Originally Posted by
SlimRider
Hey there Onions!
I think that the Via 2 is an absolutely wonderful bike! If I were you, I'd definitely do the same exact thing that you're doing with the Schwinn cruiser. I would definitely keep it and refurbish it back into its original condition.
I most probably would also be considering the Raleigh Port Townsend as well. I think that could go for its apparent semi-upright optional riding postion on top of the hoods.
The Raleigh Port Townsend ~ $930
www.raleighusa.com/bikes/steel-road/port-townsend-12/
PS.
I dunno, I still like the styling of the Via 2. The Via looks more reminiscent of the European stadsfiets. I really love those bikes too!
Good Luck!
Dunno how much refurbishing I'll do to the Schwinn. The paint is really faded, and, since my wreck, the handlebars are kind of chewed up. Getting the "right" parts will be pretty expensive, but hey, it might happen. I do like the frame, heavy as it is. Looking forward to a chromoly frame though. Borrowed one from the LBS a few weeks ago when I couldn't get a ride home and wow, what a difference!
That Raleigh bike /is/ pretty, but I dont think its for me due to no rack mount, and being over twice the price of the Via. I am going to buy two bikes before the summer is over. The Giant for a throwdown bike, and something nicer than that.
Originally Posted by
SurlyLaika
I know it's not straying very far, but my other favorite companies are Salsa and Soma.
I will look into them! No one around here carries much of anything but comfort bikes and racers, mostly Trek (which I do not care for their geometries). But, the internets are filled with wonder and unicorns, and bikes shipped by fedex, so we'll see!
Originally Posted by
Phil_gretz
Last night I rode for ~10 miles or so alongside an older (than me) fellow with a Surly Troll. That was a fantastically versatile upright steel bike frame. He had outfitted it as a commuter, with 26 inch wheels and wide road slicks. He could fly.
I have no experience with Surly bikes, but have seen many of them from touring rigs to utility/commuters on the road. If your budget permits, look into this one. You'll likely not be disappointed, since you can specify the components in the build. Costs a bit more, but the frame will be rock solid, and will come standard with every conceivable braze-on and fitting. You could use cantilever brakes, add fenders, have forward and rear racks, etc. Plus the geometry is upright, as you said. Check it out.
Heh, I'm usually that guy. I'm know as "the fast guy on the huge Schwinn" around town. Used to think they were calling me "the fat guy..." but the girl at the LBS corrected my hearing. I do tend to haul.
I hadn't thought of doing a build with a trail frame. I'll have to think about that...