Originally Posted by ajmancus
I recently started a new job that requires a 50 minute drive each way. With gas prices heading up, I have been investigating utilizing a combination of train and bicycle as an alternative. The vital statistics for me and my ride are
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 170 lbs.
Length of ride: 4.5 miles
Type of ride: Relatively flat, low-traffic, paved road
Train: Amtrak (sans bike rack)
Despite a lot of research, I could still use some advice on the following:
Make -- I think that I've narrowed my choices down to Dahon (Espresso, Jack, and Speed) and Strida. I like the purported ease of use and maintenance of the Strida, and in terms of train storage, the form factor when folded appears to be superior to the Dahon. However, I'm concerned about the 16" wheels and the current lack of US distributor. Which leads to...
Wheel size -- It looks as if most people recommend the 20" wheels. I find myself drawn to the 26" bikes, however, based on my conception that the biked leg of my commute will be easier with larger wheels and a 26" bike would be more feasible for longer rides. But, then I have to balance that with my concerns about...
Folded size -- As far as I have been able to discern, the Amtrak guidelines for folded bikes are pretty vague. I have a fear that some overzealous official will refuse to let me take a 26" on the train, leaving me stranded 50 miles from home. Does anyone have any experience with this?
Range -- It's hard to find good information on effective ranges for these bikes. Knowing that there are a lot of individual factors that come into play, if I were to go with the Strida, what would be the maximum distance I could expect to cover comfortably? How about for the 20" and 26" Dahons?
Any comments, recommendations, or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Anthony
We're very similar...only I'm 1" shorter and 5lbs heavier (I like pizza). I commute by train daily, then bike 4.5 miles each way from the train station to work, then 1.1miles each way from the train station to home. I own both a Xootr Swift (primary bike) and Dahon Vitesse D5 (retired behind the sofa).
On to your concerns:
20" wheel bikes render a much more manageable and less obtrusive (aka, less likely to piss-off the train conductor) folded package. I've seen the 26" Dahon folders on the train, and let me tell you, the owners NEVER fold them. They're just too bulky to carry in that fashion, and too bulky to store on the train in any place other than the bike rack. 16" wheel bikes are cute and cuddly, but that's about it. Stick with 20". You'll thank me when it's time to buy tires.
The range you can cover comfortably on any bike is mostly a result of fit/riding position. Whichever bike you choose, take her out for a test-ride...don't make the same mistake I made by just talking the bike for a once-around-the-block jaunt. If your commute is 4.5 miles, then put 4.5miles on it and see how you feel afterwards. Then go and test another model. If you consider getting a 20" Dahon, I highly recommend you stay away from the non-height-adjustable stempost models like the Vitesse, TR, and Boardwalk. At your height, your saddle will be close to 5" BELOW the handlebars. If you like this sit-up-and-beg riding position, then feel free.