Originally Posted by
gear
For 6 miles two or three times a week. You already own the bike that is best for that.. Can't you think of some better way to get rid of excess dough. Around here when someone has excess money they buy a boat.
I knew I was setting myself up for the too much money comments but hey, I've been on these forums for a while now. Also, I don't like boats.
Originally Posted by
slcbob
What he said.
I think there's a huge flaw in your foundational thinking about this. I don't care how svelte your steed is, once you add on the panniers, rack, gear, etc. etc., you're by definition klunky. ANY BIKE, not just your Milano, is going to be "too heavy and klunky." Further, the amount of marginal additional klunk from starting with your Milano vs. e.g. a Trek Madone or Pinarello Prince is going to be neglible.
I'm all for NOT tarting up the Roger with klunk and I think you have a great path to go down and you're asking the right questions if you want to build yourself a purpose built slick commuter. Go for it. But do it on THAT premise, not the flawed assumption you're jumping in with.
Well, I've had the Milano for a while and I race on a 14.4 lb SuperSix. As I've said, on the occasions when I ride to work I use the Milano. However, when I ride it,to keep the sweat factor down (it's not worth it to me to bring a change of clothes and to have to shower for a six mile ride), I end up riding pretty darn slowly and significantly increase my ride time. Did I mention I'm not a morning person?
Originally Posted by
Cassave
Hey Cleave;
I'm with Sixty-Fiver on this one. The Milano looks perfect for a flat 6 miles each way. Just consider it extra training load.
It's already got two essentials, fenders and a rack. Even here is SoCal I wouldn't commute without full fenders.
Regarding panniers, if your load is small enough consider a saddlebag or rack trunk. I've been using a Carradice Nelson for about 20 years and for me it's all I need.
You can get quick release mounts and shoulder straps for Carradice bags to make the dismount quick and easy.
The rack gets used (very) occasionally for overflow.
My commute is 22 miles RT with 2400 feet of loss and gain in each direction with a few short stretches at 23%, so 700C road bike with fairly wide range gearing, full kit and cleats.
Hi Cassave, long time no see. Yeah, my commute is very simple with one small hill. Fast and light (with the exception of the laptop) is what I'm after to keep the time and effort down. I've already got (10 year-old) mountain bike shoes with Ritchey recessed cleats and a set of pedals.
Originally Posted by
fietsbob
as said, a B.O.A.T* is a hole in the water to pour money into..
*Break Out Another Thousand.
OK, never heard that one before, but then I've never had any interest in boating.