Post by: Barrabart on April 14, 2015, 08:39:22 PM
My girth is slowly increasing, thinking a bit of cycling will be good as i find walking pretty boring..... I need a bike to just go for casual rides around the suburbs, thinking a mountain bike style as we have plenty of bicycle paths through the suburbs so I'm chasing something to pedal along the paths and something that will handle hopping up a few gutters ets in order to cross roads and stay on paths etc...... absolutely not keen on the full head down arse up racer style, and can not do the lycra thing as the public of Cairns could not possibly have enough trauma insurance to cover themselves if per chance they got to see me up off the seat bending forward peddling hard..... ;D
Anyway, if the bike people can tell me what types of bikes, brands etc i should be looking for, once i have this info i'm happy to scour Gumtree etc to find something suitable, price range if buying new would be at top $1000-
Main issue is all the bikes i've seen so far look and feel to small......... I'm about 6'3" and too short for my weight........
Also, with regard to the moutain bike type, i'm only saying this type as i feel the full race style road bike wouldn't suit my needs, i see though the hybrid bikes, some of these look suitable, if anyone has a view or info on these types feel free to share your experience.
Thanks all,
Barrabart.
Post by: scarpsD40 on April 14, 2015, 08:46:02 PM
Post by: Barrabart on April 14, 2015, 08:52:56 PM
Here ha go. Perfect for jumping gutters. Might want elbow and knee pads....
Might need a full face helmet too........... Reckon the face plants would be of the hard and fast variety. ;D
Post by: Bird on April 14, 2015, 08:59:09 PM
but your better off walking each day... start off short.. and work your way up weekly.
Post by: GeoffA on April 14, 2015, 09:04:18 PM
...
but your better off walking each day... start off short.. and work your way up weekly.
I agree.
If you find walking boring, then cycling will become boring too.....but walking is free....
:cheers:
Post by: Bird on April 14, 2015, 09:06:14 PM
I agree.agree... I find both hard to get into without a real destination to be heading to.
If you find walking boring, then cycling will become boring too.....but walking is free....
Walking for the sake of walking is mind numbing... same with bike riding... its just quicker and you burn less.
Post by: scarpsD40 on April 14, 2015, 09:09:27 PM
but walking is free....cool walking shoes $400, cool walking shorts $50, cool walking T-Shirt $80, cool sunnies $200, cool cap $50..........
:cheers:
Post by: Bird on April 14, 2015, 09:11:59 PM
cool walking shoes $400, cool walking shorts $50, cool walking T-Shirt $80, cool sunnies $200, cool cap $50..........You live on the wrong planet.
Lowes wife beater $8
Lowes T shirt $12
Lowes shorts $12
payless shoes walking shoes $39 (but 2 for 1 deal rocks)
BP servo sunnies $25
Cap - free with the ARB showbags I arranged last time... :D
Post by: KingBilly on April 14, 2015, 09:12:52 PM
KB
Post by: scarpsD40 on April 14, 2015, 09:21:45 PM
Gees scarps, you are obvously on a better wicket than me to be able to afford that stuff. Drug dealing still paying well?lol...........yep, but it's actually the money I saved after selling the Jeep. No more repair and maintenance costs
KB
Post by: oldmate on April 14, 2015, 09:49:44 PM
Might need a full face helmet too........... Reckon the face plants would be of the hard and fast variety. ;D
Nah, just tuck ya head under far enough and you come back out the top again lol ;D
Post by: Barrabart on April 14, 2015, 09:51:20 PM
Why did i expect serious advice :cheers:
Bird, Yeah I don't want to spend $1000- no way. But would be keen to buy a better bike, but a few years old. One that was bought by another fat bloke but used only once in a moment of capability confusion.
And Geoff, I've been walking for a while, but just find it mind numbing...... so just want a treadly to mix it up a bit.
Anyway, on with the banter.......... maybe someone will offer some real advice....... maybe :-\
Ahh never mind..... ;D
Post by: Nay-DMAX on April 14, 2015, 09:55:34 PM
I should of known better............... ;D
Why did i expect serious advice :cheers:
Bird, Yeah I don't want to spend $1000- no way. But would be keen to buy a better bike, but a few years old. One that was bought by another fat bloke but used only once in a moment of capability confusion.
And Geoff, I've been walking for a while, but just find it mind numbing...... so just want a treadly to mix it up a bit.
Anyway, on with the banter.......... maybe someone will offer some real advice....... maybe :-\
Ahh never mind..... ;D
When you walk do you have music? I find it boring too even have music when I take the dogs for a walk. In regards to bikes I don't know which brands are good but better to spend a bit of money than a cheap one we found with lino6 one that the chain would come off all the time when riding.
Post by: scarpsD40 on April 14, 2015, 09:57:25 PM
On a not so serious note, pmsl Oldmate and found a helmet for you
Post by: GeoffA on April 14, 2015, 10:01:37 PM
Is that serious enough for you?..... ;D ;D
Post by: TheWall on April 14, 2015, 10:10:40 PM
if ya ever want to fire up this mob just mention minimum passing laws (remember boys and girls it is 1m up to 69kmh and 1.5m 70+ and it is Law 
- even on the Gillies)But seriously, bike riding is awesome and as you get fitter you can go further and it is easy on the body (especially knees) unlike walking/running. Lost 19kg in 7 months on the bike.
For you, I would be looking at a 29"MTB or a Hybrid with wider tyres (32mm+)
Specialized has a sale: and the Jet Pro looks ok: http://ibd.specialized.com/media/whatsnew/AutumnMTBSaleSheetAU2015V2.jpg
Or just take a wander through some of the local stores and see what they recommend.
Lastly, check out the Bicycle Network Australia forum which has been great for me. Might get some more sensible answers there ha ha. It has a pretty good used section to and I think there is a facebook bicycle market as well
Matt
Post by: dales133 on April 14, 2015, 10:31:35 PM
If you see a brand called "specialized" 2nd hand in good nick snap it up.
I paid 2 grand for mine about 15 years ago and was so far ahead of the pack it's still a great bike.
Other brands worth considering that were around a grand or so new but you should get in good nick second hand are the mid range to higher end Avanti and giant bikes.
Stay away from cheap crap because they just miss gears and stuff and are a bastard to ride
Post by: feisty on April 14, 2015, 10:59:26 PM
Post by: Kangaron on April 14, 2015, 11:02:39 PM
Post by: dales133 on April 14, 2015, 11:05:53 PM
Yep stay away from cheap crap. Ok initially but loses the nice feeling very quickly. Years and years ago I got into cycling because I saw joining a gym for $1000 that I would eventually get bored with was a waste of money. At least if I spent that grand on a bike I would have something to show for my money. Still riding. Loving my bikes although someone stole that initial bike. A nice bike inspires you to ride. A crap bike gives you an excuse not to.Yep riding a nice bike isn't a chore
Post by: evolution on April 14, 2015, 11:12:47 PM
Unfortunately to get anything half reasonable from the big 4 these days its between $1200-$2000 which is a ton of cash.
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/roam.xr.0/19127/77242/#specifications (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/roam.xr.0/19127/77242/#specifications)
I would really be looking for something similar to the Giant roam which is a hybrid style mountain bike. There is no point spending money on wide tyres and better suspension when most of your riding would be on bike paths.
I would hit up Bike exchange, your local shops, gumtree, ebay etc etc and try and find a new one or close to new that is a year or two old as just like a car you can save hundreds of dollars.
Now with Giant in particular, the dealers are not allowed to ship/courier a bike. you MUST purchase from a dealer in person for a new one. However with a brand like specialized they will.
Some things to look out for.
If looking for a bike up too $1000 new:
* Hydraulic disc brakes are a must.
* Sram gearing is great from X9 and above, X5 is hopeless. X7 is mediocre
* Shimano is fairly good, XT and above is pretty smooth and easy to get parts etc for.
* You don't need big fat chunky tread tyres. These increase rolling resistance and make for a pretty terrible town bike if you never get on the dirt
* Don't be fooled by a salesman selling you a 29er. Yes the bigger tyres can be easier, but the more common one now is the 27.5 (less of a compromise than the 29er)
- Due to the geometry of a 29er (even in a L or XL frame) they can be very twitchy and no where near a smooth as a 26er. They are however less effort to gain forward momentum, coast better and absorb shock better. The 27.5 is obviously in between, however it doesn't have as much of a down side to it.
Me personally if I were in your position I would be buying based on component quality rather than frame branding. For instance
http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/hasa-hard-tail-mountain-bike-slx-30-speed/RACE90 (http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/hasa-hard-tail-mountain-bike-slx-30-speed/RACE90)
Awesome components for the money. A giant with that level of fitout would be $2000.
Only downside is its a 26er
http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/2014-hasa-gallant-29er-shimano-slx-mountain-bike/GAL-SLX14 (http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/2014-hasa-gallant-29er-shimano-slx-mountain-bike/GAL-SLX14)
Now even though I bagged out 29ers earlier, If I had to pick between a 26er and a 29er, I would pick the 29er
The above bike would be $2k-$3k in a giant.
Ahaha, Here you go. Very similar specs
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/xtc.advanced.29er.1/18992/76592/#features (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/xtc.advanced.29er.1/18992/76592/#features)
There is seriously a million and one choices you could make. The best way to do it is to take a few for a ride at your local shop :cheers:
Cheers
Evo
Post by: feisty on April 14, 2015, 11:37:10 PM
Post by: edz on April 14, 2015, 11:49:23 PM
Wish the bastard workcover mob would stop stuffing me around and let me get into surgery ..
http://www.freedieting.com/tools/calorie_calculator.htm (http://www.freedieting.com/tools/calorie_calculator.htm)
Post by: pinarelloman on April 15, 2015, 04:15:36 AM
To the original poster. I have a Giant Anthem 29er mountain bike. It has been thrashed raced jumped and abused and when I broke it they gave me a new frame. All I am saying is they are a good, but fairly cheap bike.
Who knows, you might enjoy it?
Post by: cheif carlos on April 15, 2015, 05:55:45 AM
Also don't know what the weeds are like in your neighborhood but i had the tyres double lined to stop catheads/three corner jacks from popping the tubes and to this day they work.
My bike is serving me well although not getting out often enough and also use it to chase the kids to keep them under control
Post by: paceman on April 15, 2015, 06:20:17 AM
Im pretty heavy in to single track mtb. Although a different ballpark to what you are wanting to do, some of the same rules apply.
Unfortunately to get anything half reasonable from the big 4 these days its between $1200-$2000 which is a ton of cash.
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/roam.xr.0/19127/77242/#specifications (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/roam.xr.0/19127/77242/#specifications)
I would really be looking for something similar to the Giant roam which is a hybrid style mountain bike. There is no point spending money on wide tyres and better suspension when most of your riding would be on bike paths.
Cheers
Evo
+1... i have a giant roam 2 from 2013 and it is excellent. have been able to do a few of the local charity rides on roads (last one was 60klm) without issue...
for reference, when i bought the bike, i was about 105kg and am about 185cm tall...
Post by: Bill on April 15, 2015, 06:41:27 AM
Bought a really nice bike and hung it on the wall in the garage for easy access.
Sold it about a month ago to an under height friend of mine because I was sick of seeing it hanging on the garage wall. When I sold it, it was the first time it had ever come off the wall since the day I hung it there.
As someone else mentioned, I just walk my dogs everyday with my music cranked.
Now a days I also take my camera and its not as boring.
And dont think of yourself as fat. Think of yourself as being plesantly plump. ;D
Bill
Post by: tk421 on April 15, 2015, 07:13:33 AM
Just stay away from the Kmart bike. I've had the front brakes fold up on my going downhill riding a borrowed one. The metal was just so thin. Made a nice long skid with the rear though but bloody scary
I've got a specialized 29er and its a nice easy ride. It's not as nimble as the 26" bikes but it's easier on climbs, but that's not something you would probably care about.
I've also got a Giant Defy road bike, and I love it. I hardly ride the MTB anymore.
If I were you I'd get a MTB and put some less knobbly tires on. They're just more robust and the riding position is more comfortable than a roadie. If you are unsure at this stage you could a cheap bike from cellbikes.com.au or 99bikes.com.au. But you'd need to know your size. At 6'3" you'd be a large or XL. I'd got to your local bike shop and make friends. If they're good they'll fit you properly which makes a world of difference.
Post by: Barrabart on April 15, 2015, 08:47:25 AM
Im pretty heavy in to single track mtb. Although a different ballpark to what you are wanting to do, some of the same rules apply.
Unfortunately to get anything half reasonable from the big 4 these days its between $1200-$2000 which is a ton of cash.
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/roam.xr.0/19127/77242/#specifications (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/roam.xr.0/19127/77242/#specifications)
I would really be looking for something similar to the Giant roam which is a hybrid style mountain bike. There is no point spending money on wide tyres and better suspension when most of your riding would be on bike paths.
I would hit up Bike exchange, your local shops, gumtree, ebay etc etc and try and find a new one or close to new that is a year or two old as just like a car you can save hundreds of dollars.
Now with Giant in particular, the dealers are not allowed to ship/courier a bike. you MUST purchase from a dealer in person for a new one. However with a brand like specialized they will.
Some things to look out for.
If looking for a bike up too $1000 new:
* Hydraulic disc brakes are a must.
* Sram gearing is great from X9 and above, X5 is hopeless. X7 is mediocre
* Shimano is fairly good, XT and above is pretty smooth and easy to get parts etc for.
* You don't need big fat chunky tread tyres. These increase rolling resistance and make for a pretty terrible town bike if you never get on the dirt
* Don't be fooled by a salesman selling you a 29er. Yes the bigger tyres can be easier, but the more common one now is the 27.5 (less of a compromise than the 29er)
- Due to the geometry of a 29er (even in a L or XL frame) they can be very twitchy and no where near a smooth as a 26er. They are however less effort to gain forward momentum, coast better and absorb shock better. The 27.5 is obviously in between, however it doesn't have as much of a down side to it.
Me personally if I were in your position I would be buying based on component quality rather than frame branding. For instance
http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/hasa-hard-tail-mountain-bike-slx-30-speed/RACE90 (http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/hasa-hard-tail-mountain-bike-slx-30-speed/RACE90)
Awesome components for the money. A giant with that level of fitout would be $2000.
Only downside is its a 26er
http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/2014-hasa-gallant-29er-shimano-slx-mountain-bike/GAL-SLX14 (http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/2014-hasa-gallant-29er-shimano-slx-mountain-bike/GAL-SLX14)
Now even though I bagged out 29ers earlier, If I had to pick between a 26er and a 29er, I would pick the 29er
The above bike would be $2k-$3k in a giant.
Ahaha, Here you go. Very similar specs
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/xtc.advanced.29er.1/18992/76592/#features (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/xtc.advanced.29er.1/18992/76592/#features)
There is seriously a million and one choices you could make. The best way to do it is to take a few for a ride at your local shop :cheers:
Cheers
Evo
Evo,
Thanks heaps for the info, i'll do some more searching around with your information, though i have a couple of questions......
What are the Hybrid bikes? Are they essentially a road bike with wider tyres, flat bars etc?
Can you give me a breif description of S-ram, I believe it applies to the derailleur gear, what is x9, x5, x7 etc?
thanks again.
Post by: broncos11 on April 15, 2015, 09:03:00 AM
http://www.ebay.com.au/gds/Top-8-Mountain-Bikes-Under-1000-/10000000177747725/g.html (http://www.ebay.com.au/gds/Top-8-Mountain-Bikes-Under-1000-/10000000177747725/g.html)
I have both road and MTB. A great all rounder is the Giant Tallon at well under 1K. Although we did buy this a few years ago. Look for the current model of this and check out price now. Good frame for bigger guys, I'm 6'3 and 105kgs and good level components.
I'd stick with hard tail also.
Dave
Sent from my iPad
Post by: raider on April 15, 2015, 09:05:54 AM
Im pretty heavy in to single track mtb. Although a different ballpark to what you are wanting to do, some of the same rules apply.
Unfortunately to get anything half reasonable from the big 4 these days its between $1200-$2000 which is a ton of cash.
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/roam.xr.0/19127/77242/#specifications (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/roam.xr.0/19127/77242/#specifications)
I would really be looking for something similar to the Giant roam which is a hybrid style mountain bike. There is no point spending money on wide tyres and better suspension when most of your riding would be on bike paths.
I would hit up Bike exchange, your local shops, gumtree, ebay etc etc and try and find a new one or close to new that is a year or two old as just like a car you can save hundreds of dollars.
Now with Giant in particular, the dealers are not allowed to ship/courier a bike. you MUST purchase from a dealer in person for a new one. However with a brand like specialized they will.
Some things to look out for.
If looking for a bike up too $1000 new:
* Hydraulic disc brakes are a must.
* Sram gearing is great from X9 and above, X5 is hopeless. X7 is mediocre
* Shimano is fairly good, XT and above is pretty smooth and easy to get parts etc for.
* You don't need big fat chunky tread tyres. These increase rolling resistance and make for a pretty terrible town bike if you never get on the dirt
* Don't be fooled by a salesman selling you a 29er. Yes the bigger tyres can be easier, but the more common one now is the 27.5 (less of a compromise than the 29er)
- Due to the geometry of a 29er (even in a L or XL frame) they can be very twitchy and no where near a smooth as a 26er. They are however less effort to gain forward momentum, coast better and absorb shock better. The 27.5 is obviously in between, however it doesn't have as much of a down side to it.
Me personally if I were in your position I would be buying based on component quality rather than frame branding. For instance
http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/hasa-hard-tail-mountain-bike-slx-30-speed/RACE90 (http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/hasa-hard-tail-mountain-bike-slx-30-speed/RACE90)
Awesome components for the money. A giant with that level of fitout would be $2000.
Only downside is its a 26er
http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/2014-hasa-gallant-29er-shimano-slx-mountain-bike/GAL-SLX14 (http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/2014-hasa-gallant-29er-shimano-slx-mountain-bike/GAL-SLX14)
Now even though I bagged out 29ers earlier, If I had to pick between a 26er and a 29er, I would pick the 29er
The above bike would be $2k-$3k in a giant.
Ahaha, Here you go. Very similar specs
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/xtc.advanced.29er.1/18992/76592/#features (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/xtc.advanced.29er.1/18992/76592/#features)
There is seriously a million and one choices you could make. The best way to do it is to take a few for a ride at your local shop :cheers:
Cheers
Evo
I think I have ridden that one ;D
Post by: broncos11 on April 15, 2015, 09:07:20 AM
Should be able to get 2014 possibly well under 1K.
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/talon.29er.2/14927/66449/#specifications (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bikes/model/talon.29er.2/14927/66449/#specifications)
Sent from my iPad
Post by: Beachman on April 15, 2015, 10:13:25 AM
My mate has a flash $10K bike and we often take our kids riding together his bike allows him to just cruise without the need to peddle down slight slopes while I’m still peddling my arse off, but I gather the extra exercise is doing me good and in all our rides it’s always got me to the same places his bike has gone, but just slower.
Would I like a better bike yes, can I justify a better bike no.
Post by: tk421 on April 15, 2015, 10:41:36 AM
Evo,
Thanks heaps for the info, i'll do some more searching around with your information, though i have a couple of questions......
What are the Hybrid bikes? Are they essentially a road bike with wider tyres, flat bars etc?
Can you give me a breif description of S-ram, I believe it applies to the derailleur gear, what is x9, x5, x7 etc?
thanks again.
SRAM and Shimano are the groupsets (brakes, gears (cassettes), cranks, shift levers etc)... x9, x5, x7 are the hierarchy of the SRAM range. The higher the level the better the componentry, durability, but the higher the price. You'll quite often find that they mix and match from different levels.
Comparison of the two here: http://www.bikeroar.com/articles/mountain-bike-groupset-comparison-shimano-vs-sram (http://www.bikeroar.com/articles/mountain-bike-groupset-comparison-shimano-vs-sram)
and here:
http://www.bikeradar.com/au/gear/article/buyers-guide-to-mountain-bike-groupsets-42578/ (http://www.bikeradar.com/au/gear/article/buyers-guide-to-mountain-bike-groupsets-42578/)
Personally I'd go for at least SRAM X7 or Shimano SLX (or Deore on a budget). I've got SRAM X5 on my Specialized and its a POS in my opinon. I've had no end of issues with it.
Hybrid bikes are a blend of road, mountain and tourer bikes. They are meant to be a general-purpose bike that can tolerate a wide range of riding conditions and applications. Flat handlebars, more upright riding position than a roadie, and with bigger tires than a roadie, but not as fat as an MTB- a lot of people use them for commuting. Something like the specialized cross trail.
You can use them for light MTB'g (most will have suspension front forks) but the forks won't be as robust as the dedicated MTB's. They're a jack of all trades - A road bike will be faster, a mountain bike will be much better off-road. But for someone who wants to ride mixed terrain in comfort, they can be ideal.
Post by: chester ver2.0 on April 15, 2015, 11:20:45 AM
I am currently on a Scott Sportster 30 as a commuter and it is a good crossover bike
Couple of tips
Spend a little more for 1000 you will get an OK bike but bottom of the rung components which will wear quickly so you will find down the track that when it comes to chasing components to replace they are worth more than the sum of the bike so in 4 years you have ended up buying 2 bikes when you could have spent the extra on a good bike
Disk brakes are great but spend the extra to get a hydraulic system much more processive
Shy shorts are your friend they are like boardshorts with the lycra padding inside you will love them
This is what i commute on at the moment about 80k a week and i find it quite comfortable
(http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp294/fox260276/photo.jpg) (http://s421.photobucket.com/user/fox260276/media/photo.jpg.html)
It becomes then adictive see below touring ayres rock
(http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp294/fox260276/on%20the%20road%20september/IMG_8616.jpg) (http://s421.photobucket.com/user/fox260276/media/on%20the%20road%20september/IMG_8616.jpg.html)
The you do something you would never have thought you could like ride around the bay in Melbourne 200km
(http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp294/fox260276/IMG_5994-2.jpg) (http://s421.photobucket.com/user/fox260276/media/IMG_5994-2.jpg.html)
The you start doing crazy stuff like Melbournes famous 1 in 20 hill climb
(http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp294/fox260276/4335709201_c9e194ce5d.jpg) (http://s421.photobucket.com/user/fox260276/media/4335709201_c9e194ce5d.jpg.html)
but lets be honest this is the real reason i ride a bike
(http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp294/fox260276/IMG_0198_zps2b606f11.jpg) (http://s421.photobucket.com/user/fox260276/media/IMG_0198_zps2b606f11.jpg.html)
Post by: wakychapmans on April 15, 2015, 12:15:32 PM
So I'd suggest this.
http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/2015-wheeler-snow-beach-sand-fat-mountain-bike/CGS120MA (http://www.cyclingdeal.com.au/buy/2015-wheeler-snow-beach-sand-fat-mountain-bike/CGS120MA)
Nice bike. decent parts spec. I know people that bought them. They're fun to ride.
The key word for a FATbike is F U N.
Ride it to the shops. Ride it with the kids. Ride it on the beach. Ride it to go fishing. Ride it when you go bush.
ok, yes... I'm a little bit of a FATbike evangelist, but if you're not hung up on going FAST... then why not.
4" wide tyres mounted on 80mm wide rims will let you ride more places, more confidentially, than any other style of bike.
Other bike brands also make FATbikes, but none of them match the value for money of the Wheeler.
Just worth considering.
Post by: pinarelloman on April 16, 2015, 02:20:35 AM
Post by: wakychapmans on April 16, 2015, 07:08:24 AM
I was going to suggest a FAT bike, but thought the original poster would think I was taking the pi$$!I was thinking the same thing as I replied.
I've got some good friends that chuck two of our FATbikes on the front of their Kimberly Karavan whenever they head bush. They just recently came back from the Finke and last year it was the Kimberly. I know that George does a lot of exploring on his FATbike from camp each afternoon.
For us, having the 80 series trailer means that we have another towbar out back. a perfect place for the iSi bike rack and two FATbikes.
Post by: KingBilly on April 16, 2015, 08:15:57 AM
KB
Post by: paceman on April 16, 2015, 08:29:14 AM
Quick question. Can you get a roof rack mount for a fat bike? Does the fat rear tyre fit in the rack?
KB
from this thread, it appears there are a few options, both home-made and aftermarket:
http://www.bicycles.net.au/forums/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=79207 (http://www.bicycles.net.au/forums/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=79207)
Post by: Barrabart on April 16, 2015, 08:56:46 AM
I was going to suggest a FAT bike, but thought the original poster would think I was taking the pi$$!
Hey no drama mate......... If i bought a Harley it's probably be a Fat Boy too........... ;D
Post by: tk421 on April 16, 2015, 09:05:27 AM
I've got a 29er and I know I really feel the differences going from my roadie to it and back again. You'd definitely get a work out, but that kind of defeats the fun of cycling for me, speed vs effort.
Post by: KingBilly on April 16, 2015, 09:45:06 AM
KB
Thanks paceman also :cup:
Post by: Squalo on April 16, 2015, 10:24:55 AM
Good advice given above. Giant are probably the best bang for the buck.
Post by: Bird on April 16, 2015, 11:04:34 AM
seems a good price.
Post by: Bird on April 16, 2015, 11:17:22 AM
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/261833951471/ (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/261833951471/)
with a set of these
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/271165439007/ (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/271165439007/)
Post by: Rumpig on April 16, 2015, 11:28:22 AM
........6'3 and 105kgswhen did you have those scales calibrated last out of curiosity mate? ;D ;D
Dave
Post by: Bird on April 16, 2015, 11:30:52 AM
when did you have those scales calibrated last out of curiosity mate? ;D ;D(http://www.coastfm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/SOLID-GOLD-300x219.jpg)
Post by: tk421 on April 16, 2015, 11:34:09 AM
Heres what you want - the best of all worlds. :D :D :D
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/261833951471/ (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/261833951471/)
with a set of these
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/271165439007/ (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/271165439007/)
Nah the Nanny state won't allow it. Motor is bigger than 200W so it needs to cut out after you get to 25km/h.
Post by: Barrabart on April 16, 2015, 11:49:54 AM
Heres what you want - the best of all worlds. :D :D :D
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/261833951471/ (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/261833951471/)
with a set of these
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/271165439007/ (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/271165439007/)
Love the neon rims, that should make me an easy target at night!! ;D
Post by: Bird on April 16, 2015, 11:56:04 AM
Love the neon rims, that should make me an easy target at night!! ;DI've ordered 2 sets.. one for my 10yr old daughter and one for your new toy!!!! hurry up and decide!
Post by: Bird on April 16, 2015, 11:57:20 AM
For what you want you could quite easily get away with a used $200 special off ebay.. you don't need disc brakes, and suspension and Shit...
start off with basic, if you find your actually using it, then upgrade... or yours will end up like Fuji's.....
Post by: paceman on April 16, 2015, 12:46:16 PM
I think your looking too high end...
For what you want you could quite easily get away with a used $200 special off ebay.. you don't need disc brakes, and suspension and Shit...
start off with basic, if you find your actually using it, then upgrade... or yours will end up like Fuji's.....
as someone who has actually gone down this path, i have to disagree....
actually spending a bit more on a bike (>$500), makes using it more enjoyable and not being frustrated by a potential piece of c**p...
YMMV, though...
Post by: GGV8Cruza on April 16, 2015, 12:51:32 PM
Don't forget to allow for a few accessories, helmet, a couple of spare tubes and a pump with tyre levers a minimum. Nothing worse than being a long way from home and having to push the bugger home.
Another place to look in on rotorburn which is a forum which has a sale section. There are many high end bikes here but also some great bargains at times.
GG
Post by: Bird on April 16, 2015, 01:13:04 PM
as someone who has actually gone down this path, i have to disagree....>500 new bike is 200 on ebay :) That Canondale for $250 aint no POS unless they changed in the last 15yrs from high end.
actually spending a bit more on a bike (>$500), makes using it more enjoyable and not being frustrated by a potential piece of c**p...
YMMV, though...
Post by: paceman on April 16, 2015, 01:18:38 PM
>500 new bike is 200 on ebay :) That Canondale for $250 aint no POS unless they changed in the last 15yrs from high end.
unless i can sit on it and ride it around the store a bit, i wouldn't be buying it...
IMO, it's not worth the pain.
like i say, though, YMMV...
Post by: dales133 on April 16, 2015, 01:30:46 PM
Don't buy cheap buy second hand if you want to watch the price and I'd stick with specialized, giant or Avanti.
Quality is apreciated long after price is forgotten
Post by: wakychapmans on April 16, 2015, 03:55:04 PM
Hey Wayne, quick question for you mate. Can you get a roof rack mount for a fat bike? Does the fat rear tyre fit in the rack?
KB
Thanks paceman also :cup:
hey KB -
short answer - yes
longer more convoluted answer... may depend on what system your're running. Thule have a cradle that fits. Yakima either has one now... or will very soon.
I'm lucky in that our trailer has a tow hitch at the back and I use an iSi rear carrier.
Now... FATbike good and bad points.
good
1) can ride almost anywhere.
2) not *just* for sand and snow
3) gives a level of rider confidence that is hard to describe. (wheel doesn't get turned off-line like a skinnier wheel can)
sooooo much fun.
bad
1) heavier than a std mtn bike for the same $$$ (but not as much as people seem to think) the frame, fork and shifting etc are pretty much the same weight as a std mtb. Wheels are a tiny bit heavier, but not enough to care about. The real weight is in the tyres. Good FATbike tyres are 1.4kgs a tyre. A good std mtb tyre is around 500-600g. That extra weight is extra rotational weight. So it takes more effort to get rolling. But once you're moving, the flywheel effect takes ahold to an extent and you can hold the speed with little extra effort on slightly rolling ground.
2) you'll constantly have to answer questions about where the motor is...
Hope that helps somewhat.
Post by: evolution on April 16, 2015, 04:42:32 PM
One thing I have noticed the fall of the aud is now really starting to make bikes dearer.
Another thing I've noticed the quality level of components vs price paid for bike have dropped.
My first giant was only a couple of years ago, I picked up a giant talon 0 which had sram x9 groupset, fox float fork, shwalbe rapid rod tyres and some other freebies thrown in for $999.
A bike of equivalent spec is now $1600.
My latests giant is a trance x29er 00 limited edition with xo groupset, serious suspension and a fizic seat plus a dropper post. (was a bit dearer at $5000 though) I can't even get a trance anymore with similar spec.
Sram x9 etc is the gearing components, avid elixir are srams brake components.
I personally prefer sram over shimano, but it really is a personal thing.
Sram is definitely more expensive than the equivalent shimano though.
Another option to look at is a standard hard tail mtb and then put hybrid tyres on it.
Provided the front fork has a lockout then you will have the best of both worlds.
As mentioned earlier if it is something you will make a real good of and keep, purchase on groupset quality, then brand.
If you aren't sure whether you will stick with it, purchase a brand name bike as the resale will be better. You will get less bang for your buck though.
Cheers
Evo
Post by: mrsfirefox on April 16, 2015, 05:31:53 PM
Good luck!
Post by: Squalo on April 16, 2015, 05:34:44 PM
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/301593162496 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/301593162496)
seems a good price.
Yep that's a terrific bike for the money (assuming it's in good order).
Cannondale stopped handbuilding their frames in the US in late 2010, so bikes made before then are the pick of the Cannondales.
Post by: cruiser 91 on April 16, 2015, 05:49:45 PM
Proven fact that regular vigorous sex burns fat like a marathon runner, improves fitness and its more fun :cup:
Post by: Rumpig on April 16, 2015, 05:59:45 PM
It always amazes me when people think they need to spend loads to lose weight or get fit.but visiting a brothel several times a week would cost a fortune, and I ain't going near those street walkers down the Valley
Proven fact that regular vigorous sex burns fat like a marathon runner, improves fitness and its more fun :cup:
Post by: dales133 on April 16, 2015, 06:01:25 PM
It always amazes me when people think they need to spend loads to lose weight or get fit.Cycling would be more fun with the mood the handbrakes in this week
Proven fact that regular vigorous sex burns fat like a marathon runner, improves fitness and its more fun :cup:
Post by: Barrabart on April 18, 2015, 12:01:43 AM
This one is a Merida, was $699-
http://www.bicycle-centre.com.au/products/hardtail-29/merida/bignine-40/meh91500123/ (http://www.bicycle-centre.com.au/products/hardtail-29/merida/bignine-40/meh91500123/)
The specialized bike was around the $800ish, looked good, pretty sure this is the bike here.... didn't get a model >:(
http://www.specialized.com/au/en-au/bikes/multi-use/crosstrail/crosstrail-sport-disc (http://www.specialized.com/au/en-au/bikes/multi-use/crosstrail/crosstrail-sport-disc)
The 3rd bike i checked was a hybrid style Bianchi for around the $800ish also, just can't seem to find the bike on the net.... should of got more details, but was in a bit of a hurry////
Couple more shops to check out tomorrow, Giant dealer being the next one.
Post by: feisty on April 18, 2015, 01:18:41 AM
http://www.bikes.com.au/p/8960797/2015-marin-bobcat-trail-75-650b-mens-275-mountainbike.html
$769
27.5 inch for the best of all worlds 10 speed not 9 8 or 7. Quality components slx shadow rear mech with clutch - deore shifters - shimano brakes (that actually work and work brilliantly) quality tyres. I bought one for the misses for Christmas. Great bike. It has come down another 100 since then and I thought I got it cheap! Melb bike Centre directly import them. That is why they can do them so cheap. Yep I know the family who own the shop and would recommend them.
Post by: evolution on April 18, 2015, 03:11:46 AM
Cheers
Evo
Post by: Bird on April 18, 2015, 09:55:05 AM
Quote from: Rumpig
but visiting a brothel several times a week would cost a fortune,cheaper than divorce..... and usually more fun than a wife :D
Post by: Bird on April 18, 2015, 10:30:53 AM
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/221746012427 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/221746012427)
how much for this - and you still have to ****in pedal????
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/121625138801 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/121625138801)
Post by: Foo on April 18, 2015, 12:03:44 PM
The Specialized will lose money value + it has been dropped whilst riding not just fallen over. >:( Would be a nice bike to ride, though. ;D
Foo
Post by: prodigyrf on April 20, 2015, 11:39:20 PM
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-Leitner-Electric-Ebike-Bicycle-City-Bike-250W-10Ah-Lithium-2Yrs-Warranty-/181520261578?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_15&hash=item2a437361ca (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-Leitner-Electric-Ebike-Bicycle-City-Bike-250W-10Ah-Lithium-2Yrs-Warranty-/181520261578?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_15&hash=item2a437361ca)
Just don't get too carried away going out and leave enough battery to help you get home. Surprising how far you can roam on it as you get bored riding around close to home all the time.
Post by: Barrabart on April 21, 2015, 07:16:52 PM
Post by: scott13april on April 21, 2015, 08:15:48 PM
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Post by: BrisVegasGolfer on April 23, 2015, 10:07:11 PM
I dropped about 15kg thru cycling over a couple of years. It's a very social sport. As I got closer to 100kg I tried running and it became fun too once I got past the shin splints.
I ride a Litespeed titanium roadie and a trek superfly 29er alloy mtb. Both were just over $1k used.