RetroRoadRide Series Rd 1: Cheddar Gorge ~ 08/03/14

[bobbinogs]

Thanks for the offer, but not sure you should trust me. I've never ridden a road bike Think I am 58cm I guess.

Sorry Tim, that is getting into EdEdwards-thelongleggedrideroftheshires territory. You would look like Biffo the clown on my 53's, all bent elbows and bandy legs.

 

[Pyro Tim]

no worries Robin, thought that counts

At 6'2 and 37" inside leg (floor to crotch) I am a bit long limbed

 

[Uncle Monty]

I need to look at my bike tonight and make sure it is OK. Not ridden it since last October. If all is OK then I am in. 3hr drive for me.
Tim - I am a once a week mountain biker, I managed the Lakes road ride last year (slowly), and apart from a few weekend practice rides beforehand, that was the first time I had been on a road bike since school. If you fancy a go, we can piss about about at the back . I found a road bike a bit of a shock when you first get on, but after an hour or so you get used to it. Handlebars are the wrong shape and the brakes don't work, which is fairly exciting as they do go down hill very fast indeed. Took me ages to let go of the brakes. I am 5'8" and my borrowed bike is a 52x54. Too small really and I think it gives me back ache. - I want to try a 56x56 or 22" - 22 1/2". Never ridden in a group before.

 

[Pyro Tim]

Currently I haven't got anything to ride, so doesn't look like I'll make it. I'm averaging 79 miles a week on the mtb, mostly on the roads, granted, with an average speed of about 14-15 mph, so I'm not unfit. Just think it will be a culture shock.

I'm sure I can find fine wine and cake, but don't fancy being interfered with Uncle Monty

 

[Uncle Monty]

Rest assured - I am actually nothing like Uncle Monty.....But I am rather partial to fine wines and cake.

 

[Pyro Tim]

Love Withnail and I, one of my favourite films. The Withnail and I drinking game is a killer though

 

[bobbinogs]

I am 5'8" and my borrowed bike is a 52x54. Too small really and I think it gives me back ache. - I want to try a 56x56 or 22" - 22 1/2". Never ridden in a group before.

I know we all have different legs/arm/torso lengths but normally I would advise that if one is 5'8 then a decent fit should be about a 52cm Seat post (classic measuring from centre bb to centre effective TT) and about 53/54cm TT with a 90 stem. Might be worth checking the stem/reach of the bars (some old school ones do have a big reach, specially if riding on the drops rather than the hoods), setback of the saddle (which should be set based primarily on leg rotation/angles) and/or considering some lower back exercises and core strengthening as your lower back problems may not just be fit related.

 

[bugloss]

Currently I haven't got anything to ride, so doesn't look like I'll make it. I'm averaging 79 miles a week on the mtb, mostly on the roads, granted, with an average speed of about 14-15 mph, so I'm not unfit. Just think it will be a culture shock.

I'm sure I can find fine wine and cake, but don't fancy being interfered with Uncle Monty

That's a real shame, I think a 58 cm is going to be too small for you as well. My legs are roughly 34" long and I ride a 58.

Can't you put drops and slicks on your mountain bike? Just a thought.

 

[Pyro Tim]

I have sat on a 58 and think it's ok sizewise. I ride 19" mtbs. Don't have slicks or drops. I have an idea, but not sure I can pull it off.

I posted pics of an old Raleigh on the road what's it worth. It belongs to a guy that works for the company on the floor above the one I work in. He is working away this week, but I may be able to try and borrow it. The only issue apart from persuading him to lend me it, is how well it's been kept, and if it's rideable

 

[Uncle Monty]

Tyres are pumped up, chain cleaned etc so I am ready as I will ever be. I'm looking forward to it.