I've decided that I need to get back into shape...

[il Padrino Ute]

and have decided that cycling is the way I'm going to do it. My question is about equipment:

I've decided that I'm going to purchase a Bianchi, but for those of you who are cyclists, should I purchase an "entry level" - for lack of a better term - bike or should I spend the extra money and get a bike that a more serious cyclist would ride?

I talked to one of the techs's at a local shop here and his suggestion was that it would be better to buy a more expensive bike so I wouldn't have to upgrade from a lesser bike. I suppose that makes sense, but is he trying to just get me to spend more money or dies he make a legitimate point? If I go with the lesser bike, is there any need to upgrade at all?

I plan on riding to get into shape and have no plans or desire to even think about riding on any compeitive level.

What say ye? Any advice would be most appreciated.

[bluegoose]

In my opinion, you can get started at the entry level with anything that they carry. Many of the frames that you are probably looking at are going to the be the same as those on the bikes several hundred dollars more. The difference is the compenents.

The components are the spendy part of the bike and are mainly there to improve the quality of shifting, smoothness of the ride, etc. The high end stuff is all about decreasing weight, but for most of us just trying to get in/stay in shape, who cares about a few extra grams.

Check out the components and let us know what they have. We can give you an idea if they would fit your goals for riding.

I bought my first bike several years ago for next to nothing while I figured out if I was going to like the sport. I put over 2000 miles on it the first year and more than got my moneys worth. When I decided I liked it, I upgraded and was happy with my decision.

[il Padrino Ute]

It's my understanding that the components are very important so I'll ask and report back.

[il Padrino Ute]

I went to the BianchiUSa website and pulled up links to the two bikes I'm considering. The first is the lower end:

<http://bianchiusa.com/1433.html>

the other is:

<http://bianchiusa.com/1436.html>

Hope this gives you enough info to help me make an informed decision. And I hope the links work as well, as I'm having trouble with HTML codes on this site for some reason.

[MikeWaters]

i started with low end and still ride it. Now after 3 years, I am interestedin upgrading. So it probably doesn't hurt to start on low end. If you buy for 600 and sell for 200, that's way different than starting at 2k.

[Archaea]

I know a little about your budget, but I'll not reveal it. Thus we wil discuss it generally.

Budgetwise persons not related to certain lawyers' wives would argue that you should purchase an entry level bike to see if you enjoy the sport. My question to you is what type a person are you? Are you the type who typically starts a lot of projects but rarely finishes one? If so, get the cheaper bike.

One problem from my perspective, warped as it is, the cheaper bikes, good when compared to yesterday's bikes, are less comfortable than more expensive bikes.

If you give it a fair shot, I've not me anybody who hasn't enjoyed biking.

Componetry is important.

You'll probably be advised to buy Shimano, a more economical choice than Campy, even though you are an Italian lover, for two reasons. The componetry is cheaper, and cheaper to fix by a long shot.

Some people will say 105 componetry is okay. I don't like that level, but I like fluid motions. I recommend Ultegra, unless you can afford Durace, top of the line, unless you modify cranks and what not.

High expense focuses upon two factors, comfort and weight. The lighter the more expensive. Comfort also requires more expensive workmanship.

Heavier guys like aluminum, but it breaks down with lots of weight and power. Carbon is probably the best buy, and you can find reasonably priced bikes in that range. Titanium is the worst buy but a great ride for lighter guys.

[bluegoose]

They are both decent bikes. Obviously the 1436 has nicer componentry and is going to be a bit pricier.

Shimano and Campy and the primary parts makers for shifters, brakes, cassettes, etc. I'm much more familiar with Shimano and therefore am more partial to it. I agree with Archaea that dollar for dollar, Ultegra is the way to go. Dura Ace is way overpriced and in no way worth buying unless you are getting paid to ride. I rode Shimano Sora for 2 years on my beater bike and did just fine for >200 miles. If you don't know any different, there is little to complain about.

Others are fiercely loyal to Campy, some even going as far as getting it tatooed on their backs. As I understand it, there is a slightly different feel when shifting. The shifters are also a slightly different configuration, but is not a huge deal once you're comfortble with them.

The 1436 also has a fairly decent wheelset, as compaired to the 1433. I think this is an important part of the bike, as it is the only thing keeping you wheelside down when riding.

Definitely go with the clipless pedals, as both of these bikes have, if you plan on sticking with it. Requires a specific pair of shoes and cleats, but makes a huge difference for comfort and control of the bike.

I also think its a good idea to go with the triple ring crankset, especially if you plan on riding any kind of hills/mountains.

I wish I knew more about Bianchi. They seem like decent bikes for the price. It's good to see that they finally went away from the mint green frame color that they were famous for.

[Archaea]

the 1436.

I believe this is an aluminum bike, something Bianchi is famous for.

Campy is fine, but it's pricier. The thumb configuration is different than Shimano, but you're not familiar with either, so it won't matter.

I do notice a difference between 105, Ultegra and Dura Ace, but that's just me.

Campy handles just fine, but for the price, I wouldn't get it. Campy also breaks more often than Shimano.

[il Padrino Ute]

I'll look into other bikes nefore I make a final decision. This particular shop that I've visited is pretty much deals Bianchi exclusively, but more importantly, it's close to my home and I'm too lazy to have to go very far. :)

I plan on making this more than a casual hobby - I want and need to get into shape and stay in shape. Cycling seems to be the best way to go.

I'll keep you updated about my decisions and keep asking more questions. You've been a lot of help today.

[SteelBlue]

Some people will say 105 componetry is okay. I don't like that level, but I like fluid motions. I recommend Ultegra, unless you can afford Durace, top of the line, unless you modify cranks and what not.


Arch I honestly cannot feel a bit of difference between 105's and Ultegra. I like to think of 105's as the toyota Camry of componentry, boring but pretty reliable. Kind of a moot point anyway these days though as Ultegra has gotten so cheap.

[creekster]

and we have all done this before, but here are my two, or few, bits:

I am a heavy guy and I have NEVER had a problem with an aluminum frame. IOW, I agree with Arch that Alum is best for heavier riders, but I disagree strongly with the idea aluminum breaks with hard use. I have several aluminium bikes which I have ridden very hard and I have never had a probelm with any of them, except when I was hit by a car (that's in another thread)

Whether you get Campy or Shimano and what model of each you get depends on budget and use. FOr example, if you want a long spread in your rear gear cluster you may need to get xtr even on a road bike (such as my rear derailleur on my touring frame).

in genreal, and assuming road racing type set-up, Campy is prettiest but typically more expensive. Campy STI levers are easier to repair when the internal spring breaks. Shimano's internal spring cannot be replaced. Doesn't happen often, but long distance tourers hate Shimano STI for this very reason.

As to Shimano, I hate to be a gear geek, but I agree with Arch that there is a perceptible difference between 105, ultegra nad dura ace. The biggest jump, I think, is between 105 and Ultegra. The difference between Ultegra and Dura Ace is very small and not at all worth the cost (although Dura Ace shure is purty). I think Ultegra is worth the $, but Dura Ace ain't.

Good luck and the main thing is to get a bike that feels good and that you like becasue then you will ride it and that is the main thing, after all.

[Archaea]

and I agree with most everything he wrote.

Perhaps I don't articulate myself when I discuss aluminum frame breakdown. Now I'm only relating what heavier riders relate to me. For example, in crit riding, riders like a frame that converts all energy to wheels with verylittle flex. I am told that aluminum loses its spunk after a few seasons. That's the breakdown I was discussing.

I have heard about the internal spring breakdown for Shimano, but the cost is so minimal there, you just replace it; whereas Campy is modular, breaks down more often, so you need to be able to replace.

If price were no object, I'd go with Campy Record group, as it's the prettiest and geekiest set up. You will also want to know on what setups your local shop likes to work on, unless you intend to become the bike mechanic.

As Creekster says, it's what gets you out there that matters, and fit is most important. You will need to adjust as you become more proficient in riding. Factors to consider will be measurements of your legs, your torso, your arms and your flexibility, or lack thereof.

[il Padrino Ute]

and I appreciate the input from all of you. I'm actually looking forward to this, which really isn't my personality.

[Parrot Head]

For you guys who know what you're doing -- or at least feign it very well -- do you know anything about Ibex bikes? The company doesn't sell in stores "in order to cut out the middle man and keep prices down." It appears to offer better components than for the prices I've seen elsewhere, but I wasn't sure if anyone here is familiar with the bikes or ever even seen them before. Keep in mind, I'm thinking of these bikes as compared to comparable models, not a top of the line LeMond or Calfee here like you big boys are riding, but something that's a step up from my banana-seat Huffy "Space Invaders" bike. Sweet bike with an awesome black glittery seat.

http://www.ibexbikes.com/

[Archaea]

if you don't want to spend much money, but the price isn't riveting. I examined the Aprisa Pro, and didn't find anything objectionable, nor exciting.

It sounds as if it's a workable alternative. What I don't know is how it is to fix, if you need to.

[SteelBlue]

For you guys who know what you're doing -- or at least feign it very well -- do you know anything about Ibex bikes? The company doesn't sell in stores "in order to cut out the middle man and keep prices down."


I looked at Ibex when I was first bike shopping. It's been a while, but I think that I came to the conclusion that the frames were where they were saving their money. I have a vague memory of a bike shop mechanic explaining to me why their frames sucked, but he of course had a vested interest in me not buying one.

Just as an FYI, I also looked on ebay a lot while bike shopping. There were a few sellers selling european sounding brands at excellent prices and with good componentry. I was tempted to buy, but during my research I found that they owned the pages that they were linking to and had tried to make them look like the manufacturers page. When I emailed them and called them on it, they stopped responding to any of my questions. If I remember the brands I'll let you know, but I'll bet you've already come across it.

[bluegoose]

The Ibex seems okay for the price.

I don't know anything about the 6061 alum frame.

I would think that the Aprisa Elite 5500 would be a good starter bike. Like we discussed earlier, if your looking at improved performance, you may consider the 6500 model. It has the Ultegra 27 speed set-up, nice wheelset, comfortable saddle and handlebars, and its about 3 pounds lighter than the 4400 model. Doesn't sound like much, but it makes a big difference when you're climbing hills.

The aluminum frame is probably fine, but like Steel mentioned, I would look into a little bit more, as I don't know anything about it.

[Parrot Head]

I want to be safe out on the road so I need to get a good helmet. I've narrowed it down to these on eBay...

Old School Bell Reebok Pump Helmet (I always wanted Pumps!)
http://i21.ebayimg.com/01/i/05/36/64/6a_2.JPG

PINK-SCOOTER-GIRL-HELMET (It's a fashion statement.)
http://i22.ebayimg.com/03/i/05/4e/9d/b2_2.JPG

HJC (Who doesn't want to look like Ponch from CHiPs?)
http://i22.ebayimg.com/04/i/05/43/f0/34_2.JPG

Please don't try and outbid me.