Utility Cycling - Redline R530

The Redline R530 (http://www.redlinebicycles.com/adultbikes/R530.html) is a brand new model for 2008...anybody seen one yet? Comments? I am contemplating one. I need to corral my herd (so to speak) and get one dedicated "city" bike. I have considered building up one using a Motobecane frameset that I have, however by the time I buy a front dyno/brake hub and a 5-8 speed IGH rear hub I am at 95% of the cost of the Redline. Still puzzling out the geometry of it. I own a Redline 9.2.5 and have been happy with the quality of it.

I have also looked at (online only, local dealers in 2 states don't stock city bikes:() Breezer, Bianchi and Gary Fisher. I have seen the REI stuff and Electra in person.

Aaron:)

I'm not big on Aluminum with low end suspension forks for city / commuting use. I'm not meaning to sound elitist, but I prefer cromoly frames and forks.

I'm not big on Aluminum with low end suspension forks for city / commuting use. I'm not meaning to sound elitist, but I prefer cromoly frames and forks.

Me either, the forks are most likely going to get swapped out for some CroMo with rack braze ons. I am looking at this as a base to build on...if it freakin' fits...I can buy a custom built bike from any one of the excellent builders we have in the US, BUT I want something that isn't going to break my heart if it disappears. I wouldn't be happy to have my $25 Raleigh Sports disappear however I think I would be royally pissed to have an $2000 custom Boston Roadster (http://www.antbikemike.com/bostonroadster.html) roll away without me on it:( I also want something that I can toss in my truck and drag around with me, to use in the various cities I end up working in. A folder is still in the works, but I also want a full frame bike. I wouldn't mind taking my 1972 Raleigh Superbe along, but it is becoming irreplaceable.

Aaron:)

I don't know....for city use I wouldn't hesitate to recommend an AL frame - won't rust and with reasonable tires/suspension you won't get a harsh ride. My city bike/commuter bike/winter bike has an AL frame and a suspension fork. I've never had any problems with it.

Thanks Vik.

My current grocery getter is an aluminum framed Staiger (german trekking bike) it happens to have the Suntour suspension fork on it. Biggest issue with that bike is that it is a very short frame for me. It is a step thru 19" and I have about a foot of seat post hanging out. Add to that the fact is is a dérailleur bike and it isn't an ideal city bike to me.

I am tickled to see the range of bikes becoming available from some of the bigger name manufacturers, and coming almost ready to ride.

Aaron:)

Hi, those bikes are not a new model for 2008, the shop I work in had been selling them for over a year. I agree about aluminum vs. steel and the suspension fork issue, but, the bike is a winner otherwise. I have sold a few, and had only positive feedback. Personally, I would ditch the stock tires and slime tubes in favor of a schwalbe marathon or similar. I love the roller brakes and the bike has a bottle generator braze-on for the practical commuter. If it fits, go for it.

Hi, those bikes are not a new model for 2008, the shop I work in had been selling them for over a year. I agree about aluminum vs. steel and the suspension fork issue, but, the bike is a winner otherwise. I have sold a few, and had only positive feedback. Personally, I would ditch the stock tires and slime tubes in favor of a schwalbe marathon or similar. I love the roller brakes and the bike has a bottle generator braze-on for the practical commuter. If it fits, go for it.

Interesting...never saw those in 2007? When did they come out? I bought a 9.2.5 and have been pleased with it. I wish I had seen the R530 back then.

Aaron:)

I don't know....for city use I wouldn't hesitate to recommend an AL frame - I would
won't rustNeither will properly cared for steel, (Frame Saver is your FRIEND) plus there are no fatigue issues.
and with reasonable tires/suspension you won't get a harsh ride.Suspension forks can be a theft magnet, plus with only 50mm of travel it's basically useless as you'll sag through half of it just sitting on it. Throw in the added weight and it loses it's luster toot sweet.
My city bike/commuter bike/winter bike has an AL frame and a suspension fork. I've never had any problems with it. Your mileage may vary. Personally, nothing beats a nice steel frame for ride feel, comfort and durability.

I prefer steel frames...but have yet to find a decent city bike in the same price range, with similar equipment made in steel.

Around here anything with wheels is a theft magnent...

Aaron:)

I wouldNeither will properly cared for steel, (Frame Saver is your FRIEND) plus there are no fatigue issues.Suspension forks can be a theft magnet, plus with only 50mm of travel it's basically useless as you'll sag through half of it just sitting on it. Throw in the added weight and it loses it's luster toot sweet. Your mileage may vary. Personally, nothing beats a nice steel frame for ride feel, comfort and durability.

Typically city bikes are used in all conditions without a lot of care and maintenance. I doubt most owners take the time to apply framesaver - it is a pain once you have an assembled bike. It is a lot easier with a bare frame, but even then it is a messy job. I've had all sorts of suspension setups from 50mm to 100mm and a 50mm setup with 25mm sag would be just fine for bombing around town. None of these bikes are uber light so the extra weight from a suspension fork is a non-issue. The steel is real message is a lot of hype as far as I'm concerned. You can build excellent bikes out of AL - that are comfortable, durable [ I don't see the millions of AL bikes all around me breaking] and ride really well.

I have nothing against steel - many of my bikes are steel, but most of the bias against AL is pure BS.