[bookclub]

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/bicycles/monark-work-bikes/monark-balloon-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

[The BikeForums Team]

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[Texasfietser]

Nick,

You can't go wrong with the Azor Opa. I've been extremely happy with mine, which I've been riding regularly since late 2006. It's sturdy, dependable, and just generally bombproof. Oh, and it's also really, really heavy...

Regards,

Texasfietser

[Sammyboy]

Pashley for the win.