Originally Posted by dfw
I like to commute on a road bike. I have one that has relaxed geometry and an upright riding position, but still has drop handlebars. My commute is 15 miles each way and I'm quite comfortable. In my situation, I'm driving to work occassionally and dropping off supplies and clothes, so I don't have any loads to carry on my commute. I also don't commute in foul weather so I don't need fenders.
There's so many variables this is not an easy question to answer with little information to go on. What are the conditions of your roads? Do you plan on carrying loads to and from work, and if so how much and how heavy? Will you be commuting in the rain? Do you plan on using the bike for other purposes? How fast do you want to ride? Do you have many big hills or high winds to deal with?
Wow! Thanks for all the feedback everyone. Let me try to answer some of the quetions asked of me....
1) What are the conditions of your roads?
I would say the roads will be good to fair condition. I plan to completely avoid traffic as much as possible so this will mean riding along the boardwalk at the beach, riding on the bike path along the San Diego river (both of which are paved but will most likely have dirt and sand here and there).
2) Do you plan on carrying loads to and from work, and if so how much and how heavy?
This is likely. I doubt I would be carrying things with me everyday but I would like that as an option. It could get somewhat heavy as well. An example could be a couple books, gym clothes, lunch, drinks, etc.
3) Will you be commuting in the rain?
I live in San Diego so that pretty much means no.
4) Do you plan on using the bike for other purposes?
I would love to use my bike all the time but I really just have to get over riding in traffic. The last thing on people's minds are someone on a bike. If I can become familiar with routes to avoid traffic than I will ride more.
5) How fast do you want to ride?
Saftey and comfort are more important than speed. If I can have all 3 then I'll take it.
6) Do you have many big hills or high winds to deal with?
Not high winds but there will be some pretty major hills along the way.
7) Budget?
Hopefully under $2K.