General Bike Thread (Desiderata, Questions, Pics)

[Piobaire]

Baby steps but why not both?

Well, technically speaking, you do a century and you've done a metric century, just like those Ph.D. programs that get you a master's along the way.

 

[flipstah]

Speaking of sore arses...are you wearing good cycling gear? Butch got me hooked on The Black Bibs and I've got a collection of their top of the line "adventure" bibs (the thigh mesh pockets are great) and their thermal knickers. I've sent several feedback emails asking them to put the mesh pockets on this year's thermals. Back to the point, a good chamois does a world of wonder for the backside. I also started using some butt butter for anything over 30 miles.

I just have my compression shorts + gym shorts and a performance tee

 

[Piobaire]

I just have my compression shorts + gym shorts and a performance tee

Ultimate Adventure Bibs

Overview: Our Adventure Bibs feature side and rear pockets and use our new Ultimate Italian carbon pad. The stretchy pockets are large enough for an iPhone, banana, or any other cargo you might need to stow. The rear pockets are more gel-sized. Now the Technical Stuff: Upgraded 5cm Italian...

theblackbibs.com

You will see a huge difference in comfort.

 

[flipstah]

All of your time in the saddle adds up. It would be better had you done it in one stint however it all still counts. Aim for longer rides to get your butt accustomed to the seat.

This is anecdotal however I believe it applies to most: I was commuting to work in 2013 usually riding about 3-4 days per week with 15 miles each day. Aside from that, I did not do any preparation for a 100 mile ride. One weekend, I went out and rode the century. It was a tough day however I was successful.

Keep putting in the miles(km) and you'll be ready!

Sounds good. I’ll do a full loop since I know where I’m going now. I’ll give myself some rest though.

 

[Thrift Vader]

Sounds good. I’ll do a full loop since I know where I’m going now. I’ll give myself some rest though.

Was that on the Apollo that you posted before?
If so, you get credit for riding an older rig while people around are on newer rigs.

 

[flipstah]

Was that on the Apollo that you posted before?
If so, you get credit for riding an older rig while people around are on newer rigs.

44km on the Apollo, yup!

 

[Thrift Vader]

44km on the Apollo, yup!
View attachment 1642069

Nice!!!

Awesome work. Keep going man! you'll get there.

 

[smittycl]

All of your time in the saddle adds up. It would be better had you done it in one stint however it all still counts. Aim for longer rides to get your butt accustomed to the seat.

This is anecdotal however I believe it applies to most: I was commuting to work in 2013 usually riding about 3-4 days per week with 15 miles each day. Aside from that, I did not do any preparation for a 100 mile ride. One weekend, I went out and rode the century. It was a tough day however I was successful.

Keep putting in the miles(km) and you'll be ready!

That's my approach as well. Training is important but a serious rider is already mostly prepared for a Century. I'm sure I will physically pay for it for a few days afterwards of course.

 

[smittycl]

Speaking of sore arses...are you wearing good cycling gear? Butch got me hooked on The Black Bibs and I've got a collection of their top of the line "adventure" bibs (the thigh mesh pockets are great) and their thermal knickers. I've sent several feedback emails asking them to put the mesh pockets on this year's thermals. Back to the point, a good chamois does a world of wonder for the backside. I also started using some butt butter for anything over 30 miles.

From my days road-marching with way too much gear I learned that some strategically placed Vaseline will save the day.

EDIT: I keep everything in my CamelBak except my cell phone which is in side pocket for easy access. Started wearing these for all rides. No experience with a bib.

Men's Mission Short - Slate

Our mission shorts feature a versatile style and a slim fit, ready for any adventure. Pair them with a tech shirt for a day full of adventure or dress it up with your button-down shirt. These shorts are perfect for traveling the country, shreddy dirt sessions or obligatory Sunday yard work...

www.ornotbike.com

 

[bicycleradical]

Definitely get a pair of bibs. That will make a world of difference on longer rides.

I am a Rapha fanboy. Their Core line is far more affordable than their Pro line however they are an incredible pair of bibs. IMO, they are the best ones I have.

Men's Core Cycling Padded Bib Shorts | Rapha

www.rapha.cc

 

[Piobaire]

I use original, cheap Noxzema for my chamois butter. I know more than one pro uses it and it's way cheaper than the stuff you'll see for sale at your LBS.

 

[smittycl]

Definitely get a pair of bibs. That will make a world of difference on longer rides.

I am a Rapha fanboy. Their Core line is far more affordable than their Pro line however they are an incredible pair of bibs. IMO, they are the best ones I have.

Men's Core Cycling Padded Bib Shorts | Rapha

www.rapha.cc

What does the bib provide that shorts do not? More form-fitting I guess. I also still ride with cycling tshirts vice a jersey. Got a few from Rapha that are very nice.

 

[Piobaire]

I was a bib skeptic until I tried them. Overall more comfy, no compression around the waist, and if you've a little bit of a pot (guilty) it gives a bit of a Spanks effect under your cycling jersey.

 

[bicycleradical]

What does the bib provide that shorts do not? More form-fitting I guess. I also still ride with cycling tshirts vice a jersey. Got a few from Rapha that are very nice.

One thing bibs prevent is the coin slot appearing from the gap between your shorts and your jersey/shirt. The straps keep the shorts from riding down your butt and keep the shorts in place better as well.

 

[kjb]

From my days road-marching with way too much gear I learned that some strategically placed Vaseline will save the day.

EDIT: I keep everything in my CamelBak except my cell phone which is in side pocket for easy access. Started wearing these for all rides. No experience with a bib.

Men's Mission Short - Slate

Our mission shorts feature a versatile style and a slim fit, ready for any adventure. Pair them with a tech shirt for a day full of adventure or dress it up with your button-down shirt. These shorts are perfect for traveling the country, shreddy dirt sessions or obligatory Sunday yard work...

www.ornotbike.com

Ornot gear is awesome. i have a few of their jerseys and bib shorts and thermal leggings all really great gear. i appreciate the nice colors and super minimal branding. the MiCA and carbon neutral certifications are an added bonus.

Ornot Bike - Climate Neutral Certified - Made in USA.

Made to last Technical Cycling Apparel and Accessories. You could be a rolling billboard, Ornot. We're Climate Neutral Certified and 1% For the Planet members. We make Cargo Bib Shorts, Bike Jerseys, Socks, Handlebar Bags, Jackets, and clothing you could wear on your bike, Ornot.

www.ornotbike.com

and yes, as someone who a long time ago only rode with padded shorts, bibs are so much more comfortable and do indeed make you look fitter