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Lessons Learned: My Road Bike Journey
New Bike Excitement Fades Away
I recently made the decision to part ways with my Cube Attain GTC Pro Disc Endurance Road Bike because I quickly realised it wasn’t the perfect match.
I relied on a recommendation of a 60-inch frame from Rutland Cycles. The reality set in a few weeks after purchase that it wasn’t the right size, as I struggled to get comfortable on the bike.
Attempts to Make it Work
In my attempt to salvage the situation, I explored various adjustments—shortening the stem, experimenting with pedal axle extenders, and tweaking every possible point of adjustment on the bike. However, the elusive comfort I sought remained out of reach. I couldn’t get into a flow.
Reflecting on the experience, I pondered whether it was the frame itself or my transition from mountain biking that contributed to my struggle. Perhaps it was a combination of factors, including my introduction of new pedals and shoes simultaneously.
End of the Road
Eventually, I made the decision to sell the bike on eBay. I did take a hit on the initial investment, but there were valuable lessons learnt. The picturesque visions of effortless 100-mile rides through the countryside, providing a welcome escape from lockdown, were replaced with the reality of a less-than-ideal bike purchase.
One key takeaway from this experience is an awareness of sizing down when it comes to road bikes. While I’ve historically favored larger frames for mountain biking, the dynamics of road biking seem to demand a different approach. It’s a humbling reminder that the perfect bike is a personal choice, and finding the right fit requires careful consideration, especially when transitioning between different biking disciplines.
In the end, my road bike misadventure has taught me that the journey to the perfect setup involves a fair amount of trial and error. While setbacks are inevitable, the lessons learnt pave the way for a better future experience.