Just upgraded from a 54 cm QR Kilo to a 56 cm Felt TT and was wondering if any of you have a certain method of breaking in bikes or hints on what to expect. The reason I ask is because I rode the QR for an hour and then hopped on the Felt for an hour and the Felt just did not feel right. I kept looking over at my Kilo and was hoping my Felt felt the same way. Is this normal? I know the bike should feel comfortable, etc. but is there a “breaking in” period or was I not fit properly?
Anytime you get on a new bike, it will feel different. There are always slight differences between setups, and even if everything is adjusted perfectly, your weight distribution will vary on different frames, steering geometry will be different, etc.
Double check the measurements, make sure you match up as closely as possible (assuming the old bike was set up correctly in the first place). After that, it’s just a matter of getting used to the new machine.
Sorry, can’t get the quick-link stuff. I take it from the fact that you kept looking over at your Kilo that you were on an indoor trainer though, probably not the best method to judge the feel by. Get it outside as soon as you can.
Thanks for the tips. I feel better that the bike shouldn’t feel “normal” on the first ride. I forgot to say that I had taken the TT out on a quick spin outside before I put it on the trainer and yes, it did feel better, especially with bumps and turns. It’s hard to explain, but the Felt takes both of those better along with a smooth ride.
By the way, its not fair that I’m taking shots at the QR Kilo and saying that I’m upgrading to the Felt. I should point out that the Kilo I have was from 1998. I’m sure the newer QRs are even nicer.