Originally Posted by
irclean
It's a tall order, given your budget. Of your choices I would lean toward the Torker, but I would be thinking of that bike as more utilitarian than speed demon. The
Kona Worldbike is a 3-speed, all steel commuter with 26" tires. Again, no speed demon, but definitely could be ridden aggressively. For a bit more money (MSRP $649) there is the
Schwinn Sporterra NX8; but it has an aluminum frameset. Still seems to me a decent value for a sporty IGH bike, though.
Originally Posted by
RChickenMan
The budget is capped at around $500 because that's roughly the cut off of how much personal property I am willing to leave locked up on the streets while still being able to enjoy myself without just worrying about my bike the whole time! I definitely appreciate the additional recommendations, though--what would you say it is about these two bikes you are recommending that would make them such a desirable alternative to my shortlist, despite being over budget?
I don't know about "desirable" - I was just trying to help you expand your list. That being said, I like the Kona due to the fact that it reminds me of early 90's MTBs; rigid, steel frame and relative simplicity of design. It seems to me like a bike you could thrash around and not worry about scratches and dents - in other words, a fun "beater"-type of bike. BTW it is a good-looking bike in person.
I suggested the NX8 mostly due to your stated budget restraints. While it is admittedly more that you quoted, by some $150, it appears to be designed as a "performance" hybrid with an IGH which sounds to me like what you're after. I have a Schwinn hybrid and the frame is solid and has clean welds (although it is aluminum vs. my preferred steel).
There are many bikes that would fit your criteria if your budget was higher, but I understand your reasons to keep it modest.