Originally Posted by
cruisehard
I got to ride one around the parking lot at my LBS. I dig the geo alot, and the saddle was surprisingly comfortable... and I'm not so hunched over on it. I'm used to riding in a upright position, all my bikes have been bmx and cruisers. I'll have to get used to the lightness and the 700c tires. I just hope the aluminum frame with high pressure tires don't rattle all my teeth out.
I could use some pedal recommendations since I'm new to road/commuter bikes.
I'm probably not the best to give pedal recommendations, since you're new (or will be) to commuting. I ride Shimano SPD's on everything (including my dedicated fixed gear bike). I'm just used to them. Some will say that clipless pedals are not good for single speed/fixed, but I don't really know any different after being "converted" to them back in '96.
As far as the relaxed geometry...YES, it is relaxed...the compact frame is just like most mountain bike frames. I happen to like it. I've been riding this bike a lot lately (in fact, haven't rode anything else to work for the past 2 weeks...20 miles round-trip each day). As being an aluminum frame, Trek seemed to do their homework on harshness. It's farily buzz free on all but the roughest rodes.
The only thing that I would caution is starting out with a single speed if you're new (or new to commuting). Examine the rides/routes you would normally take. Even though the gearing is set up for just about anything, a single speed will take a lot out of you when you get to the "tired" point. Just realize you have no other gears...it's either grind it out in the saddle, or stand up and push it. After a long hard day at work, it can still sneak up on me and kick my a*s. But even with that in mind, the Soho S is a VERY COOL, VERY CAPABLE bike that I'd still recommend.
Cheers!