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NFBC Forums
Forums > Special Interest > Commuting
Subject: New to bike commuting
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yargnad
Posts:1
Moderate User
Moderate User
10/19/2009 14:49:22  
I have recently turned in my leased vehicle after the term was up. I have decided that, for many reasons, I would like to start biking to work. I will be moving to a new home within 2 miles of my workplace in the Avondale/Ortega area, so it's basically a flat trip minus a few dips in the road. I also carry a backpack that weighs about 25lbs on avg (sometimes much more).

I have been looking around the internet for information on velocommuting and reviews on bicycles. I have been steered by more experienced riders towards local shops and to stick with road bikes, or at least hybrid/commuters in the road bike vein. The case being speed and versatility(road) vs. upright comfort and simplicity(commuter).

I am about 6'1" and 240-250 lbs.(this is ONE reason to ride) and again will be toting said backpack. I have made a wish list and I was wondering if anyone could make some recommendations based on the following:

Aluminum frame
Disc brakes
700c road tires
Internal(planetary) gears, ie: Shimano Alfine(less maintenance)
Fenders and rack(or the ability to mount these)
$1000 or less

So far, I have been checking out the Trek Soho, Kona Dr.Fine, and Scott SUB10. All of these bikes meet the above criteria and I wanted to see what someone who lives here would say about these or any other bikes like them. Thanks.
dennis
Posts:77
Super User
Super User
10/23/2009 07:03:40  
I'm not familiar with the bikes you listed. Unless you are planning to do some riding other than commuting to work, any bicycle will work for a 2 mile trip. I would suggest you pick up a used bike. You should get the right size frame. Add fenders and a rack along with lighting. If you decide this is for you, then go shopping for a better bicycle. You should have a better idea about the features you need. The rack, fenders and lights can be transferred to your new bicycle. hth, dennis
I used to skinny dip, now I chunky dunk!
Dacius
Posts:2
Moderate User
Moderate User
05/08/2010 13:11:51  
The soho is probably your best bet if you want to keep a road bike geometry. I have been commuting for about 6 months and have a significantly longer ride than you ( I live off of night boxx in OP and commute to the Aetna building downtown.) since my ride takes me through all sorts of terrain, I go for the hybrid/upright style. I have a Trek 7.3 with rear rack and garment bag, fenders, etc... I love the bike, but after 10,000+ miles it is wore out. I am currently looking at a really nice Jamison bike from About Bikes in OP. I plan to get it this week actually.

If you are comfortable on a road bike AND the commute will allow for one, then use it. The upright position is really only a hindrance with head winds.

Let us know how you like e soho. I am a big fan of that bike from th ewebsite and store. Looks really sharp!
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Forums > Special Interest > Commuting > New to bike commuting


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