Road Bike Selection and Purchase 101Written by Matt Russ
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New or used? Buying a new bike is like buying a new car. As soon as you drive it off showroom you are out considerable money, but there is nothing like that new bike feel. If you are not handy, it is going to need regular maintenance (I recommend you learn basics). Some shops offer a free lifetime maintenance policy. This is a good deal; a full adjustment can run $40+ a pop. If you buy a used bike off of Ebay or from an individual, you may get a lot more bike for money or you may get a piece of junk. If you want to pair price down, go used, but don't go cheap. If you are not sure if you are going to stick with cycling this may be way to go. Either way I highly recommend you get professionally sized, and that does not necessarily mean sales guy at shop. An expert will spend a good hour with you examining every aspect of bikes fit (as many as ten different aspects). I believe you get your best value with large manufacturers such as Giant, Trek, and Cannondale to name a few. The bikes are mass produced, but are generally very high quality and offer highest component level for price. Think of them as Hondas'. The European models generally have more "panache" with custom colors and even custom fitting. The Porshes' can run up to $8000 but are beautifully hand crafted works of art. A personal recommendation of mine; Giant TCR2 which I think is one of best bike values. I believe they are going for around $1300. This puts a world class, extremely light bike in your hands for not a lot of money considering weight and features. The fall is a great time to buy a bicycle because shops are clearing out old models to make room for next years and Christmas rush. You are also going to need shoes, helmet, water bottle cages, computer, a good pump, flat kit, padded shorts, perhaps a rack, and tool kit. Be prepared, this is not a cheap sport even for beginner, and there is an initial investment. You can find good prices online for accessories at Nashbar.com, Performancebike.com, or Sportsbasement.com.
Matt Russ has coached and trained athletes around the country and internationally. He currently holds licenses by USAT, USATF, and is an Expert level USAC coach. Matt has coached athletes for CTS (Carmicheal Training Systems), is an Ultrafit Associate. Visit www.thesportfactory.com for more information.
| | Aging Whitetail Deer At Various StagesWritten by David Selman, Tracker-Outdoors.com
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Also, as a deer ages, hair thickens in ear slot. Finally, an older deer's ears tend to be more curled in and tired in appearance while a younger deer's ears will be flatter and more alert in appearance. Telling age of a deer with ears method is most accurate on well conditioned animals.Article By Tracker Outdoors www.tracker-outdoors.com
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