General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Clydesdales - Any Bike Brands/Models Better For Us? Rss Feed  
Moderators: k9car363, alicefoeller Reply
2007-04-12 10:53 AM

User image

Master
1696
1000500100252525
Surprise, Arizona
Subject: Clydesdales - Any Bike Brands/Models Better For Us?
I am in the process of shopping for a road bike sometime this season. I know that the fit is the most important thing, but I was wondering if there are certain brands or models that tend to hold up better (or worse) for riders over 200 lbs. My budget will be less than $1000, and I am considering Marin, K2, Motobecane, Novara, Diamondback, Raleigh and Trek right now, but I have an open mind to any other suggestions.


2007-04-12 11:44 AM
in reply to: #758624

User image

Elite
3687
20001000500100252525
Subject: RE: Clydesdales - Any Bike Brands/Models Better For Us?
I have road my Giant O.C.R 1 road bike when I was as high as 270 pounds.  Has held up far over 2000 miles.  I purchased it new in 2005 with full Ultegra for about $950.00.
2007-04-12 1:22 PM
in reply to: #758624

User image

Master
1901
1000500100100100100
Central, IL
Subject: RE: Clydesdales - Any Bike Brands/Models Better For Us?

I ride a Javelin and love it.  But a Jav may be too much $$$ for now.  Look at Fuji.  I started out on a Fuji and really liked it.  Cannondale is another good option.  The BIG down tube will hold up about anything (but a bank).

Also, a steel frame may be the way to go.  The extra pound or two won't matter and the extra support will be comforting.  

Consider putting a good set of wheels underneath you.  Cheap rims and wheels will break or untrue very easily.  Make a good friend at your local bike store - - can't hurt. 

Glad you are tri-ing.  Plenty of room out there on the race course for us Clydes!

2007-04-12 2:14 PM
in reply to: #758624

User image

Expert
789
500100100252525
Lake Forest, Illinois
Subject: RE: Clydesdales - Any Bike Brands/Models Better For Us?
I was riding a Jamis at 270lbs with no issues.  I now ride an Argon18 at 215 with no issues at all.
2007-04-13 10:36 AM
in reply to: #758624

User image

Master
2429
200010010010010025
Falls Church, Virginia
Subject: RE: Clydesdales - Any Bike Brands/Models Better For Us?
From my Clydesdale husband:
He got a Trek 1000 for $709, no worries at all about the weight issue. Nice bike, nice ride, and unless you do something dumb like jump curbs you shouldn't have a problem.
2007-04-14 1:51 PM
in reply to: #758624

User image

Elite
3020
20001000
Bay Area, CA
Subject: RE: Clydesdales - Any Bike Brands/Models Better For Us?

At that price point you shouldn't really have a problem finding a bike that will work for you.  There's only a few bikes with a weight limit on them, and all the ones you listed should be fine.

FWIW, I bought a new bike this year (upgraded from a really old steel to carbon) and what I found was that due to "stomach fat" I ended up with a less aggressive positioned bike.  Just way more comfortable to ride, I didn't like it when every time I pedaled I was "squishing" myself if you know what I mean.  If at all possible test ride a few in your price range, get a feeling for what geometry is going to feel the best and then MOST bikes (online or otherwise) will have the geometry specified.  You can then compare based on the geometry spec you want.   

IMO, if the geometry is the same, pick the bike with the better components.  Sometimes wheels are more critical than the bike - heavier riders need a stronger wheel set - so sometimes race wheels don't really work cause they are not as strong.



Edited by cadreamer 2007-04-14 1:55 PM


New Thread
General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Clydesdales - Any Bike Brands/Models Better For Us? Rss Feed