Commuting - Miyata Civicross

I'm looking into buying a used Miyata Civicross as a city communter/workhorse. Generally, I buy mid to higher end bikes, as I've been biking a quite a few years and have learned to appreciate a better than average bike. I've not been able to find much info on line about the Civicross and wondering if this is a bike worth investing $200, which is the asking price. I've not test ridden it because it needs a bit of work to make it road worthy, which the owner says that he will do. Any comments on the worthness of the frame and brand especially, would greatly appreciated.

I'm looking into buying a used Miyata Civicross as a city communter/workhorse. Generally, I buy mid to higher end bikes, as I've been biking a quite a few years and have learned to appreciate a better than average bike. I've not been able to find much info on line about the Civicross and wondering if this is a bike worth investing $200, which is the asking price. I've not test ridden it because it needs a bit of work to make it road worthy, which the owner says that he will do. Any comments on the worthness of the frame and brand especially, would greatly appreciated.

Miyata frames are very well made. I am not familiar with the civicross. It looks like its geometry is identical to the triplecross, which I own and use for loaded touring. The civicross has a lower end double butted frame (as opposed to the splined triple butted frame on the triplecross). But that does not mean its low end quality and I think it would be an excellent commuter. I've got 700x40c tires and fenders on mine and its really nice for commuting/touring.

I assume you are talking $200 Canadian asking price. I don't know the market where you live. I live in Houston and bike like the civicross would go for around $100 - $125 U.S. Dollars max and it would be rideable at that price.

Bob

Thanks Bob for the your insight. I'm going to go ahead and try to buy the bike but will also request to have it tweaked a bit to my liking if possible. If the seller is willing to make the changes, I don't mind paying the full asking price...even though I think it is a little over priced for the market here in Canada.

Good luck on your purchase. I highly recommend investment in a good saddle. It makes all the difference in comfort/enjoyment for any kind of riding. I invested quite a bit in my bike on comfort fit (new sprung saddle, new handlebars, new stem, new brake levers). These items are portable to any other touring frame I might opt for in the future. They changed the bike from a decent, fun bike to a superbly comfortable ride. Good tires and wheels are also a very worthwhile investment.

Let us hear how it turns out for you.

Bob