Originally Posted by
Myosmith
Old chrome moly rigid MTB. Trek 700 or 800 series, Specialized Hardrock, Giant Boulder or Yukon, Schwinn Frontier, etc. Cheap, tough, comfortable, easy to find, all use common parts so no ordering oddball components over the internet. Many came with 36-spoke wheelsets adequate for commuting. Not the lightest framesets out there but you are looking for a workout on a short ride anyway.
Kind of my thoughts as well.
Have an old Marin frame in my size and most everything it would take to whip it together cheap. May not even bother with double chainrings and/or front derailleur. Maybe paint any chrome parts so they don't just rust sitting out on the rain every day, which half the year around here really is every day.
Any one else have a similar commute? If so what was your bike solution?