So I am thinking of making the leap from Gym Cyclist to road cyclist. The intent is to ride to and from Work most days, which is about 11kms each way. But I havent ridden a bike since I was about 12, so I figured I could use some advice. Any advice is approciated, such as which bikes to try or avoid, what kit should I have that I wouldn't immediately think of, what to watch out for on the road, riding tips etc?
Don't listen to Gagger. You do not need
CARBON! Landfill materials (steel, aluminium, titanium, scandium and various combinations thereof) can be just fine. I have a 7 year old steel frame, custom built and very light that is barely heavier than most
CARBON frames. I would suggest getting someone reasonably knowledgeable to fit you properly to the bike (a poorly fitted bike is like adding several kg of deadweight, and you'll get a sore back / neck / knee(s) / arms or something else) and maybe try to pick up a second hand full bike for less than half some chump paid for it new. Maybe get some straight bars fitted, if only for commuting, as you will find it comfier I reckon. If you become addicted, then look to upgrade down the track. Maybe even to
CARBON.
I repeat, Gagger is evil, and clearly on the take from some
CARBON fibre extrusion company.
Oh, as for tips:- in Sydney, assume everyone is really trying to kill you, and if they're not, they will be texting / fart-arsing around with their latest phone and will run you over if you give them a chance. WORST drivers I have encountered in terms of bike awareness. Use bike tracks / lanes if at all possible, don't cut between cars in traffic, be glaringly visible, drive your likely route before hand and see what the traps might be for a cyclist,
from the car's point of view. Maybe suss out some alternate routes - even if you add a couple of km, it might be safer and more relaxing. And more exercise. 10-15 km will only take 30-40 mins depending on traffic etc...
