Originally Posted by
matthew_deaner
That makes sense... It's hard to see things from the perspective of the non-cyclist. I do wish that these manufacturers would not label these bikes as "commuters". I just think that's misleading. I believe that a commuting bicycle is chosen based upon the length of the commute, road conditions, rider fitness, cargo hauling capacity; etc. It just doesn't make sense that a genre of bikes called "commuters" could be the answer for everyone. In fact, most experienced cyclists see the upright riding position afforded by these bikes as a hindrance on a "commuter". Riding bolt upright is hard on the back, and riding in this position can get uncomfortable on any ride longer than a few miles. Plus, it's inefficient. Then there' s the flat bars... and the corresponding lack of multiple hand positions.
I just hope that bikes like this don't turn would-be commuters off on the idea. I think that they are often purchased with great ambitions, but end up gathering dust in people's garages.
Sounds like you're just ranting now. Almost none of those bikes (maybe two out of 16) have a flat handlebar, and less than half are "bolt upright" bikes.
I would imagine that bike buying is rediculously complicated. If someone is genuinely going into the store to buy a bike to commute on, this could help. Depending, of course, on who's working behind the counter. If it's a chain store, then the high school kid can point them to the "commuter bikes". In most private stores, some greybeard can start them there, then provide some alternatives.