The all about Bicycling thread

For the first time in years I didn't install the studded tires this winter as I didn't ride any. But last week I took the bike out and the chain snapped. No problem I just got a new chain and installed it. Now there are some annoying sounds coming from the rear when I pedal and even slipping. I'm not sure what is causing this as I have tried to align (adjust) the rear derailleur but without any luck. I'm tempted to install the old chain again to see if the sounds go away, it they do then the new chain doesn't fit the bike.

 

Your chain and cassette age together.
When you put a new chain on, and the cassette has previously developed some wear, the new chain may skip since it doesn't fit the new cassette perfectly.
You may need a new cassette to go with your new chain.

 

I should have pointed out that the chain snapped due to a link that was damaged when someone experimented with my chain-breaker on it. So there shouldn't be much wear on the cassette and none is visible as I cleaned the cassette before installing the chain.
Thanks for a good advice.

 

It turned out that I had made a mistake when installing the chain, didn't notice a chain guide in the rear derailleur so it was trying to guide the chain the wrong way.

 

I don't cycle.

Cause I got this thing in my bedroom here in Kabul. Love it.

 

I don't cycle in my bedroom either there are other things to do there

 

I understand your SO actually lives with you.

I'm terrified of the thought mine could be hit by one of the terror attacks, and would never be able to forgive myself if it did. Thus, no bedroom acrobatics for me.

 

Yeah I do that at least once a year while installing a chain.
That's when I get my not-so-smiley face.

 

I have tried to use those before and every time I make it about 3 "steps" or maybe 4 tops before getting thrown off. It's like my legs just do not bend the right way to use this thing, my knees keep getting locked against the footpedals and it throws me up and off to the side.

 

I honestly can say that I have no idea what your dilemma is like. To me it's more like a semi-flying, super-awkward kind of jogging.

When I started, I lasted about 3 minutes. Now I regularly do 35 to 50 mins.

 

I think I just bought a new bike... it's my first road bike. If the deal goes through I will pick it up tonight.

It's used. The price is not steep. The online reviews of this bike are solid.

I was getting sick of guys on road bikes cruising by me like I was standing still.

 

Char have you ridden aero bars before?
It can be "stimulating" at first, especially if there is any wind.
Be careful out there.

 

I haven't used aerobars before. I am looking forward to trying them out. I do like the look of the bullhorn handlebars but I might swap them out for regular drops.

I am going to have to ride it for a while before I decide.

Speaking of which, I can't wait to get it out on the road.

 

Finally took my new bike for a ride this morning. The last couple mornings have been thundershowers but this morning I woke to clear skies. The ride told me one solid thing... I need to put a lot more miles on my legs.

 

I wear a helmet every time that I ride and I ride often. I do mostly mountain biking. A helmet is essential protection. I feel naked without one.

I try and support my local bike shope. I have a really good one close by. I also use Bike Nashbar, an internet site. They have some good stuff and reasonable prices and lots of ongoing sales.

 

Bought a pair of street tires for my SO on Friday and installed them on her MTB. The whole family went out on a long tour yesterday. The weather was nice and I'm sunburned on back of my neck and my arms. Good day.

 

Thinking about getting a full suspension mountain bike. I have a hardtail now and like it, but want to upgrade. Anyone have any thoughts on full suspension 29ers?

 

Welcome to TFP Blaine Henry.
It's my opinion that full suspension bikes are not beneficial to majority of cyclist. The shock absorbers take up a lot of energy an on each stroke on the pedals some of the energy goes into compressing the rear shock absorber. How much depends on many factors. The suspension also adds weight to the bike and more moving parts that can brake. So for comfortable city ride a suspension in the handlebar and the seat post are optimal.
A 29er should give a smoother ride than a standard 26" MTB so a 29er hardtail might be acceptable for you. Ideally you should compare and try before purchasing. Most of the local bikes stores here have little used high end bikes for sale because people have bought the "best bikes" only to find out that they didn't fit their needs, that's an expensive experience.
Personally I would love to have a 29er hardtail for trails but I don't ride enough to justify that but I would never get a full suspension bike as it doesn't fit my needs/use.

 

Yeah, what he said above.
What are you doing with the bike? What do you see the new bike doing better than your current bike?
That should help narrow the field