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01-15-09, 02:28 PM
I am looking for some guidance on choosing a bike. Possibly you can at least help me narrow down my choices to two.
I initially thought I wanted a full on touring bike but realized that most of the riding I would like to do falls more under the long distance type of riding. My interest is more in the multiday, like 2-3 days, out and back ride. With plans to carry minimal gear and light weight equipment.
I started out thinking the Surly LHT was the bike for me, but after re-thinking my usage I’ve also begun looking at the Masi Speciale Randonneur and the Salsa Casseroll. I addition to using this bike for the long distance type riding, this year I will be getting rid of my car and will rely on a bike more to running errands and for getting around.
The thing that makes my decision hard is that I can’t find a shop around that has these bikes available to test ride. I know of one that has the LHT, but the Masi and Salsa seem to be special order only.
I like the geometry numbers of the Salsa but the chainstay is a bit shorter than the Masi and Surly. The geometry numbers of the Surly seem the least favorable compared to the other two. The Salsa also has a pretty nice parts package. I know the best thing to do is ride all three, but that looks like it could be difficult.
Your assistance is appreciated.
Thank you.
I initially thought I wanted a full on touring bike but realized that most of the riding I would like to do falls more under the long distance type of riding. My interest is more in the multiday, like 2-3 days, out and back ride. With plans to carry minimal gear and light weight equipment.
I started out thinking the Surly LHT was the bike for me, but after re-thinking my usage I’ve also begun looking at the Masi Speciale Randonneur and the Salsa Casseroll. I addition to using this bike for the long distance type riding, this year I will be getting rid of my car and will rely on a bike more to running errands and for getting around.
The thing that makes my decision hard is that I can’t find a shop around that has these bikes available to test ride. I know of one that has the LHT, but the Masi and Salsa seem to be special order only.
I like the geometry numbers of the Salsa but the chainstay is a bit shorter than the Masi and Surly. The geometry numbers of the Surly seem the least favorable compared to the other two. The Salsa also has a pretty nice parts package. I know the best thing to do is ride all three, but that looks like it could be difficult.
Your assistance is appreciated.
Thank you.