Hi, I'm seeking recommendations for a new bike and advice on how to level up my biking. I currently ride a Giant Escape 3 Hybrid Disc bike. My primary goal is to ride longer distances and tackle higher elevations for fitness and endurance. After a few small injuries last year, I took a break from lifting weights and have been using biking as my primary exercise. I plan to return to the gym eventually but am enjoying improving my biking metrics in the meantime.
This year, I've logged a total of 265 miles, with 135 miles in June 2024 across 10 rides. I've been tracking my speed and power on Strava and have noticed consistent improvement. Here are my last 10 rides and the power output across them.
| Date | Time | Distance | Elevation | Avg Speed | Avg Power |
|————–|———|———-|———–|———–|———–|
| Sat, 5/18/2024 | 1:09:03 | 13.74 mi | 228 ft | 11.9 mi/h | 114w |
| Sat, 6/1/2024 | 48:59 | 10.01 mi | 175 ft | 12.3 mi/h | 115w |
| Sun, 6/2/2024 | 1:10:32 | 13.29 mi | 222 ft | 11.3 mi/h | 114w |
| Mon, 6/3/2024 | 1:07:44 | 13.75 mi | 310 ft | 12.2 mi/h | 118w |
| Fri, 6/7/2024 | 59:59 | 13.70 mi | 215 ft | 13.7 mi/h | 136w |
| Mon, 6/10/2024 | 1:00:00 | 14.11 mi | 225 ft | 14.1 mi/h | 144w |
| Fri, 6/14/2024 | 47:42 | 10.58 mi | 672 ft | 13.3 mi/h | 157w |
| Sun, 6/16/2024 | 1:16:01 | 15.86 mi | 1,251 ft | 12.5 mi/h | 156w |
| Wed, 6/19/2024 | 1:12:22 | 16.09 mi | 1,127 ft | 13.3 mi/h | 166w |
| Thu, 6/27/2024 | 55:56 | 14.00 mi | 227 ft | 15.0 mi/h | 164w |
| Sun, 6/30/2024 | 40:36 | 10.02 mi | 174 ft | 14.8 mi/h | 157w |
From what I've seen on this and other cycling subs, and from riders in my area, it seems a road bike is the way to go. However, I feel overwhelmed by the variety of choices and my limited knowledge of frame and fork materials and gearsets. I'm looking for bike suggestions in the $1,000-$1,500 range (up to $2,000 if it's really worth it) and questions to ask in local bike shops.
Additionally, I would appreciate any recommendations on improving performance and recovery, as well as biking apparel to consider. Currently, I use the following gear:
- Bike: [Giant Escape Disc 3](https://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/escape-disc-3-2022)
- Jersey: [Decathlon RC500 Windshield Long Sleeve](https://www.decathlon.co.za/men-cycling-clothing/306992-43056-rc500-windshield-long-sleeve-cycling-jersey-burgundy.html)
- Tights: [Decathlon Men Road Cycling Tights RC100](https://www.decathlon.in/p/8644133/shorts/men-road-cycling-tights-rc100?id=8644133&type=p)
Thank you!
by Bobsacamaano