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Post by ksjs on Aug 13, 2013 12:15:32 GMT
Hello,
I've done some research on getting a new (to me) road bike and after being keen on getting a used bike I'm now leaning towards buying a Triban.
What I'm looking for is something that will allow me to: - get out 1-2 times a week, mainly during better weather - not big distances, let's 20 - 40 miles a time (don't laugh) and maybe the very occasional bigger effort (60 - 80 miles) - sufficiently small gears to tackle the hills around North Wales but also something with large enough gears not to run out of gears on downhill sections
I'd like the bike to offer reasonable levels of comfort, I'm not bothered about it being super light but I do not want to find a few months down the line that I'm dissatisfied with a component and need to upgrade. Generally I'd much rather spend money on something good that lasts, I appreciate quality.
Based on this would the Triban 3 or 5 be the better bet, what are the extras that I get with the 5? By the way what's the Triban 5A, how does this differ from the 5?
What about frame size? I think I should go for the 54 but potentially the 57 is an option. I'm 173cm tall, my inseam is 83cm, inseam plus torso is 140.5cm and arm length is 55cm. Any comments on sizing?
Thanks!
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Post by Deleted on Aug 13, 2013 13:30:56 GMT
I was being lazy: just done a search on here and it seems that there's quite a few posts addressing my queries - I'll have a look at these.
If anyone is of a similar size to me and has a view on frame size I'd still be interested to hear.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 13, 2013 14:36:14 GMT
I'm 175cm with an 84cm inseam, so like you proportionately long legs. We're are in the unenviable position of therefore falling between the 54 and 57cm sizes. I went with the 57. I still feel the 54 would've been too small but will be looking at 55/56cm for my next bike.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 13, 2013 15:34:28 GMT
I'm 180cm with short legs.
I have have a 57 T3a. Once I'd adjusted the drops and saddle it is comfortable for the rides I do.
As to which to get it really depends. I was completely taking a punt after initially looking to convert one of my mountain bikes to a hybrid. The reviews and the Β£300 price made it an easy decision.
I've made no changes (except for pedals) and covered about 500 miles since I got it in May (still uploading some of the rides to Strava).
I must say I'm hooked! So far the T3a suits my abilities and aspirations to get a bit fitter and cut out the stress of sitting in commuting traffic jams.
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Post by chas on Aug 13, 2013 15:38:53 GMT
I'd suggest if you have long legs go for the smaller frame to suit your shorter body. The 57cm Triban could be described as a '56' as that's the virtual top tube length. There isn't a huge difference between the two, nothing a change of stem won't put right if you feel you've made the wrong choice after a few miles. One thing I'd consider is what crank length you want, the 54 has 170s the 57 175s.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 13, 2013 18:24:11 GMT
I'd suggest if you have long legs go for the smaller frame to suit your shorter body. The 57cm Triban could be described as a '56' as that's the virtual top tube length. There isn't a huge difference between the two, nothing a change of stem won't put right if you feel you've made the wrong choice after a few miles. One thing I'd consider is what crank length you want, the 54 has 170s the 57 175s. Cheers all for replies. I'm guessing crank length can only be determined when sitting on a bike. Still a bit unsure over T5 v T3? For what it's worth Zinn's bike maintenance book puts me between 55.5 and 51 or an average of 53.25 for frame size. This suggests that the 54 might be the way to go. Decathlon's own sizing is unclear as firstly I don't know if the Triban counts as sport or competition. I also don't know how they assess size based on height alone. Anyway, if the Tribans are 'sport' then at 173cm I'm between the 54 and 57 but closer to the 57. FWIW I reckon I'm pretty small which makes me think 54 rather than 57 but I guess I need to have a go...
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Post by Deleted on Aug 14, 2013 8:58:25 GMT
Yep, have a go on them and see which feels right. Which ever you go for they are fine machines that should serve you well.
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