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Audax Beginner

  • 23-09-2010 10:45pm
    #1
    jerby
    Registered Users Posts: 14 ✭


    Hi folks,
    Just looking for some advice about a starter bike for doing long distance cycles. I am hoping to buy a bike in january with the bike to work scheme. i was originally looking at a GIANT DEFY 2, but now, i dont think its suitable (no clearance for mud guards)etc

    At the moment i'am cycling my 99euro supervalue mtb, and have done the 120km Tour of Wexford, the An Post 90km in Dungarvan and the 120km Leinster Loop to try and get a few miles in my legs.

    i would be hoping to spend around 1000 euro on the bike. Many thanks in advance for your feedback.:)


Comments

  • #2
    LastGasp
    Registered Users Posts: 638 ✭✭✭LastGasp


    Hi Jerby, It all depends on what you will be comfortable on for 10-15 hours or more. There are all sorts of options in Steel, Aluminium, Carbon or even Titanium. Tifosi CK7 would be around your price range. Specialized Roubaix is recommended for comfort, but probably too dear. Many Audaxers ride "old school" steel frames with mudguard eyes etc, but others do the same rides on top carbon racers, with a small seat pack to carry the necessities. Ribble Sportive would be quite good - a bit over budget. You could look at getting a custom steel frame from Mercian or Dave Yates, and build up with Shimano 105 Groupset. Of course if it's bike-to-work you may be restricted to particular shops, which may be a problem.

    In the end the most important thing is the fit and set-up of the bike, and that you are comfortable on it for long periods.
    Good luck ! LG


  • #3
    rughdh
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 278 ✭✭rughdh


    LastGasp wrote: »
    In the end the most important thing is the fit and set-up of the bike, and that you are comfortable on it for long periods.
    Good luck ! LG
    +1

    I would use easier gearing than I'd normally use if planning on going beyond a 200, if the terrain is hilly. What was an easy climb on the first day of a 600 can be a challenge on day 2.

    I have used either a Giant SCR 4 or SCR 1 for all my audaxes from 200 to 600, without any problems. I don't know if the clearance is different than the Defy range, though. I just have a clip-on rear mudguard.

    I would recommend at least 25mm tyres for comfort. Some folks will go as far as 32, if they have the clearance. I use 28 when I'm not using the mudguard.


  • #4
    cdaly_
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,440 ✭✭✭cdaly_


    There are Giant specific mudguards that should fit the Defy. These are permanently fixed. OTOH, you can go with the raceblades style mudguards which clip to the frame but don't cover as much as the Giant ones.

    My FCR (similar frame to the defy) will take 28mm tyres but maybe not the 32s. With mudguards you are probably limited to 25mm though.

    The Defy 2 should be a pretty nice bike...


  • #5
    jerby
    Registered Users Posts: 14 ✭jerby


    Thanks folks,
    Plenty of info there. Will start looking up those bikes, and have a chat with a few local bike shops. Thanks again and may the wind be always at your back. :)


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