Commuting - Oh my gosh - forgotten pleasures

I normally commute on a Trek FX bike which weighs somewhat like 30 pounds with fenders and rack (no panniers). No suspension and the front fork is straight and aluminum. No drop bars, as I like flats for commuting (and also I've never ridden on drops :rolleyes: ).

Well... Today was different. I borrowed my friend's Trek Hardtail MTB. He was riding it with wide slicks and had everything greased and the suspension tuned well. I've never enjoyed the comfort of riding over cracks, bumps, potholes, or anything else Michigan roads make us endure more than on that bike. I LOVE IT!!! Yeah, it was only like a 3700 series, but compared to my hybrid road it was like butter!

I don't know... It was a 16 inch frame and thus weighed less than my hybrid road and it was such a really comfy ride... I might just have to invest in a hardtail with some ample front suspension for commuting :D

You should try it on a full road bike and only a backpack :)

Our roads (Michigan roads) are aweful, the state is all but bankrupt so they don't fix them. I never go with tires any skinnier than 38mm on my converted ATB, the ones I have now I love, they are 40mm wide and take the roads perfectly.

After all the new commuters we advise to stay away from suspension...tisk! :rolleyes:

But hey, whatever floats your boat. I used to see a guy over the winter chugging along at a pretty fast clip on a slick tired hardtail. I think he had the suspension locked out though, but I'm not really sure.

And is the hardtail actually going to be lighter than your road hybrid once you put a rack on it? If you feel the need for cutting some weight, just take off the rack for a while and use a backpack.

EDIT: I'm also still grinning fromt he couple miles of muddy single track I did on 32 tires earlier this week. Dysfunctional, sticky, slidy, and fun. Sometimes it's great to go slow because you're a little ill-equipped, it adds to the adventure.

But I digress.

M_S, I grew up riding MI roads. Trust me when I tell you there is no road in Portland that can compare. I sure wish I had a suspension fork back then...

My Breezer has a mountain bike heritage and the wide tires, and it's a blast to ride. Feels quicker, too, even though it isn't for the longer rides. 26" wheels are great!:)