3 simple bike questions - Cycling Mob: Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and More

07-23-2004, 12:01 PM

Hi, I am somewhat of a beginner in biking, and I have 3 simple
questions that hopefully someone can help me with. I have a Trek 1000
and have put about 500 miles on it so far.

1. I think there is something wrong with my gears, but I wanted to get
a second opinion. When my front gear is on the medium cog, there is
only one rear gear I can be in so that the change does not rub against
the rear derailer. Plus, that one gear is very difficult to pedal in,
so there is a huge jump in difficulty from that gear to the previous
easy gear (small front cog, small rear cog). This doesn't seem correct
to me.

I know that I have somewhat of a cheap bike, so I do not expect too
much. Can someone tell me if I should take the bike to my bikeshop, or
what?

2. I hate the clip pedals on this bike, so I would like to buy some
new pedals, however I am completely ignorant in this area. If I buy
clipless pedals, I'm guess I need to get some of those cleats that
clip onto the pedal, correct? Can someone provide me with information
about what would go best with a Trek 1000?

3. Finally, I want to do some long distance, endurance rides, but I
have been getting cut off at around 40 miles because of improper
refueling. I tried taking a banana or two with me, but they didn't
provide any energy. I also once took an energy bar (can't remember the
brand), but it just upset my stomach. What is a good food to take that
is easy to eat while pedaling and easy on the stomach?

Thank you very much for any input you can provide.