I've just tried a handful of new bikes at a couple of LBSs; hybrids, so perhaps not a direct comparison, and just rides round the block. 57 cm Specialized Sirrus felt about right, as did 58 cm Globe. Kona Dew felt a bit short (lengthways) and as though I was pitched forward a bit too much, but they only had a 56 cm frame to try. Trek 7.5 FX and 7500 felt about right but stupidly I've forgotten what size frames they were; 20" I think.

Looking up the geometries, though, these all seem to have about the same top tube length as the Dawes. I'll have to double check it - and perhaps sneak back to the LBS on Saturday and try a full on drop bar road bike...




From what I've read I think it would, and again you hit the nail on the head - £££ on a £20 bike I'm not wedded to is probably not what I had in mind, despite all you evil people dazzling me with your shiny new moustache bars and beautifully machined stems!

I think the plan of action is down the LBS on Saturday to pick up a basic set of tyres, adjust the gears and brakes and ride the Dawes for a week or two pretty much as it is to see if it tells me anything more; then perhaps a new bike for the commute.

Then since I seem to be doomed to circle C&V forever I might just keep an eye on the classifieds to see if something interesting turns up...