Here is the story: you just got your paycheck and all of your bills are paid. You decide to buy a bicycle because you have been wanting one for awhile now. So you walk into Walmart, Costco or Toys "r" us and your eye catches some nice rides for low prices. So you figure it is a good buy right? Here is the reasons why you might have just wasted alot of money: 1. Weight of the department store brand bicycle vs a LBS (local bicycle shop) bike such as a Giant or Kona brand bicycle: Manufacture...

So you can't decide between Hydraulic or Mechanical Disc Brakes? here is some of my thoughts on the subject of both, and the pros and cons of each. Mechanical Disc Brakes: Pros: Simple setup, the use of current V-brake levers, lower cost per set, ease of adjustability, easier to maintain. Cons: Not as powerful as hydraulic, mechanicals do not self center on the rotor, heavier in weight than hydraulics. Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Pros: Extremely powerful, self centering on the rotor, m...

Well I will start by saying I have no interest in road bikes whatsoever. Lets take a look at the current technology of both kinds of bikes first. Road bikes have skinny tires, intergrated shifters/brake levers, ridgid frames and forks, 30 speeds, and made from some of the most exotic metals and alloys we have ever produced. So what do I dislike about a road bike? Well for starters there is price. I refuse to pay upwards of $3000 to $5000 for all the technology I would want or need when I...