I am looking to ride 20 miles on a specialized explore elite. is this bike appropiate or should I replace it?

Answer 1

Its a bit sit up and beg, but you should be OK. You can do 20 miles on any adult bike, the question is the type of terrain that you take it on. As long as your 20 miles is on roads, or good trails, you should cream this in about 1 1/2 hours, if that.

Note: If you are not used to these distances you might need a little something to keep you going. You will need to drink about 3/4 ltr of liquids, preferably with an electrolite/carb content. Also, take some cerial based munchies with you, preferably an energy bar. This will give you carbs that your body can access easily.

As for replacing your bike. Depends what type of riding you want to do. The bike looks viable, assuming that the models I have looked at are your bike, since there is a general shopping/commuter bike, as well as a folding bike. Specialized also do an Alez Elite, which is a race bike. I assume though, that you have the commuter version. However, if you are looking at doing 20 miles regularly, I might look at something that would do it quicker and easier.

Luck

Answer 2

You could use almost any bike to go 20 miles. This bike is not the best for doing long distances, but you certainly can do it. If you are doing this regularly and increasing your cycling, I might look at road bikes in the near future.