Hi everyone,
I'm new here so please play nice! I'm living in Manchester and want to buy a Dutch-style bike for commuting/leisure. I'm male, about 5"10 and looking to spend around £400.
I'm really tempted by the idea of a Kronan (
https://www.bouf.com/buy/product/1275) for £400, but have heard a few stories about breakages and poor customer service. Also, I'm not sure how well I'd do with servicing or getting parts in Manchester.
I'm also considering a Bobbin Bicycle -
http://www.bobbinbicycles.co.uk/range.htm - either the Classic or Gentleman's, for roughly £250. Has anybody had any dealings with these guys? What are the bikes like? They're certainly cheaper than your average Dutch bike.
Then there's the Monark Balloon (
http://www.workcycles.com/workbike/b...loon-bike.html), which is at Velorution for £400 (
http://www.velorution.biz/?page_id=992). Velorution also have the classic Azor Opa for £465 (
http://www.velorution.biz/?page_id=995).
EDIT: Now i'm seriously considering the Batavus Old Dutch (
http://www.amsterdammers.co.uk/new.htm) for roughly £390.
Any suggestions? Anything I've missed out? Pashleys are just a little too expensive, I think.
Thanks,
Nick