Originally Posted by
Andy_K
For me, "the best commuter out-of-the-box" would need:
-drop bars
-STI levers
-disc brakes
-clearance for 700x32 tires with fenders
-fenders
-rack
-under 30 pounds
-low gear under 30 inches
Same here again. Except I wouldn't care so much about a rack and low gear under 30 inches (but I would want rack mounts for the option).
I love the idea of a relatively maintenance-free, enclosed drivetrain as I commute in virtually all conditions but the weight and cost just doesn't make it viable for most commuters. I would be fine with no FD and a 9 speed (or even 7 or 8 probably) as long as it had a gearing of around 35-100 gear inches.
I also love the idea of a dynamo hub so you can forget about batteries but again... weight and cost.