racing bicyles is weight important in performance?

Question

I am new into cyling and just gotten an old Schwinn racer. Its a chromoly frame and its heavy compared to modern racer like Trek 1200. I wonder if its a lot harder to ride on a heavier bike

Answer 1

Um, bicycle weight is important to a certain extent. More to the point, rotating mass, such as wheel weight, is the key.

Saving an ounce off of each wheel is like saving a pound off something that doesn't move, like the frame, handlebars, or saddle. I have a bike that weight 20 pounds or so (I don't know because I never weighed it), but it has an excellent set of wheels. At 45, I can wear cutoffs and a Tshirt, pass the "style" riders in all the latest gear, and they can't catch me. I love the part when I come up on them, they snicker and sneer, then they try to catch me. LOL!

That being said, the strength and skill of a rider is most important.

BTW, don't discount Chrome Molybdneum (CrMo, Chrome Moly, or chrommoly) as a frame material. More races have been won on steel, including CrMo, than any other material.

Answer 2

The rolling resistance will probably be greater on that vintage ride. Newer, quality made bikes are pricier but with good reason. The frame material and components have evolved into high tech stuff.
Nothing is wrong riding and training on the Schwinn. When you are ready and still have the desire to keep on riding then purchase a new quality bike. But until then keep it safe on the road and appreciate that steel bike. So it's heavier, it'll make you push even harder. Remember it's the motor and the mind behind it that's the most important. Good luck!

Answer 3

It depends on the riding you do and your strength. If you're into cross country, probably a lighter bike will be easier if everything works fine. Also, it depends on your body weight. I'm 230 lbs plus gear and whatever I'm wearing, so I'm not really that intrested in searching for light components, but I'm more into strong and durable ones (without going to the other side of the scale).

If you do more aggresive riding downhills, the bikes are usually heavier. A XC hardtail (expensive) can weight around 20 lbs, or maybe less. A good freeride bike can weight something around 40 lbs, or maybe go to 45 or 50.

But, for road bikes, I would guess that lighter helps, but it's more important the component that goes above the saddle. You can ride that bike until you really learn how to ride, and if you really like biking. If you really find that biking is your turf, maybe then search for a bike better suited for whatever style of riding you want.

Answer 4

Yes, riding a lighter bike is much easier. Almost effortless. If you start to look into lighter bikes, make sure you get a frame that suits you and the type of riding your doing. I was about to buy a Fuji race bike, but found out it was recommended for riders LESS than 190 lbs. Just know what you are going to buy before you buy it. Do your homework. It is good to know what type of tubing is being used for the frame. Dedaccai and Columbus tubing are excellent, but frames made from these are usually expensive, but very much worth it.

Answer 5

If you want to care, then it matters. Lighter bikes do make a difference. But if you're going out to try and have fun and do your best- it won't matter. I have always raced on heavier bikes and I might end up working harder but I am on a bike that I love. That's what I care about.

Answer 6

i will affect performance big time. the lighter the bike, the faster you go. road racing is hard for beginners to get into b/c the bike have to be so light and that can get expensive really fast. every gram matters, then you have to deal with aerodynamics, o boy...

thats why i started with XC mtb racing. i think that is easiest for beginner because weight isnt a huge deal, although a lighter bike definately helps. it mostly relies on pure strength and endurance. plus you get a good feeling from ripping through the woods at 25+mph.

Answer 7

For a casual or fitness cyclist, bike weight is not of major importance for cycling. However, you will notice a difference in a lighter bike. weight matters for a serious or pro cyclist because mainly of pulling weight uphills. The less combined weight of the rider and the bike make it easier and save time on climbs.

Answer 8

well, I can tell you weighing 400 lbs racing is my thang. I would not worry to much bout that bike weight . Heck my poor bike is crying when i approach but I put on that helment, pads, shades that bike knows big daddy J means business. I like to wear my speed o's when I race it cuts down on the weight. Dont worry about the bike weight just wear less. See you in the winners circle beside me one day dude.

Answer 9

the lighter the bike the faster youll go and its also depends on how fit you are

Answer 10

not at all