Originally Posted by
ChronicND
I've started commuting with my old mountain bike and am really enjoying it! I'm looking to buy a new bike that will be a little nicer for to/from the office, 75% along rail-to-trail (the Burke-Gilman for those who know Seattle) and 25% city, about 5 miles each way. It would be nice to go on longer rides from time to time, but probably most of the time it will just be commuting. I would like a rack for lunch/clothes, so I don't have to keep backpacking it.
I'm trying to stay below 1000, but less allows me to pick up other things sooner (such as bags, eventually maybe clip pedals?). I wouldn't be opposed to drop bars, but it seems like those quickly juice the price up, and for starting out may be more than I'm looking for.
The highlighted statement has me mystified (I know it won't be the first time
). Do you mean a bike that looks nicer, or a bike more suited for commuting.
Personally I think old MTB's make fine commuters, and if you let us know what it is we might be able to give you some suggestions on how to make it commuterific
.
If you want a bike that looks nicer, than it really is your choice.
If you want a bike more commuter friendly I like the Giant or the Bianchi since they seem to offer room for both racks and fenders. The Masi seems more geared toward going fast.
However, get the bike you like and find the most comfortable. I really don't know if you will notice a difference in components since you won't have anything to compare them to.