Tips for a newbie cyclist?

[black2002ls]

Did you ever end up doing the 31 mile ride? If so, how'd it go?

It is supposed to be next Saturday, however, my schedule has been chaotic and I haven't had the time to ride. I don't have enough light before I leave or after I get home so I am not going to ride it. I am going to try and pick up a trainer soon so that I can get some time in the saddle and be ready to go next year.

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[mustang_marc]

We pushed along averaging 13.6 maintaining a fairly steady pace 12-16 mph. I could have gone another 8 or more riding like that. It definitely helped boost my confidence to make the 31 mile ride next month!

Did you ever end up doing the 31 mile ride? If so, how'd it go?

[no4njnk]

Staying consistent is the key, ride a couple times a week and over time you will see huge improvements.

I just use CO2 cartridges as well. They work and are easy to carry.

I spend a couple hours each week on the trainer, I actually prefer it over most of the roads around here. It is a better workout than the road since you do not get any breaks, for me it stimulates races better as well. I just have a standard cycle ops, the only adjustments are getting off the bike and adjusting by hand. My gearing determines how hard I ride.

If you use a trainer I would suggest getting a HR monitor at a minimum so you can setup some zones. If you can afford it a power meter is the way to go but they cost more than the average person's bike.

Cycling can be a cheap sport but it does add up. I don't even want to know how much I have in mine or will be in my new one.

[black2002ls]

How about trainers. Do any of you guys use one? Suggested brand/model?
With the daylight changes it is getting harder for me to get quality rides in

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[Beej]

I just use co2.

[TeeShock]

On long adventures I carry a really old blackburn frame pump. If im feeling frisky I might haul a propane cartridge for my 2.4" tires.

[Shorty]

Topeak road morph. Good size, integrated gauge, and you can easily get 100+ psi. Mini pumps may be sexier and you can keep them in your jersey but fuck actually using one. I stick mine on the seat stay.

[black2002ls]

What is everyone using for a frame pump. Riding longer and farther from the house, I need to pick up something to get me back up and going if/when I have a flat.

[black2002ls]

I ordered a pair of Aerotech bibs that showed up today. So far I am sold on their stuff. It was $60 for the bibs, I didn't get the chance to ride tonight so I can't comment on "on the bike" comfort. However, just trying them on, they feel like they are going to be much more comfortable than the shorts. Also a bonus that they are made in America!

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[Beej]

Just keep riding. As you get stronger your speed will increase. Just takes time. once you get comfortable on the bike you can really start pushing yourself harder and doing some interval training and riding with faster people will help you get faster.

[black2002ls]

15.5 mi this morning at an average pace of 13.8 mph. It seems right now my comfort zone is 75-85 rpm and 13-16 mph

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[CJ5]

There's a guy at RBM who rides a 36" unicycle... says it's a great workout.

I'm in the process of refurbishing a 72 Dawes, it's old and parts are hard to find. Hotter N Hell is on my list for next year.

[Beej]

well it can be a number of things, yes clean and relube can help but if its a ball and cone hub it could be a disaster to take apart. I wouldn't waste your time or money messing with the hubs. Usually the best investment when getting serious is a nice set of wheels. Lighter weight and smoother hubs. Plus you can always move them to the next bike.

[black2002ls]

How about front and rear hubs? We noticed when I ws riding with my dad that his old trek coasted much better than my bike. What do I need to do to clean and relube my hubs? I hit the front with some blue cleaner lube I have and it seems to spin better. Recommendations?

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[black2002ls]

I use prolink. I relube about once a week or every 100 miles. I am anal about my chain though. I clean the chain real good with brake cleaner on a rag, let it dry then apply lube, spin it in and wipe off the excess. You are going to get some black gunky stuff, but shouldn't be too bad. Don't expect it to stay clean for long.

Thanks. It isn't flying off, I just wasn't sure if it was normal as quick as it is building up. I need to get in the habit of cleaning and lubing it once a week. I think I am riding 50-75 miles a week now

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