Rieux

I commute in DC, about 3 miles each way, with a large uphill on the return home. Last bike, which was a not-so-good Globe Vienna was stolen. Now I've been looking for a replacement and seem to have narrowed down to two choices: A Raleigh 21 speed Cadent with a handlebar extender, or a Handsome Devil. I'd have to add racks and fenders to either one, but I'd be looking at about $600 for the Cadent and $1300 for the Devil.

Plan to use it for commuting every other day or so, and also for longer rides on the weekends in the park, or for errands, etc.

MUCH prefer the look of the Devil. The ride seems about the same, with the Devil slightly more comfortable. Is there something to justify the close to double price of the Devil, beyond that I prefer the looks?

mconlonx

All the components on The Devil are a notch or two (or three) above the Cadent. Devil is more a mid-range bike, Cadent is more an entry level bike. The more you ride, the more you'll appreciate more quality components.

Devil doesn't have all the gears, is a 1x8 drivetrain -- the Cadent (3x7 gears) would have more range, be more useful across a bigger range of terrain.

Cadent is aluminum, Devil is steel -- pluses and minuses with each material, if you don't have a preference, don't let frame material become an issue for you.

Handsome Devil is more unique, which is great if that's what you're after, but may be more of a theft magnet than the Raleigh Cadent.

If you're not excited about the bike, you'll ride it less. Which bike excites you more...?

dynaryder

YMMV,but I wouldn't choose either. The Raleigh has an alloy frame with straight blade alloy fork;that's not going to ride well on DC roads. The Devil is steel but only a 1x8,which means you're going to have to mash up Wisc and spin down Mass.

If you like the Cadent,and can afford the Devil,I'd move up to the 3 with the CF fork. Or do more shopping around.

BruceHankins

I would prefer the Raleigh just because of the gearing but I would also try and keep my options open. At that price range there is quite a lot to be had in terms of frame and gruppo.

Rieux

Thanks for the advice! So, if you were to get something else, what would it be? Style is important as is function. Willing to spend up to $1200, but of course if stylish and functional can be found cheaper, all the better.

BruceHankins

I would look at specialized and giant also.