United Kingdom - Looking for a Dutch bike - advice wanted

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.




bookclub
02-17-08, 03:24 PM
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


Texasfietser
02-17-08, 03:46 PM
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
03-06-08, 07:33 AM
Pashley for the win.