[bjjoondo]

Hello, I'm really thinking about picking up a cyclocross bike to use as my "all arounder", everyday road bike anyone else doing this? It will have to haul my utility trailer (car free family), do the dirt trails/paths, (no mtb single track), ect. Being a Clydesdale sized rider at 230Lbs. I just can't see me on a really thin tired road bike but the cyclocross style just might be FUN.

It's bummer I'm 50+ and riddled with arthritis, if not I might have tried to ride a cyclocross race or two but maybe I could at least ride the bike to a race and watch!

[carlharsch]

I like the idea of a cyclocross and would love to have one as my "other" bike when I want to get off road, as well. Of course, convincing my better half that I need yet another bike might be a bit tough

[zero3one]

I think the cyclocross is a good medium and great for everyday riding/commuting/errand running. I'd love to get one myself.

[Farrowlane]

I say, save your money and just get wider tires for your Coda, my friend!

OTOH

If your mind is set on buying a brand new CX bike, then I'd much prefer this one from Bikesdirect:

www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/outlaw.htm
(Get the brushed silver model)

* It has a CF fork, instead of aluminum!

[Industry_Hack]

Just don't expect a plush ride. A cross bike is every bit as rigid as a stiff road bike.

[bjjoondo]

Originally Posted by Farrowlane

I say, save your money and just get wider tires for your Coda, my friend!

OTOH

If your mind is set on buying a brand new CX bike, then I'd much prefer this one from Bikesdirect:

www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/outlaw.htm
(Get the brushed silver model)

* It has a CF fork, instead of aluminum!

That is a good looking machine, but it's bit more expensive and I'm NOT the worlds best bike wrench That and I've been REALLY happy with Jamis machines, had MTB's, road bike, hybrid and they've all been such easy to live with bicycles! Thanks thou I'll keep it in mind, if and when I make the switch.

[bjjoondo]

Originally Posted by Industry_Hack

Just don't expect a plush ride. A cross bike is every bit as rigid as a stiff road bike.

That makes sense, it would have to be "tough" machine to take the abuse of cyclocross racing. I've got a Jamis Allegro 1 with cro-mo fork and "trekking bars" for long distance/club social or event rides so it would be ok for the "utility bike" to be more stiff, might be a plus with "old fat guy" riding it on the dirt/gravel/limestone rail trails that make up more than 50% of our local bike trail/path system. The Coda Sport is a great bike but I've got 2-hybrids, not into MTB'ing anymore, (charter member of the Over the Bars Club, here) and I can't see this Clyde body on a carbon fiber race style bike as I don't ride in pace lines and LOL, don't even ride the club, "Fitness Rides", yes, I'm a WHIMP.

[MNRider]

I see a lot of Surly CrossCheck and other cyclocross bikes on the organized charity rides, centuries, etc. in the area. There is one woman in one of the two cycling clubs I ride with who has one set up as her road bike and she loves it. You weigh about what I do and I think they would be ideal for a big guy looking for a solid and reliable daily rider that was quick enough for organized events and club rides. The extra clearance will let you put bigger tires on for offroad or winter compared to most "road" bikes. Ample clearance for fenders too.

[bjjoondo]

Just wanted to say THANKS for the replies, after really thinking about my needs, I've decided to take, Farrowlane's advise and just put "wider tires" on my Coda Sport hybrid. Running Vittoria Randoueer (SP?) CROSS tires in a 700Cx32 width now, will go up to at least 35 width maybe even 38. The fork will do 38's easy but I'm not sure about the "bottom stays", might be ok as I won't be putting fenders on this bike. Again thanks!

[superj]

i say good choice. built it how you want, like i am with my hybrid