It’s been several weeks since my last post and I am sorry
for that, I’ve been more busy concentrating on speeding up my rides, shortening
them and working on training for the 30 miler I’m doing at the Scottsdale
Cycling Festival this October 2. I had originally wanted to do the full 70, but
seeing as though I haven’t cracked the 30 mile limit (28.5) I had to tell
myself I wasn’t ready.
I have been riding a ’11 Specialized Hardrock, which is a hard
tail with front suspension. This is the bike that was in my price range and
fell into the category that my LBS (Local Bike Shop) recommended for me getting
back on a bike and hitting the trails and the canals in the area. However, I’ve
peaked on my speed and am dying to get faster so I can join a “C” (slower)
riding group. I know I’m capable of going faster, but I have nothing left on
this bike. I believe that there is just too much resistance on the knobby tires
and lower gearing made for more off road type riding.
Long story short, I’ve been looking for an “affordable” road
bike, but affordable doesn’t really cut it. Bikes sure are expensive, and I don’t
see how I can justify spending thousands of dollars on a higher end bike yet
(or maybe at all.) I realize you get what you pay for, but my checkbook has a
limit.
I believe I’m
resolving myself to the Diamondback
Podium Two available at Dick’s Sporting goods. It’s more along the lines of
what I would consider a department store bike, but a higher end version I
suppose. It’s a gorgeous bike, with
fairly good components, and gets pretty good reviews.
I just wanted to put it out there and see if anyone could offer
any feedback or offer any suggestions to aid in my search. I’ve explored the “used”
bike arena as well however not knowing a ton about bikes; it makes me nervous
buying something used.
So there you have it…. where my mind has been in the Cycling
world for the past few weeks. I should be back this weekend with a nice long
ride with some new pictures and a new route to share. Thanks for reading and
stay tuned!
