Bridgestone RB-2 or XO-2?
08-17-11, 04:34 PM
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Bridgestone RB-2 or XO-2?
Hi,
I've been looking at 2 bikes, an RB-2 and XO-2, both from ≈ 1992. They're priced around the same, and I don't think either are have many original components (the XO-2 has some new handlebars I think).
I'm looking to use the bike primarily as a commuter, and will be riding in winters with snow for the first time. Eventually, I'd like to start touring, but I don't imagine seriously pursuing this for quite some time - so, it would be nice to have a bike that can be equipped to tour, but maybe I'll get something else by then.
Any recommendations on which to get? Should I hold out for another Bridgestone, or a Surly LHT instead?
All thoughts are appreciated, thanks.
I've been looking at 2 bikes, an RB-2 and XO-2, both from ≈ 1992. They're priced around the same, and I don't think either are have many original components (the XO-2 has some new handlebars I think).
I'm looking to use the bike primarily as a commuter, and will be riding in winters with snow for the first time. Eventually, I'd like to start touring, but I don't imagine seriously pursuing this for quite some time - so, it would be nice to have a bike that can be equipped to tour, but maybe I'll get something else by then.
Any recommendations on which to get? Should I hold out for another Bridgestone, or a Surly LHT instead?
All thoughts are appreciated, thanks.
08-17-11, 04:36 PM
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Either one could work just fine, but if they both fit I think I'd go with the XO-2. Doesn't it have cantis and double eyelets front and back? It also has 26" wheels which may be better in winter (tire options).
Last edited by brockd15; 08-17-11 at 04:39 PM.
08-17-11, 04:47 PM
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For what you describe the XO-2 would be my choice. I wouldn't pay a ton if the parts were swapped as alot of the charm of the XO is the parts (especially the moustache bars). If it were me I would consider getting both. 
08-17-11, 05:07 PM
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RB2 doesn't have the clearance for fenders or any appropriate braze ons for racks/fenders. 28c is about the limit tirewise.
GO with the XO.
GO with the XO.
08-17-11, 05:30 PM
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XO-2 is better for your needs. Essentially a mtb converted to road duty. It's the most versatile of the two choices and closest to a LHT.
08-17-11, 05:50 PM
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Another vote for the XO. These are both desirable bikes, so you won't have much trouble selling it off later if you decide you don't like it.
08-17-11, 06:21 PM
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I have a '92 RB2, and while it's a nice road bike with great geometry and ride, I concur with everyone else that it's not an ideal commuter, especially for winder commuting,and it's by no means a touring bike. No eyelets for racks or fenders, and while I've fit 700 x 28 tires on mine, there's not much room left. The XO is the clear choice.
08-17-11, 07:43 PM
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Interestingly, this was why I bought my Volpe back when these bikes were new. I loved the RB2 but needed fenders and a rack - the shop happened to have a Volpe, but not an X0-2 and I think the X0-2 was abit more coin at the time.
08-17-11, 11:10 PM
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It sounds like the XO-2 is the way to go. I read the XO-2 was tig welded, and I wasn't sure if the RB-2 was better constructed. It sounds like construction quality isn't a concern though. I'll likely go with the XO-2. Thanks for all the replies!
08-28-11, 01:39 AM
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I ended up with neither bike. The XO-2 seemed to have too many modifications, and I missed out on the RB-2. Thanks again for all the advice though!
