FRAME – high-grade steel, traditional geometry
FORK – Rigid; steel
STEM – Quill or aheadset; if aheadset, fixed
SEATPOST – standard
GEARS – Compact Double 50-34, 12-28 cassette, 8-9sp (I'd opt for a SS if I lived in flatter terrain)
HUBS – precision
WHEELS – 700c, heavy duty without the heavy, 32sp front, 36sp rear
TIRES – 28-35c capable....Conti Contacts 700x32 are my favs
BRAKES – good ole cantis with coolstop pads
SHIFTER – Bar-con or DT
BARS – drop, like salsa short-n-shallows, or a trekking/butterfly bar
Full fenders w/mudflaps
lightweight rear rack
Brooks Team Pro saddle
Shimano M424 pedals
I'm probably not a good choice for the 'average' bike commuter. Indeed, I have 4 different bikes that I use for both commuting and recreation, so I can choose the right bike for the job and conditions at the time.
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"Let us hope our weapons are never needed --but do not forget what the common people knew when they demanded the Bill of Rights: An armed citizenry is the first defense, the best defense, and the final defense against tyranny. If guns are outlawed, only the government will have guns. Only the police, the secret police, the military, the hired servants of our rulers. Only the government -- and a few outlaws. I intend to be among the outlaws" - Edward Abbey