you may need to purchase a floor pump to do this though.
Keep your cadence (leg rpm) high, most beginners use to low a cadence and that's bad for knees and takes the strength from your muscles quickly. Have the bike set up for you, correct fit is important to comfort and strength, there are plenty of websites that will give good info about bike fit, there are professional people out there that can fit you up, but it may cost more than a cheap bike with some of them, but people swear by them. Find people in your area to ride with to keep you motivated. A bike computer can help you perform better as you can track your ride info and challenge it to do better. Good luck
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Pit Lane Performance 20 Rosella St Frankston 03 9783 8122 Authorised Streetfighter, Pcmtec , SCT & HP Tuners Tuning Agent,
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#20 | |||
Critical Thinker
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: Adelaide
Posts: 20,320
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Quote:
I've been keeping close eye on the Adelaide Cyclists forum for details and what not. So it's been good. But yeah Amy's for sure. 60% sure on the BUPA challenge hoping my flat bar roadies is ok with it. With the BUPA challenge am thinking of the Tanunda to Tanunda route with my business partner. He is soon to get himself a bike so he doesnt want to go nuts. I reckon I could handle the 60km one as a good challenge.
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"the greatest trick the devil pulled, is convincing the world he doesn't exist" 2022 Mazda CX5 GTSP Turbo 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Highlander 1967 XR FALCON 500 Cars previously owned: 2021 Subaru Outback Sport 2018 Subaru XV-S 2012 Subaru Forester X 2007 Subaru Liberty GT 2001 AU2 75th Anniversary Futura 2001 Subaru GX wagon 1991 EB XR8 1977 XC Fairmont 1990 EA S Pak 1984 XE S Pak 1982 ZJ Fairlane 1983 XE Fairmont 1989 EA Falcon 1984 Datsun Bluebird Wagon 1975 Honda Civic |
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#21 | ||||
Cane Farmer
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: Tom Price, WA
Posts: 4,056
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Quote:
I'm pretty sure I'm going to die...going to have to avg about 30kph I'm thinking. At least it'll be on a nice light road bike and not a great hulking piece of metal with knobbies. haha
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1994 ED XR6T - Cobalt Blue. 2009 FG XR6 - Black. Quote:
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#22 | ||
Cabover nut
Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: Onsite Eastcoast
Posts: 10,827
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Watched the Tour Down Under telecast yesterday and was so nice to hear Phil Liggett on commentary with Robbie McEwen and Jens Voigt.
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heritagestonemason.com/Fordlouisvillerestoration In order that the labour of centuries past may not be in vain during the centuries to come...... D. Diderot 1752
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#23 | |||
Rob
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Woodcroft S.A.
Posts: 21,503
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Quote:
I actually liked the TDF commentary. Its like most sports. Eventually you have to bring fresh guys in that have been in and around the sport more recently. I enjoy the commentary, but I won't miss him when he hangs up the microphone, as there are many others that have already proved they can step in.
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UA2 TREND 4WD BI TURBO |
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#24 | ||
FF.Com.Au Hardcore
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: NSW
Posts: 4,324
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I have been riding for years. First BMX and now mountain bikes.
My downhill bike weighs about a tonne and is terrible when you are not doing down hill. Work bought us a few bikes to keep out at barracks, one of them is a pretty nice road bike. I could not believe how light and fast it was. It was so easy to pick up speed, which makes you want to ride more and ride fast. So I'd say spend the money and get the better bike. It will be worth it because it will make you want to ride. |
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#25 | |||
FF.Com.Au Hardcore
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Sydney
Posts: 1,868
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Quote:
In a word Sam YES |
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#26 | ||
FF.Com.Au Hardcore
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,224
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You don't need to spend a fortune though. I recently started riding to drop some weight and for something else to do with the wife/kids.
Bought myself a $500 Giant MTB. Does the job for me. I usually do a 20km ride (down to the lake, around it and back home). Not huge hills, but a couple of small inclines. Usually takes me about 50mins to do the 20km circuit. During the cooler days, i jump on the exercise bike, and will usually cover 25kms in an hour. Sometimes closer to 27km, sometimes a little less. Depends on the level i set it at (usually a medium level). A good diet is also very important. I was aiming to consume about 1200-1500 calories a day. Some of my rides were using about 800 calories! I basically ate normal food, but really watched my portion sizes. Still enjoyed a few beers, but was more conscious of the fact that each beer is about 150cal. Started drinking xxxx summer bright, it only has 98cal, so i could squeeze a few extra in! As you can imagine, i dropped weight pretty quick. Lost 20kgs in no time (between 2-3 months), and during the winter i have just done weights, no riding. Still maintaining my weight, but getting more lean mass. Started riding again now it's getting warmer. I have another 10kgs or so to lose in order to rip up a bit. I find riding a great way to drop weight, and it's not strenuous on the body. Sometimes i have to tow the kids in the bike trailer, and the extra resistance that creates is massive... Gives me a great work out! |
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#27 | |||
Cane Farmer
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: Tom Price, WA
Posts: 4,056
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If you're riding up hill, you're going the wrong way.
Get a downhill bike, and get on some mountains! Not only will your fitness improve, but coordination, strength, etc
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1994 ED XR6T - Cobalt Blue. 2009 FG XR6 - Black. Quote:
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#28 | |||
FF.Com.Au Hardcore
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: NSW
Posts: 4,324
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Quote:
So true. You hear ignorant people say " You wont get fit riding downhill, all you do is roll." If only it was that easy. |
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#29 | ||
Regular Member
Join Date: Oct 2008
Location: Perth
Posts: 267
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Cheap, light, strong..............choose 2.
And yes, quite often you do get what you pay for. Giant bikes have a good reputation in terms of value for money. |
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#30 | |||
FF.Com.Au Hardcore
Join Date: Apr 2014
Posts: 605
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Quote:
Yes I know what im talking about, over 35 years in this trade mainly as importer and wholesaler to the trade and specification designer for a number of bikes and models. |
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