Thinking about treating myself to a new bike - advice needed please!

[93pjb]

I mostly just cycle to and from work (about 5 miles each way) and have done the odd bit of longer distance cycling on occasion.

I signed up for a London to Brighton ride a while back and have just realised that it is happening in 3 weeks time. Ok, so obviously some extra training is way more important but I am wondering about whether or not to get a new bike and if so how much to spend and what type. I have always had hybrids/tourers and never spent much money. My current bike was second hand about 5 years ago and weighs a ton!

Does anyone have any advice?

Thank you!

[JiltedJohnsJulie]

No idea sorry. Have you tried posting in chat? You might get a few responses.

[HellonHeels]

There's a cycling thread somewhere, if there's a sports topic I think it's in there. can't find it on phone sorry but they will give you good advice

But, my thoughts: people do London to Brighton rides (charity event ones, anyway) on all kinds of bikes. A lighter weight bike will certainly make the hills easier, so even if you keep the current bike, strip off anything unnecessary and don't carry huge panniers.

Are you comfortable on the current bike? How much training have you done and what's the longest distance you've ridden? If you are comfortable and can already manage 40 or so miles you should be fine on the day.

[Piffpaffpoff]

Here is the cycling thread.

Repost your OP here and you'll get lot of advice. Now is a great time to buy a bike as the new models are starting to come in so lots of places will be discounting this year's models. It would be useful to know how much you wan to spend too.

[93pjb]

Thank you! I have done 40 miles fairly recently but have mainly been eating cheese and drinking wine for the last couple of weeks... My bike is pretty heavy - I struggle to lift it up steps and I thought this might be a good excuse for a new one...

[HellonHeels]

However, what I really want to say is...get a new fabulous bike!

[HellonHeels]

Heh! x post!

Get the new bike!

I moved from a hybrid (heavy, slow) to a road bike and never looked back. I love my bike and love cycling now.

[Piffpaffpoff]

Specialized Tricross, I got on in the sale last year and love it!

[93pjb]

yes I do really want a shiny new bike! We keep dh's cannondale on a hanger on the wall and I pop it up and out of the way with ease while I can hardly lug my hybrid up a flight of stairs so I am hoping there is a whole world of cycling pleasure out there to be experienced!

I have now measured myself though and I think I might be a freak of nature so it might be quite tricky to get a frame to suit - I am 5'7'' but have a 33'' inside leg...

Will try the cycling thread now - thanks!

[BikeRunSki]

Get a new bike.

Sounds like you'd be best with a road bike, and I would highky recommend getting something Women Specific. for your height and leg length, look at an 18" guide as a guide.

Women Specific bikes have slightly different proportions and balance points to men's because - ta da - women have different proportions and lower centre of gravity to men ! Specialized to a great range of D4W (Designs for Women) road bikes. I'd spend £500+, and you'd get a great "forever" bike. You'll be pleased of it on Turner's Hill and Ditchling Beacon.

Is your employer in the Bike to Work scheme?