pxpaulx
Well-Known Member
I'm a big guy myself. You'll be fine with any quality production bike that isn't in the direct-to-consumer straight from China in a box category!Thanks everyone.
It has been so long since I actually thought about what I wanted in a bike that I have forgotten much. Your responses have refreshed my memory and goals.
Weight: The first few years of riding the Specialized 29er, I was blowing spokes. I am frugal...until I learned that being so is not always the best thing to do. I eventually bought a new set of wheels with 36H and heavier spokes. Haven't blown a spoke since. The disc's have been marginal due to my weight. I think I figured out long ago that the frame isn't really the important weight component but had forgotten that. Thanks for the enlightenment.
Cost: At 65, I can afford an expensive bike considering how much I used to bike, and how much I plan to bike after retirement in December. I've been frugal to get the kids through college without debt, and I will have a federal pension; so, what the hell?
Chinese bikes: You guys got me scared on those. I really liked the Eunorau Specter ST until people mentioned reputation and grey metal. I bought two or three single wheel trailers for extended trips that were Chinese stuff and they all broke on the very first trips. I haven't had a problem after I bought the Bob. So, now, you guys reminded me that I need to be leery of the Chinese made imports.
I love everything about the Riese and Muller Supercharger Touring, with the 1250 battery option for multiday type trips, but it doesn't have a throttle. I've done environmental law enforcement for 41 years, mostly around mining operations, and have developed COPD from breathing in all that s*it. I'm thinking the throttle may be necessary at some point when I hit steep stretches (opinions?). You guys have me wondering how much do I really need that 160nM from the Bafang Ultra. It's not like I'm going to be riding like I did when I lived in NM and CO. So, I am open to the Bosch Performance CX now.
Awww, hell, I'm more confused than ever
You might want to take a look at @Ravi Kempaiah Zen Samurai bikes. Alternately, a Luna X/Z bike might be a good fit too. Don't be afraid of looking at a full suspension bike either. You're not going to be blasting the rear shock over jumps so the way I figure it is that for comfort on the road and paths it is definitely worth the expense.
I'm not sure I would worry a ton about getting a throttle either. I would definitely go out and ride a few different options to see if it is something you'll really want. At 100% boost, mid-drive bikes are going to get you to top speed with very minimal effort.
I will 100% recommend a mid-drive bike if you're wanting this to feel like a bike though. Having owned both, I never found a hub motor bike that appealing - doesn't feel like you're riding but being pushed along (still fun, but different).