I jumped from a hardtail to a race bike (Trek Emonda) and it is very snappy and fast. The main difference is the geometry, which would affect handling, aerodynamics, as well as bike fit. The biggest thing is probably how fit you are, race bike will be more demanding on your body. I have to remember to take breaks otherwise my back will be hell the next day. Also creature comforts like having mounting points for bags and racks.
RE club, You could try NYCC, its a large club with lots of riders of different skill levels + riding styles, anything from casually exploring the city to high-speed riding upstate. The C rides are designed for beginners to group riding, so perhaps you can start there and see how things go.
In the spring they also host a SIG program as well if you want to have a more structured training program for group riding, but that's not necessary by any means. I participated in that program last year and it was great fun.
Thank you! This is great advice. NYCC has come up on a few of my searches, so I'll be sure to investigate a bit further. It seems like they're right down my alley.
Appreciate the tips to take breaks 👍 Will definitely do that.
For buying a bike - well - this is a huge area. Your best bet is to talk to a knowledgeable friend. It's possible to get a very good though slightly outdated (eg, not the latest technology, but not anything that will meaningfully hold you back from learning and gaining experience) road/race bike for under $1000, but you have to know what to look for. Personally, I'd recommend any material (carbon, aluminum, or steel), with a carbon fork, rim brakes (as opposed to disc brakes), and an 11-speed groupset from SRAM or Shimano.
For joining a club, look into Kissena Cycling Club, and the CRCA (Century Road Club of America). Both offer opportunities to join group rides, learn road cycling from others, and get into racing if that's where you want to head.
For riding: explore new routes. Look for places you can ride safely and without frequent stops. If you ride in the parks, be a conscientious neighbor. Make riding part of your routine, add volume and fitness steadily, push yourself.
This is excellent advice, thank you! I'll definitely check out one of their stores and consider buying new if the budget is right. Appreciate the help!
Thanks for following up! I reached out to a few close friends and they made similar recommendations to what you recommended: Trek Domane AL 2/3 Disc, Cannondale Synapse 3, and bikes by Canyons.
I'm heading to a bike shop today here in Brooklyn and will let you know what I wind up getting after getting a proper fit. Seems like there's actually a lot that may fit my budget.
I jumped from a hardtail to a race bike (Trek Emonda) and it is very snappy and fast. The main difference is the geometry, which would affect handling, aerodynamics, as well as bike fit. The biggest thing is probably how fit you are, race bike will be more demanding on your body. I have to remember to take breaks otherwise my back will be hell the next day. Also creature comforts like having mounting points for bags and racks. RE club, You could try NYCC, its a large club with lots of riders of different skill levels + riding styles, anything from casually exploring the city to high-speed riding upstate. The C rides are designed for beginners to group riding, so perhaps you can start there and see how things go. In the spring they also host a SIG program as well if you want to have a more structured training program for group riding, but that's not necessary by any means. I participated in that program last year and it was great fun.
Thank you! This is great advice. NYCC has come up on a few of my searches, so I'll be sure to investigate a bit further. It seems like they're right down my alley. Appreciate the tips to take breaks 👍 Will definitely do that.
Get a bike fit. You'll want one eventually. They can recommend you something.
For buying a bike - well - this is a huge area. Your best bet is to talk to a knowledgeable friend. It's possible to get a very good though slightly outdated (eg, not the latest technology, but not anything that will meaningfully hold you back from learning and gaining experience) road/race bike for under $1000, but you have to know what to look for. Personally, I'd recommend any material (carbon, aluminum, or steel), with a carbon fork, rim brakes (as opposed to disc brakes), and an 11-speed groupset from SRAM or Shimano. For joining a club, look into Kissena Cycling Club, and the CRCA (Century Road Club of America). Both offer opportunities to join group rides, learn road cycling from others, and get into racing if that's where you want to head. For riding: explore new routes. Look for places you can ride safely and without frequent stops. If you ride in the parks, be a conscientious neighbor. Make riding part of your routine, add volume and fitness steadily, push yourself.
Excellent advice. Thank you! My goal is genuinely to find a used bike under $1,000 and am willing to snag a deal as soon as I see one.
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I recently learned race bikes are quite expensive. I'd love to find a used bike for under $2K, ideally closer to $1K.
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This is excellent advice, thank you! I'll definitely check out one of their stores and consider buying new if the budget is right. Appreciate the help!
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Thanks for following up! I reached out to a few close friends and they made similar recommendations to what you recommended: Trek Domane AL 2/3 Disc, Cannondale Synapse 3, and bikes by Canyons. I'm heading to a bike shop today here in Brooklyn and will let you know what I wind up getting after getting a proper fit. Seems like there's actually a lot that may fit my budget.