Phil,

Thank you, that is helpful information. You have a unique perspective owning both bikes. I currently ride a Bruce Gordon BLT Taiwanese model on my 38 mile rt commute. I absolutely love this bike, but I have been thinking about a bike that my wife could carry the kid and groceries on. Due to the want to save money we may try and go car free next summer. I ride year round, but I cannot ask my wife to start riding (she is a riding beginner) in the winter.