Lessons Learned: My Road Bike Journey

New Bike Excitement Fades Away

I recently made the decision to part ways with my road bike, and the journey to this point has been quite an eye-opener. Initially drawn to the allure of the Cube Attain GTC Pro Disc Endurance Road Bike, I quickly realized that not every bike is a perfect match.

My first misstep was relying on a recommendation for a 60-inch frame from Rutland Cycles. Despite my excitement, the reality set in a few weeks after purchase as I struggled to connect with the bike. The discomfort reached a point where riding became more painful than pleasurable.

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 or rhythm. Specifically, the cyclical movement of my legs felt awkward and forced.

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. After around a year of ownership the result was an unfortunate realization that this road bike wasn’t the right fit for me.

Giving Up

Eventually, I made the decision to sell the bike on eBay. While I did take a hit on the initial investment, the valuable lessons learned outweighed the financial loss. The picturesque visions of effortless 100-mile rides through the countryside, providing a welcomed 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 bike involves a fair amount of trial and error. While setbacks are inevitable, the lessons learned pave the way for a more informed and satisfying cycling experience in the future.