Old 01-29-12, 06:34 PM
  #7  
nashcommguy
nashcommguy
 
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: nashville, tn
Posts: 2,499

Bikes: Commuters: Fuji Delray road, Fuji Discovery mtb...Touring: Softride Traveler...Road: C-dale SR300

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Originally Posted by gerv
What do you think the beach cruiser in inefficient? If you want a faster ride, you might think about a drop bar bike with fairly narrow tires. A lot of folks on this forum tend to ride cyclo cross type bikes... not the most aggressive ride but with room for fenders, slightly wider (and more comfortable) tires... that sort of thing.

If you like the more upright position though, the mixte looks very attractive. It's going to be a heavier bike though (hi-ten steel), with only 3 speed gearing. Linus has another model, Dover 5, with better steel and more gears.

Lovin' the retro looks of this one. Like the Linus 8 sp even better. One can take it on holiday if going to a less flat area. If one doesn't like the upright position have your lbs flip the handlebars for you. That'll give you an ability to lower your profile in windy situations. The IGH(Internally Geared Hub) is great...until one gets a flat. Then it can get tricky. Learn to change your own tube so some well-intentioned Samaritan doesn't goof up your gear settings after changing your tube.

Get a good HL like a Niterider Mi-Newt 150 Cordless. 70.00 @ http://www.nashbar.com. 2 or 3 rear blinkies from http://www.pricepoint.com Enter Sette ST 316 Glo in the site search and it'll come right up. 10.00US...good price for that quality of light.

As one gains commuting experience what works for you in terms of accessories will become more and more clear. WB cage, frame pump, trunkbag or panniers, multi-tool, tire levers, patch-kit, toolbag, etc. Would suggest taking a basic maintenance course @ a local bike co-op or adult learning center. It'll prove to be invaluable. Bicycles are deceptively complicated machines.

Most of all enjoy your new bike whatever you decide and welcome to the Commuting sub-forum!

PS: For a frame-pump I'm going to recommend the Topeak Road Morph w/gauge. It's available for 35.00US from http://www.bikeisland.com Operates like a small floor pump. I've got one on all of my bikes.
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