I am very interested in commuting bikes. Of course, they take all forms. In England folding bikes with 20” wheels are popular. In Japan, the famous ‘shopping bike’ rules. Trekking style in France; Dutch type in --- well you get it.

But what do USA customers really like? We have several bikes that we sell to commuters; and I will post those below so that members can criticize them; I can learn a lot from what people do not like about our current bikes.

I am interested in commuting for people who want utility at under $1000; and even better if they get good durability and function under $500. I view commuter bikes as second bikes for enthusiasts or primary for those with low income. Of course, bikes with rack braze-ons and eyelets for fenders and racks.

So what do YOU like in commuter bikes [include light touring if you like]

FRAME – aluminum or high-grade steel [no Ti or CF at this level]
Traditional, compact, pedal-forward, folding, bent

FORK – Rigid; steel, aluminum, or carbon: Suspension

STEM – Quill or aheadset; if aheadset, fixed or adjustable

SEATPOST – standard or suspension

GEARS – single-speed [FW or Fixed]
3-speed internal [coaster or FW]
5-speed or 7-speed internal
Single Der 7S, 8S, 9S, 10S
Frt & RR Der 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 24, 27, 30

HUBS – ball&cone, precision

WHEELS – 20”, 24”, 26”, 700c, 29er

TIRES – slick, thread, wide, medium, narrow [pv or English]

BRAKES – V, canti, sidepull, Disc [hyd or mech]

SHIFTER – Road, Trigger, Bar-con, Stem, DT

BARS – drop, flat, special bend

Any other special ideas? I am determined to increase the number of bikes we offer that can be used by commuters for several reasons. I have added eyelets and rack braze-ons to our cyclo-cross bikes, new SS ATBs, and many road bikes. But I think there are commuters around with lots of ideas I have not thought of.

I appreciate any ideas and all input I can get

Mike

Some bikes that commuters buy are posted below; so anyone who would like can criticize these and give ideas for improvement