Confirm a recommended model for a Fat Guy? - Cycling Mob: Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and More

07-30-2004, 05:26 PM

Hello.

This newsgroup was suggested to me by Eric Babula as a place to get
your opinions about whether a particular model of bicycle would be a
good match for me, a fat guy.

My town is in very rural area, but it is lucky to have one bike shop.
From what I hear, the operator is a very competent and trustworthy
gentleman. He stocks bicycles made by the Marin Company.

I visited with him the other day to get his suggestions about which
bicycle I should purchase to pursue an exercise program. My main
concern was purchasing a bike suitable for someone of my weight, 325
pounds, suitable for street and bike path riding.

I was very surprised when he recommended one of the least expensive
bikes in the shop, a Marin Kentfield.

He explained that a 'hybrid' bike would be the most suitable for the
type of riding I intended to do. Further, he said that the higher-end
models of Marin hybrid bikes had features that wouldn't be suitable
for a rider of my size. For example, the more expensive aluminum
frames would be more likely to break and less stable than the chromoly
frames, and the solid forks would not "bottom out" like the fancier
ones would under my weight. There were several other points, as well.

Moreover, he said that regardless of which model I purchased it might
eventually give way in the course of my exercise program. So why pay
for the top of the line model if it will need replacement in only a
year or two? Additionally, I special-ordered a bicycle specially
designed for big guys like me, it would cost much more and become
unsuitable after I've been riding for a year and am in better shape.

In essence, he's suggesting the Kentfield as an inexpensive, throwaway
starter bike, that would be safe and comfortable bike until I'm in a
better physical condition to appreciate a better model. I must admit
that this made some sense to me.

Here is the model he recommended, at a price of $339.
[Only registered and activated users can see links. ]

Is anyone familiar with this product?

Was this a good suggestion on his part?

I would be very happy to find something at this price point, because
even it stretches my budget right now. My options are very limited,
because the next-closest bike shop is almost 200 miles away. I did not
think to ask if he could special order any other brands.

Please share your thoughts with me, both about the stock model and
suggested upgrades, or whatever else.

BLReed

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