Bicycle Brahs Part 3 - Riding is our leg day (literally bicycle)

[Jhamaican]

tried to join the strava group but got rejected?

Bros: c'mon let me join the The Lance Armstrong Ball BB Group

https://www.strava.com/athletes/28037520

[Num3n]

tried to join the strava group but got rejected?

Bros: c'mon let me join the The Lance Armstrong Ball BB Group



https://www.strava.com/athletes/28037520

erik are you running the strava club? And i think we still have loads of random people in it that dont even misc

[HMFIC_BROWSIN]

Horrible day today. Ripped my deraileur off on a rock. Luckily i was descending back to the car when it happened.

Used my shoelace to remove the master link, took chain off, and allen set to take off the shifter cable/shifter.

Threw that chit in my backpack and scooter'd my way down the mountain.

Then the transmission died on my car.....

It sick, it piss.

[Cadet4life]

we have a enduro even at my local trails. everything still unmarked so its nice to have a local show you around. today i was that local. i rode with some guys about an hour away about a month ago. one of the guys reached out to show them around so i returned the favor. i was expect 7-8 people..... fukin 17 showed up. word got around haha

we had one mechanical, just a flat. it was a solid day.

[taf1968]

First ride with the Chester's tonight . . . felt pretty good! Hit that 4 mile loop with the hill climb at the beginning that I have been doing. Not sure if the pedals helped with this or if I am just getting in better shape (might be a bit of both) but I set another PR on that hill climb. My last 4 times for that segment have been:

- 6/23: 5:57
- 7/07: 5:37
- 7/28: 5:10
- 8/05: 4:47

I also set PR's on 2 other segments in the ride and I wasn't really trying to ride all that fast. So it's definiitely baby steps and it's a pretty puny ride distance-wise . . . but I plan on bumping it up further incrementally and then I'll also check out some of the nice trails that are near the house at some point soon.

[kethnaab]

Yeah figured that out later. Looks really cool but I'm guessing those bikes are like 4K+? I still love my Giant, and will probably run it into the ground with upgrades here and there. Kinda wished I splurged more for a full suspension bike. How much of a different does it make on intense trails?

You can get a good quality entry level full suspension MTB with hydros for about $2000(ish), before year-end sales.
Cannondale Habit 5 or 6
Specialized Stumpjumper and Camber
Trek Fuel EX5


If I drop $4k on a MTB, it'll be either full carbon frame or carbon wheelset, in both cases, a good quality drivetrain (GX or XT, at a minimum)
Cannondale Scalpel SE
CDale Habit 3
Stumpjumper Expert
Trek Slash

Those are just MSRPs for the 'big 3' brands, you can get really good deals from local bike shops around this time of year and a bit later as the new 2019 models roll in and the shops are looking to get rid of their older inventory

Horrible day today. Ripped my deraileur off on a rock. Luckily i was descending back to the car when it happened.

Used my shoelace to remove the master link, took chain off, and allen set to take off the shifter cable/shifter.

Threw that chit in my backpack and scooter'd my way down the mountain.

Then the transmission died on my car.....

It sick, it piss.

dude....

First ride with the Chester's tonight . . . felt pretty good! Hit that 4 mile loop with the hill climb at the beginning that I have been doing. Not sure if the pedals helped with this or if I am just getting in better shape (might be a bit of both) but I set another PR on that hill climb. My last 4 times for that segment have been:

- 6/23: 5:57
- 7/07: 5:37
- 7/28: 5:10
- 8/05: 4:47

I also set PR's on 2 other segments in the ride and I wasn't really trying to ride all that fast. So it's definiitely baby steps and it's a pretty puny ride distance-wise . . . but I plan on bumping it up further incrementally and then I'll also check out some of the nice trails that are near the house at some point soon.

PR day is as awesome as new bike day!

[taf1968]

Yeah figured that out later. Looks really cool but I'm guessing those bikes are like 4K+? I still love my Giant, and will probably run it into the ground with upgrades here and there. Kinda wished I splurged more for a full suspension bike. How much of a different does it make on intense trails?

The other option is to look for a used full suspension bike on Craigslist or other local source. That's where I got that Giant NRS-3. I was just looking for a suspension bike as an upgrade from the junky hardtail I had . . . but I didn't want to spend a lot of money on it at the time. All-in for that bike I'm around $500 (which includes what I paid for it, a tune up, new brakes, and some accessories). A used suspension bike is definitely a buyer beware thing, though. You have to have a general idea around what looks bad or potentiaily bad when you look it over or you could end up with something that's busted up and leads to more $$ thrown at it.

Then again . . . that's money you could just throw at a new bike at sale time. So it all comes down to what you ultimately want to do. I figured I'd play with an older suspension bike and beat the crap out of that and then I found a good deal on the one I got. At some point down the road, I'm sure I'll upgrade. I definitely don't have a need for all the carbon and that kind of stuff when that time comes.

[RobParks2M]

^Look into Trance (giant brand) line of bikes if you want a full sus cheaper aluminum frame. Comes with a dropper post n stuff too with plenty of upward room if you want to upgrade components. Mine has been quite stout thus far.

[HMFIC_BROWSIN]

And here I am fuming about ****ty waves at the beach. Damn, that sucks, hmfic. At least you McGuyvered it halfway. If I ever get a flat again on a trail, I'll remember your post if I end up getting pissed off. On the bright side, your wheel didn't come off and you didn't land face first into a steep road. So there's that to happy about.

All in all i have a pretty good life lmao. New deraileur was $120, ill install that this week. New beater truck will be somewhere around $10k but its not urgent because i have 2 cars i can use as backup... Just not for camping mtb road trips.

[taf1968]

Horrible day today. Ripped my deraileur off on a rock. Luckily i was descending back to the car when it happened.

Used my shoelace to remove the master link, took chain off, and allen set to take off the shifter cable/shifter.

Threw that chit in my backpack and scooter'd my way down the mountain.

Then the transmission died on my car.....

It sick, it piss.

Damn . . . that sucks. Always seems to happen when you least need it, too.

[Num3n]

what is the cheapest way to upgrade to ultegra di2? I already have a mechanical setup and would just need the electronic components. I'd also probably need a new front chainring given mine is at about 16k km's. I'm not sure how often these things are replaced though. I tried googling upgrade packages but can't seem to find any. Also is there anyway to hide the little control box? do the new ones still have it?

thanks!

*edit- alternatively should I just make do for say another year and look at getting a new bike with di2 and disc brakes stock? I really would like to get a disc bike so perhaps the interim di2 would just be a waste of money.

[SkepticalOne]

what is the cheapest way to upgrade to ultegra di2? I already have a mechanical setup and would just need the electronic components. I'd also probably need a new front chainring given mine is at about 16k km's. I'm not sure how often these things are replaced though. I tried googling upgrade packages but can't seem to find any. Also is there anyway to hide the little control box? do the new ones still have it?

thanks!

*edit- alternatively should I just make do for say another year and look at getting a new bike with di2 and disc brakes stock? I really would like to get a disc bike so perhaps the interim di2 would just be a waste of money.

If you're going disc within a year or two, then yes, Di2 upgrade would bean unjustifiable expense.

If you do go down the path, it would be best to find a shop to quote you the exact parts list for your particular frame. There are a lot of wires that are not part of the basic group sets sold on chain reaction for example. Also different locations to mount the batteries. Alternatively, if you can find someone online who has modified your particular frame (battery location, etc), they canoeist the parts you need. List price is probably $2500-$3000 CDN for everything at the latest R8000 Utegra level. You can then sell your existing group for $500-$800CDN to help offset it.

[Nocturnal310]

finally bit the bullet and ordered a bike gps computer.

had grown out of using phone for strava.

will post pics when i set it up..its a chinese brand but has really good reviews all over internet.

[RockyIV]

finally bit the bullet and ordered a bike gps computer.

had grown out of using phone for strava.

will post pics when i set it up..its a chinese brand but has really good reviews all over internet.

A GPS head unit is the way to go. I never used the phone quad locks but I was always afraid I would hit a bump and my phone would fly.

This way you can have all your information on your stem. This is a big deal for a group ride where you are trying to keep the pace consistent.

[goblin6]

Haven't rode my mountain bike in 4 months so I'm considering selling it. Don't have a bike rack to hit up trails and there's nothing to ride here in Long Beach. But I keep on thinking I'll regret selling it even though I don't use it anymore.

[Num3n]

If you're going disc within a year or two, then yes, Di2 upgrade would bean unjustifiable expense.

If you do go down the path, it would be best to find a shop to quote you the exact parts list for your particular frame. There are a lot of wires that are not part of the basic group sets sold on chain reaction for example. Also different locations to mount the batteries. Alternatively, if you can find someone online who has modified your particular frame (battery location, etc), they canoeist the parts you need. List price is probably $2500-$3000 CDN for everything at the latest R8000 Utegra level. You can then sell your existing group for $500-$800CDN to help offset it.

much appreciated for the thorough response

finally bit the bullet and ordered a bike gps computer.

had grown out of using phone for strava.

will post pics when i set it up..its a chinese brand but has really good reviews all over internet.

gjdm i hope it works well!

[kethnaab]

alternatively should I just make do for say another year and look at getting a new bike with di2 and disc brakes stock? I really would like to get a disc bike so perhaps the interim di2 would just be a waste of money.

hold out for N+1. You're looking at probably close to a $1k anyway, always better bang for the buck when you get it as part of a whole bike

what type of bike you looking at getting, if I may ask?

Haven't rode my mountain bike in 4 months so I'm considering selling it. Don't have a bike rack to hit up trails and there's nothing to ride here in Long Beach. But I keep on thinking I'll regret selling it even though I don't use it anymore.

you'll regret it. A bike rack is a fairly inexpensive investment, and then you'll use your bike.

Testing out a new electrolyte powder/tab thingy which I'm pretty excited about.

Hammer Enduralyte Fizz tabs + green tea = f'ing bomb shiznit

Side note - if someone is looking for a gravel/race/commuter/road bike, I have a size 54 custom built black/gold colorway Specialized Sequoia for sale. I'm a dope, should've gone 56. Tried to make 54 work, but it just doesn't, which sucks, because it is a badass bike, and looks sharp as hell in person. SRAM drivetrain mix (Force cranks, 42t X-Sync, Rival RD, Apex levers), XT Cassette, Whiskey9 carbon fork, Thompson Elite X4 stem with gold headplate, I9 Torch/Trail 245 custom wheelset, 3 tire options, blahblah. Fits up to 1.8" MTB tires

A few pics for interest.

[TrancE_AddicT]

Is this is an awesome price for the bike? Looking to get back to mtb and I am out of the loop on components. Ideally I want a 29r FS.

https://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/...658688808.html

[kethnaab]

[QUOTE=TrancE_AddicT;1558377411]Is this is an awesome price for the bike? Looking to get back to mtb and I am out of the loop on components. Ideally I want a 29r FS.

https://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/...658688808.html[/QUOTE

(lack of details)/10

tough to say because the seller included zero details. You can see the new rear Ground Control tire (good tire BTW). Looks like the wheels might be mismatched, although it's tough to say. That isn't necessarily bad or good but it could mean the dude rode the bike hard and taco'd the wheel (or it could mean nothing at all)

Ask for more details. If you can meet the dude and take it for a spin, do so.

I believe that's a 2013 Specialized Epic Comp, if it's the carbon model, then that's a pretty good price if everything else is in working order. If it's an alloy, then $900 for a 2013 is pretty standard unless there was a lot more new stuff. Should have SLX drivetrain and Magura hydros, a Reba, and a brain shock (which is meh IMHO)

Epic is a good bike, although if you're looking to do some jumps and drops in the woods, an Epic isn't the ideal choice. It *is* an ideal choice (one of them, anyway) if you are looking to do a good combination of climbing and basic trail riding

[eltoro24]

Haven't rode my mountain bike in 4 months so I'm considering selling it. Don't have a bike rack to hit up trails and there's nothing to ride here in Long Beach. But I keep on thinking I'll regret selling it even though I don't use it anymore.

They have trails in Long Beach. Maybe not right out your front door. Get the rack.

https://www.mtbproject.com/directory/8012751/long-beach

[RobParks2M]

Finally got a decent shot of my bike. Went riding out near Fruita, Colorado. The day did not disappoint.

[Carloswithac]

Finally got a decent shot of my bike. Went riding out near Fruita, Colorado. The day did not disappoint.

How do you like that fork?

I went to the bike park last weekend and was able to get full travel on my rear shock. I typically don't get full travel on my local trails. Wish I had pictures, but phone was in my Camelbak for most of the day. We got a good six runs in.

[RobParks2M]

How do you like that fork?

I went to the bike park last weekend and was able to get full travel on my rear shock. I typically don't get full travel on my local trails. Wish I had pictures, but phone was in my Camelbak for most of the day. We got a good six runs in.

Its my first mountain bike so I don't really have much to compare to, but I like it thus far. I'm planning on upgrading to a 2.6 inch wheel in the near future though.

[ChaseW]

tried to join the strava group but got rejected?

Bros: c'mon let me join the The Lance Armstrong Ball BB Group

https://www.strava.com/athletes/28037520

Sorry, I just accepted you and whoever "Pehpar Urangus" is lmfao

erik are you running the strava club? And i think we still have loads of random people in it that dont even misc

I'm an admin but with everyone having a username here different than their real name it's very difficult to match people up.

[ChaseW]

I don't think Erik runs it. Someone else does; it was brought up a few pages back. I'd join but I'm already part of another group run by a friend's older brother. And we're too cool for y'all. JK, I love you all, especially Chaserton (Chase), ya ****ing human giraffe.

thank you you glorious winged ******* <3

[wasp9166]

i dunno what the deal is, bike shop hasn't contacted me after 3 weeks, done waiting, where would you suggest i get a power pro saddle? 143

[SkepticalOne]

i dunno what the deal is, bike shop hasn't contacted me after 3 weeks, done waiting, where would you suggest i get a power pro saddle? 143

Need to find a Specialized retailer. Even if not in stock they should be able to order it in.

[HMFIC_BROWSIN]

Mtb still not fixed.

Roadie day tomorrow! Lol.

After the first ride back on the road bike my neck reminded me why it hates being a roadie (pain). Considering shortening my stem and tossing on some flat handlebars (srs).

[kethnaab]

Mtb still not fixed.

Roadie day tomorrow! Lol.

After the first ride back on the road bike my neck reminded me why it hates being a roadie (pain). Considering shortening my stem and tossing on some flat handlebars (srs).

I've had neck surgery (broke C6/C7 in the military a few years back) as well as 3 shoulder reconstructions, so I have to be rather finicky about this as well

1. Avoid alloy, they are almost always more painful, stick with steel, Ti, or carbon
2. Tire size - avoid the 25s like the plague. 28 is the smallest you should go, and newer models of road bikes like the Synapse, Domane, and Roubaix all handle 32mm+ sized tires
3. Tubeless - this allows you to ride a good 5-10 psi lower pressure, which makes the ride orders of magnitude smoother when combined with #1 and #2 (and faster over rougher road and chipseal)
4. Endurance geometry road bikes or gravel bikes only, no "racey" bikes like a Tarmac or a Madone. In the geometry #s, you want the highest stack possible relative to the reach
5. Riser stem - I typically use a Thompson 10-degree or a Specialized multi-stem (goes to 17 degrees)
6. Bars with rise in them - Spec Hover bars, adventure bars, S-Works aerofly, all have an extra 20+mm of rise

[Blueblob]

Hey everyone, hoping to get some recommendations/things to look for when buying a new bike.

Been riding my old MTB from high school and know this is something I want to get into. With end of the season sales coming up, I’m looking to pick up a ‘real’ bike.

The shops in my area:
https://www.eddys.com

https://www.centurycycles.com

I’m 6’ #195 (don’t know if weight matters). Moving to Columbus, OH, and a majority of their trails there are concrete/asphalt with some gravel trails. Want to keep my budget $1,500 >

What type of bike should I be looking for?Should I pay for a bike fitting? What’s are some brands I should stick to? Is there anything else I should ask the shop when I look at bikes?