Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 2,067
Likes: 73
From: USA
Bikes: 84 Pinarello Trevisio, 86 Guerciotti SLX, 96 Specialized Stumpjumper, 2010 Surly Cross Check, 88 Centurion Prestige, 73 Raleigh Sports, GT Force, Bridgestone MB4
MTBs for years had no suspension. They worked just fine. The Surly LHT is not that different from early MTBs if you get the 26 inch version.
You say you are a beginner and argue beginner points. Experienced cyclist may hop a sidewalk from time to time but for the most part, there are exceptions, being on the road, taking your right to the road as any vehicle and moving with the flow of traffic as PART of the traffic is much safer.
And BTW, the strength, or lack thereof, of a road bike is much exaggerated, they are very strong. Pro riders who make many times your peak power, continuously, riding at speeds over 30 MPH over cobble stone roads, the bikes do not come apart. And, another BTW, ramming curbs with an MTB is not going to do it any good either.
LC
Last edited by Loose Chain; 08-02-13 at 08:38 PM.