I want to ride cross-country in 2010. What kind of bike should I buy to train with and ultimately ride?

Question

I have been a casual commuter/neighborhood biker but have been an athlete all my life. I am looking to ride across country (northern route) on a supported charity ride in the summer of 2010.

I need a bike that I can train on as well as ride to work on occassion. I am willing to upgrade and switch out components before the cross country ride but want to stick with the same bike for the next few years. I'm looking for a good value, ideally in the $750-1250 range.

I've been mostly looking at touring bikes (though the ride is supported and I'd consider a sport road bike) and am considering the Jamis Aurora and Trek 520. Anything else out there that you would recommend? Please give me specifics!

Answer 1

There are several different brands/models you can find for the price range you are looking for.  I think you are on the right track with leaning towards a touring style bicycle as opposed to a 'sport bike'.  A touring bicycle will have a longer wheel base and more relaxed geometry which will make for a more comfortable ride over longer distances.  Touring style bicycles are ideal for carrying packs and panniers whereas sport or racing style bicycles don't really have the capacity to carry much of anything.  Touring bicycles can still work well as an everyday commuter, so I wouldn't worry to much about that.  I've worked with the Trek 520 for many years and that is a true touring bike that is designed for carrying lots of supplies and being comfortable enough to ride 'cross country.  Never worked with the Jamis before, but they have been known to make very good touring bicycles as well.  If you can still find them Bridgestone make very nice touring bicycles and I have a particular affinty for their 'mustache bar' bicycles.  You may want to look into a hybrid bicycle as well as they make for greater commuter bicycles, but be aware that the flat bar style of handle bar is not very comfortable for long distance riding.  Not many hand positions to choose from and the more upright positioning puts more weight and stress on the lower back.  The most important thing for you to do, however, is to find a good quality and reputable bicycle shop in your area and have them size you properly to get the right size bicycle for you to ride.  After all even the most expensive bicycle in the world is a piece of junk if it hurts to ride it.

Answer 2

I enjoy my Jamis very much and would recommend it.

Answer 3

If the ride is supported I wouldn't buy the touring bike.  I would buy a sport road bike and put on a rear rack and bag.  I also would choose a triple chain ring for the ride since terrain will be varied.  Brand is not as important as components.  Choose a bike in your budget that provides you with the best components.  (Shimano Ultegra or better or Campy Centaur or better.)