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A Bicycle Built For Who? - John Mocella |
1/26/10
Just a quick note about bicycles (the conveyance that will be moving me across the country).
I quickly decided that I needed a new bicycle for the trip. I have an older Racing Bicycle and a very sturdy Mountain Bicycle. Neither one is suitable for the upcoming trip. Here were my choices:
- Racing Bike
- Cyclocross bike
- Touring Bike
- Recumbent bike
- Hybrid Bike
I quickly decided against the recumbent bike. It's major weakness is climbing and it would just plain not work in the mountains of Colorado or some of the easier elevations we will be experiencing. The hybrid was quickly out - I needed a bike that is less commuter and more traveler. Although comfortable, the hybrid would not be 'fast' enough for the long haul. And, a racing bike was pretty quickly eliminated. The geometry is such that the rider is 'stretched out' in a very aerodynamic position. It will get very fatiguing as the days tick by.
So, I was left with a cyclocross bike and a touring bike.
Both are a little heavier than a racing bike - but more sturdy and less prone to breaking down. They both have a wider fork that will accommodate a wider range of wheels and tires for changing conditions during the trip.
I decided to get a Fuji Touring bike.
The advantages are: a rear rack for carrying a small bag, greater range of gearing - it has 24 speeds and a very low gear for climbing mountain passes and the geometry is such, that it has a less stretched position allowing for a more comfortable ride.
My first purchase after the bike was a an upgrade to the saddle (seat). I'm going to need the best option for comfort and function for 5,000 miles.
- John Mocella
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Comment by Carol (Mocella) Richardson cr on 2010-02-05 19:47:36
John, will you be coming to Phoenix on your ride?
I ride, only indoors, at spin 3x/week. |
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