a1penguin

That is a sweet bike. HOT HOT HOT!

klunkrleaguenow

very nice bike! I wouldnt mind building one like it, but without the drop bars, ive got bad tendonitis in my wrists and cant lean down on a drop bar.

BarracksSi

Nice build, and thanks a lot for the pics, especially the tire clearances and the fender detail.

Dylansbob 

I used to feel the same way. Once I got the bars up around saddle level AND switched to something with a little sweep/flare I'm alot more comfortable. I really like Ritchey's Biomax bars and Salsa's BellLap models. Or an old school randonneur bar.

runningDoc

Here's the bike with lock, rear blinky, and front light. The lock was fun because you can buy new skins from kryptonite - so I bought the red colored skin to match the bike better. I put black reflective tape on the rims and as a new chainslap guard.





with flash you can really see how the black reflective tape turns really white/reflective.

Grim

Thanks for posting this.

What size is your frame?

Was the Fork cut at all?
I have lower back issues and like my bars up. The reach of the 58 looks right but the 60 has 2cm more in the head tube but the reach is a little long.

I came VERY close to buying a Salsa Casseroll but held off because I really want to get a Disc bike for an all arounder.

runningDoc

Its a size 52cm. The bottom bracket is almost an inch higher off the ground compared to my roadbikes (my bridgestone has 25c GP4000s that measure 27mm. installed and the redline has 28c hutchinson tires that measure true to size).

The fork's steerer has not been cut it. Its surprisingly short for a 52cm. I don't know how much steerer they'd provide for a bigger frame if more or not. I don't know if the place I ordered it from cut the steerer for me beforehand too (they did ask for my height when I ordered it).

The actual horizontal measurement of the slightly sloping top tube of the 52cm is 53.5cm (which is 0.5cm shorter than the listed 54cm). I have a 100mm stem installed that has a +/-6 º bend. I'm sure you could put in a steeper angled stem. but that does raise issues on what size frame you need - maybe a larger frame with the steeper angled stem.

I almost put the order in for a salsa caseroll too (they had them on sale at realcyclist.com) its a very very pretty all around-er. After seeing the pretty light blue frame being used as a commuter/roadbike around here in NYC I was so close to buying either the Salsa or the Kona with disc brakes. But I found I guy in the MTBr forums that had the redline conquest classic (the previous iteration of my bike) and he answered a lot of my questions about the tire clearances, disc brakes with brifters, and ride quality and had pictures of it as a commuter/roadbike/monstercross set up. From there I liked the Redline more and more (especially with my planned Sram Apex/BB7 swap).

My previous hybrid (2009 Gary Fisher Mendota) had bb7 brakes installed and I'm a believer in discs (because the you can modulate the back brake so well and stop a lot smoother and quicker with both front and back brake simultaneous use that mimics ABS braking in cars). discs are perfect for a all season commuter.

The bike rides really smooth (with the steel frame) but still has roots in cyclocross... if I'm on a steep hill I'm actually climbing out of saddle easily/stably. The super shallow drops on the bars are easy to access.

Skyers

Nice Build!
I am currently riding a 2010 Conquest Classic.
From what I can see is that these bike are identical except for the paint/chrome.
I have put approx 5000km on mine since I got it a year ago.
The upgrades that you have done look great and Im sure the BB7's will be better than the BB5's I have.
I also see that the rear disc is now 160mm like the front, I made this change also after a few months as I thought the rear braking wasn't what it should be.
Other upgrades I had to make were the tires, the rear lasted about 500km then developed a couple huge bulges in the sidewall and tire itself.
I also had to replace the rear wheel, the original hub sounded like crap since day one and over time it got worse untill I had my LBS replace the hub and spokes, Sounds great now and rolls smooth.

(I installed my 26" MTB rear wheel with a 1.95 city tire on it to get me through the time when the wheel was in the shop, lots of clearance, Disc lined up and everything rolled smooth - I guess this is an advantage of discs over rim brakes.)

My next upgrades will be a Brooks saddle and a new headset.
All in all I am happy with my this bike and it feels like it can handle whatever I throw at it. I have noticed some of the new forks from the handmade bike show disperse the braking force over more of the fork rather than just the end, I assume this would reduce the amount of fork flex when appling the front brakes hard..
Happy Riding.

All_for_silas

Hi,
Thats a great looking bike! Congrats on the build. I was about to pull the trigger on a 2012 Surly Pacer when a friend recommended that I take a look at the RMC. A bike shop nearby happens to have a 54cm complete and although its much too big they offered to order one in my size at a great price.
My question is, based on the geometry I see online, are the top tubes on these bikes exceptionally long? The 50cm Pacer fits perfectly but its top tube looks to be shorter then both the 48 cm and the 52 cm RMC. I'm about 5'5" with shorter legs and long(ish) torso and I'm nervous about ordering a 48 cm.
Any recommendations? Thanks!

Andy_K 

The top tube on the 48 isn't much longer than the 50cm Pacer and the Redline has a slight slacker seat tube, so that should offset the difference (because you'd probably slide the saddle further forward). I think it would probably work for you.

runningDoc

^The 48cm should fit you fine. Its already compact with a sloping top tube and will be outfitted with 170mm cranks and a 90mm stem. I recommend that you keep the setback seatpost because its a more comfortable fit with a setback (less pressure on the arms/hands, because of the increased angle).

I read a lot of online reports/reviews about how Redline Cyclocross bikes have long top tubes and fit "large"... it did get me paranoid.

I was really scared that my Metro Classic would be too big for me. I'm 5'7" and with the competitive cyclist fit calculator should be a 53.5cm top tube.

What scared me is how there is no 50cm size -it just jumps from 48cm right to 52cm. I was really worrying that I might be in-between sizes.

Upon build up I measured the effective top tube and to my surprise its actual measurement is 53.5cm (center to center) compared to the listed 54.0cm. Maybe redline measures with end to end or something.

As you can see from my bike there is still a lot of seatpost (70cm from 170mm crank axle to seat) and I run a 100mm stem (i had a spare control tech stem that I liked but the stock FSA stem was the same 100mm) with the stock bars (which are compact 42cm/77mm reach/130mm drop). The bars are actually one size wider than I actually use (40cm) on my road bike.

What surprised me is how comfortable the bike is with the wider bars and setback post. I didn't need to change anything.

All_for_silas

Thats really helpful. I think I'm going to move on this bike at the 48cm size and work with the lbs to get the fit dialed in. As a bonus, the RMC comes in at about $400 less then a new Pacer which means 400 extra dollars to invest in bike goodies. Thanks again!

RedlineJB

Hello runningDoc,
Great looking bike, great thread. As my first post, I figured I'd resurrect this thread to see if you could give an update on how you're liking the RMC? I'm seriously considering ordering one next week for use as a commuter and century bike, and would be really interested to hear any additional feedback you might have. I'm a little apprehensive since none of my local shops have one to test ride.

Cheers.

runningDoc

The bike has been great so far. Its a very very comfortable ride. I usually set it up with the fenders and rack and use it as my errand/city bike.

The disc brakes are great (I did upgrade to the BB7 on the build up), but I haven't actually used them in a heavy rain yet.

The only real knock on this bike is its weight... fully loaded with fenders/rack/lock ect... its in the high 30lbs range and I still have to lug it up my front steps and a flight of stairs to the apartment.

I did have my first accident on the bike too... I was crossing a street when a lady on a huge dutch bike T-boned me. It was both our fault and the way were both profusely apologizing to each other it must of sounded like a monty python skit.

She did mention that her bike was nicknamed the "iron horse" because it was 50lbs of pure steel and has been in a lot of accidents with no damage. My bike sustained practically no damage too (only scuffs that were rubbed out using a Magic Eraser) and I had to re align the seat post/stem. So I guess you can call the redline metro classic an iron horse too.

I do love the bike in errand mode... but long to actually use the bike bare because I know how nice it looks aesthetically without the fenders and racks. But I'm lazy and just ride it out the way it is...

tarwheel 

Great job, that is a nice looking bike and well set up for commuting.

RedlineJB

Thanks - I appreciate the update. Decision time!

soufiz

I'm a newbie to bikes. Looking for a commuter/exercise bike that can handle 'tougher' terrain, hills, and less sensitive/aggressive than road bikes. My choices came down to these two ( redline metro sport vs the classic). I rode the sport and really liked it. I was pointed to the classic as a better option by the sells-man. Both were originally out of my price range. Now the classic feels a very high for me. Plus the orange is not really inconspicuous, which isnt my style.

How much is the difference between the two, and is the price for the upgrade really worth it, long-term?

thanks

RedlineJB

runningDoc, thanks again for this thread - it's the most comprehensive look at the Metro Classic I've found. After months of looking around, pricing out a Soma Double Cross DC build (proved a little too expensive for my budget), and comparing a bunch of other bikes, I kept coming back to the RMC and this thread. Just ordered it yesterday and the bike will be at the LBS on Monday. Can't wait!

runningDoc

^nice! please update with pictures and a review if you can - even if its negative haha. that way we can add to the sample size of metro classic/conquest classic/ect owners in this thread.

I hope the bike works out for you (especially size wide since that is a concern).

RedlineJB

The only reason I felt comfortable ordering the 52cm is because I'm also 5'7" and had read your comments posted earlier in the thread. My last road bike was a Giant with a 53.5 TT, so I'm crossing my fingers that the Classic will fit me well.

I'll report back after I have some time on the bike.

RedlineJB

I’ve been commuting on my new Redline Metro Classic for about a month now, putting on around 250 miles so far. My commute is about 15 miles round trip. Being primarily a mountain biker, I don’t have much frame of reference to be reviewing a road bike, but I’ll give you my thoughts and first impressions of the RMC.

My past road bike was a Giant TCR C3 - a carbon frame, entry-level road bike. Great bicycle, but over the past few years I rode it less and less. I looked for a long time before my Giant sold. The Jamis Bosanova and Soma Double Cross DC were two of my other choices. I had no local dealer for the Jamis, and the Soma build proved a little too expensive. I loved the way the Redline looked, and the local dealer was a friend of mine, so it just made sense.

Here are my first impressions…


I like the way it looks. It’s a little more conspicuous than what I thought I’d end up with, but it’s really grown on me. The fork paint seems slightly mismatched compared to the rest of the bike, though that’s not something that bothers me. The welds are decent and overall fit and finish are about what I expected, which is to say pretty good.

As runningdoc mentioned before, it’s not exactly a featherweight, but I knew that going in. Mine is 30 pounds with the rear rack installed. The rack weighs maybe two pounds, so the bike is probably a little over 28 pounds in stock trim. Loaded for the commute it’s over 40 pounds, as I carry a 17” laptop that’s almost 7 pounds, plus lunch, coffee, etc. If I wanted to lighten it up there are plenty of ways to do so (bars, fork, wheels, etc.), but I’m not concerned with it at this point. It’ll help get my legs in shape.



The bike shop was a little rushed getting it ready for me (my fault) and didn’t get the BB5s adjusted correctly. They squealed and moaned and had a lot of drag. A few weeks back I spent some time adjusting them, got all the squeals out and now they’re quiet and stop really well. At this point I don’t have any problems with the BB5s, though I’m sure it’s nice having the added adjustment of the BB7s. I’ll be curious to see if they stay in adjustment or if it’s going to be a regular exercise setting them up.

I bought the 50cm frame. I’m 5’7” with a 30” inseam (not sure what my “bicycling” inseam is), and I might go for a 90mm stem vs the stock 100, we’ll see. I’m comfortable on the bike, but wouldn’t mind a little shorter reach to the bar. Standover height is fine. I’m glad I didn’t go for the 48cm.

It’s smooth shifting and hasn’t given me any problems, but that’s probably to be expected after so few miles. I know the FSA cranks and Tiagra derailleurs are lower level components, but as long as they serve my purpose I’m fine with them. I’ll probably swap out to a compact double SRAM Apex or Rival set up in the future, but for now the Tiagras are working fine.

I really like how it rides. The steel damps the high frequency vibrations and softens the sharp hits. It’s very comfortable, though I’m sure that’s not news to riders of steel frames. The bike is stable and never feels twitchy. It’s not super fast in comparison to my old Giant, but that’s to be expected. It’s fun and predictable and it clips right along on the stock 28s. I have zero complaints in the ride quality. But again, consider the source.

Yes, it can handle getting dirty. Just for fun I’ve hit some local singletrack and mild dirt trails…that’s good for a few looks from other cyclists. What I like is that running into some dirt no longer requires me to look for an alternate route, as long as it's within reason.







I had an old Blackburn rack lying around, so I put that on and bought an Arkel Commuter to carry my big laptop. I carry my lunch, a mug of coffee in the water bottle cage (water on the way home), usually a pair of shoes and some odd clothes. The Arkel is really well made and I like the mounting set-up. It was also the only bag I saw that could carry a 17” laptop, but I’m sure there are others out there.

This bike is fun, versatile and it works well. I’m happy.

chrism32205

Nice bike. I love the discs, rack mounts and the color is sweet. As far as gearing, I have a similar bike, A Bianchi Axis set up with a rack and fenders. I switched both front rings to smaller sizes. I went from a 36-50 to a 34-46, and I run a 11-32 cassette. This makes for pretty low gearing when you need to get up steep inclines. I am running 700x25's.

Is the Metro Classic orange or red?

RedlineJB

A coworker has an Axis - sweet bike. Thanks for the info on your gearing. I have yet to use the lower ring on the RMC, so I'll probably be going the same route.

The Metro Classic is a metallic orange.

BaggerRyder

Hey all, fellow RMC owner. RunningDoc's review of his bike and build is really what sealed my final decision for the RMC over a Jamis Bossanova or the Raleigh Roper.
So far I love this bike. I bought the bike to replace a 60cm Trek 1.1 that I actually bought for commuting but after 250 miles I didn't like that the aluminum framed Trek didn't absorb all the bumps and vibrations that I encounter on my commute and wanted something with a more relaxed riding position.
My 58cm RMC is a very comfortable bike to ride, absorbs the road very well, and is fairly agile for such a heavy bike. I feel much more comfortable out of the saddle and hammering hills than I did on the Trek.
So far I have installed a Axiom Journey rear rack and some Planet Bike fenders. I also installed a Specialized Multi Stem, as I wanted to be even a little more upright. I'm running a 120mm stem at + 16 degree rise, which really helped alleviate some of the neck pain I experience after my 14 mile one way commute. I also changed the saddle as most of us do.
I purchased the RMC on 10/31, and have put 145 miles on it since purchasing. So far I don't have any complaints, and can't think of anything that needs to be changed right away, although RunningDoc's set up makes me want to dig into the drivetrain, changing to a compact double, and of course changing out the BB5's for some 7's. It took awhile adjusting the 5's to get them right where I wanted them in terms of lever pull and eliminating the sqeauling that is sometimes inherent with disc brakes.
Thanks again Doc for the great overview of your build! It really is what helped put me on the RMC.

runningDoc

Thanks for pics of the bike! it looks great. yeah you should go with a shorter stem if you want. or even new handlebars like ritchey compact/classic curves which are brifter friendly flat transitioned and have a 73mm reach 128mm drop (compared to the supplied FSA which are near 80mm reach). That 0.5cm from the bars and 1cm from the stem can make a big difference in comfort. I have versions of the Ritchey compact/classic curve bars on my other bikes, and my wife's bike. a slightly shorter stem + shorter reach bar will shore up the fit and keep you comfortable.

the thing I love about the RMC is that the bike is cool, looks great, and is super practical. plus after a while its just a bike.... you don't have to think about where/what you're riding to... some dirt/mud... hills... errands... commute... its just turns into a bike that gets you where you want to go.


^thanks! Lets see a pic of your bike!

the stock tiagra, FSA triple crank, and BB5's on this bike are actually a great build set. BB5's are just as strong as the BB7's - its just the initial set up thats finicky. The triple is probably even better than a compact double, but there seems to be a weird machismo here in the US these days with having triples. Everyone wants to save weight and lose the triple - but on a heavy-ish steel commuter it makes a lot of sense to go with the triple.

I was feeling a little adventurous about my bike wrenching abilities (since I already bought a Park Tool AK 37 set) that I took the plunge and built it up with a whole different groupset. Since I'm familiar with SRAM on my other bike, and was intrigued by the super wide range apex group I went with sram. I almost went with a shimano 105 shifters alone (because I wanted the cleaner cable routing from the shifters/handlebar).

the new 2013 RMC is looking sleek in all black + silver build group...