I need a new bike, to get around town in.
The problem with the bike I’m using now is that it hurts my wrists - the sidewalks and roads around here are fairly bumpy, and the handlebars don’t raise any high enough to give a comfortable ride.
So, what sort of bike would fit my needs? I want a fairly comfortable bike that can handle somewhat bumpy pavement, that’s not going to break my wrists. Should I get one of those street bikes with the narrow wheels, or a mountain bike? Shocks neccessary? What kind of price am I looking at? I’m a 5’10’’ male.
I just want to be able to enjoy a ride from point A to point B across town. No trails.
Thanks.
You really shouldn’t need any type of bike suspension on city streets. (Well, unless the streets are in really poor condition and look more like moutain trails.)
First, I would make sure the seat and handlebars are properly adjusted. Nearly all bikes I see are not. The seat should allow your knees to be slightly bent when the pedal is at the lowest point. Your hips should remain level when pedaling, no swaying up and down. Also, the top the handle bar stem should be even with the top of the seat.
See if this helps. If not, try moving the handle bar a bit higher and try again.
If you are still having problems, get a pair of padded cycling gloves.
Your hands/wrists hurt because you’re putting too much weight on them.
Can your seat slide forward on the mounting post so you sit more upright?
I had a similar problem with my current bike: not only did my hands hurt, but my seat was so far back that I was sitting directly on my naughty bits. The first mechanic that I asked to adjust my seat told me my legs were too short, and I’d have to deal with it (this was a shop that I came across on my ride, I could have done it myself if I was at home). Last time I set foot in his shop.
The second guy had me sit on the bike, saw the problems, and agreed with my request. No more sore 'nads or hands.
If you’re looking for a new bike, I suggest a hybrid (part mountain, part street). You ride them upright, they’re rugged, but not real heavy, and don’t have all that fancy crap like shocks. My bike is a Raleigh C30 that I paid $250 (US) about 3 years ago. Get it from a good shop, and make sure the bike fits before you buy it