J.Montuori

I "replied" this on another new commuter's post, but thought I should post separately. Thanks to those who responded there.

My situation: I have 36 miles round trip with 600' total climb, steepest of which is the last 2 miles in the morning. Three miles on street, 9 miles on a multi-use trail, then last six on streets. I teach and can't spare time for shower at work, and would rather not change clothes either. Because the trail isn't cleared in winter, I probably won't be commuting much in freezing temperatures.

Wants: fenders, rear rack, disc brakes, gearing for hills. Maybe a chain guard to protect pant leg, integrated lights, and would love internal gear hub to avoid maintenance, but wonder if even an 8 speed is adequate for these hills (pricey too, right?).

My road bike makes this route doable, but I'm definitely sweating on arrival (though I'm trim and fit, 54 years old) and it won't accept fenders, rack, street shoes. Just got it this season, having gotten back into regular biking after 20 year hiatus.

So what bike to get? I'm thinking Specialized Source Elite? Trek CrossRip Elite? Are there other, smaller names I should consider? Thanks for your help.

canyoneagle

First off, that is a pretty solid commute distance, and you will sweat, regardless of bike choice. If a shower is not an option, then certainly consider a "sink bath" with a washcloth/wet wipes, and carry your clean clothes in your pannier. I'd recommend against wearing your regular clothes for a commute of that distance, unless you are working in a shop environment or in the trades (which you are not).
If you need to leave 15 minutes earlier in order to give yourself the time to do this, it is well worth it, IMO.

For the commute describe, a bike with an 8 speed internal hub will work, if you are looking for something that will be lower maintenance than a conventional drive train. Also the IGH would facilitate the use of a chain case/chain guard.
Consider something like the Giant Seek 0, Scott "sub", or other "sporty" IGH-equipped bikes. These all sit in the $1000-1300 range, so budget is part of the formula.

Many bikes do not come equipped with the dynamo and lighting, so this may be an after-the-fact modification (very easy to do). Pre-built wheels with a Shimano Alfine dynamo will be about $200, and a good quality LED light will be around $150-200.

buck65

I happen to be a teacher as well and do not have access to a shower at work. My school is located in a hilly area, so I try to get to work early to allow adequate cool down time followed by a little clean up before I change. This also affords me time to make copies and set up for the day.

If you can afford $1500 on a commuter, you should check out the Surly LHT Disc version. That bike has excellent clearance for fenders and tires, smart drive train components ideal for commuting, and is durable. You can also pick up a few accessories like fenders, lights, a rack, and panniers to meet the budget I mentioned. If you're not averse to building a frame, Soma has a disc version of their cyclocross bike, which I'm sure can be suited to meet your needs.

J.Montuori

Thanks for the tips and the bike suggestions. I'll check them out.