Winter cycling questions - gear and bike

[AdvocatusD]

Hi chaps

My first visit here.

In a bid to get my fitness back to a respectable level, I am cycling to my squash training sessions.

I am looking to get something like this, cheap but reliable.

http://www.totallybike.com/545-cross-crossbow.html

My questions

1. What sort of cycling winter clothing should I buy for a 5 miles commute each way in central London in winter. Links appreciated.

2. Does the bike above look alright?

3. How easy would it be to convert to a single speed?

4. Where can I get a cheap set of lights, lock and computer?


Many thanks!

Edited by AdvocatusD on Sunday 31st October 09:50

[mchammer89]

1. Lights & a decent lock
2. Not really, best sticking with reputable brands who have good hybrid bikes in their range, Specialized, Trek, Kona, Felt etc.
3. Switch out the rear wheel, take off the gear levers/deraillieurs/extra chainring etc. Not that difficult, may be pricey though
4. Evans is probably your best bet

Don't listen to those who tell you you need to buy a load of cycling clothing, you don't. Get a bike with full mudguards and you won't get any wetter than if you were out for a walk.

I recommend you stick with riding with gears to start with as the main reason for riding singlespeed (especially coming into the winter) is there is less to go wrong with your drivetrain. Shelling out for a new wheel or a hub & rebuild is going to be pretty costly, may as well make the use of the gears to start off with. Also if you're looking in that price bracket I recommend checking out the 2nd hand market for something like a Specialized Sirrus/Kona Smoke.

In fact there's a new Kona Smoke on ebay for under £200 here http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/KONA-SMOKE-MENS-HYBRID-CITY-...

Edited for spelling.

Edited by mchammer89 on Sunday 31st October 00:14

[RRS_Staffs]

www.wiggle.co.uk

As above plus a flashing helmet light and a saddo's reflective vest would be my advice

Also buy as rancid looking bike as you dare if its going to be left outside with an expensive approved lock
That Kona looks just the ticket!!

Good luck and examine Google maps too
I used to have a 7 mile London commute which due to cycle lanes, canal tow paths, sneaky rat runs along tube lines and some residential non commuter roads was only about a mile on a conventional road

Edited by RRS_Staffs on Sunday 31st October 06:36

[AdvocatusD]

Thank you. Could I have a little advice on winter clothing though please?

[Mr Will]

AdvocatusD said:

Thank you. Could I have a little advice on winter clothing though please?

Unless you are going to work up a sweat, just ride in whatever you wear in the office and pack a waterproof jacket and trousers for if it rains. You don't need special cycle clothing, especially when you are just starting out.

[louiebaby]

Mr Will said:

AdvocatusD said:

Thank you. Could I have a little advice on winter clothing though please?

Unless you are going to work up a sweat, just ride in whatever you wear in the office and pack a waterproof jacket and trousers for if it rains. You don't need special cycle clothing, especially when you are just starting out.

He's right. When it gets really cold, keep your extremities warm, and the rest will be fine. Wind-proof gloves, hat and overshoes (if you're using SPDs,) will make a lot of difference.

Worked well for me this morning.

[mchammer89]

louiebaby said:

Mr Will said:

AdvocatusD said:

Thank you. Could I have a little advice on winter clothing though please?

Unless you are going to work up a sweat, just ride in whatever you wear in the office and pack a waterproof jacket and trousers for if it rains. You don't need special cycle clothing, especially when you are just starting out.

He's right. When it gets really cold, keep your extremities warm, and the rest will be fine. Wind-proof gloves, hat and overshoes (if you're using SPDs,) will make a lot of difference.

Worked well for me this morning.

+1