Commuting - Breezer Purchase-Initial Thoughts

***See post 20 for an update to the Breezer bike review.***


Anytime you get a new bike it is a lot of fun. I got a new bike for Christmas. I thought I'd share some thoughts on this, which has been a lot fun. Heck, I’ve had the bike in the rec room 4 or 5 times at night, tweakin’ and playing (also, I installed a computer). Mostly, it’s been a good excuse to enjoy a couple of beers!

I bought a Villager, diamond frame, after lots of shopping around. Took a few test spins in some rough weather in early December. Pd. $670. I thank you all for your advice.

While I settled on the Breezer, you should know that there are slim pickings in Ohio for other brands of commuter bikes. I could have ordered a Bianchi Milano or a Specialized Globe--but I'd have to buy it--no test rides. At the store that sold Specialized, he told me I was the first to ever come into the store and ask for a commuter bike. He said there are too many potholes in Cleveland to ride to work. What a fool. Other brands folks recommended, like Kona, are not sold in Cleveland.
I really thought hard about converting a Sirrus to a commuter, but I decided against it. I felt that that would save me from later (next couple of years) buying a road bike, for longer weekend rides. But, I kind of fell for these internal gear hubs, and besides, my commuting cycling far outweighs (in annual miles) my weekend riding. I can always get a road bike later.

FYI, my ride to work is 6.4 miles one way, for my normal route, which goes down into a valley and has two hills, one that is big. My short cut route is 4.5 miles without hills. I go that way sometimes. I put on about 1300 miles last year with my hybrid.

Back to the bike--
The gears are great and so is the shifting. The gearing range--34 to 83.4 inches--is working out fine. I was initially disappointed in the range on my test ride, as I thought the high gear was not enough. But in one of the rides I rode a U frame, which is geared lower than this model, and the other ride I had a strong tailwind. I didn't have enough info. On this bike, in gear 7 (this has a 7 speed Nexus internal gear hub), I manage just under 20 mph at a cadence of 80. That will work out fine--and likely only happen with a tail wind. With no breeze, I'm typically in gear 6 (sometimes 5).

The low gear is working also out fine for the two steep hills I go up. I notice a difference, but I just peddle through it. I had rarely ever used that granny gear on the hybrid—if you regularly do, this bike might not do the trick.

For me, I definitely won't need to walk up the hills. :o

I'm very happy with how quickly and reliably the gears shift. I don't have to look, which I usually did, and wait 'till it was definitely changed before I pushed it. This is a marked difference that is fun!

This bike is 5 pounds lighter than my hybrid Raliegh C-50. That's nice. :p

It has very different dimensions, ones that I'm not yet used to. I think the biggest difference is that the crank arms are longer than on my hybrid. Also, the seat is closer to the handlebars and I'm trying different settings. I think it will take time to get comfortable.

The ride is different, too. The aluminum frame just feels a little more herky jerky than the steel frame of the Raliegh. Also, the internal gear hub has a hint of noise to it, where my derailler was silent.

The seat is cushy and puts significantly less stress on my arse! :D

The fenders are top quality, as are the lights and generator. They are attached properly and very adjustable. I also like the ring lock, as it is simple and comes in handy here at work. We have a secured facility so I'm confident the bike won't get lifted--but the lock prevents co-workers from taking it for a spin. That's happened in the past (there are some "company" bikes). :(

As stupid as it sounds, I like the bell! I rode in at lunch today, and there were a half dozen walkers on the bike trail in the Cleveland metroparks. I rang that bell, and they just moved over a smidge and thanked me. I never would have thought of buying a bell. Funny.

I rode to work every day this week. Boy did I overdress today! There was a fairly strong head-breeze, and combined with the 50 F temps, I was too warm. :(

Anyhow, that’s my report on a Breezer Villager. Nice bike, but it really is too early to tell how it works out in the end. I might write up a note on it after a year of riding, when some warts show up.

My mom bought a Villager and loves it. If I had a shorter commute, I'd consider one, too. That is, of course, as long as I wouldn't have to give up my other bikes.

I used my bell twice more this morning! I like it.

I'm glad you like the Breezer. Having the right bike can make the commute much, much nicer. I learned two things when I test-rode a Breezer. First, it was a great bike. Second, it was the wrong bike for me. I just prefer the drop bars of my cyclocross bike.

One thing that is nice about Breezers is that you don't have to buy a lot of extra stuff to convert them into commuters--they come with the rack, fenders, dynamo lights, and even a bell.

You are right about importance of a bell. I think it is just plain rude to ride on a MUP without one. Shouting "on your right" over and over and over and over again gets tiresome. And I think the pedestrians like hearing a bell more than they like being shouted at. Go figure.

Yes, commuter bikes rock. But beware the ring locks. They can jam.

You are right about importance of a bell. I think it is just plain rude to ride on a MUP without one. Shouting "on your right" over and over and over and over again gets tiresome. And I think the pedestrians like hearing a bell more than they like being shouted at. Go figure.
In some states bells are required by law. I've also noticed that people aren't startled by a bell; whereas, yelling "on your right" causes some unpredictable responses including having the pedestrian/jogger jump right into my path.

thdave,

Glad to read about your Breezer. I want to get either the Citizen or the Villager, u-frame, STILL haven't tried commuting but want to. Well at least I've riden to where I work to get a feel for the distance-4.8 miles-not bad at all. We're getting a bonus this year and I can get either bike with money left over for maintenance on the car and the rest to help pay on my credit card debt.

I'm leaning toward the Citizen-we live in flat country-no hills here whatsoever-and I still have my mountain bike with 21 speeds. I had bought a Columbia bike on eBay at the end of last year, and where we live I call it humidity he!!. Yes, the rims started rusting, and it looked like it didn't take long all of a sudden. I should have kept the bike inside, now I'm trying to get the rust off with wd40 and steel wool. Will probably have to get some enrust.

So I figure get an aluminum frame/rim bike, and then I talked to my brother and he tells me that aluminum can oxidize also. Great. I also talked to the closest Breezer dealer, he's about 4 hours away, and he did tell me that it might be a good idea to keep it inside. For the amount of this investment, whichever it will be-probably the Citizen-I will, as well as keep it wiped down and dry. I love the way the bikes look-seem very well made.

Another thing, this dealer agreed to meet me a bit closer to where I live (I hate driving long distances) so he was nice to talk with about these bikes all around. One thing, the Raleigh dealer about 35 miles away talked like the aluminum framed/rimmmed Raleighs don't rust (or oxidize). It would be nice to hear different comments in general about the aluminum bikes...

Kerry

Aluminum is generally ok for outdoor use. Exposed bare metal may get a thin layer of corrosion, but unlike steel it will not "rust through". It is more susceptible to salt or chemical corrosion but that would be more of a concern in northern states where you might be riding in the winter with deicing salt/chemicals to worry about.

It is still a good idea to keep the bike inside if you can, mine lives outside about half the time and even though the frame is aluminum, many of the bolts or other similar miscellaneous small parts are still steel so they rust.

I'm gald the breezer worked out for you. Hooray for upright commuters!

Breezer bikes are areally good value overall-- it's not something you're going to regret buying in a year, thdave. If you ride it for 3 years, and it will last longer than that, that's like $22? a month for basic transportation to work. Plus it's fun.... and healthy...and good for the earth.

Happy riding!

Eggplant Jeff,

One thing, it will stay inside, I sure wish I would have brought in the Columbia. It's inside now and I'll do my best to get the rust off...

thdave,
Glad your enjoying your bike, looking forward to seeing these at the not so lbs. They seem to be outfitted with what I want, so I'm hoping they're a good fit for me.

Kerry

Ko57--

I think the Citizen is the best bike for the money for daily riding. The three speeds give plenty of range for all riding in flat areas. It is a beautiful bike with good quality components.

I want to get one for my wife, but I'm not convinced she'd ride it ;o(. We'd be a handsome pair ;o).

I didn't get it because of the big hill I climb on my commute. I needed a lower gear and the 7 speed provides it.

Regarding rust, I think a painted aluminum frame will last. Touch up bare spots annually and you'll be fine. Aluminum rusts much less than steel.

This bike left outdoors will do much better than most, given that the chain is well protected and there is no derailer. Put a baggie on the seat and clean it once in awhile.

If you live 4 hours from a Breezer dealer--look for the bike on e-Bay. Occasionally you'll see one--usually new--for a discount price as well.

Breezer bikes are areally good value overall-- it's not something you're going to regret buying in a year, thdave. If you ride it for 3 years, and it will last longer than that, that's like $22? a month for basic transportation to work. Plus it's fun.... and healthy...and good for the earth.

Happy riding!


I bought a brand new '97 Breezer Storm mtb frame in '99 from a shop that just wanted to get rid of it. I canabalized parts from my and my husband's mtb's but got a cassette with taller gears, a rack and threw on some 1" slicks. It's been the most reliable and best commuter bike I've ever had (though I must admit that I've only had two total). I commute about 100 miles a week and can boast with full confidence that this baby has over 20,000 mikes on it (living in CA allows me to commute year-round). I did upgrade the rear derailleur and am constantly getting new tires and chains, but otherwise it's still the same ole Breezer. The dollar value on this bike is priceless! Oh, I did get new grips last year, too. Can you believe I actually wore out the grips?! :D

thdave-

I don't know, I think if she had a nice new Breezer given to her, that might be hard to pass up as far as riding, not to mention fitness and health benefits.
For 48 years I've never had a weight problem and at my weight-108 now, but usually 105-106, I have nothing to complain about. But when the pants are getting tight and harder to button after taking a little longer to zip up, it's time to get off my butt and get going. I'm not spending money on bigger clothes-no way. Cutting out the candy (culprit), making healthier eating choices-more salad & cereal. And adding a little weight training also, something I did years ago at the gyms but use dumbells for now-got the weight bench but the bike is good for the leg workout.
As far as eBay, when I got the Columbia, it came in fine-no dents. Another bike, a Huffy (Pine??) 3spd Shimano, one of the fenders got bent, but that can be straightened. I've still not put it together, I really like the Columbia, saw it after I saw the Huffy. I might sell that one, don't really need it.
I might get the Villager since I don't have a 7 speed, for the variety in gears, and it is the lightest bike, but I do like the simplicity of the 3 speeds. Either way, it will stay inside.
I've posted a thread on this-I'd like to get a tarp that has eyelets so I can cover the bike and run the locking cable through it. Has anyone ever done this, for commuting? Just something to tone down the visibility, might keep dust away, hopefully it would fold away pretty flat.
The dealer in New Orleans-is supposed to try and open back up but I don't know when. So I've decided to take a couple of vacation days and go up there to get it, maybe spend the night at a good hotel, as I hate driving long distances. I do want to go to the bike shop, I've changed my mind about meeting me closer. Hopefully the excitement of getting the new bike and getting it home will motivate me to do this in one day.

ONE MORE THING_

How does your frame feel?? I've read the thread on steel vs aluminum-gets you thinking. The comments of how aluminum frames feel "crisp" ? what, like it might break?? These bikes just seem to be made pretty strong, and the user comments have been positive. Does it ride pretty smooth for you?
It also seems the diamond frames would be more stable, but I like the ease of getting on and off of the step throughs.

Kerry

That's a nice looking bike. I'll be interested to hear how you like it when it's fully broken in. Congrats.

Kerry,

I used to always commute on a steel frame Raliegh. It definitely felt different than this bike--you can tell that it wasn't as stiff. But you can also tell it was more weight. However, this bike is very comfortable--I don't feel the stiffness through the hands or rump. The bigger tires help and the suspension seat post is great. I prefer this bike it because it is lighter (accelerates more quickly) and more comfortable. I use all the accessories and just love that everything is there. It has a classic look to it. :)

Regarding the frame, I don't think you would need the diamond frame given your weight, even if you carried a bunch of gear. I got it since I'm pushing 200 with all my winter gear. They say 220 lbs is the limit on the U frame. But--I'd still try them both if I was you. The diamond frame top bar angles down some and isn't as high as other diamond frames of the same size. Also, the U frame handlebars feel different--they might be closer or bent differently. It is just something to feel and try.

Enjoy!

thdave,

Thanks for all the input. After reading about the hub generators I'm thinking why not get the Uptown. I don't get off of work until 10pm many times, and while it is okay riding at night-it's quiet, I've been reading how the hub generators might last longer. But then you're singing praises for your light system. Just have to decide. I do like riding at night, on days off and in the summer it is cooler.

The not so lbs will order the bike I want, as he had 9 bikes stolen recently, so I don't know that he will stock a variety. I'll call him up again. Now, to get the tax return done, so I can get that bike asap!!! When i finally do get it, I'll post a thread. Thanks again for the info on your bike...
Regards,
Kerry

Mine is nice but if I were going to use the lights more often, I'd have gotten the Uptown. Its wheel has much less resistance when the light is on.

The problem for me was that the front wheel (where the hub generator is) didn't spin as freely with the light off as other wheels without generators. I just didn't want any resistance for the times when I don't use the light, which is the vast majority of the time. I'm not sure how noticeable it would be while riding--but probably very little.

I really considered the Uptown 8, mostly because I really liked the black :) !

My original plan was to use the hug dynamo only in winter, then switch out the front wheel and use a sidewall generator during spring, summer, and winter. That would give less rolling resistance when the lights were off. In practice, however, I found I could not notice the extra resistance when riding. Furthermore, sidewall generators can be erratic in rain and frequently fail altogether in snow.

Consequently, I never swapped out the front wheel. I use the hub generator year round, and appereciate its reliability, quiet, and insensitivity to road conditions.

Paul

I've had the Breezer a year and a half and thought I'd give an update. I don't want to be a shill for the company, so I felt it was time to expose the couple of warts it has.

Mind you, I still love the bike. It is a joy to ride as it handles so well and it is very comfortable. The gears are great, too. They shift quickly and reliably. No looking, no waiting, although you do need to back off on the pedals a moment to give it a chance to change. Still, the time needed to do that is very, very minor and isn't a problem even when going up a hill. I love shifting at a stop--you'd be surprised as to how many times you get stuck in a high gear.

The equipment that came standard works very well. The fenders, in particular, are top quality, as are the kickstand, bell, and rack. They are clearly designed into the bike, and I appreciate that after years of mounting accessories.

Problems:

The original tires were way too susceptible to flats. I've had about a dozen in 1550 miles. I put on Marathon's recently and am optimistic that will go away. This has been the single most frustrating thing with this bike.

The internal gear hub is a pain to disconnect (the gear cable attaches to the wheel hub and must be removed to get the wheel off). It doesn't take any real time, but... it is a small knob/nut oval shaped assembly with the cable through it. It gets dirty down there, and you have to lift it out of the slot, while turning it some (because it's oval). That takes some dexterity and good vision. So... if you get a flat in the winter or in the dark, you can get frustrated. Even if I'm doing it in my lit garage, I need my reading glasses. :o :o Also, given that you have to turn/handle it, there is little chance your crimp-on cable end stays on. So, your fingers get poked.

Broke two spokes on the rear. I was disappointed in that, especially for a 26" wheel--in fact, I went with a smaller wheel to reduce this issue. However, it might have been from ice and the like on the hub. The wheel didn't go un-true, so it wasn't too bad. I'm not that heavy (180 to 185 with everything on) but I carry daily a trunk bag or grocery pannier over the rear wheel which has some weight.

On two or three occasions my front light hasn't come on. The connection to the generator is a little finicky. The front light brightness is ok but could be brighter. I love the way it stays on at a stop.
Also, I like rear flashers and since the rear light doesn't flash, I have use two extra ones.

The bottom bracket had to be tightened because of an annoying clicking noise, that was apparently coming from the chain guard.

A clip that holds the gear cable broke. No big deal, but my zip tie doesn't look as hot. :o

The plastic threaded connector for the gear shifter, which is used to adjust them, doesn't sit well in its seat. It might be broken. This has to be in well but it never needs adjustment anyhow. Once the shifting when haywire, and this was the reason.

I had some difficulty taking off the v-brake cable at first. Don't know why, but it works now. I had to replace brake pads pretty early on, after 800 miles or so. Don't get that either.

For some reason, the seat is a little wobbly. I can't tighten it enough to get it perfectly solid.

Hand pain--I get some hand pain after riding for about 20 minutes. I think the bike I have is a tad small for me, which makes me have the seat up slightly too high, putting a little extra pressure on the hands. I was able to raise the handlebars some, and that helped, but not enough. I will adress this somehow this summer.

All in all--it's a great bike and I've ended up cycling more because of it. Mostly, those extra trips come around town, and are enabled by the nice rack and grocery pannier and trunk bag that I own--both from Breezer (one was a give away incentive). The one steep hill I have isn't a problem at all with the 7 speed hub. Note that I have a 7 speed folder and that one doesn't do as well up a hill--it is a derailler bike and has less range (I believe--if not, it's because of the front shock absorber). I genuinely prefer the hub to the derailer and encourage all who don't ride mountains to consider them.

From my perspective, the things needed to improve are much better tires, perhaps disc brakes, an alternate handlebar hand position, and a more intuitive gizmo at the end of the shifter cable to enhance removal.

Also, I think it would do better if they revised the style slightly to a retro feel. After all, that styling que has a lot of tradition behind it and this kind of thing has worked with automobiles. I think the Amsterdam does that well, and Breezer could, too.

Thanks for your time,

Dave

I've had the Breezer a year and a half and thought I'd give an update. I don't want to be a shill for the company, so I felt it was time to expose the couple of warts it has.
Thank you, Dave for a very interesting and informative report on your Breezer.

I ditto the thanks. I'm waiting with baited breath for the new Uptown 8s to ship (they are still delayed, I hear), and your review did nothing to discourage me from buying this...


Thank you, Dave for a very interesting and informative report on your Breezer.

At the store that sold Specialized, he told me I was the first to ever come into the store and ask for a commuter bike. He said there are too many potholes in Cleveland to ride to work.

ugh, from a LBS salesman no less. Glad you like the bike and thanks for taking the time to review it for us. I have been considering a breezer for my next bike purchase, but plan to try some more recreational riding this summer and decide if I want a real "commuter" or something more specialized to one recreational type riding or another.

Thank you, Dave. I hope you don't mind my addendum to your follow-up...

I purchased my Uptown 8 step-through last April, and I am also very pleased with it despite the few warts. I ride it every day for work and in lieu of owing a car.

I had the bottom bracket issue as well. This seems to be a larger flaw than just our 2 bikes. The 2007 Breezers have entirely different chain guards, so it will be interesting to see whether or not the new bikes develop this problem. I think I am also just a little too tall for my medium frame. I was also just a little too short for the large frame, so I believe I will be experimenting with a different stem and possibly handlebar in the near future. I don't get hand pain per se, but a pinched nerve in my shoulder gets re-irritated at times from the weight on my arms. Between bicycling, computers, and needlework, my upper back/shoulder/arm region gets a lot of repetitive use. The stock brake pads are filthy and cheap. If I knew then what I know now, I would have had them replaced from the get-go, if only to save myself the extra cleaning. (Some of us know my girly penchant for a clean bike. :p)

I've had one flat in each tire, but I believe my city spends a lot more time sweeping the roads for bike-unfriendly debris than Dave's does, so I'm not surprised to discover that they're not as great as I've been thinking they are. I've also not had any problems with the rims or spokes. I'm at 180 right now, but I started riding it 30 lbs heavier than I currently am. I also carry lots of weight on my daily commute, plus all the other heavy things I tend to haul around. It's all rear wheel, pannier weight besides my own Valkyrie self, so I'm not sure what's up with that. According to the Breezer website, the rims and spokes of the Uptown and Villager are the same.

My only other issues were with the pedals and the seatpost/saddle. The pedals were too slippery in the PNW rainy season, so I replaced them with ones that have "teeth". I gave the suspension seatpost a good try, but have concluded that it's just not my cup of tea. The stock saddle did not fit my sit bone span, but in all honesty, very few saddles do. I now have a straight seatpost and a B-67. Even not yet broken in, it is has made a huge difference in my ability to take >5 mile rides without a sore dupa. :D

Despite the flaws, this is a great quality bike and lots of fun to ride.

Thank you, Dave. I hope you don't mind my addendum to your follow-up...

I purchased my Uptown 8 step-through last April, and I am also very pleased with it despite the few warts. I ride it every day for work and in lieu of owing a car.

I had the bottom bracket issue as well. This seems to be a larger flaw than just our 2 bikes. The 2007 Breezers have entirely different chain guards, so it will be interesting to see whether or not the new bikes develop this problem. I think I am also just a little too tall for my medium frame. I was also just a little too short for the large frame, so I believe I will be experimenting with a different stem and possibly handlebar in the near future. I don't get hand pain per se, but a pinched nerve in my shoulder gets re-irritated at times from the weight on my arms. Between bicycling, computers, and needlework, my upper back/shoulder/arm region gets a lot of repetitive use. The stock brake pads are filthy and cheap. If I knew then what I know now, I would have had them replaced from the get-go, if only to save myself the extra cleaning. (Some of us know my girly penchant for a clean bike. :p)

I've had one flat in each tire, but I believe my city spends a lot more time sweeping the roads for bike-unfriendly debris than Dave's does, so I'm not surprised to discover that they're not as great as I've been thinking they are. I've also not had any problems with the rims or spokes. I'm at 180 right now, but I started riding it 30 lbs heavier than I currently am. I also carry lots of weight on my daily commute, plus all the other heavy things I tend to haul around. It's all rear wheel, pannier weight besides my own Valkyrie self, so I'm not sure what's up with that. According to the Breezer website, the rims and spokes of the Uptown and Villager are the same.

My only other issues were with the pedals and the seatpost/saddle. The pedals were too slippery in the PNW rainy season, so I replaced them with ones that have "teeth". I gave the suspension seatpost a good try, but have concluded that it's just not my cup of tea. The stock saddle did not fit my sit bone span, but in all honesty, very few saddles do. I now have a straight seatpost and a B-67. Even not yet broken in, it is has made a huge difference in my ability to take >5 mile rides without a sore dupa. :D

Despite the flaws, this is a great quality bike and lots of fun to ride.

Thanks, Donnamb, for your follow up! I've always enjoyed your posts and it's great to hear a similar perspective here.

I assume you got the U-frame, given the step through comment--just curious, because I thought that frame had the seat closer to the handlebars.

My pedals are slippery, too. I'll probably change them sometime but I'm in no hurry. I like the seatpost, but I have it dialed in so their is little bounce. It's comfy. I've been more worried about the seat fabric. It's a little rough--I'm worried I'm wearing out my pant seats.:o Never really look back there, if you know what I mean:rolleyes: so I could get surprised one day.

Many, many kudos on your weight loss. I've got two sisters that are upwards of 220 or so, and I'd love to see them lose the weight like you have. Unfortunately, they caution me about riding so often that I know they'd never consider it for themselves.

About 2 or 3 years ago I lost a good 15 pounds, and I attribute keeping it off to my bike commuting. :)

Best wishes!

Dave

Dave, I noticed you were a Cleveland Breezer fan in the Accidents thread (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=235820), and wondered if you've met Mitch (http://www.ornery.net/images/DSC08634a.jpg) at Shaker Cycle (http://www.ornery.net/images/DSC08627a.jpg)? Sold me a used Uptown 8, which is now my wife's. Quite a character! :D

I too have gone through the bottom bracket issue (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=232713), but it's easily resolved I've found.

Just got back from a short jaunt with my wife and son. That's all my Breezer is used for. My "commute" to work is only about 5 miles, and I only do that when the weather is perfect and the mood strikes me. I grew up on a Raleigh Sports, and still have what's left of it 38 years later. It's too small for me, or I would have rebuilt it instead of buying the Uptown 8. I may still buy a pristine used one from Ebay someday. Either that, or one of these Raleigh Tourist de Luxe (http://www.hc-cykler.dk/Cykler/Raleigh+cykler+-+Herrecykler/Raleigh+cykler+-+Raleigh+Tourist+de+Luxe+VT-AT3+M-Stangtr%C3%A6k.html). Man, that makes me drool!