Originally Posted by
old's'cool
My values for commuting bike geometry are very similar to those for proper touring bikes...
- somewhat slack angles
- decent chainstay length (for longitudinal stability, and more importantly, good weight distribution and avoidance of heelstrike with panniers)
- fork trail conducive to carrying reasonable cargo load on the front
Not geometry per se, but added to the above, a reasonably stiff and sturdy frame/fork to carry the load with stability and deal with road hazards over the long haul; and braze-ons for fenders and racks front & back, as well as cantis.
Totally agree.
I prefer to commute on classic touring geometry or near to it, the exception being my Soma ES. It's really an odd duck: a sport bike that's designed with racks & fenders in mind.
Otherwise, I prefer my 650b Panasonic (which replaced my 650b-modified Trek 820). My Toei & Atlantis will be interesting in this role, once I've finished restoring them.