I started commuting on a Ross Mt. Hood. Switched to a Fuji Odessa when that became available because I didn't want to lose or damage the Ross for sentimental reasons. The Fuji gives a comfortable ride in an upright position. I use it now as my bad weather and winter ride. Most of the time I'm on a '96 Trek 830 that fits like a glove and is very comfortable. It has twist grips which I find preferable to trigger shifters. I replaced the knobbies with 1.5 inch street tires, added a rack and bag, 1.5 inch rise handlebars, fenders, and lights front and back. One thing that you really need to do is to test ride whatever you plan to buy, if possible. I picked up a Trek 970 in the same size frame as my 830 thinking that I'd turn it into a long distance touring bike. I just can not get the 970 to feel as comfortable as the 830. Go figure. There can be different levels of comfort from one model to another in the same brand.

As for Nishiki, my first mountain bike was a '85 Nishiki Cascade. I bought that one because it had a relaxed feel and wasn't twitchy. It turned out to be an excellent around town bike. It too would be a good choice.



Walt