Hi all, I have a question!

omma_to_3

I run, walk, and bike for my exercise. I currently have a Gary Fisher Tassajara mountain bike from nearly 15 years ago. It sat for quite a while and needs new tires. Since I don't actually mountain bike anymore (just hilly paved trails) I wanted to switch the tires to something more road friendly. The tires are 26 by 47/54. Will I need new wheels as well? I'm thinking I would.

Basically, I'm trying to decide how much it's going to cost me to switch to a more hybrid type tire and if that is actually worthwhile at this point. My bike needs a tune up desperately (around $75 here) and with the cost of new wheels, tubes, and tires, I think it would add up to half the cost of a new fitness type bike. So now I'm considering just picking up a new bike (I really like this bike, but would prefer to be under the $500 mark: http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/road/fitness/fx/7_2_fx_wsd_2012/# )

Anyway, basically, I would like a faster bike more suited to the way I ride. I am also considering doing a sprint tri next year. Would a bike like the Trek be suitable for that? I have no intention of spending $2K on a true road bike, since I'm doing this for fun, not true competition.

Opinions welcome!

Speedtrap

You can get slick tires for your bike that will fit your existing rims, any good bike shop will carry them.
They will make for a better and faster ride.
You will not be able to put 700C wheels on your bike, it does not have the room, so just look for a set of 26" Slick tires.
Do not get the semi slick ones, with the grip on the edge, Slicks will work in all conditions except sand and mud, do if you are on paved trails or gravel you will be fine.

Sick tires can be inexpensive as well, I think the last set I bought for a mtn bike were $11 per tire.

omma_to_3

Thanks! Of course, I went looking at bikes...and am really tempted LOL. I'm going to test ride the Specialized Vita after work.

TDGee

Get the new bike... You know you want to!!
I just bought My Specialized Cirrus Comp (Hybrid) in March, and I already NEED a new road bike!! All part of the never ending quest to go farther and faster.

redhousecat

One of my bikes is a Trek 7.2 fx that I use for commuting. I love the hell out of that little thing. Hubby just bought one this week and paid less than 500 for it.

Frannybobs

When I got a new bike last year I was between the Trek 7.2fx and the Specialized Vita Elite. I went for the Specialized in the end and I absolutely love it to bits. I rode my old entry-level hybrid at weekend for the first time in about 10 months (was cycling it round to my friends to give it to her) and then I realised how much better the Specialized is - I appreciate it even more now!

You won't go wrong with either of those 2 bikes.

Let us know what you get :-)

omma_to_3

I got the specialized Vita. I really liked it when I rode it last night! Might have to go riding tomorrow night.

TheBigYin

Get the new bike... You know you want to!!
I just bought My Specialized Cirrus Comp (Hybrid) in March, and I already NEED a new road bike!! All part of the never ending quest to go farther and faster.

Ah - the correct number of bikes is best expressed as a mathematical forumula...

N = c +1

where N = number of bikes and c = current number of bikes.

I've got a garage at home - the car has NEVER been able to fit in there. Too many bikes (but still, strangely, never enough!) :laugh:

TDGee

Ah - the correct number of bikes is best expressed as a mathematical forumula...

N = c +1

where N = number of bikes and c = current number of bikes.

I love this equation! I have recently been flirting with (S-1)= Correct number of bikes one needs
(S-1) expresses the number of bikes one has before the spouse (S) divorces you. :laugh:
I'm afraid she will never understand the need...

cohophysh

Thanks! Of course, I went looking at bikes...and am really tempted LOL. I'm going to test ride the Specialized Vita after work.

now we're talking...

Frannybobs

Ah - the correct number of bikes is best expressed as a mathematical forumula...

N = c +1

where N = number of bikes and c = current number of bikes.

I've got a garage at home - the car has NEVER been able to fit in there. Too many bikes (but still, strangely, never enough!) :laugh:

I love this equation - and it is very true. I bought the Specialized Vita Elite hybrid last year - my first proper non-cheapy bike and love it, but it's quite unforgving over bumps and there are quite a few off-road cycle paths near me so I am now getting a mountain bike which I'm collecting today. But I'm already thinking about a proper road bike....

I wouldn't mind but I only live in a little 2 up 2 down terrace. The hybrid shouild live under the stairs (but is most often in the dining room) and my mountain bike will be securely chained in my Bike Tent in my backyard!!

Seems that it is a common theme to always want one more than you have !!!