Originally Posted by Tyler M
Hullo, Torontonians:
I'm currently living in suburban Michigan, but I have transferred to York University and will be moving to TO in the fall. Just today I secured residence at a nice place in the Annex (Euclid & College/Bathurst), and I'm excited for the transition. Onto the bikery!
Lately I've been riding my father's old '93 Trek, but it's in bad shape. Just about every component has been dinged, dented or bent to the point where it just barely functions. In any event, I didn't plan on keeping the thing as it is too small. I suggested on the main SSFG forum that I was thinking of a Surly Steamroller, all-weather (for now) to commute to school (no easy task -- 18.5 km) and work, if I can get an off-campus permit. I also considered messengering for work, but that seems like more of a pipe dream as I have been out of riding for years until about a month or so ago.
Anyway, I was curious of your opinions of the viability of the Steamroller in Toronto, what sort of modifications I might need to make for the city, and also I just wanted to introduce myself. Ever since my admission to York, I have been secretly lurking this thread to see what's up, and I must say you all seem like a very friendly bunch.
Cheers,
Tyler.
ah yes, york is my alma matter but i didn't bike much back then as i was more into smoking and drinking. anyway, i concur with everyone's sentiments about fenders. may i also add a suggestion for wider than average tires (say 32-38). york u is off keele street which is in pretty shoddy shape so anything that can take the edge off is useful. i would also suggest using two locks for your bike (different kinds ie. cable and U); theft isn't a huge problem up there but you can never be too careful. that, and there really isn't any proper bike parking to speak of so you'll most likely be locking to fences and what not. the university is really nowhere near a subway stop so if your ride gets ripped off you're in for a crappy walk. you'll be suprised at how many cars there are on that campus. the university is contantly expanding their parking network and charging a premium to the students for the privledge of parking their cars, so you've made the right choice.
what else? cheap, healthy food at the kosher cafeteria in founders college. or if you're more adventurous the strip bar across the road (diamond dolls) used to have a great cheap buffet and no-drink minimum but i think their closed now. you do what you have to do as a starving student. what are you studying / what college are you in?