Birdy GT advice sought: I had an opportunity to test ride an R&M Birdy a bit over a year ago. I liked the ride but was not then ready to commit. Since then my local dealer appears to have given up on the line; Birdy appeared not to sell well so I appreciate the shop owner's decision. Conveniently, in the last few days, I found that there is a way to buy Birdy models in which I have a greater interest, sourced from Pacific cycles (without unwanted fender and hub generator). Thus, before I order, as I cannot test ride this time, comments sought:

I'm think I should prefer the Birdy GT. I'm "older" with a delicate (post spinal fusion) back and intend to ride street and gravel trails during daylight in good weather. The GT appeals to me (without fenders and hub generator) partly because it is perhaps the lightest model, has a reasonable gear range, and I suspect has the most forgiving ride due to its relatively fat tires. (No curb hopping or jumps for me, but where I live does not have the smoothest of roads.) If I remember correctly, the GT comes with the more upright steering post (preferred as I'm short, with a neck that prefers to be held relatively upright). The weight is very important as lifting something much over 20lbs (and as awkward as a folded bike) into the back of my SUV is, for me, not easy. (I've become such a wimp. ) (Yes, I'd really prefer Rohloff gearing but fear the weight associated with that Birdy model.)

And so, my question: Is my analysis valid? With respect to the GT, am I leaning towards the most appropriate model?


Thanks for indulging me!