New bicycle question...............?

Question

I just bought a new bicycle. My old one is about 10 years old. I noticed that if I go the same distance at the same speed on both bikes, the new bike is more of a workout, the tires are both pumped up the same. Is this normal, is it because my old bike has been ridden more and is broken in.

Answer 1

what about the frame size? does it have suspension? (suspension soaks up pedal power abit)

id say the size of the bike has alot to do with it.. make sure your seat is adjusted properly or atleast the height of your old bike.

when i would ride my old beater with a large frame it would make going up hills harder then my XL framed bike.

Answer 2

The amount of work would depend on the gearing of the bike.

Check to see if the gears are the same size.

Answer 3

As mentioned, the gears may be the the difference.

Also: Tires... not just air pressure but size (height and width) and thread style.  Knobby tires have more of rolling resistance then slicks.

the freedom of movement may need to break in a bit.  

Lastly check the brakes to ensure nothing is rubbing.