Omega Discussion: Daily Cycling Benefits

Cookies · 2022-12-24T09:23:40Z

WatchProSite's Cookies compares Omega watches to bikes, discussing cycling tech, disc brakes, and age's impact on riding. A collector's take on Cervelo and Pinarello.

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Cookies, a respected member of the WatchProSite community, shares his passion for cycling, drawing parallels between the evolution of bicycles and Swiss watches. His post highlights the enduring appeal of classic designs and proven technology over the latest innovations, sparking a lively discussion among collectors who appreciate both horology and cycling. This article explores his perspective and the community's diverse experiences with cycling technology and personal fitness.

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I misplaced my Garmin at home, and in a hurry I reached for a quartz Omega Seamaster 200.

Bicycles are a little like Swiss watches. They get new models released all the time, yet, the tech only gets marginal improvements.

I have not transitioned to disc brakes nor do I intend to, because the tried-and-true caliper brakes work well enough for simple workouts. I have had 2 other bikes in the past, and miss my old De Rosa which rode like a dream.

So here’s my trusty workhorse bike. It is a Cervelo R2, which is a very basic roadbike built for the classics. I swapped the wheels out to the top-of-the line Mavic wheels, which cost more than the bike frame itself. The seat is made of braided carbon, by Fizik. Legs are my own.

I ride alone in the huge parklands in the outskirts of Sydney, while listening to retro workout music. Expresso is before and after the ride.

The only other bikes I dream of are a Dario Pegoretti steel road bike, or perhaps Peter Chong’s Pinarello Dogma which transmits pedal power powerfully due to the ultra-stiff carbon.

I don’t dream of a custom bike from Baum because most of the costs are not to the bike but for Aussie labour which is overpriced and not competitive. I get paid Aussie labour prices too and sometimes I bludge.

Key Points from the Discussion

The comparison between the incremental technological advancements in bicycles and Swiss watches resonates with many, highlighting a shared appreciation for tried-and-true engineering over constant upgrades.
Many collectors, like 'eklektik', initially resist new cycling technologies such as carbon frames and disc brakes, only to eventually adopt them, mirroring the 'never say never' attitude often seen in watch collecting.
Disc brakes offer superior and more reliable stopping power compared to older caliper brakes, a significant safety and performance improvement for cyclists.
Riding without performance tracking technology can offer a more refreshing and enjoyable experience, allowing cyclists to focus purely on the ride itself.
As cyclists age, flexibility and stamina can decrease, leading to adjustments in riding posture and a potential shift towards bikes with less aggressive geometry for greater comfort.
The BMC Roadmachine 2 is recommended for its comfortable, less aggressive geometry, making it suitable for undulating terrain and longer rides, especially for those seeking back comfort.

The Discussion

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

Dec 24, 2022

I love those wheels and you make me miss my Colnago full carbon I had some 10 years ago when I changed for a mountain bike to ease the ride on my back! Now I still do street biking but with a Cannondale Skypel for which I have swapped the tires to be road tire! Not as fast as a road bike, but at least it does not hurt my back!

saabman1997

Dec 24, 2022

A frame builder I admire is from Oz... Darrell McCulloch at LLewellyn Custom Bicycles. He along with Richard Sachs, Dario Pegoretti, & Nagasawa are my favorites.

myles721

Dec 24, 2022

When I was fighting I trained in the mountains around my home on a state of the art Santa Cruz mountain bike (they had just started to introduce carbon fiber) which was a true pleasure. Looks like you are in some serious shape. I had Chris King hubs…Thomsen seat post etc…so a lot of my fitness on a versa climber now…convenience and time…

Dr No

Dec 24, 2022

. . . riding a late '70s Nishiki Super Le Mans fitted with several pieces of Campagnolo gear. That changed when I graduated college; now, the only exercise I get is housework, washing the car, and walking around the pool table. Merry Christmas, Cookies! Art [Note to all: I'm off line for a little while longer while rebooting my computer and internet access, and hope to be active again in a few days.]

eklektik

Dec 24, 2022

I like your comparison between watches and bikes. I started saying never a carbon bike, now i have 3. I said never disc drakes and I now have 2. I said bikes are for the garage and I have one exposed in my lounge (Bianchi with Pantani colour scheme from the early 2000s). I said never anything else but carbon after having one and I since bought a steel frame. Etc. Like watches, never say never, and go with your heart. A quick photo of my latest purchase, my God it goes! Best and safe rides, and M

Dec 24, 2022

I love that bike with the Mondrain colours on it. I’m starting to look for a steel road bike now. Something not so costly. Have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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