Originally Posted by thdave
The Breezer's prices have a nice range to them--if your limit is $800, then compare the Townie 8 to the Villager. Add on the equipement needed and compare. Note that your add on's might not be as well designed or optimally installed as they are on the Breezer. I think in the end you'll find the Breezer is a good value.
When I was shopping a year ago, the Uptown was $950, Villager $800, Citizen $550, and Freedom $300. I heard the 2007 version has some upgrades, which explains the price. I'd love to hear the new model features--has that come out yet?
Note that sometimes e-Bay has new Breezer's for sale at discount.
Thanks all so far for the informative (and really quick! - isn't anyone working today?) feedback. Seems like lots of Breezer fans here. Definately sounds like the "get on and go" vote goes to the Uptown. As for the "why not the new townie8 with 700C's" - well, I've ridden an older one and to be honest, the different geometry doesn't really do anything for me (maybe when I'm older and more brittle) from a ride persepctive. Too much upper body. I don't particularly like "pulling" on the handlebars.
By the way, I'm assuming the Uptown has the Premium (red stripe) 8? As does the new Electra?
I'll definately take each for a spin if I can. The Cannondale has a better asthetic (my opinion) and given my road past I'm partial to the 700's vs. the 26's. My (probably unsubstantiated?) fear there is that the 26's might rob the ride of "zip". I guess I could put something thinner on the Breezer if necessary. How "loose" can the trail be before the Breezer gets out of its comfort zone?
All subjective of course. I'll take a spin and see for myself. If anyone out there has actually ridden the Street, I'd love to hear from them.
thanks again,
-gb