Hybrid advice wanted

"Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling again for fitness.

Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes inherited from

my

Quoted message said:

father.

This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though I remember my Dad saying that
Claud Butlers dropped in quality after he had one in the 50s !!

I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be comfortable - I bought a cheap Peugeot
racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my cycling interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and
never got on with it at all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...

I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face, though I do know I don't like
twist grip shifters.

Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good basis for some exercise whilst
taking in some countryside (rather than the inside of a gym).

Any advice would be most welcome

Thanks Tony

My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike with

road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or Dawes run away.

Graham

Quoted message said:

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"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike with road tyres fitted or by
a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or

Dawes

Quoted message said:

run away.

Yeah, right. Might I trouble you to ask why?

Tim (proud Ridgeback hybrid user)
--
Sent from Birmingham, UK... Check out www.nervouscyclist.org 'When you're under the USA, someone
rings a bell and it's all over'
- David Bowie, 'Day In, Day Out'. My 'reply to' address is valid, mail to the posting
address is dumped

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling again for fitness.

Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes inherited from

my

Quoted message said:

father.

This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though I remember my Dad saying that
Claud Butlers dropped in quality after he

had

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

one in the 50s !!

I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be comfortable -

I

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my cycling interest and found it
terribly uncomfortable and never got on with it at all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...

I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face, though

I

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

do know I don't like twist grip shifters.

Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good basis

for

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the inside

of

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

a gym).

Any advice would be most welcome

Thanks Tony

My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike

with

Quoted message said:

road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or

Dawes

Quoted message said:

run away.

Graham

Quoted message said:

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
(grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003

Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of these makers other than snobs
sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that have won accolades for a few years. They are also very
keenly priced.

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling

again

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

for fitness.

Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes inherited

from

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

my

Quoted message said:

father.

This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though I remember my Dad saying
that Claud Butlers dropped in quality after he

had

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

one in the 50s !!

I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be

comfortable -

Quoted message said:

I

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my cycling interest and found it
terribly uncomfortable and never got on with it

at

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...

I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face,

though

Quoted message said:

I

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

do know I don't like twist grip shifters.

Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good basis

for

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the

inside

Quoted message said:

of

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

a gym).

Any advice would be most welcome

Thanks Tony

My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike

with

Quoted message said:

road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or

Dawes

Quoted message said:

run away.

Graham

Quoted message said:

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
(grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003

Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of these makers other than snobs
sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that

have

Quoted message said:

won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.

Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about 40lbs !

Graham

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

........ If anybody mentions Ridgeback or Dawes run away.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of these makers other than snobs
sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that have won accolades for a few years. They are also
very keenly priced.

Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about 40lbs !

Almost every cycle below £500 is made in the same small collection of SE Asian factories, as are the
majority of those under £1000. Doesn't matter what it says on the badge - Orange (UK for there
expensive models, Asia for the entry models), Specialized, Giant, Ridgeback, Trek, Raleigh,
Dawes...... There are differences in specification of the bikes and frames for each "brand", but
they all come from the same few places.

As for weight, suggest Graham gets some new scales, a typical Ridgeback hybrid would be below 30lbs.

NC

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about 40lbs !

What has the location of the manufacturing plant got to do with the quality of the product? Wake up,
smell the coffee, the days when Made in England was a watch word for quality have long gone -- if,
in truth they ever existed.

The truth is that most bikes are manufactured in the Far East, many for the biggest, most
prestigious names in the industry, from the finest raw materials using the most modern
manufacturing plant.

Our original poster needs to consider what type of riding he wants to do.

Only then can he decide if he needs suspension or not. If yes, then he should try to pay the premium
associated with decent kit -- not be seduced by a poor quality, heavy supermarket bike.

Best would be to hire or borrow a few bikes and ride them.

I do not have a Ridgeback though they appear well made and well priced. I cannot comment on the
weight because I have no spec. I do ride a Dawes -- but it is so old as to be irrelevant.

I find riding an MTB (a Specialised Rockhopper so mid range) on road or well surfaced path for any
significant distance less pleasant than riding a rigid ATB of Indian origin (manufactured from
scaffolding poles and considerably heavier than 40lbs with seriously [censored] componentry) which is, in
turn, less pleasant than a 20 year old Dawes Galaxy tourer. Add some rough stuff and my preference
order reverses very rapidly.

We seem to be having a spate of postings from people who have swallowed the marketing hype. Believe
me -- bounce is not always best.

T

Following on from Tony Rickard's message. . .

Quoted message said:

As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling again for fitness.

Talk to your LBS. If you get the impression they want you as a customer rather than just want your
custom then that's a good sign.

There are so many shades between full-sus and road bike that definitions are not very helpful when
dealing with one person' specific need.

Points:
* Right size
* Comfy saddle
* A mountain bike is for cross country...
* ...while it is only really a road bike that can't handle off-road cycle facilities. (ie council
maintained trails designed for getting around)
* Braze-ons are needed if you'll be using it as a utility bike for rack and pannier.[One of the best
investment I ever made - detachable panniers]
* Get the shop to fit mudguards as they are a pain to fit yourself later.

--
PETER FOX Not the same since the deckchair business folded

Witham Cycling Campaign www.eminent.demon.co.uk/wcc.htm East Anglian Pub cycle rides
www.eminent.demon.co.uk/rides

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...
> As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling

again

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> for fitness.
>
> Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes inherited

from

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

my
> father.
>
> This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though I remember my Dad saying
> that Claud Butlers dropped in quality after

he

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

had

Quoted message said:

> one in the 50s !!
>
> I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be

comfortable -

Quoted message said:

I

Quoted message said:

> bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my

cycling

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on with

it

Quoted message said:

at

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
>
> I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face,

though

Quoted message said:

I

Quoted message said:

> do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
>
> Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good

basis

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

for

Quoted message said:

> some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the

inside

Quoted message said:

of

Quoted message said:

> a gym).
>
> Any advice would be most welcome
>
> Thanks Tony
>
> My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain bike

with

Quoted message said:

road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback or

Dawes

Quoted message said:

run away.

Graham
>
>
> ---
> Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> (grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003
>
>

Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of these makers other than snobs
sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that

have

Quoted message said:

won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.

Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about 40lbs

!

Quoted message said:

Graham

Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I think you're making it up.

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...
>
> "Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> "]news:[email hidden]...
> > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling

again

Quoted message said:

> > for fitness.
> >
> > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes

inherited

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

from

Quoted message said:

> my
> > father.
> >
> > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck. Though

I

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality after

he

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

had
> > one in the 50s !!
> >
> > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be

comfortable -

Quoted message said:

I
> > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my

cycling

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on with

it

Quoted message said:

at

Quoted message said:

> > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> >
> > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the face,

though

Quoted message said:

I
> > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> >
> > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good

basis

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

for
> > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the

inside

Quoted message said:

of
> > a gym).
> >
> > Any advice would be most welcome
> >
> > Thanks Tony
> >
> > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain

bike

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

with
> road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback

or

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Dawes
> run away.
>
> Graham
> >
> >
> > ---
> > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > (grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
> > 24/04/2003
> >
> >
>
>

Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of

these

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes that

have

Quoted message said:

won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.

Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about

40lbs

Quoted message said:

!

Quoted message said:

Graham

Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I think you're making it up.

I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs yeah

right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first place.

Graham

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...
>
> "dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> "]news:[email hidden]...
> >
> > "Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start

cycling

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

again
> > > for fitness.
> > >
> > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes

inherited

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

from
> > my
> > > father.
> > >
> > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.

Though

Quoted message said:

I

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality

after

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

he

Quoted message said:

> had
> > > one in the 50s !!
> > >
> > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
comfortable -
> I
> > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my

cycling

Quoted message said:

> > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on

with

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

it

Quoted message said:

at
> > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > >
> > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the

face,

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

though
> I
> > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > >
> > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a good

basis

Quoted message said:

> for
> > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than the
inside
> of
> > > a gym).
> > >
> > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > >
> > > Thanks Tony
> > >
> > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a mountain

bike

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> with
> > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions Ridgeback

or

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> Dawes
> > run away.
> >
> > Graham
> > >
> > >
> > > ---
> > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > (grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:

24/04/2003

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
> Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of

these

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes

that

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

have
> won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.
>
> Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about

40lbs

Quoted message said:

!

Quoted message said:

Graham

Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I

think

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

you're making it up.

I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs yeah

right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first

place.

Quoted message said:

Graham

Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.

It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks, stem and seat post. 21.5 pounds
but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great bike, I'm very very happy with it
and it doesn't have any girly suspension either.

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...
>
> "Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> "]news:[email hidden]...
> >
> > "dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > >
> > > "Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start

cycling

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> again
> > > > for fitness.
> > > >
> > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes

inherited

Quoted message said:

> from
> > > my
> > > > father.
> > > >
> > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.

Though

Quoted message said:

I

Quoted message said:

> > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality

after

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

he
> > had
> > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > >
> > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> comfortable -
> > I
> > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my
cycling
> > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on

with

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

it
> at
> > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > >
> > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the

face,

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> though
> > I
> > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > >
> > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a

good

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

basis
> > for
> > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than

the

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> inside
> > of
> > > > a gym).
> > > >
> > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > >
> > > > Thanks Tony
> > > >
> > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a

mountain

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

bike

Quoted message said:

> > with
> > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions

Ridgeback

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

or

Quoted message said:

> > Dawes
> > > run away.
> > >
> > > Graham
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > ---
> > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > (grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:

24/04/2003

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of

these

Quoted message said:

> > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes

that

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> have
> > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.
> >
> > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about

40lbs

Quoted message said:

!
>
> Graham
>
>

Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I

think

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

you're making it up.

I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs yeah

right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first

place.

Quoted message said:

Graham

Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.

It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks, stem

and

Quoted message said:

seat post. 21.5 pounds but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great bike,
I'm very very happy with it and it doesn't have any girly suspension either.

Another one bites !

Graham

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...
>
> "Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> "]news:[email hidden]...
> >
> > "dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > >
> > > "Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start

cycling

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> again
> > > > for fitness.
> > > >
> > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes

inherited

Quoted message said:

> from
> > > my
> > > > father.
> > > >
> > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.

Though

Quoted message said:

I

Quoted message said:

> > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality

after

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

he
> > had
> > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > >
> > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> comfortable -
> > I
> > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle my
cycling
> > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got on

with

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

it
> at
> > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > >
> > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the

face,

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> though
> > I
> > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > >
> > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a

good

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

basis
> > for
> > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than

the

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> inside
> > of
> > > > a gym).
> > > >
> > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > >
> > > > Thanks Tony
> > > >
> > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a

mountain

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

bike

Quoted message said:

> > with
> > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions

Ridgeback

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

or

Quoted message said:

> > Dawes
> > > run away.
> > >
> > > Graham
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > ---
> > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > (grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:

24/04/2003

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either of

these

Quoted message said:

> > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made bikes

that

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> have
> > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly priced.
> >
> > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh about

40lbs

Quoted message said:

!
>
> Graham
>
>

Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I

think

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

you're making it up.

I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs yeah

right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first

place.

Quoted message said:

Graham

Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.

It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks, stem

and

Quoted message said:

seat post. 21.5 pounds but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great bike,
I'm very very happy with it and it doesn't have any girly suspension either.

What a waste of good carbon fibre !

Graham

Peter Fox said:

Following on from Tony Rickard's message. . .

Quoted message said:

As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start cycling again for fitness.

Talk to your LBS. If you get the impression they want you as a customer rather than just want your
custom then that's a good sign.

Thanks, Peter. I was just being my usual impatient self wanting advice on a Sunday evening!

Quoted message said:

There are so many shades between full-sus and road bike that definitions are not very helpful when
dealing with one person' specific need.

Yes it is a bit baffling, especially the seemingly minor differences between categories.

Quoted message said:

Points:
* Right size
* Comfy saddle
* A mountain bike is for cross country...
* ...while it is only really a road bike that can't handle off-road cycle facilities. (ie council
maintained trails designed for getting around)
* Braze-ons are needed if you'll be using it as a utility bike for rack and pannier.[One of the
best investment I ever made - detachable panniers]
* Get the shop to fit mudguards as they are a pain to fit yourself later.

Hey, when I was a kid mudguards really weren't cool and were for old men - oh that'll be me then...

Cheers Tony

---
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Tony W said:

Our original poster needs to consider what type of riding he wants to do.

Road use only. Mainly fair weather and no need to carry stuff. Even if I do feel inclined to ride to
work I can leave all the stuff I need there and just carry waterproofs.

The aim is to improve fitness and the jaunts out with the kids.

Comfort is important - I don't want to be put off because of getting sore or have an aching back
just by sitting on the thing for 5 mins.

Quoted message said:

Only then can he decide if he needs suspension or not. If yes, then he should try to pay the
premium associated with decent kit -- not be

seduced

Quoted message said:

by a poor quality, heavy supermarket bike.

Best would be to hire or borrow a few bikes and ride them.

Rode a mate's Claud Butler Urban 200 today - felt pretty comfortable (around the work car
park anyway!)

Quoted message said:

I do not have a Ridgeback though they appear well made and well priced.

I

Quoted message said:

cannot comment on the weight because I have no spec. I do ride a

Dawes --

Quoted message said:

but it is so old as to be irrelevant.

I find riding an MTB (a Specialised Rockhopper so mid range) on road or

well

Quoted message said:

surfaced path for any significant distance less pleasant than riding a

rigid

Quoted message said:

ATB of Indian origin (manufactured from scaffolding poles and

considerably

Quoted message said:

heavier than 40lbs with seriously [censored] componentry) which is, in turn,

less

Quoted message said:

pleasant than a 20 year old Dawes Galaxy tourer. Add some rough stuff

and

Quoted message said:

my preference order reverses very rapidly.

Makes sense...

Quoted message said:

We seem to be having a spate of postings from people who have swallowed

the

Quoted message said:

marketing hype. Believe me -- bounce is not always best.

That is why I came here 🙂

Cheers Tony

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗).
Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...
>
> "dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> "]news:[email hidden]...
> >
> > "Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > >
> > > "dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > > >
> > > > "Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in

message

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start

cycling

Quoted message said:

> > again
> > > > > for fitness.
> > > > >
> > > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes
inherited
> > from
> > > > my
> > > > > father.
> > > > >
> > > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.

Though

Quoted message said:

I
> > > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in quality

after

Quoted message said:

> he
> > > had
> > > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > > >
> > > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> > comfortable -
> > > I
> > > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle

my

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> cycling
> > > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got

on

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

with

Quoted message said:

> it
> > at
> > > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > > >
> > > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in the

face,

Quoted message said:

> > though
> > > I
> > > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > > >
> > > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing a

good

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> basis
> > > for
> > > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather than

the

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > inside
> > > of
> > > > > a gym).
> > > > >
> > > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > > >
> > > > > Thanks Tony
> > > > >
> > > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a

mountain

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

bike
> > > with
> > > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions

Ridgeback

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

or
> > > Dawes
> > > > run away.
> > > >
> > > > Graham
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > ---
> > > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > > (grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:

24/04/2003

Quoted message said:

> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with either

of

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

these
> > > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made

bikes

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

that

Quoted message said:

> > have
> > > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly

priced.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > >
> > > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh

about

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

40lbs
> !
> >
> > Graham
> >
> >
>
> Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds. I

think

Quoted message said:

> you're making it up.
>
> I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs

yeah

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first

place.

Quoted message said:

Graham

Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.

It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks, stem

and

Quoted message said:

seat post. 21.5 pounds but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great bike,
I'm very very happy with it and it doesn't

have

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

any girly suspension either.

What a waste of good carbon fibre !

Graham

So sad.

NC said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> ("Graham"😉 trolled in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Weigh about 40lbs !

[...]

Quoted message said:

As for weight, suggest Graham gets some new scales, a typical Ridgeback hybrid would be
below 30lbs.

Mine -- a fairly average Ridgeback Velocity -- tips the scales at 18kg laden with panniers, bungee
cords and seat pack, 15kg unladen. Both figures include lights, SON hub dynamo, wiring, rack, pump,
unsprung leather saddle, and aftermarket oil, dirt and grime. That's about 33lbs unladen unless I'm
reading from the fathom column or something daft.

Hope these figures are useful to someone.

--
Andrew Chadwick <NOT LEGAL FOR TRADE> Erm, it said on the scales, that is.

"Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Road use only. Mainly fair weather and no need to carry stuff. Even if I

do

Quoted message said:

feel inclined to ride to work I can leave all the stuff I need there and just carry waterproofs.

Carrying capacity never goes amiss though.

Quoted message said:

The aim is to improve fitness and the jaunts out with the kids.

Noble reasons. You may even enjoy it -- and so might the kids.

Quoted message said:

Comfort is important - I don't want to be put off because of getting sore or have an aching back
just by sitting on the thing for 5 mins.

Comfort comes from several factors. The right size frame, a 'relaxed' geometry and a comfortable
saddle (which is NOT the same as a comfy saddle). A comfy saddle may look nice & comfy but can
destroy your [censored] in an afternoon. Something that looks like a tourture device can fit your bum just
right and be wonderfully comfortable. Many good LBS have a library of saddles you can borrow to
test. Well worth it!!

Quoted message said:

Rode a mate's Claud Butler Urban 200 today - felt pretty comfortable (around the work car park
anyway!)

Longer would be better. Buy him a couple of beers if he lets you borrow it for a couple of hours!!

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

We seem to be having a spate of postings from people who have swallowed

the

Quoted message said:

marketing hype. Believe me -- bounce is not always best.

That is why I came here 🙂

Cheers Tony

Cheers

Tony!!

Tony W said:

Something that looks like a tourture device can fit your bum just right and be wonderfully
comfortable.

Heck, I think I am on the wrong newsgroup 🙂

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Rode a mate's Claud Butler Urban 200 today - felt pretty comfortable (around the work car park
anyway!)

Longer would be better. Buy him a couple of beers if he lets you borrow

it

Quoted message said:

for a couple of hours!!

I need the bike to get fit - a couple of hours would probably kill me right now!

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Cheers Tony

Cheers Tony!!

Cheers Tony!!!!

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗).
Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 24/04/2003

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message "]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...
>
> "Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> "]news:[email hidden]...
> >
> > "dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > >
> > > "Smudger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > > >
> > > > "dreamlx10" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
> > > > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > > > >
> > > > > "Tony Rickard" <[email hidden]> wrote in

message

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > "]news:[email hidden]...
> > > > > > As a complete novice to the world of bikes I want to start
cycling
> > > again
> > > > > > for fitness.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Going back 20 years (+) I used to run an old (then) Dawes
> inherited
> > > from
> > > > > my
> > > > > > father.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > This name plus Claud Butler are the names that have stuck.
Though
> I
> > > > > > remember my Dad saying that Claud Butlers dropped in

quality

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

after
> > he
> > > > had
> > > > > > one in the 50s !!
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I am after an entry level £200-£250 ish bike which must be
> > > comfortable -
> > > > I
> > > > > > bought a cheap Peugeot racer about 8 years ago to rekindle

my

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > cycling
> > > > > > interest and found it terribly uncomfortable and never got

on

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

with
> > it
> > > at
> > > > > > all - gave it away to my brother-in-law...
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I wouldn't know a Shimano STI lever if it slapped me in

the

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

face,
> > > though
> > > > I
> > > > > > do know I don't like twist grip shifters.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Hence I *think" I want a hybrid for comfort and providing

a

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

good

Quoted message said:

> > basis
> > > > for
> > > > > > some exercise whilst taking in some countryside (rather

than

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

the

Quoted message said:

> > > inside
> > > > of
> > > > > > a gym).
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Any advice would be most welcome
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Thanks Tony
> > > > > >
> > > > > > My one piece of advice is, do not buy a hybrid ! Buy a

mountain

Quoted message said:

> bike
> > > > with
> > > > > road tyres fitted or by a road bike. If anybody mentions

Ridgeback

Quoted message said:

> or
> > > > Dawes
> > > > > run away.
> > > > >
> > > > > Graham
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > ---
> > > > > > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> > > > > > (grisoft.comgrisoft.comOpen ↗). Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
24/04/2003
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > > Don't run away. There's nothing particularly wrong with

either

Quoted message said:

of

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> these
> > > > makers other than snobs sniff at them. Ridgeback have made

bikes

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

that
> > > have
> > > > won accolades for a few years. They are also very keenly

priced.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > >
> > > > Made in China and Vietnam would that give you a clue ? Weigh

about

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> 40lbs
> > !
> > >
> > > Graham
> > >
> > >
> >
> > Hmmm. I have a Ridgeback hybrid and it comes in at 21.5 pounds.

I

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

think
> > you're making it up.
> >
> > I think your the one making it up, a Ridgeback hybrid at 21.5 lbs

yeah

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> right ! As for made in england it never meant anything to me in the first
place.
>
> Graham
>
>
Yep. Sorry, I don't Lie.

It's a Genesis Day 03 Frame with Ultegra bits, carbon bars, forks,

stem

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

and

Quoted message said:

seat post. 21.5 pounds but it would probably be a tonne or so on your scales. Its a great
bike, I'm very very happy with it and it doesn't

have

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

any girly suspension either.

What a waste of good carbon fibre !

Graham

So sad.

Your telling me, carbon fibre is expensive and that guy is putting it on a

ridgeback. Someone wants to have a word with him.

Graham