Commuting - Choosing a bike for a new commuter...

My friend's wife has approached me about helping her surprise her husband with a new bicycle for his b-day. He doesn't ride yet but she knows that he is interested. This will be for a short Florida commute. He will have to deal with a few very short hills (bumps really.) The bike will likely be left outdoors; maybe under an awning at best. He will be commuting in dress clothes - so something with a chain cover.

Any ideas or suggestions?

Thanks

Put a picture of a bike from a magazine in a box, wrap it up, let him open it. Then let him go to the bike store to pick the bike himself, with your help and his wife's help of course.

Put a picture of a bike from a magazine in a box, wrap it up, let him open it. Then let him go to the bike store to pick the bike himself, with your help and his wife's help of course.

I really like this idea. :thumb:
While presenting someone with a bike is a well intentioned gift, it really needs to be a fit and feature process with the rider.

How about buying him a helmet and include a hand written coupon for a bike?

Interesting Ideas...

Any models that I should make sure to look at though. This way I can figure out which LBS to take him to. So far I noticed a Raliegh and Townie that would work.

Here are some suggestions in a variety of styles/price points.

I like the idea of letting him choose, but, unless he is already bike savvy, it might be a nice touch to give him some starting ideas:

http://www.bianchiusa.com/10-bicycles/10-milano/10-milano-parco.html - 3 speed

http://www.globebikes.com/us/en/globe/GlobeBike.jsp?pid=10LIVE1 (single speed) or
http://www.globebikes.com/us/en/globe/GlobeBike.jsp?pid=10LIVE2 8 speed nexus

http://www.swobo.com/catalog/product_info_b.php?cPath=201_203
http://www.swobo.com/catalog/product_info_b.php?cPath=201_1473

http://www.breezerbikes.com/bike_details.cfm?bikeType=town&frame=d&bike=uptown&new=true

http://www2.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/bikes/model/seek.0/3924/36627/ - aftermarket chainguard can be added

If you want to get something REALLY classy (and expensive) http://antbikemike.wordpress.com/light-roadster/

Many, many more bikes out there that fit the bill. Have fun!

The Trek Belleville (http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/urban/eco_design/belleville/) is an interesting new bike that hits all the marks for a beginning commuter.


Three-speed IGH
Chainguard
Fenders
Front and rear racks
Hub dynamo, front and rear lights
36-spoke wheels
35mm tires
$660 MSRP

How about a gift card to that bike shop?