This Blog is about my Cannondale 500
May 9, 2009
I do a good deal of biking to and from work everyday and my Cannondale 500 has been very reliable over the three years I have had it. People just getting into mountain biking or road biking ask me several similar questions in regards to equipment. Here is a basic overview of gears and shoes. I hope it helps.
For more info go to: Cannondale 500 Bikes, Parts, and Accessories
Internal or External Gears?
On town and commuter bikes, internally geared hubs offer minimal maintenance and easy gear changes, even without pedaling, and with no protruding derailleurs. However, a traditional derailleur/cog combo is lighter, often less expensive, and gives you a greater range of gears, making it more versatile overall.
Note: If you purchase a Cannondale 500 for commuting purposes you should consider upgrading the brakes to shimano 105’s or something similar if you are going to be playing in traffic.
Road or Mountain Shoes?
Road shoes are lighter and have a stiffer sole for better power transfer; however, doing anything besides riding in them is like walking on ice with buttered feet. Softer-soled mountain bike shoes can be more flexible and have bottoms with treads for easier walking. Are you a high-mileage, road-only rider looking for the ultimate in weight and efficiency? Opt for road-specific shoes. Like to linger at stops? Choose the convenience and comfort of mountain shoes.
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