SoCalCycling.com

[ITL]

In the last year I've made a concerted effort to lose weight and increase my fitness level. I am now where I'd like give some form of bicycle racing a try. I've thought through various forms of bicycle racing, and even though the most convenient for me would be Crit racing (the Torrance Crit is held only a couple of miles from my home), I think mountain bike racing will be better suited to my current life style. My hope is that the racing will drive my motivation to maintain my fitness, feed a little of my competitive spirit, and be fun, of all things. I don't anticipate being all that competitive, which is fine.

Question about a bike. I have an old Klein Pinacle, non suspension tail or fork. I think I bought this thing back in the early 90's. Other than possibly getting laughed at for bringing the museum piece out in the dirt, would there be any real issue with using this bike for a race or two. I'm thinking that if I find this to my liking, I will invest in a new toy. However, if I find I don't like it at all my investment will be minimal.

Any thoughts?

Thank in advance.

[faster master]

Congratulations on the weight loss and getting fit! It is never easy.

I think your bike will be fine to test the waters with. See how you like it and go from there. Todays mountain bikes have made great strides in terms of lightness, brakes, suspension etc from the early bikes, so you may just enjoy upgrading for your riding pleasure.

[ITL]

Thank you for the reply faster master and the congrats. Yes, it was quite an effort, but well worth it.