Originally Posted by
PDKL45
If you're in Australia, Rowan, have you seen the Vivente bikes? In terms of touring bikes ready to ride straight away, the Deccan is hard to beat.
Deccan - World Randonneur
When Machka's favourite bike was stolen, we looked at a variety of replacements, including a Vivente but it certainly wasn't this model, but its predecessor. It seemed well-equipped, but at the time just wasn't quite what she wanted, and I think there were issues in getting one in the size she wanted.
Looking at the bike as linked, that sure is a well-equipped one. I would change out the saddle for a Brooks B17, and upgrade to a higher Shimano level of pedal, but that's all personal preference. I like the idea of the TRP Spyre discs. I would also not be quite certain about the level of shifters (again, my preference has been Ultegra, but as alluded to earlier in this thread, the Sora could be regarded as a lower level but robust option).
Yeah, I could pick it apart, but for someone looking to hit the road straight away, this bike doesn't need anything else. And the bonus is that it's equipped to be a commuter as well with the dynohub and lights.
The other models also look interesting.
There doesn't, however, appear to be any mention of weight on the website.
And I could probably, with some astute internet buying, build up a similar bike for less cost.
Footnote: Oh look! I just discovered that one of the Tasmanian dealers is my former randonneuring riding partner!