Finally bought another bicycle today!

[sheryl]

We all like bike riding.  Dh and I used to ride bikes in college and after taking a break, we picked it back up again.

My neighbor (now deceased) used to find the best deals at rummage/yard sales.  He bought a bike at one such sale in the early 2000's, I think.  It was a Motobecane! Loved that bike.   The chain and other parts were always a little messed up and after being fed up with it, I donated it.  I could have kicked myself (now) for doing that; it was a Motobecane!  Later I learned there is a bike recycler type of business that is community-focused in providing bikes to underprivileged.  They repair bikes and I wish I would have known at the time b/c I would have taken my French-crafted bike there for repairs.

I found a bike on ND and dh and I bought it.  It's a hybrid. My Moto was road.  This bike today is newer so it has many new upgrades/features and construction/material but it doesn't replace my Moto.  Still, I'm excited about riding again.

Refresh me as it's been about 5 years.   What do I need?  My helmet is 10 years old.  It does not have a kickstand that I'm used to.  That's ok.  I will need to exchange out the "racing" seat for a comfort one.

I don't have my padded bike shorts anymore.  This is probably tmi (sorry) but I'm wondering if cutting an "o" from dense foam that I would sit on would help prevent flare up from hemorrhoids.    ????    Then, how to secure foam to seat.  ??

FORGOT!!!  No bottle holder!  Please send suggestions!  I like my water!

Suggestions for anything.

I'm so excited dh and I can go biking again!

Edited February 27, 2021 by sheryl

[AngieC]

Nice! I just went for a 2.5 hour ride today as our weather is finally warming a bit.

 

In your place, I might get a new helmet, definitely cycling shorts, and no to the donut only because I can’t believe it would stay in place. Otherwise, a water bottle, a bag with tube and tire levers, pump and I think you’re good to go! 
 

I have a Garmin watch that I use to record rides, which I love, but that’s obviously optional. 

[Amethyst]

Have fun! 🚲 

[Ottakee]

Enjoy.   I keep hearing that I need biking shorts but I am not a biking shorts type person.....but might be if they make that bike of a difference.

[sheryl]

16 hours ago, AngieC said:

Nice! I just went for a 2.5 hour ride today as our weather is finally warming a bit.

 

In your place, I might get a new helmet, definitely cycling shorts, and no to the donut only because I can’t believe it would stay in place. Otherwise, a water bottle, a bag with tube and tire levers, pump and I think you’re good to go! 
 

I have a Garmin watch that I use to record rides, which I love, but that’s obviously optional. 

Right, the donut is probably not going to work. The newer seats are recessed in the middle so I'll look for one of those and hope that helps!  🙂  The bike did not come with built in bottle holder so now I have to find one to accommodate my bottle.  Also, I'm thinking of some sort of carrying device for my phone (not sitting on my phone) and maybe trail mix, mace, keys.   Do you have something in mind?

[Ottakee]

I bought a granny basket for my cruiser bike.  It detaches easily and holds my phone, water, snacks, small purchases, etc.

For just your phone or just water, a fit belt....like a flat stretchy fanny pack works too.  I am just leery of putting both my water and my phone in it.

[sheryl]

43 minutes ago, Ottakee said:

I bought a granny basket for my cruiser bike.  It detaches easily and holds my phone, water, snacks, small purchases, etc.

For just your phone or just water, a fit belt....like a flat stretchy fanny pack works too.  I am just leery of putting both my water and my phone in it.

Yep, right, I used to use a fanny pack. Not ideal.   I'm now a pickier rider and have a list a mile long of things I need for a bike ride.  LOL!   It's getting more expensive.  Years ago I wouldn't have needed a phone (pre-mobile) and other things but now I feel like I need my list. 🙂  

[AngieC]

What about a triangle bag? That would have a little more room for extra storage. 
 

Also, if you don’t currently have a cycling jersey, those pockets come in handy! 

[frogger]

So many choices. Frame bags, handle bar bags, gas tank style (think motorcycle gas tank). My all time favorite is the feed bag by Revelate designs for easy access but Revelate can be spendy. It's just one of those things you appreciate every single time you ride.

 

Padded seats are ok for pleasure riding but if you are really spinning (pedaling fast) you will bounce and waste a ton of energy and look (and in my case feel) ridiculous. So for big distances or faster pedalers harder seats with bike shorts are preferable. Honestly, once I'm riding a lot I get used to it and need neither padded shorts or seat but it can be tough on a beginner who starts off with longer rides.

Seats are very individual. You are best off to measure sit bones to get an idea although how far down you lean will also affect comfort. It's really hard to find seats though without trying them. Everybody's anatomy is different and if have specific issues then of course you will want to take extra precautions. There are seats that are mostly two separate cushions for each sit bone or ones with cut outs that might help your predicament.

A water bottle cage is easy to add. If you end up out at night a headlight and taillight is better than a reflector. Oh and I think a basic multi tool and patch or spare with tire levers and pump is a must for anything beyond going around a neighborhood where you can easily push/carry  your bike home.

Edited March 1, 2021 by frogger

[Lanny]

You need to buy a new Helmet.    There is a fancier type of kickstand now. With the original easy to install old fashioned ones, my bike wasn't stable. When I got the newer type  (the bike store installed it and I think it required one special tool) the problem was solved and my bike doesn't fall over now. Highly recommended.

Check out the seats and water bottle holders but begin with the new Helmet and the Kickstand.

[sheryl]

On 2/28/2021 at 8:30 PM, AngieC said:

What about a triangle bag? That would have a little more room for extra storage. 
 

Also, if you don’t currently have a cycling jersey, those pockets come in handy! 

Right, I saw that style.  Do they stay in place well - do you use one and like it?  Well, I've thought of the jersey but will probably not get one.  Have never used one and don't think I'd like it.

[sheryl]

On 3/1/2021 at 2:35 AM, frogger said:

So many choices. Frame bags, handle bar bags, gas tank style (think motorcycle gas tank). My all time favorite is the feed bag by Revelate designs for easy access but Revelate can be spendy. It's just one of those things you appreciate every single time you ride.

 

Padded seats are ok for pleasure riding but if you are really spinning (pedaling fast) you will bounce and waste a ton of energy and look (and in my case feel) ridiculous. So for big distances or faster pedalers harder seats with bike shorts are preferable. Honestly, once I'm riding a lot I get used to it and need neither padded shorts or seat but it can be tough on a beginner who starts off with longer rides.

Seats are very individual. You are best off to measure sit bones to get an idea although how far down you lean will also affect comfort. It's really hard to find seats though without trying them. Everybody's anatomy is different and if have specific issues then of course you will want to take extra precautions. There are seats that are mostly two separate cushions for each sit bone or ones with cut outs that might help your predicament.

A water bottle cage is easy to add. If you end up out at night a headlight and taillight is better than a reflector. Oh and I think a basic multi tool and patch or spare with tire levers and pump is a must for anything beyond going around a neighborhood where you can easily push/carry  your bike home.

I'm going to at least look at the design of the bag you mentioned. I am particular with my purse LOL so this may be no different.

Water cage - do you have a good one you'd recommend?  I've looked on Amazon but I may have to go to a cycle shop.

Seats - thanks for that tip.  Yes, the recessed one would then make the most sense for me.   Will have to research that further.  Thanks!

[sheryl]

On 3/1/2021 at 6:17 AM, Lanny said:

You need to buy a new Helmet.    There is a fancier type of kickstand now. With the original easy to install old fashioned ones, my bike wasn't stable. When I got the newer type  (the bike store installed it and I think it required one special tool) the problem was solved and my bike doesn't fall over now. Highly recommended.

Check out the seats and water bottle holders but begin with the new Helmet and the Kickstand.

Thanks, Lanny! There is much to consider but y'all are saying new helmet so I'm starting there! 🙂  

[sheryl]

On 3/1/2021 at 2:35 AM, frogger said:

So many choices. Frame bags, handle bar bags, gas tank style (think motorcycle gas tank). My all time favorite is the feed bag by Revelate designs for easy access but Revelate can be spendy. It's just one of those things you appreciate every single time you ride.

 

Padded seats are ok for pleasure riding but if you are really spinning (pedaling fast) you will bounce and waste a ton of energy and look (and in my case feel) ridiculous. So for big distances or faster pedalers harder seats with bike shorts are preferable. Honestly, once I'm riding a lot I get used to it and need neither padded shorts or seat but it can be tough on a beginner who starts off with longer rides.

Seats are very individual. You are best off to measure sit bones to get an idea although how far down you lean will also affect comfort. It's really hard to find seats though without trying them. Everybody's anatomy is different and if have specific issues then of course you will want to take extra precautions. There are seats that are mostly two separate cushions for each sit bone or ones with cut outs that might help your predicament.  

A water bottle cage is easy to add. If you end up out at night a headlight and taillight is better than a reflector. Oh and I think a basic multi tool and patch or spare with tire levers and pump is a must for anything beyond going around a neighborhood where you can easily push/carry  your bike home.

Frogger, following up to thank you again for suggesting Revelate.  I spent last week (after this post) researching bags.  Dozens of bags, reviews, styles, dimensions from several sites.  Bikepacking.com is an excellent resource and very thorough.  I found one bag; I went to Dick's Sporting Goods only to see/handle/open that it is much smaller than pic representation.  Usually dimensions are given but not always.  Well that bag would "only" accommodate my S9 at an angle.  No thanks.   Would another version by Nishiki - their Bento bag with supposedly magnetic closure but the top did not seem very secure.  

Online I found "Pack Northwest" on the website mentioned above and it's an awesome looking bag.  I would not feel comfortable with that phone possibly "jumping" out of the pocket. Plus I'd have to fiddle maybe with unlatching the strap to get to the phone.  IDK. It's a nice looking bag.   

All of that to say, the only other contender I like is the Revelate.  Both are pricey but I'm going to REI or Dick's to order one today.  The 2000.  I like the idea of single hand use of bag!

YAY!  Looking forward to it.   Appreciate the suggestion.  

[sheryl]

Also, what brand helmet? Would like to stay max $75.   Bell - more youth?  Schwinn? Giro?  Other?  Which style? There are different materials and dropped front, back and interior materials.

[school17777]

11 hours ago, sheryl said:

Also, what brand helmet? Would like to stay max $75.   Bell - more youth?  Schwinn? Giro?  Other?  Which style? There are different materials and dropped front, back and interior materials.

I’d recommend a Bern helmet if it’s in your price range.  

[PinkTulip]

My son was wearing a Fox mountain bike helmet last year when he got hit by a car. It is not an exaggeration to say that helmet saved his life, so I am partial to Fox. 

[sheryl]

1 hour ago, school17777 said:

I’d recommend a Bern helmet if it’s in your price range.  

Would you send link?

1 hour ago, PinkTulip said:

My son was wearing a Fox mountain bike helmet last year when he got hit by a car. It is not an exaggeration to say that helmet saved his life, so I am partial to Fox. 

And, link from you as well?  Wow, so glad your son is ok.   I'm interested in learning.

I didn't know there were so many features and differences to helmets.  Much to learn here.  Is it true some are for road/city and others for mountain biking? Longer front and fuller coverage in back?  

[school17777]

https://www.bernhelmets.com/collections/bike

[school17777]

Just now, school17777 said:

https://www.bernhelmets.com/collections/bike

A helmet like this saved a friend’s life from a bike accident and he recommends them.

[frogger]

14 hours ago, sheryl said:

Frogger, following up to thank you again for suggesting Revelate.  I spent last week (after this post) researching bags.  Dozens of bags, reviews, styles, dimensions from several sites.  Bikepacking.com is an excellent resource and very thorough.  I found one bag; I went to Dick's Sporting Goods only to see/handle/open that it is much smaller than pic representation.  Usually dimensions are given but not always.  Well that bag would "only" accommodate my S9 at an angle.  No thanks.   Would another version by Nishiki - their Bento bag with supposedly magnetic closure but the top did not seem very secure.  

Online I found "Pack Northwest" on the website mentioned above and it's an awesome looking bag.  I would not feel comfortable with that phone possibly "jumping" out of the pocket. Plus I'd have to fiddle maybe with unlatching the strap to get to the phone.  IDK. It's a nice looking bag.   

All of that to say, the only other contender I like is the Revelate.  Both are pricey but I'm going to REI or Dick's to order one today.  The 2000.  I like the idea of single hand use of bag!

YAY!  Looking forward to it.   Appreciate the suggestion.  

My husband says, "It can hurt once when you purchase something, or it can hurt everytime you use it."  Lol If you plan on going a lot, good gear can make or break a trip or your phone or anything els. 🤣

 

I just mentioned helmets and my son who just finished his recertification for Wilderness First Responder piped up with one that comes lower on the back of the head. He said short helmets were number one cause of ICP.  Only two people in my family have that kind. 🙄

 

Everyone has a different idea on water bottle cages. I like basic stainless steel but it also depends on size of water bottle etc. 

 

 

 

[PinkTulip]

My son’s helmet was similar to this: 

https://www.foxracing.com/speedframe-mips-helmet/26712.html?dwvar_26712_color=555&dwvar_26712_size=S&cgid=mtb-mens-helmets#start=3

 

He was crossing a street in a crosswalk with flashing lights when a car going 45 mph blew through and hit him. My son flew up and smashed into the windshield and then was thrown 70 feet. He was knocked unconscious and rushed to the nearest trauma center, but in a total miracle, he did not have any broken bones or internal injuries. Just a bad concussion and lots of wicked road rash, cuts, and bruises. His Fox bike helmet was not even cracked (but obviously we replaced it anyway). Suffice it to say, we are huge fans of Fox helmets! 

[frogger]

Oh and I love bikepacking.com. 

 

DH and I have all sorts of plans for when the kids move out. For now we are stuck with short trips. 

[sheryl]

On 3/8/2021 at 10:36 PM, school17777 said:

A helmet like this saved a friend’s life from a bike accident and he recommends them.

Thank you.  I learned recently about how important materials/design used for interior is so important.   Mips?   And, to have back of helmet cover back of skull low enough as well as allowing visor in front.  Thanks!

[sheryl]

On 3/8/2021 at 11:46 PM, frogger said:

My husband says, "It can hurt once when you purchase something, or it can hurt everytime you use it."  Lol If you plan on going a lot, good gear can make or break a trip or your phone or anything els. 🤣

 

I just mentioned helmets and my son who just finished his recertification for Wilderness First Responder piped up with one that comes lower on the back of the head. He said short helmets were number one cause of ICP.  Only two people in my family have that kind. 🙄

 

Everyone has a different idea on water bottle cages. I like basic stainless steel but it also depends on size of water bottle etc. 

 

 

 

Yes, a sales clerk recently explained  that to me (see my reply to school17777).

Appreciate it!

 

 

 

[sheryl]

On 3/8/2021 at 11:55 PM, PinkTulip said:

My son’s helmet was similar to this: 

https://www.foxracing.com/speedframe-mips-helmet/26712.html?dwvar_26712_color=555&dwvar_26712_size=S&cgid=mtb-mens-helmets#start=3

 

He was crossing a street in a crosswalk with flashing lights when a car going 45 mph blew through and hit him. My son flew up and smashed into the windshield and then was thrown 70 feet. He was knocked unconscious and rushed to the nearest trauma center, but in a total miracle, he did not have any broken bones or internal injuries. Just a bad concussion and lots of wicked road rash, cuts, and bruises. His Fox bike helmet was not even cracked (but obviously we replaced it anyway). Suffice it to say, we are huge fans of Fox helmets! 

Thanks!  First, it "is" a miracle your son was not seriously hurt.  So happy for you all!

I'm looking into that brand. See my reply to school17777

[sheryl]

On 2/27/2021 at 8:17 PM, AngieC said:

Nice! I just went for a 2.5 hour ride today as our weather is finally warming a bit.

 

In your place, I might get a new helmet, definitely cycling shorts, and no to the donut only because I can’t believe it would stay in place. Otherwise, a water bottle, a bag with tube and tire levers, pump and I think you’re good to go! 
 

I have a Garmin watch that I use to record rides, which I love, but that’s obviously optional. 

 

On 3/1/2021 at 2:35 AM, frogger said:

So many choices. Frame bags, handle bar bags, gas tank style (think motorcycle gas tank). My all time favorite is the feed bag by Revelate designs for easy access but Revelate can be spendy. It's just one of those things you appreciate every single time you ride.

 

Padded seats are ok for pleasure riding but if you are really spinning (pedaling fast) you will bounce and waste a ton of energy and look (and in my case feel) ridiculous. So for big distances or faster pedalers harder seats with bike shorts are preferable. Honestly, once I'm riding a lot I get used to it and need neither padded shorts or seat but it can be tough on a beginner who starts off with longer rides.

Seats are very individual. You are best off to measure sit bones to get an idea although how far down you lean will also affect comfort. It's really hard to find seats though without trying them. Everybody's anatomy is different and if have specific issues then of course you will want to take extra precautions. There are seats that are mostly two separate cushions for each sit bone or ones with cut outs that might help your predicament.

A water bottle cage is easy to add. If you end up out at night a headlight and taillight is better than a reflector. Oh and I think a basic multi tool and patch or spare with tire levers and pump is a must for anything beyond going around a neighborhood where you can easily push/carry  your bike home.

 

Do either of you suggest a "brand/manufacfurer" took repair kit?  Will Amazon, Walmart, Target suffice or better to buy from Bike Shop?

 

[frogger]

My son is asking what kind of bike. He is our actual  professional bike technician .  He said Wolf Tooth or Crankbrothers have nice tools but most of the Walmart bikes really don't have much you can fix and a Walmart tool would be fine then as there are only a few adjustments you can make anyway.

 

I know how to use all these tools but don't usually purchase since they magically appear under the Christmas tree or in my feedbag on Mother's Day 😉 so I don't have a lot to add. 

 

Sometimes REI has bike maintenance clinics too, if you are interested. It's nice to know if you are taking longer trips.

[sheryl]

1 hour ago, frogger said:

My son is asking what kind of bike. He is our actual  professional bike technician .  He said Wolf Tooth or Crankbrothers have nice tools but most of the Walmart bikes really don't have much you can fix and a Walmart tool would be fine then as there are only a few adjustments you can make anyway.

 

I know how to use all these tools but don't usually purchase since they magically appear under the Christmas tree or in my feedbag on Mother's Day 😉 so I don't have a lot to add. 

 

Sometimes REI has bike maintenance clinics too, if you are interested. It's nice to know if you are taking longer trips.

Well,  ir's not super expensive.  It's a Columbia hybrid.   Do I need the gauge, mini pump? Or, will patch suffice?  Levers - it's hard to find bundled by 3.  

[frogger]

A cheap tool from Walmart is probably fine. 

You should only need one or two tire levers. You can kind of slide them around as you go. I usually use two. DS says he usually uses one.  The pre glued  patches are simple and seem to work fine. The patches where you purchase glue separately take more prep. 

You don't have to have a gauge on your tire pump. You can see how much air you want by feel. We lower ours for off road or trails with lots of bumps or roots and pump back up for road efficiency but a lot is just feel. I have only had nice pumps but my son says make sure to not get a cheap walmart pump because they usually leak air and it is a pain. You may want a gauge if you want max pressure on paved road. 

The other thing is to check your valve when you buy a pump. There is Presta and Schrader valves and though sometimes you can get one that will work on both it's something to know. Might be best to buy the actual pump at a bike shop but most things like water bottle cage and the levers and tool you could probably get at a Walmart or Kroger or something if you want cheaper.

[sheryl]

18 hours ago, frogger said:

A cheap tool from Walmart is probably fine. 

You should only need one or two tire levers. You can kind of slide them around as you go. I usually use two. DS says he usually uses one.  The pre glued  patches are simple and seem to work fine. The patches where you purchase glue separately take more prep. 

You don't have to have a gauge on your tire pump. You can see how much air you want by feel. We lower ours for off road or trails with lots of bumps or roots and pump back up for road efficiency but a lot is just feel. I have only had nice pumps but my son says make sure to not get a cheap walmart pump because they usually leak air and it is a pain. You may want a gauge if you want max pressure on paved road. 

The other thing is to check your valve when you buy a pump. There is Presta and Schrader valves and though sometimes you can get one that will work on both it's something to know. Might be best to buy the actual pump at a bike shop but most things like water bottle cage and the levers and tool you could probably get at a Walmart or Kroger or something if you want cheaper.

Well, I appreciate that.   A local bike shop ordered my Revelate bag so I'll ask them about a tool kit as well.   I also need to put money in to a decent helmet and switch to a cruise saddle.

[AngieC]

Sorry, I somehow missed this!  I don't really carry a tool kit, just some tire levers, patch kit and spare tube.  About the only thing I might carry are a 4/5mm Allen tool.  Anything harder than that to fix on the go and I will be calling my husband or an Uber. 

 

ETA: And a frame pump.

Edited March 16, 2021 by AngieC

[sheryl]

20 hours ago, AngieC said:

Sorry, I somehow missed this!  I don't really carry a tool kit, just some tire levers, patch kit and spare tube.  About the only thing I might carry are a 4/5mm Allen tool.  Anything harder than that to fix on the go and I will be calling my husband or an Uber. 

 

ETA: And a frame pump.

OK, thanks Angie.  Do you ride mtn or city?

[AngieC]

I have a road bike and a hybrid/flat bar bike, both ridden primarily on the roads, though the flat bar bike can handle gravel/packed dirt. I am not a mountain biker.  I've been riding for many years and only a couple of times have I ever had an issue that would have required other tools.  Once I broke a chain (and fortunately someone with a bike on the back of their car came by moments later!) and I have broken cables a couple of times, but that just requires limping home in a single gear.  My bike repair skills don't really extend much beyond changing a flat!

[sheryl]

3 hours ago, AngieC said:

I have a road bike and a hybrid/flat bar bike, both ridden primarily on the roads, though the flat bar bike can handle gravel/packed dirt. I am not a mountain biker.  I've been riding for many years and only a couple of times have I ever had an issue that would have required other tools.  Once I broke a chain (and fortunately someone with a bike on the back of their car came by moments later!) and I have broken cables a couple of times, but that just requires limping home in a single gear.  My bike repair skills don't really extend much beyond changing a flat!

We'll still get a tool kit.  Dh and I will be riding together some times so it would help both of us if one of us had tools.  🙂  I've bee riding for decades but very elementary.  I'd like to "up" that.  Have always ridden/owned road with flat and dropped handles  but found a nice hybrid so bought that - flat bars which I prefer at least right now.  I've never bothered to learn the basics of bicycle safety but think I should be able to patch or replace a tube.  

I'm so looking forward to riding and am on pause until I find "the" helmet and a decent saddle.

[AngieC]

Enjoy your riding!

My method for buying helmets is to buy a nicer one on clearance with the reason being the more expensive ones tend to be better vented, lighter weight and/or have better fitting mechanisms.  I don't care so much that it's last year's model or that the color isn't exactly what I wanted so it works well for me.  

[sheryl]

1 hour ago, AngieC said:

Enjoy your riding!

My method for buying helmets is to buy a nicer one on clearance with the reason being the more expensive ones tend to be better vented, lighter weight and/or have better fitting mechanisms.  I don't care so much that it's last year's model or that the color isn't exactly what I wanted so it works well for me.  

Totally agree. But, I will have to splurge on my helmet now as I don't know when clearance season is.  I'll consider it a late birthday gift LOL

[mathnerd]

Costco had some very nice helmets last spring. So, you could check there this year to see if they have them now.

[frogger]

7 hours ago, sheryl said:

Totally agree. But, I will have to splurge on my helmet now as I don't know when clearance season is.  I'll consider it a late birthday gift LOL

Not sure there is such a thing as clearance in the bike world right now. It is insane out there. Shops are constantly being emptied of stock and manufacturers cannot keep up.  Maybe helmets are different but oy.. I'm on a pre-order wait list for a fat bike for next winter. I was told not to sell my bike until they had it in the shop. They sold all the ones they had.  There is nothing.  

 

So you are wise not to wait for clearance.

[sheryl]

17 hours ago, frogger said:

Not sure there is such a thing as clearance in the bike world right now. It is insane out there. Shops are constantly being emptied of stock and manufacturers cannot keep up.  Maybe helmets are different but oy.. I'm on a pre-order wait list for a fat bike for next winter. I was told not to sell my bike until they had it in the shop. They sold all the ones they had.  There is nothing.  

 

So you are wise not to wait for clearance.

Right, when I went to Sun/Ski a couple weeks ago their bikes were backordered by a year or so.  They had plenty of accessories.