Need help with new bike direction

[danger!]

Ok, I'm researching a new road bike, and I think I hit a point of information overload. My problem is with riding position, and how that influences what type of bike I build up. See, I don't seem to ride in the drops very much at all on my crosscheck, so I'm questioning the buildup of a road bike. The different options that flew through my head quickly were:

1. Road bike with non-drop bars (possibly bullhorns, or On-One mungo's)

2. Something like a Karate Monkey with a road-oriented wheelset

3. Road bike with compact geometry, and a bit more rise to the stem

The type of riding I will primarily be doing will be road with a mix of paved trail mixed in, mostly shorter trips, with some fundraising rides in the saddle all day. I will not be road racing, and probably not be doing centuries at this point.

Anyone have input? Right now I'm thinking road bike with different bar setup might be the best for comfort and the all day in the saddle rides.

I've never ridden a compact geo road bike, what is the difference?

Thanks for any info/input, I'm new to the road side of things. :D

[jjrsds]

Go to someone that will take measurements and fit you to a bike. You should be able to ride in the drops easily (comfort and relaxed position from what you describe as your ideal position) if properly fitted, no exceptions. They should be able to print out or write down your ideal measurments/geometry in order for this to become a reality.

They may recommend a bike, frame, components and such.

They should be able to recommend different manufactor's bikes in order for you to build up a bike that can take you anywhere without pain.

Don't try to bypass a quality bike fit it is money that will save you time and money in the long run.

There are a lot of quality fit technicians that can direct you towards the right path within this area.

The ultimate is a custom built bike to your specifications, more money but the ride is taliored to your individual needs. Everything that you mentioned is important to the process of getting the correct bike for the job. Good luck

[danger!]

Thanks for the advice JJ. I'll seek out a person who can fit me. Any recommendations?

[jjrsds]

Chris Balser at St. Louis Park Erik's, Grand Smith in St. Paul, Hollywood in Bloomington. I'm sure others will chime in to people that they have worked with and expect a fit price starting around 100 bucks or so. It seems expensive but it will save you money in the long run. My second road bike ended up being custom, as I have unique dimensions. I don't regret it and look forward to riding and enjoying it no matter the distance. Lots of bike companies to fit a majority of people and you won't regret it.

[Lezgo Cycling]

+1 for Hollywood

[danger!]

Thanks for the recommendations. Maybe I can get my wife to get me a fit appointment for my birthday. :D

[bobbkr]

For a road bike fit is everything. I had a Seotta fit and built in 2000 and it has been worth every penny. Flanders did a nice job, but I almost dread going in there because they can be quite snooty.

[bobbkr]

Oh, another thing, never let anyone sell you a bike that they think is best for you. Be clear on what the bike's purpose is and how you intend to use it.

[danger!]

Thanks for the tips, Bob. I like Grand Performance, and heard Dan C is good at fitting, so I'll probably go there.

[Lezgo Cycling]

Agreed, fit is everything on a road bike, not like a mtn bike where you have a little leeway. Like I prefer a slightly smaller frame, I just feel more comfortable with handling. But with a road bike....like bob said, make sure they and you know what your using it for and get a good fit.

By the way....HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAN (danger)

[danger!]

Agreed, fit is everything on a road bike, not like a mtn bike where you have a little leeway. Like I prefer a slightly smaller frame, I just feel more comfortable with handling. But with a road bike....like bob said, make sure they and you know what your using it for and get a good fit.

By the way....HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAN (danger)

Hey thanks! :D