Korean Job Discussion Forums

[bassexpander]

I'm looking at purchasing a bicycle just for exercise. I'd like a mountain bike style. I will probably ride it under 5 hours per week, and stay on the streets.

Should I just go with a basic brand from a bike shop? Good enough?

I really don't care to spend a ton of money. Any suggestions?

[Kimchi Cowboy]

More and more local bike shops are starting to carry "western" brand bikes, like Trek, Giant, GT... (I put western quotes, btw, 'cause they're all made in Taiwan anyway ). I picked up a basic Trek for 300 K a couple years ago from a little LESPO shop near my apt.

If you're over 5'10", though, you'll probably have trouble finding a frame that fits you properly. My Trek is just a little too small, which gives me some knee trouble on extended rides.

Most important, though, is make sure it has a quality component group - shifters & d�railleurs, brakes, & levers. Shimano is the standard. Don't bother with twist-grip shifters either.

:Edit: Oh yeah, and don't forget to have the guy at the shop switch over the brakes! Korean bikes use right for front, left for rear. That can be... surprising....

[shifty]

Definitely get a bike!! You'll be amazed how utilitarian they are. The bank, the supermarket, restuarant, even socialising at night. Taxis become forbidden and you'll forget what walking is.

Wholly apart from the fun exercise, you'll get to that outside gym or park for some running in convenient time frames. In summer, the wind chill factor will allow you to remain outdoors at length.

The big thing is this: don't let it get stolen!! If it is stolen, you'll be reluctant to buy another, yet suffer from an abiding sense of loss.

Therefore, ensure that it is parked IN YOUR APARTMENT!! If you are on a high level floor, then it'll be a literal drag. If totally impractical to park in apartment get a proper lock and key, not a coded lock. For thieves even high quality coded locks are the work of a moment.

Buy from the corner shop retailer and not a place like Emart. Irrespective of any price differential that there may be, you'll need the life-long service which is always free. Little teething probs and the like.

Bikes are so cheap in K that you should get an expensive all aluminium job. A tiny fraction of that great monthly wad of cash.

I'm feeling excited for you!!!!!!!! GO BOY!!!!

[bassexpander]

Hahaha.. you guys are cool. Thanks.

[Kimchi Cowboy]