brklyn

Hey,

Im looking at getting a commuter and came acorss these two bicycles. Doing a bit of research, it looks like the Miyata 1000 is a favourite around these forums. Can you please let me know what one you think is better?

https://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-s...AdIdZ240352101

https://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-s...AdIdZ259832876

tugrul

The Miyata is much larger than the Raleigh, so fit may be an issue on one of them.

My two cents is that Miyata is under priced if there isn't anything terribly wrong with it, and would be more flexible for commuting. Heck, I'd buy it if it was near me.

The Criterium I am not familiar with.

brklyn

Great thanks, any other opinions? Greatly appreciated.

mparker326

If the Miyata is your size, you better grab it before it is gone.

T-Mar

Based on the graphics and low-rider fork mounts, the Miyata 1000 appears to be a 1988 model, in which case it is one of the real good ones with the splined, triple butted tubing, HyperGlide gogs and 700c rims. The Miyata is a Grand Touring model and therefore a bit of overkill for commuting with lots of gears you probably won't use, a cushy and not very nimble ride. However, if it fits and there's nothing wrong with it, it's a steal at that price.

The Raleigh Criterium is a Canadian market model from the very late 1970s to early 1980s. The components are quite nice and should be a Shimano 600 EX (Arabesque) derailleur set, brakeset and crankset. These parts are highly regarded and are becoming collectible. The secondary components are aluminum, right down to the seat post but the rims are 27". Has aftermarket saddle, bar tape and resin pedals. So, it sounds like a nice mid-range bicycle but its all window dressing for an entry level, hi-tensile steel frame. Ad says it's a 56cm but it does look larger. Not the commuting overkill of the Miyata and bit more sports/touring oriented but the frame material is a bummer. Maybe not a bad price in Calgary, in season, if it's as good as it looks.

Bottom line, assuming good mechanical condition on both is that the Miyata is the better bicycle and deal. However, it's over kill for commuting and if it doesn't fit...

brklyn

Great, thanks for the responses!