Originally Posted by
FBinNY
When I wanted a dedicated commuter/utility bike for daily rides of 10 miles or so each way, I converted a mtn bike that was collecting dust for road use. I kept the flat bars, because I wanted the more upright since it gave me better sight lines in urban traffic, and I've ridden that upwards of 40 miles at a stretch, but I still prefer drop bars for sport riding.
While I'm a bit younger age-range (65) I completely agree. My commute bike (built up from an old steel road frame) has flat bars whereas all my other bikes (okay, except my folder) have drop bars. My commute in 19 mi. round trip, so similar to yours and very high motor-traffic density. So yes, gotta love the more upright sight lines while trying to sus what the motorists will do next (without so much as a signal, of course).
Rick / OCRR