Hi all - I'm trying to find the right bike for my fiancé. We're going to be moving to Boston soon, and she needs something comfortable for commuting, running errands, and just generally getting around the city. We're looking for something:

- Light enough to carry up/down a flight of stairs
- With an upright riding position (she seems to like swept back handlebars)
- With heel clearance for panniers

In addition to city riding, we're trying to find something that can also serve for some longer weekend rides, maybe even some bike camping. I'm thinking maybe a tourer converted to upright bars would suit her needs, but you don't see many of those around. The conversion is something I can do, but it could add considerable cost.

We did find a Lotus Challenger (probably an 87) at a local shop set up the way she liked, but they were asking $300. Tange 900 tubing, chromalite fork, SIS derailleurs, stem shifters. Too much?

Anyway, I think I've said enough. What do you guys think? Suggestions?

How far will your rides be? 20 miles, 200 miles, 2000 miles?

For general use, Trek Multi-Tracks from the '90s, or similar hybrids, aren't too bad. You can modify them a bit to your liking.

If you are going to be doing some longer distance rides, with a little camping/touring thrown in, a mid-eighties touring bike might be something to keep an eye open for.

Daily commuting will for her will probably top out around 10 or 12 miles, round trip. "Longer" rides probably up to 50 miles, maybe a bit more. I've told her the best answer is two bikes (which would justify me getting another one too, right?) but she's not into that